Our best green family car of 2012 needs to be able to cope with a business driver’s needs as much as a family’s, but have as small as possible an impact on the environment.

We’re looking for a car that’s available for a decent price, whether you’re buying or leasing, and has a low CO2 output that keeps company car tax bills to a minimum.

We think the best green family car of 2011 also has to be comfortable, well equipped and safe. If it manages to keep its driver entertained and its passengers cosseted, well, all the better.