When we talk about fuel efficiency, the key metric is Miles Per Gallon (MPG). This tells you how far a car can travel on a single gallon of fuel, which is roughly 4.5 liters. MPG figures can vary significantly, from as low as 11 miles to much higher numbers, as we’ll explore.
Historically, diesel cars have been the leaders in fuel economy, outperforming their petrol counterparts. However, with the increasing popularity of petrol and hybrid vehicles, particularly among British car buyers, we’ll examine the most economical options in both categories, starting with petrol and hybrid cars.
It’s important to remember that a car’s actual fuel economy can fluctuate depending on individual driving habits. A more aggressive driving style will generally result in lower MPG compared to a smoother, more cautious approach.
For consistency, the fuel economy figures mentioned below are based on official average ratings determined by the Worldwide Harmonised Light-duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP).
Here are some of the most fuel-efficient cars currently available:
- BMW 330e
- Toyota Prius
- Suzuki Swift
- Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
- Hyundai IONIQ
- Mercedes-Benz E300 de
- Peugeot 208
- Vauxhall Corsa
- Skoda Octavia
- Volkswagen Golf
)
1. BMW 330e – 217.3 mpg
The BMW 330e demonstrates that economical hybrid cars can also be exciting to drive. This plug-in hybrid model combines a 2.0-liter petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering both strong acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency.
According to motoring experts, the 330e plug-in hybrid is a standout in the BMW 3 Series range. It offers the capability to drive on electric power alone for approximately 30 miles and achieve well over 100 mpg in combined driving, according to official figures.
Like other models in the BMW 3 Series lineup, the 330e boasts a high-quality interior packed with advanced technology. The used car market also presents attractive deals on BMW models, making it a potentially more accessible option.
)
2. Toyota Prius – 67.0 mpg
Toyota offers the Prius in both self-charging hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. The plug-in hybrid variant achieves an outstanding official fuel economy of 235.4 mpg, provided the battery is regularly charged.
The self-charging Toyota Prius, which doesn’t require plugging in, is more affordable on the used car market and still delivers close to 70 mpg, as reported by Toyota. Plug-in hybrid Prius models offer the advantage of electric-only driving for shorter distances.
Inside, the Prius is well-equipped, a hallmark of Toyota vehicles, and built to a very high standard of reliability. Its reputation for dependability and low running costs makes it a popular choice for taxi services.
)
3. Suzuki Swift – 64.0 mpg
The current Suzuki Swift supermini range is equipped with Suzuki’s ‘Boosterjet’ hybrid engine technology. This mild hybrid system utilizes an electric motor to support the petrol engine, reducing its workload.
While the mild hybrid system doesn’t allow for pure electric driving, it enhances fuel economy compared to a standard petrol engine and provides extra power during acceleration. This makes the Suzuki Swift a surprisingly efficient and fun-to-drive small car.
)
4. Toyota Corolla Touring Sports – 63.8 mpg
After a hiatus from the UK market, the Toyota Corolla has returned, now enhanced with impressive hybrid technology. The Touring Sports version, an estate model, along with the hatchback, offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience with well-tuned suspension and responsive handling.
All Corolla models come with a generous level of standard equipment, and buyers can choose between two petrol-hybrid engine options: a 1.8-liter or a 2.0-liter, both achieving up to 63.8 mpg. This makes the Corolla Touring Sports a practical and economical choice for families.
)
5. Hyundai IONIQ – 60.0 mpg
Similar to the Toyota Prius, the Hyundai IONIQ is available as both a self-charging hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. The plug-in hybrid IONIQ often represents better value in the used car market.
This Hyundai utilizes a 1.6-liter petrol engine paired with an electric motor, providing an electric-only range of up to 39 miles on a full charge. The IONIQ is recognized for its overall cost-effectiveness, encompassing not just fuel savings but also potentially lower insurance and maintenance expenses.
The IONIQ includes a comprehensive list of standard features and offers a larger boot capacity compared to the Prius. While its official fuel economy is slightly less than the Toyota, it remains a very economical and practical vehicle.
