Sylvie Willis
With fuel prices on the rise, it's no surprise that car buyers are increasingly looking for fuel-efficient vehicles. While electric cars are often touted as the most efficient option, their high price point puts them out of reach for many buyers. In the UK, there are several fuel-efficient used car options available for £15,000 or less, including the Fiat 500, which offers over 50 miles to the gallon, and the Toyota Auris, which can achieve up to 78.5mpg. For those looking for a larger vehicle, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a claimed 156mpg, although real-world usage puts it closer to 60mpg. For those with a slightly higher budget, the Renault Clio boasts an impressive 68.9mpg and is one of the latest diesel cars on the European market.
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What You'll Learn
Electric cars vs. ICE vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) are known for their environmental impact, but there are other differences between them and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. One of the most notable differences is in how they are fuelled. With an ICE vehicle, you know exactly how much fuel you are purchasing and the price per gallon, which remains constant regardless of the amount purchased or the filling station. In contrast, the price of electricity for EVs varies by factors such as geography, time of day, and charging location, with public stations employing various pricing models, including subscription plans and charging by the minute.
Another difference is in how they provide heating. ICE vehicles rely on waste heat from the engine, which means the engine must be idling to provide warmth. On the other hand, EVs only need to run the heater, using a minimal amount of battery power, to keep the cabin warm. This is particularly advantageous if you are stuck in the snow, as you can stay warm without wasting fuel.
In terms of efficiency, ICE vehicles are highly inefficient, wasting about 80% of the energy in their fuel due to heat production in the engine, mechanical friction, and auxiliary electrical components. Only 20% of the energy is used to actually move the vehicle. On the other hand, EVs are more efficient since they do not need to convert energy and only lose about 11% of energy. The cost of charging an EV is also lower than fuelling an ICE vehicle, making EVs more economical to operate.
Some EVs can even provide power back to the grid through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, which is not possible with ICE vehicles. V2G helps balance grid loads by allowing EVs to charge during low-demand periods and send power back during peak demand, reducing the need for additional power plants. This technology can also provide power during outages and lower electric bills for EV owners.
While EVs offer many advantages, there are still some challenges, such as the lack of affordable options in the European market, with prices typically above €20,000. However, state incentives in some countries can make electric cars more accessible.
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Hybrid technology
Hybrid cars combine an electric motor with a traditional combustion engine, helping to cut fuel costs, especially for those driving mainly on urban roads. While they can't go as far on electric-only power as electric cars, hybrid cars are a good option for those without easy access to charging facilities.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) tend to be more expensive than self-charging hybrid models, but they can be a great zero-emissions, zero-fuel option for commuters who can charge their cars easily, especially for those doing short journeys. However, it's important to note that driving a PHEV for extended periods without charging can lead to poor efficiency.
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is one of the most efficient vehicles on the market, offering 28 miles of electric-only range. With nightly charging, petrol purchases for the 2.0-litre engine will be few and far between. The Toyota RAV4 is another family SUV that offers great fuel economy, especially around town, with a Real MPG score of 91.1mpg.
For those looking for a small SUV, the Toyota Yaris Cross is a fantastic choice, achieving an impressive 103.3mpg in town. It has plenty of power off the line and is smoother to drive than some of its rivals, such as the Nissan Juke Hybrid. The Honda CR-V and the Peugeot 5008 are also comfortable options, offering a more spacious interior than the Yaris Cross.
The Fiat 500, in its light hybrid petrol variant, is another efficient option, with a combined fuel consumption of 61.4mpg. This Italian city car has a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre three-cylinder block and a six-speed manual gearbox, providing a theoretical range of 472 miles.
While hybrid cars were once more expensive than their petrol or diesel counterparts, they are now becoming more common, and insurance quotes are becoming more competitive. However, the complex technology in hybrid cars can be costly to repair or replace if faults develop.
