Are you looking to save money at the pump and reduce your carbon footprint? Understanding fuel efficiency is key, and it’s all about miles per gallon (MPG). MPG tells you how many miles a car can travel on one gallon of fuel, which is approximately 4.5 liters.
This can vary significantly, from as low as 11 miles per gallon to much higher figures. While diesel cars have traditionally been known for their superior fuel economy, petrol and hybrid cars are now leading the way for many drivers.
Since petrol and hybrid vehicles are increasingly popular among car buyers, let’s explore some of the most fuel-friendly cars available in these categories.
It’s important to remember that a car’s actual fuel economy can differ based on driving habits. A more aggressive driving style will generally result in lower MPG compared to a smoother, more consistent approach.
However, to provide a fair comparison, the following cars are ranked based on their official average fuel economy ratings, determined by the Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP).
Here are 10 of the most fuel-friendly cars you can buy today:
- BMW 330e
- Toyota Prius
- Suzuki Swift
- Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
- Hyundai IONIQ
- Mercedes-Benz E300 de
- Peugeot 208
- Vauxhall Corsa
- Skoda Octavia
- Volkswagen Golf
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1. BMW 330e – Achieving up to 217.3 MPG
The BMW 330e proves that fuel-friendly cars can also deliver exciting performance. This plug-in hybrid combines a 2.0-liter petrol engine with an electric motor to offer both powerful acceleration and exceptional fuel economy.
According to our expert, Sam, “The 330e plug-in hybrid stands out in the BMW 3 Series range because of its impressive electric-only range of around 30 miles and remarkable fuel efficiency, often exceeding 100 MPG in real-world conditions.”
Like other models in the BMW 3 Series, the 330e boasts a premium interior loaded with advanced technology. If you are considering a luxury, fuel-efficient option, explore the deals available on used BMW models.
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2. Toyota Prius – Up to 67.0 MPG (Self-Charging Hybrid)
Toyota’s Prius is synonymous with fuel efficiency, available in both self-charging hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. The plug-in hybrid Prius boasts an incredible official economy of 235.4 MPG, provided you regularly charge the battery.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the self-charging Prius is readily available in the used car market and still offers excellent fuel economy, close to 70 MPG, according to Toyota. Plug-in hybrid Prius models offer the added benefit of electric-only driving for shorter trips, further enhancing their fuel efficiency.
The interior of the Prius is well-appointed, typical of Toyota’s commitment to quality, and built to high standards of reliability.
Sam notes, “The Toyota Prius is a common choice for taxi services for good reason – it’s exceptionally reliable and incredibly fuel-friendly, making it a cost-effective choice for high-mileage driving.”
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3. Suzuki Swift – Achieving 64.0 MPG with Mild Hybrid Technology
Every current Suzuki Swift model incorporates Suzuki’s ‘Boosterjet’ hybrid engine, featuring a mild hybrid system. This setup uses an electric motor to reduce the load on the petrol engine, improving overall fuel efficiency.
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, making it a fuel-friendly and responsive choice for city driving.
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4. Toyota Corolla Touring Sports – Up to 63.8 MPG for a Spacious Estate
The Toyota Corolla has made a successful return, now offering impressive hybrid technology. The Touring Sports estate version, along with the hatchback, delivers a pleasant driving experience with well-tuned suspension and handling.
Every Corolla trim level is generously equipped, and buyers can choose between two petrol-hybrid engines (1.8-liter or 2.0-liter) both offering excellent fuel economy up to 63.8 MPG. This makes the Corolla Touring Sports a fuel-friendly and practical option for families.
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5. Hyundai IONIQ – Achieving 60.0 MPG and Excellent Value
Similar to the Toyota Prius, the Hyundai IONIQ is available as a self-charging hybrid, but the plug-in hybrid version offers even greater value, especially in the used car market.
This Hyundai combines a 1.6-liter petrol engine with an electric motor, providing an electric driving range of up to 39 miles on a full charge.
Sam highlights the IONIQ’s overall cost-effectiveness, stating, “Beyond fuel savings, the IONIQ also translates to lower insurance and maintenance expenses, making it a truly fuel-friendly and budget-conscious car.”
