What Car? Q&A - What does 'Euro IV' mean?

Q: I want to buy a Ford Focus, but the model I am looking at is available with or without a 'Euro IV'. What does this mean, and do I need a 'Euro IV' car?
Richard Cooke

A: Euro IV is an EU emission standard that was introduced in January 2005. It limits car emissions to 0.25g/km of NOx (nitrogen oxides) and 0.02 g/km of PM (particulate matter). Put more simply, a Euro IV car produces less harmful emissions than pre-Euro IV car.

We would certainly suggest going for a Euro IV model, as it's the greener choice. Also, cars produced on or after 1st January 2007 must be Euro IV compliant, so the other model you are being offered is likely to be an older car that has been at a dealer's for several months.