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Low-emission zones
UK Low-Emission Zones
The UK has several low-emission zones, including:
- London ULEZ (Ultra-low Emission Zone)
- Oxford Zero Emission Zone
- Sheffield Clean Air Zone
- Scotland's four largest cities
Charges for Driving in Low-Emission Zones
The cost of driving in low-emission zones varies. For example, in Oxford's Zero Emission Zone, electric cars are exempt from charges, while ultra-low emission vehicles are charged £2 per day, low-emission vehicles are charged £4 per day, and all other vehicles are charged £10 per day.
Exemptions from Charges
Some vehicles are exempt from paying charges in low-emission zones. These include:
- Electric vehicles
- Historic vehicles (generally those constructed before 1 January 1973 or over 40 years old)
- Petrol cars and vans registered from January 2006 that meet Euro 4 standards
- Diesel cars and vans registered from September 2015 that meet Euro 6 standards
Most Fuel-Efficient Cars
When considering purchasing a fuel-efficient car, it is important to look at both the claimed and real-world miles per gallon (mpg) that the car can achieve. Some of the most fuel-efficient cars available in the UK include:
- Renault Clio: with a combined WLTP fuel consumption of 68.9 mpg
- Citroën C3: with a fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg
- Fiat 500: with a combined fuel consumption of 61.4 mpg
- Toyota Auris: with a claimed fuel efficiency of 78.5 mpg and a real-world performance of 50-60 mpg
- Volvo V60 Cross Country: with a fuel efficiency of 67 mpg and Euro 6 engine, qualifying for ULEZ exemption
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Real-world mpg
When it comes to the most fuel-efficient cars in the UK, there are a few models that stand out for their impressive real-world miles per gallon (mpg) performance. Here are some examples:
Renault Clio
The Renault Clio, with its 1.5 Blue dCi four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual gearbox, boasts a combined WLTP fuel consumption of 4.1 litres per 100 kilometres, which translates to approximately 68.9 mpg in the UK. This ultra-efficient engine delivers a powerful performance with a top speed of 188 km/h and acceleration from 0-60 in 11.4 seconds.
Citroën C3
The Citroën C3, another French diesel car, comes in second place. It offers a fuel consumption rate of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres, resulting in approximately 62.8 mpg in the UK.
Fiat 500
The iconic Fiat 500, with its 1.0-litre engine, delivers over 50 mpg and provides comfort for longer motorway journeys.
Toyota Auris
The Toyota Auris is a practical and reliable family car. It can achieve a claimed 78.5 mpg, with real-world performance ranging from 50 to 60 mpg from its 1.8-litre petrol engine.
Honda
Honda is known for its dependability and efficiency, with an average gas mileage (combined) of 30 mpg across its vehicle lineup.
BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics
The BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics model is worth mentioning for its impressive fuel efficiency. While the exact mpg figures are not available, it is claimed to achieve around 80 mpg on a run, which is remarkable for a car of its size and power.
Volvo S40 1.6D
The Volvo S40 1.6D is another impressive vehicle, averaging over 70 mpg on daily drives, offering both performance and fuel efficiency.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a highly efficient plug-in hybrid SUV. While it claims 156 mpg, real-world experiences suggest it gets closer to 60 mpg. However, with 28 miles of electric-only range, you'll find yourself buying petrol less frequently.
Audi A2
The Audi A2, even years after its release, remains a standout performer. The 1.2-litre diesel version sold in Europe achieves an impressive 100 mpg, while the 1.4-litre diesel version available in the UK still manages an impressive 80 mpg.
Skoda Octavia
A 2022 model of the Skoda Octavia was able to achieve an impressive 94 mpg during a trip from Liverpool to Hayle, St Ives.
It's important to note that real-world mpg figures may vary based on driving conditions, terrain, and individual driving habits. These examples showcase some of the most fuel-efficient cars in the UK market, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.
