There have been many headlines recently related to London's expanding ultra low emissions zone and other cities such as Birmingham, Bristol and Sheffield introducing Clean Air Zones, and I think there's an opportunity for motor retailers to increase motorists' understanding of these.

The thought struck me after a recent jaunt up north in our long-term test Suzuki Swace estate to move belongings for second child's return to university in Sheffield. As we neared the city, the student suddenly piped up "Oh dad, I forgot that Sheffield has a Clean Air Zone now. We aren't going to have to pay, are we?"

It was a daft question, given that we're in a 2023 registered car with the latest petrol-electric hybrid technology that keeps CO2 emissions down to 102g/km overall. 

Its Euro6d emissions compliant powertrain means the Swace is exempt from all charges in Clean Air Zones and London's ULEZ 

Being a hybrid, it’s really hushed around town, because the electric motor can manage on its own in stop-start traffic and while cruising at moderate speed. On electric power, progress is virtually silent and the 1.8-litre petrol engine doesn’t disturb the peace too much when it cuts in to take over.

Handily, those low CO2 emissions mean first year road tax (VED) is just £175 and owners must find only £170 for the second year, and because this top-sepec Suzuki Swace Ultra comes loaded with executive kit but not an executive price tag, buyers don't need to factor in the exhorbitant £390 extra each year that people whose cars had a list price above £40,000 have to pay.

As you’d expect in an estate car, the rear seats fold with a 60/40 split, and with the seats up there is 596 litres of carrying capacity. Drop the seats and this increases to 1,232 litres . 

Thanksfully the Swace’s boot is a practical, square shape, and an adjustable boot floor allows you to make the most of the space on offer, while the low load level is welcome when lifting heavy suitcases and computer equipment into it.

The Suzuki Swace is a keenly priced, comfy and classy estate car for families or couples who need space to transport things, whether they be student gear, dogs or enough food to keep three teenagers happy for a week.

Suzuki Swace 1.8 hybrid Ultra

• Price £30,799 (as tested +£600 metallic paint)
• Powertrain: 1.8-litre petrol engine, 70kW electric motor, CVT transmission
• Combined WLTP fuel economy: 62.7mpg
• CO2 emissions 102g/km
• Acceleration 0-62mph 9.4 seconds
• Top speed 112mph