The IONIQ comes with a comprehensive list of standard features, a larger boot than the Prius, and maintains a strong official fuel economy rating, solidifying its position as a fuel-efficient and practical choice.
Top Fuel-Efficient Diesel Cars Available
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1. Mercedes-Benz E300 de – An Astonishing 217.3 MPG
It’s not an error – the Mercedes-Benz E300 de is a plug-in hybrid diesel that delivers an incredible official fuel economy figure, maximizing your mileage.
To achieve this remarkable MPG, it’s essential to keep the car’s battery charged. Mercedes claims that with a fully charged battery, the E300 de can travel up to 33 miles on electric power alone, perfect for city commutes and reducing fuel consumption in urban driving.
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2. Peugeot 208 1.5 Blue HDi – Excellent 71.4 MPG in a Stylish Package
Introduced in 2019, the Peugeot 208 diesel is a visually appealing supermini. Featuring five doors, striking LED lighting, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine, it officially achieves over 70 MPG, making it a very fuel-friendly option in the supermini class.
The interior of this baby Peugeot is equally impressive, with a modern dashboard design where the instrument panel is viewed above the steering wheel, adding to its unique and appealing character.
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3. Vauxhall Corsa 1.5 Turbo D – 70.6 MPG and Stylish Design
The visual similarities between the Corsa and Peugeot 208 are no coincidence, as both brands are part of the Stellantis group.
Beneath the surface, the Vauxhall Corsa shares many components with the Peugeot, including the engine and mechanicals. This shared engineering explains their similar fuel economy figures, both being impressively fuel-friendly for everyday driving.
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4. Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE – A Spacious and Fuel-Friendly Family Car at 68.9 MPG
Almost every version of the Skoda Octavia is an excellent family car, offering abundant interior space, especially the Estate model with its large boot. This version adds outstanding fuel economy to its list of benefits.
The Skoda Octavia’s 150hp 2.0-liter TDI engine provides ample torque, allowing for relaxed motorway cruising in top gear without frequent gear changes.
Sam praises the Octavia’s value, noting, “You get exceptional fuel economy and renowned reliability, all at a price that is very accessible, making it a truly fuel-friendly and sensible choice.”
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5. Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI – 68.9 MPG and Premium Feel
Similar to the Peugeot and Vauxhall, Skoda and Volkswagen share many underlying components.
This version of the Mk8 Golf features the same 150hp diesel engine and six-speed manual gearbox as the Octavia.
While not as spacious as the Octavia, the Golf offers a more premium interior feel, with digital instruments in most trims and a large infotainment screen. Used VW models like the Golf are often available at attractive prices, making them fuel-friendly and accessible premium options.
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Maximizing Your Car’s Fuel Efficiency
When selecting your next vehicle, prioritizing fuel efficiency is always a smart decision. Choosing a fuel-friendly car saves you money on fuel costs and contributes to a more sustainable environment.
Modern cars offer various engine technologies to enhance fuel economy. Petrol engines with hybrid assistance and newer diesel engines are particularly fuel-efficient, especially for longer journeys. However, standard petrol engines in modern cars are also designed to be more efficient thanks to advancements like turbochargers and hybrid technology.
Simple Driving Habits to Improve Fuel Consumption
Beyond choosing a fuel-friendly car, adopting certain driving habits can significantly improve your vehicle’s fuel economy.
1) Reduce Air Conditioning Use
Turning off your air-conditioning is a simple yet effective way to save fuel. Air conditioning systems require significant engine power to operate, increasing fuel consumption.
2) Drive Smoothly and Steadily
Adopting a smooth driving style is crucial for fuel efficiency. On the motorway, maintain consistent revs and speed to maximize fuel economy. The same principle applies when starting your car – smoother acceleration reduces strain on the engine and saves fuel.
3) Combine Short Trips
Whenever possible, combine short journeys. Engines operate most efficiently when warm. Short trips prevent the engine from reaching its optimal operating temperature, leading to increased fuel consumption. Combining errands into a single trip allows the engine to warm up fully, improving fuel efficiency over multiple short trips.
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