Top Fuel-Efficient Diesel Cars Available:
)
1. Mercedes-Benz E300 de – 217.3 mpg
It’s not a mistake – the Mercedes-Benz E300 de is indeed a plug-in hybrid diesel, boasting an officially astonishing fuel economy figure for maximum mileage. To achieve this impressive MPG, regular battery charging is essential.
Mercedes-Benz claims that with a fully charged battery, the E300 de can travel up to 33 miles on electric power alone, sufficient for navigating urban areas or short commutes. This combination of diesel and electric power makes it exceptionally fuel-efficient, especially for longer journeys.
)
2. Peugeot 208 1.5 Blue HDi – 71.4 mpg
Introduced in 2019, the Peugeot 208 diesel is a stylish and appealing supermini. It offers a five-door configuration, distinctive LED lighting, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine that officially achieves over 70 mpg.
The Peugeot 208’s interior is equally striking, featuring a modern dashboard design where the instrument panel is viewed above the steering wheel, rather than through it. This distinctive design element adds to the car’s overall appeal.
)
3. Vauxhall Corsa 1.5 Turbo D – 70.6 mpg
The visual similarities between the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 208 are no coincidence, as both brands are part of the Stellantis group. Beneath the surface, they share many components, including engines and mechanical parts.
The Vauxhall Corsa’s 1.5-liter diesel engine and other shared technology explain its very similar fuel economy figure to the Peugeot 208. This makes the Corsa a practical and fuel-efficient option in the supermini segment.
)
4. Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE – 68.9 mpg
The Skoda Octavia is an excellent family car in almost any version, offering generous interior space, particularly the estate model with its large boot. This 2.0 TDI SE version combines practicality with outstanding fuel economy.
The Skoda Octavia’s 150hp 2.0-liter TDI engine prioritizes torque over outright power, making it well-suited for relaxed motorway cruising in higher gears. It’s known for providing exceptional fuel economy and reliability at a competitive price point.
)
5. Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI – 68.9 mpg
Similar to the Peugeot and Vauxhall pairing, Skoda and Volkswagen share many underlying components. This version of the Mk8 Volkswagen Golf uses the same 150hp diesel engine and six-speed manual gearbox as the Octavia.
While the Golf is not as spacious as the Octavia, it offers a more premium feel, with digital instruments in most trims and a large infotainment screen. The used car market often presents attractive deals on Volkswagen Golf models, making them accessible to a wider range of buyers.
Maximizing Your Fuel Efficiency
Choosing a fuel-efficient car is a smart move for saving money on fuel costs and reducing your environmental impact. When buying a new car, consider engine options, with petrol engines supported by hybrid technology and modern diesel engines often being the most fuel-efficient, especially for longer journeys.
However, even standard petrol engines in modern cars are designed for efficiency, often incorporating turbochargers and hybrid systems. Beyond car selection, adopting fuel-efficient driving habits can significantly improve your MPG.
Simple Driving Habits to Improve Fuel Economy
Even with the Most Economical Fuel Car, driving habits play a crucial role in maximizing fuel efficiency. Here are a few adjustments you can make:
1. Minimize Air Conditioning Use
Turning off your air conditioning can lead to noticeable fuel savings. The air conditioning system places a significant load on the engine, consuming extra fuel to operate. Using it only when necessary can make a difference.
2. Drive Smoothly and Steadily
Smooth acceleration and consistent speed are key to fuel-efficient driving. On motorways, maintaining a steady speed and minimizing rapid changes in revs will optimize fuel economy. Gentle acceleration from a standstill also reduces engine strain and fuel consumption.
3. Combine Short Trips
Whenever possible, combine multiple short trips into a single longer journey. Engines are less efficient when cold, and short trips prevent them from reaching their optimal operating temperature. Combining errands allows the engine to warm up fully, improving overall fuel efficiency and reducing wear and tear.
By choosing one of these most economical fuel cars and adopting fuel-efficient driving habits, you can significantly reduce your fuel expenses and contribute to more sustainable driving.
