Performance, good performance and low consumption come together in these three efficient compact. Its range of around 1,000 km is also combined with many equipment options.

In 1999, ahead of his time VW Lupo 3L was the first production car able to homologate 3 l / 100 km (4.1 l / 100 km, according to our measurements). It was an urban model with exotic, expensive technical solutions and a unique driving. 14 years later, three relatively conventional compact approach so magnificent figure. We have a whole Opel Astra 1.7 CDTi that standardises 3.7 l / 100 km average consumption (99 g / km CO2), with no less than 130 hp-the Lupo had 61 hp without any compromise on your driving, which is the key differentiator compared to the first models of ecological approach . And closely follow the other two protagonists of this comparison, the Mégane 1.6 dCi (4 l / 100 km), with the newcomer and at first sight suggestive Toyota Auris 120D (4.3 l / 100 km) that is with an overview of the most competitive. As expected, consumption obtained by our Technical Center are far superior to these official figures, while still very good records. But let’s see what other arguments offer apart from consumption, and if the latest generation of the Japanese model is able to cope with two authentic references so hard to crack.

All three offer similar powers, although resorting to very different displacements. This, plus an appreciable effect on consumption, define the personality of its mechanical in the lower area of ​​cuentavueltas. The Toyota Auris, with its 1,998 cm3, is the most forceful offered at very low engine speeds, enabling "to abuse" Long marches in almost any situation and affects a fairly relaxed driving, without having to change too steep. Its high rate, however, is less bright and, although the red zone is rated at 5,100 rpm considerable, at 3,500 and begins to decay thrust. It is also fully usable a few laps the engine of the Opel Astra, which is somewhat rougher running cold and noisy, but has a more progressive power delivery and pleasant than its rivals, because in them the entrance of the turbo is somewhat abrupt. The band of actual use of Opel is between 1,500 and about 4,500 rpm, no weaknesses in their delivery and a mean remarkable regime, in daily use and without the clock in the hand, camouflages greatly increased weight this model. The dCi Renault Megane, meanwhile, is undoubtedly the most refined of the three, but sins of some weakness in the lower area of ​​cuentavueltas that forces us to be attentive to change, because if we want to accelerate rapidly the engine must always be above 1700-1800 rpm. Surpassed the scheme, Shorter development employees in the Astra and Auris, combined with lower overall weight, they play really going for it to make it the fastest of the three. Moreover, as you can be seen in the measurements, it is also the least spent.

As for the frame, the Opel Astra is still the team to beat. Even this version without Piloted suspension achieves an excellent balance between comfort and efficiency, therefore we have not missed this option at all. His behavior is impeccable, with a ride quality and aplomb worthy of larger models, and with outstanding agility, as if curves greater weight to vanish. Good calibration of the ESP does not adversely interfere with driving, even in critical situations, and only the direction, which is very precise but nothing too assisted and informative, would be reprehensible. But even so the car gives a commendable confidence thanks to drawn in tiralíneas that do not degrade or circulating in a hurry in the twisty sections, as it always reacts as expected even when the rear axle is forced to round the twist if dodge or close the path abruptly.

The Mégane also boasts very good manners and holding up well against a demanding and even sporty driving, if we decide to squeeze all the vividness of its engine, which, incidentally, is the most up laps. Without reaching the limits of the Astra, it can also boast behavior and driving us enjoy a little complicated the road. Only in very deteriorated asphalt areas we will be forced to slow down, which can be very high if desired.

The first impression Toyota Auris It is very good with a quick and pleasant touch direction that promises an exhilarating ride. And indeed, that’s when traveling at tourist rates, or even if we cause in a very tight turn where the rear helps close the racing line causing the ESP have to intervene. However, as the curves occur and the speed increases, sportiness the apparent initial model is degraded and gives way to some inconsistencies in behavior, mainly as a a derives somewhat premature of tires without impairing drivability, less accurate and reduces the dynamic range. Perhaps because of its aggressive look, we were expecting something else.

In any case, the three have much to offer and have every reason to feel proud owner. And do not forget that here also comes in the price, no doubt a factor that benefits the Auris and harms the Mégane rather than the Astra, because this engine dCi 130 hp is associated necessarily to the two most complete finishes, Dynamique and Privilege range (22,100 and 23,800 €, respectively, official discount already applied). Of course, a generous equipment is appreciated in the day. Therefore, when putting all the factors on balance, should be aware of the possible specific offers of each manufacturer and each, depending on your tastes, values ​​the items that best suit your needs. The level is high.