When we talk about saving money at the pump and reducing your carbon footprint, understanding fuel efficiency becomes paramount. The standard measure for this is Miles Per Gallon, or MPG. MPG tells you just how far your car can travel on a single gallon of fuel – roughly 4.5 liters. This can drastically vary between vehicles, ranging from a mere 11 MPG in some gas-guzzlers to impressive figures that we’ll explore shortly.
Historically, diesel engines have been lauded for their superior fuel economy compared to their petrol counterparts. However, with advancements in technology and shifting consumer preferences towards petrol and hybrid vehicles, the landscape of fuel efficiency has evolved. This guide will navigate you through the most fuel-efficient cars available today, focusing on both petrol and diesel models, and highlighting how you can maximize your MPG.
It’s crucial to remember that MPG figures are not set in stone. Driving habits play a significant role. A lead-footed driver will naturally experience lower fuel economy than someone with a gentler, more economical driving style.
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For the sake of providing a fair comparison, the cars listed below are ranked according to their official average fuel economy ratings. These figures are determined by the Worldwide Harmonised Light-duty Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), a standardized testing method designed to give consumers a reliable benchmark for fuel efficiency.
Here are some of the top cars on the market known for their exceptional fuel economy:
- BMW 330e
- Toyota Prius
- Suzuki Swift
- Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
- Hyundai IONIQ
- Mercedes-Benz E300 de
- Peugeot 208
- Vauxhall Corsa
- Skoda Octavia
- Volkswagen Golf
Top Petrol and Hybrid Cars with High MPG
1. BMW 330e – Achieving up to 217.3 MPG
The BMW 330e stands as a testament to the fact that fuel-efficient cars can be exciting to drive. This plug-in hybrid model combines a potent 2.0-liter petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering both brisk acceleration and remarkable fuel economy.
According to automotive experts, the 330e plug-in hybrid is a standout in the BMW 3 Series lineup. Its ability to operate on pure electric power for distances around 30 miles, coupled with its impressive MPG figures exceeding 100 on paper, makes it a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers who don’t want to compromise on performance.
The interior of the BMW 3 Series, including the 330e, is synonymous with luxury and cutting-edge technology. For those looking for value, the used market offers attractive deals on pre-owned BMW models.
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2. Toyota Prius – Up to 67.0 MPG (Self-Charging Hybrid)
Toyota’s Prius is a name synonymous with hybrid technology and fuel efficiency. Available in both self-charging and plug-in hybrid variants, the Prius caters to different needs and preferences. While the plug-in version boasts an even higher official MPG of 235.4, maximizing this figure requires consistent battery charging.
The self-charging Toyota Prius, while slightly less impressive on paper at around 67 MPG, remains a highly fuel-efficient option. It is also generally more affordable in the used car market. These models offer the convenience of hybrid technology without the need for external charging, making them practical for a wide range of drivers. The interior of the Prius, consistent with Toyota’s reputation, is well-equipped and built to high standards of reliability.
Experts often point to the Toyota Prius’s popularity as a taxi, highlighting its exceptional reliability and low running costs – key factors for anyone prioritizing fuel economy and vehicle longevity.
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3. Suzuki Swift – Achieving 64.0 MPG
Every current Suzuki Swift model incorporates Suzuki’s ‘Boosterjet’ hybrid engine, a mild hybrid system designed to enhance fuel efficiency. This system uses a small electric motor to support the petrol engine, reducing its workload and improving overall MPG.
Although the Suzuki Swift’s mild hybrid system doesn’t allow for pure electric driving, it still delivers significant fuel economy improvements over traditional petrol engines. The added electric assistance also provides a noticeable boost in acceleration. This makes the Swift a great option for those seeking a compact, fuel-efficient car that’s also fun to drive.
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4. Toyota Corolla Touring Sports – Offering up to 63.8 MPG
The Toyota Corolla, a returning nameplate to many markets, has made a strong comeback with advanced hybrid technology. The Touring Sports, the estate version of the Corolla, and its hatchback sibling are both praised for their engaging driving dynamics, thanks to well-tuned suspension and handling.
Each Corolla model comes generously equipped and offers a choice of two petrol-hybrid powertrains: a 1.8-liter or a 2.0-liter engine. Both options deliver excellent fuel economy, with the most efficient models reaching up to 63.8 MPG. This makes the Corolla Touring Sports a practical and economical choice for families or anyone needing extra cargo space without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
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5. Hyundai IONIQ – Achieving 60.0 MPG
Similar to the Toyota Prius, the Hyundai IONIQ is available as both a self-charging hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. For those considering the used car market, the plug-in hybrid IONIQ often presents better value.
The Hyundai IONIQ combines a 1.6-liter petrol engine with an electric motor. The plug-in version offers a useful electric-only range of up to 39 miles on a single charge. Experts often highlight the IONIQ’s overall cost-effectiveness, noting that beyond fuel savings, owners can also benefit from lower insurance and maintenance expenses.
