Eco cars rated Suzuki Splash DDiS Feb 2011
Suzuki's city car, the Splash, is virtually identical to the Vauxhall Agila (both are built in the same factory). Two petrol engines are available in addition to the diesel tested here. It costs £10,410 after a typical dealer discount is applied.
Our view
The Splash can travel nearly 550 miles between fill ups, which makes it a much more practical option than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV. Fuelling costs are vastly different, though: a 50-mile journey in the Splash costs £5.44, while it costs just £1.21 in the i-MiEV. This is the only car on test subject to vehicle excise duty (VED) at £30.
What’s it like to drive?
The diesel engine isn’t as perky (or quiet) as that in petrol Splashes, but it’s comfortable on the motorway. There’s a decent amount of space inside and the tall roof makes getting in and out easy. It has space for five adults (just). The boot holds 145-litres – enough for a weekly shop, but not much more.
Read our full review of the Suzuki Splash
See how it stacks up against the all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Good for: Suitable for just about all types of driving.
Not good for: Local air emissions. Even though the Splash conforms to latest Euro V emissions regulations, it still emits gases that are hazardous - as do all conventional fuel cars. This causes problems in urban environments.
Environmental credentials: Good (for a conventional car). The Splash diesel emits 131g/km CO2 according to our testing.
Fuel cost for 50 miles: £5.44
Everyday usability: Good - five seats, decent boot and quick refuelling all help here.
