The C30's eco model, the DRIVe, has been on sale in Europe since 2008, but this restructured and altered model is the first in Australia to go on sale.

It I said that the C30 DRIVe is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine that generates 80kW of power and 240Nm of torque.

The only broadcast alternative obtainable is a five-speed manual; driven hard the C30 DRIVe will shamble from zero to 100km/h in a relaxing 11.3 seconds, maxing out at a top speed of 190km/h.

The C30 DRIVe is said to release 99g/km of CO2, with an Australian joint fuel economy rating of 3.8L/100km. The C30 DRIVe is fitted with a suite of aerodynamic aids.

Since the DRIVe is a diesel car it still emits more CO2 per kilometer than the Prius' 89g/km.

The DRIVe has a weight of about 120 to 180kg lesser compared to other models in the C30 range.

The car also has a tiny second battery, which lets the engine to close down mechanically when the car is stopped and vice versa.

DRIVe can accommodate four and comes fitted with steering wheel audio controls, whiplash protection, and an auxiliary jack for MP3 players, airbags and anti-lock brakes with urgent braking help.

The C30 DRIVe profits from the upgrade that has been applied recently to the other models in the C30 hatch range with larger headlights and an extra violent design of the bonnet and bumper.