As the cost of living continues to squeeze consumers, motorists are increasingly dialling in ‘fuel efficiency’ to their list of must-haves when looking for their next car.
And while great looks, comfort and space are all top considerations when it comes to choosing your next set of wheels, there can’t be many drivers who don’t include fuel costs in their considerations. If you're trying to cut expenses at the pump, check out these top tips to help you save on fuel costs.
One way to improve fuel efficiency and reduce petrol or diesel usage is to buy an electric car. Using only volts to power their motors rather than fuel, electric vehicles (EVs) are the sure way to save money at the filling station.
But for many motorists EVs are still not the preferred option. It might be the great unknown, the fear of running low on power and being unable to top up, or just a general mistrust or even dislike of this relatively new form of transport. But whatever the reason, thousands of drivers are simply not yet ready to make that huge change in their motoring lives.
Thankfully, most car makers build ranges of highly economical combustion-engined vehicles that burn oil but are still kind on the wallet when it comes to pulling up to the fuel pumps. If you're still weighing up options, you might find our guide to petrol or diesel cars helpful.
So what is out there? Here MotorCheck discovers six eco-hero cars that look good and drive well – without costing a king’s ransom to refuel. But this list is just the start; a guide – there are lots of good, miserly cars out there to try and perhaps buy.
Six of the best cars for fuel efficiency
Honda Jazz - Excellent fuel efficiency with hybrid technology
Small on the outside, the Jazz is surprisingly spacious once you’ve settled into the driver’s or front passenger’s seat. Introduced in the early 2000s, the Jazz has amassed a big following of loyal owners and many Jazz drivers swap their current car for a newer model. You’ll put fuel in it, of course, but not very often – the Jazz only comes as a self-charging hybrid (so there’s no worry about charging it with electricity yourself), and returns impressive fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.
Fuel economy – 63 mpg
CO2 – 85 g/km
Price guide – £28,500
Mazda 2 Hybrid – Toyota built efficiency in a sleek body
Small but beautifully put together, the little Mazda is similar to the Yaris from rival Toyota. Very similar in fact – the hybrid version of Mazda’s little supermini is actually built by Toyota and the cars are very much alike, inside and out. Its 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine is linked to a clever little electric motor which assists the front wheels in driving. That not only gives the small car a brisk and nippy take off from a standing start but helps to keep petrol use down too. Electric power is harvested and sent to the battery every time you decelerate or brake.
Fuel economy – 74 mpg
CO2 – 90g/km
Price guide – £24,000
Renault Clio E-Tech Hybrid - A sporty and economical performer
The Clio has been around for years and Renault has done a fine job of giving it a succession of facelifts and refreshes to keep it looking modern, attractive and desirable. A potent 1.6-litre engine provides a lively 143 hp, more than enough for the small, light car. That performance is boosted by an electric motor which adds to the urgency when pulling away and accelerating. The E-Tech is a full self-charging hybrid so, as well as the decent performance and sharp handling that comes as standard on any Clio, you also get outstanding fuel economy.
Fuel economy – 67 mpg
CO2 – 96 g/km
Price guide – £20,000
Vauxhall Corsa – A UK favourite with impressive fuel economy
Another highly successful name in the UK car world, Vauxhall’s little Corsa goes back decades and although it is bigger and more well equipped than its older cousins from the 1990s, it’s still a decent consideration for anyone looking for a medium-size car with performance, a great drive and excellent fuel economy. There are petrol, hybrid and all-electric versions available, and all cars come well equipped and nicely finished. If you opt for a simple petrol car you can expect up to 128 hp from the turbocharged engine, coupled with pleasing fuel usage.
Fuel economy – 60 mpg
CO2 – 120 g/km
Price guide – £18,500
Suzuki Swift – Reliable, frugal and fun to drive
As good, rock solid city run-arounds go, the Swift takes some beating. It’s a relatively no-frills experience but you do get a comfortable ride, ample performance and a decent amount of space inside the cabin and boot area. A 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine does the work, ably helped by mild-hybrid electric motor assistance, which takes some of the strain away from the combustion engine thereby reducing the gas-guzzling. Build up some speed and carry it enthusiastically into a corner and the Swift lives up to its name, providing an entertaining drive.
Fuel economy – 61 mpg
CO2 – 105 g/km
Price guide – £19,500
MG3 – Low cost meets strong fuel efficiency
Smart and modern to look at the MG3 is quick and sporty while returning strong fuel economy figures. It’s priced attractively too, which makes the MG a serious consideration for anyone looking for a modern five-door hatchback. The car’s 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine gets, like most of these sorts of vehicles, assistance from an electric motor. The MG’s is an efficient system and allows you to run on electric power for decent periods of time. Inside feels no-nonsense but well-made and it has a quality finish. It’s a satisfying car to drive too.
Fuel economy – 60 mpg
CO2 – 136 g/km
Price guide – £17,000
MotorCheck’s £9.99 ‘Single’ history check won’t recommend a fuel efficient car to you, but its research does include running costs, CO2 emissions data and other technical details that will help you make an informed choice on your next car.
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