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Fuel-efficient tyres
When it comes to tyre pressure, it is important to note that maintaining the correct pressure can improve fuel efficiency. Underinflation can increase rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption, while overinflation can reduce ride quality and safety. Therefore, it is recommended to keep tyres properly inflated within the recommended pressure range, typically around 40-44 psi, to optimise fuel efficiency and vehicle performance.
Additionally, the size of the tyres matters. Smaller tyres generally offer better fuel efficiency than larger ones, as they have less rolling resistance. This is particularly relevant for electric vehicles, which often utilise smaller tyres to maximise their range.
In terms of specific tyre models, the Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 and EP422 PLUS stand out as fuel-efficient options. These tyres are designed with good water resistance and traction in mind, ensuring safety and performance in slippery conditions. They also incorporate Nano Pro-Technology to further enhance fuel efficiency and recycled rubber to lower CO2 emissions during the manufacturing process.
Another factor to consider is the fuel efficiency rating system for tyres, which ranges from class A to G, with A being the most efficient. This rating system provides a helpful guide for consumers to make informed choices when purchasing tyres, allowing them to select options that will save them fuel and money in the long run.
In conclusion, fuel-efficient tyres play a crucial role in reducing fuel consumption and can be achieved through a combination of factors, including low rolling resistance, proper inflation, size optimisation, and choosing tyres with higher fuel efficiency ratings. By selecting the right tyres and maintaining them properly, drivers can not only improve their vehicle's performance but also contribute to a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective driving experience.
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Frequently asked questions
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is one of the most efficient vehicles on the market, with a claimed 156mpg. However, in reality, you are more likely to get 60mpg from this plug-in hybrid SUV.
If you are looking for a cheaper option, there are several fuel-efficient cars available for £15,000 or less.
The Fiat 500 is a great choice for keeping fuel costs low and offers comfort for longer motorway journeys. With its 1.0-litre engine, it gives over 50 miles to the gallon.
The Toyota Auris is another option, with 50-60mpg in the real world from its 1.8-litre petrol engine.
The 2016 Volvo V60 Cross Country estate is a 2.0-litre diesel with a Euro 6 engine, meaning it qualifies for ULEZ exemption in the UK’s low-emission zones. It achieves 67 miles per gallon of fuel.
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class pushes out up to 65.7mpg and is also Euro 6-compliant, so it can also enter low-emission zones without charge.
The Peugeot 508 is a stylish, well-respected mid-sized family car that gets a claimed 63.6mpg from its efficient 1.5-litre petrol engine.
The Renault Clio is one of the most fuel-efficient cars in Europe, with a combined WLTP fuel consumption of just 4.1 litres per 100 kilometres (68.9 mpg UK).
The Citroën C3 has a fuel consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 km (62.8 mpg UK).
The Fiat 500, in its light hybrid petrol variant, has a combined fuel consumption of 4.6 litres per 100 km (61.4 mpg UK).
The Toyota Aygo X Cross has an average WLTP fuel consumption of 4.8 litres per 100 km (58.9 mpg UK).
The Fiat Panda claims 4.8 litres per 100 km (58.9 mpg UK).
The Mazda2 has a fuel consumption of 4.8 litres per 100 km (58.9 mpg UK).
The 2001 Astra ECO4 is factory-modified with features like underfloor panels, wide-ratio gearbox, sealed gaps, and fuel-efficient tyres. It can achieve 85-95mpg on the highway.
The BMW 320d efficient dynamics model can achieve 80mpg on a run, which is impressive for a car of its size and power.
The Volvo S40 1.6D can average over 70mpg.
The BMW 3 series efficient dynamics model generally comes with smaller wheels, which can improve comfort.
The Mercedes E320CDI on 16" wheels can achieve high 40s MPG at 80mph.
The Citroen C5 Exclusive 2.0HDi has a combined MPG of around 40.
The Ford Focus with 16" wheels and the 1.0 Ecoboost engine will achieve 50mpg.
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is essentially a stylish people carrier with the BMW badge, a sharp driving experience, and a quality interior finish.
