The Volkswagen Passat EcoFuel has recently edged out the Toyota Prius for the title of "greenest car in Europe." The International Automobile Federation (FIA) sanctioned the Eco Test that evaluated a number of cars. The winning Passat is powered by a 1.4-liter TSI inline-four fueled by natural gas. VW's TSI engines are turbocharged and direct injected.

Both the Passat and Prius scored 92 out of 100 on the test, but the less expensive natural gas fuel system gave the VW the edge. The test evaluated emissions of CO2, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. The EcoFuel TSI engines are available in many of VW's European models including the Golf, Touran and others.

With the result of such a test, I wonder if hybrid cars are relevant going forward. They are more expensive and complex to build than a normal car of similar dimensions and engine output. Its resale value could be a question too as I believe that most used car buyers are more comfortable with a 'proper' petrol driven vehicle in terms of reliability.

Once again, congratulations to VW!