The IONIQ comes with a comprehensive list of standard features and boasts a larger boot than the Prius. While its official MPG is slightly lower than the Prius, it remains a highly fuel-efficient and practical option in the hybrid car segment.
The Most Fuel-Efficient Diesel Cars Available
While petrol and hybrid cars have gained significant ground in fuel efficiency, modern diesel engines still hold a strong position, particularly for drivers who frequently undertake longer journeys.
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1. Mercedes-Benz E300 de – Astonishing 217.3 MPG
It might seem surprising, but the Mercedes-Benz E300 de is indeed a plug-in hybrid diesel, achieving an officially rated fuel economy of up to 217.3 MPG. This remarkable figure underscores the potential of combining diesel and electric technologies.
To achieve this exceptional MPG, regular battery charging is essential. Mercedes-Benz states that with a full battery, the E300 de can travel up to 33 miles on electric power alone – sufficient for daily commutes in urban environments. This blend of diesel efficiency for longer trips and electric capability for shorter journeys makes the E300 de a standout in fuel economy.
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2. Peugeot 208 1.5 Blue HDi – Impressive 71.4 MPG
Launched in 2019, the Peugeot 208 1.5 Blue HDi diesel is not only fuel-efficient but also visually striking. This supermini features a contemporary design with five doors, distinctive LED lighting, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine that officially returns over 70 MPG.
The Peugeot 208’s interior is equally appealing, boasting a modern dashboard layout with instruments positioned to be viewed over the steering wheel, adding to its unique and stylish character. This combination of fuel economy and design makes the Peugeot 208 a desirable option in the supermini segment.
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3. Vauxhall Corsa 1.5 Turbo D – Achieving 70.6 MPG
The Vauxhall Corsa shares its platform and many components with the Peugeot 208, a result of both brands being part of the Stellantis group. This shared engineering explains the visual similarities and the comparable fuel economy figures between the two models.
The Vauxhall Corsa 1.5 Turbo D utilizes the same efficient engine and mechanical underpinnings as the Peugeot, resulting in a very similar MPG rating of 70.6. The Corsa offers a blend of style, practicality, and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for drivers looking for an economical supermini.
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4. Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE – Excellent 68.9 MPG
The Skoda Octavia, in virtually any configuration, is recognized as a fantastic family car, primarily due to its generous interior space, especially the estate version with its exceptionally large boot. The 2.0 TDI SE model further enhances its appeal by adding outstanding fuel economy to its list of strengths.
Equipped with a 150hp 2.0-liter TDI engine, the Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE prioritizes torque over outright power. This characteristic allows for relaxed cruising at motorway speeds, minimizing the need for frequent gear changes and contributing to its impressive fuel economy of 68.9 MPG. Experts often praise the Octavia for its exceptional value, combining fuel efficiency and reliability at a price point that is accessible to many buyers.
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5. Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI – Reliable 68.9 MPG
Mirroring the relationship between Peugeot and Vauxhall, Skoda and Volkswagen share considerable engineering and components. This is evident in the Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI, which shares its 150hp diesel engine and six-speed manual gearbox with the Skoda Octavia.
While not as spacious as the Octavia, the Volkswagen Golf offers a more premium interior feel, particularly in higher trims that feature digital instruments and a large infotainment screen. The Golf 2.0 TDI achieves an identical MPG figure of 68.9 to the Octavia, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and Volkswagen’s renowned build quality and driving experience. The used market also presents attractive opportunities to purchase VW Golf models at competitive prices.
Maximizing Your MPG: Fuel-Efficient Driving Tips
Choosing a car with high MPG is just the first step. Adopting fuel-efficient driving habits can further enhance your fuel economy and save you even more money.
Simple Changes for Better Fuel Consumption:
1) Reduce Air Conditioning Use
Turning off your car’s air conditioning system can significantly reduce fuel consumption. The A/C compressor places a considerable load on the engine, requiring more power and thus more fuel to operate. Whenever possible, opt for natural ventilation or use the A/C sparingly.
2) Drive Smoothly and Steadily
Aggressive acceleration and braking consume more fuel. Adopting a smooth and steady driving style is key to maximizing MPG. On motorways, maintain a constant speed and avoid sudden changes in pace. Gentle acceleration from a standstill also reduces strain on the engine and improves fuel efficiency.
3) Combine Trips and Avoid Short Journeys
Short trips are often less fuel-efficient because the engine doesn’t reach its optimal operating temperature. A cold engine operates less efficiently. Whenever feasible, combine errands into a single trip to allow your engine to warm up fully and operate at its most efficient state. Consider walking or cycling for very short distances.
By choosing a car with high MPG and implementing these simple driving habits, you can significantly reduce your fuel costs and contribute to a more sustainable driving future.
