As fuel prices and environmental concerns continue to drive consumer decisions, finding the most economical vehicle has never been more important. Whether you’re looking for the best petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), or electric vehicle, understanding the fuel efficiency and range of each type can help you make the best choice for your driving needs. In this guide, we rank the top vehicles in each category, offering the highest mileage or longest range available in the UK today.
Disclaimer: All MPG and range figures presented in this article are based on data sourced from CAP and are readily available on our car leasing pages.
Simple Tips to Improve Fuel Economy and Reduce Fuel Costs
Regardless of the type of vehicle you drive, there are a few universal tips for reducing fuel consumption:
Drive Smoothly: Sudden acceleration and braking can increase fuel usage. Aim for steady speeds, especially on motorways.
Regular Maintenance: Keeping your tyres inflated and ensuring your car is serviced regularly can help maintain optimal fuel efficiency.
Reduce Weight: Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle, as extra weight can reduce fuel efficiency.
Use Eco Mode: Many modern cars come with an eco-driving mode that adjusts performance to save fuel.
Best Fuel-Efficient Petrol Cars in the UK for 2024
Petrol vehicles remain a popular choice for drivers seeking a balance of efficiency, affordability, and performance. The following list highlights six petrol vehicles that lead the category for combined MPG, with three tied at 54.3 mpg. Each model offers a unique blend of economy and practicality.
Toyota Aygo X 1.0 VVT-i
Compact and city-friendly, the Toyota Aygo X delivers a combined fuel efficiency of 58.9 mpg. With a 35-litre fuel tank and a 0-62 mph time of 14.9 seconds, it’s ideal for urban driving and shorter commutes.
Mazda 2 1.5 Skyactiv
Renowned for its engaging driving dynamics, the Mazda 2 boasts 58.9 mpg combined fuel economy. Its 44-litre fuel tank and a swift 0-62 mph time of 9.8 seconds make it an excellent all-rounder for city and motorway driving.
Peugeot 208 1.2 PureTech
The Peugeot 208 combines style and substance with a combined MPG of 58.2. Its 44-litre fuel tank offers a good range, and the 208 accelerates to 62 mph in a respectable 10.1 seconds, balancing efficiency and performance.
Kia Picanto 1.0 2
For those prioritising economy, the Kia Picanto achieves a combined efficiency of 54.3 mpg. Its 35-litre fuel tank is suited for urban driving, though its 0-62 mph time of 18.2 seconds reflects its focus on frugality over speed.
Renault Clio TCE 90
The Renault Clio, offering 54.3 mpg, combines a 42-litre tank with a moderate 0-62 mph acceleration of 12.2 seconds. It’s an excellent choice for drivers seeking a stylish and economical small car.
Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI
The Volkswagen Polo, tied at 54.3 mpg, delivers a balance of efficiency and drivability. With a 40-litre tank and a 0-62 mph time of 10.8 seconds, it’s a versatile option for city and motorway use.
Best MPGs for Petrol Vehicles
Petrol cars offer a balance between fuel economy and versatility, making them a great option for drivers with mixed urban and motorway journeys. While they don’t achieve the same fuel economy as some diesel or hybrid models, they remain a cost-effective choice for everyday driving.
Top Diesel Cars for Fuel Economy in 2024
Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE Technology
Leading the diesel category, the Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE Technology delivers an impressive combined fuel efficiency of 66.2 mpg. With a fuel tank capacity of 48 litres, this family favourite provides an excellent range for long trips, reaching 0-62 mph in 10.4 seconds, blending practicality and efficiency.
Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI
The Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI, known for its all-around reliability, offers 64.2 mpg combined efficiency. Its 45-litre fuel tank ensures fewer stops on longer journeys, while the Golf’s balanced performance allows it to reach 0-62 mph in a respectable 10.2 seconds.
SEAT Leon 2.0 TDI
Another solid contender, the SEAT Leon 2.0 TDI, boasts a combined efficiency of 62.8 mpg. With a 45-litre tank, the Leon is perfect for drivers looking for a mix of fuel economy and dynamic handling. Its 0-62 mph time of 10.5 seconds ensures a smooth, responsive drive.
Audi A3 35 TDI Sport
For those seeking luxury without compromising efficiency, the Audi A3 35 TDI Sport achieves 58.9 mpg. Its 50-litre fuel capacity ensures excellent range, and with a 0-62 mph acceleration of 8.6 seconds, this premium hatchback combines sophistication and power.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class A200d
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class A200d rounds off the list with a combined MPG of 57.7. Its 43-litre fuel tank offers ample range for urban and motorway driving, and it accelerates from 0-62 mph in a brisk 8.4 seconds, making it a premium, stylish choice for efficiency-conscious drivers.
Top 5 MPGs for Diesel cars
Diesel vehicles excel in fuel economy and power delivery, making them the preferred choice for frequent long-distance drivers. However, potential buyers should consider evolving emissions regulations and ensure diesel is the right fit for their driving needs. Thinking of owning a diesel vehicle, check out our blog on the pro’s and cons of owning a diesel car.
Best Plug-In Hybrid Cars for Fuel Efficiency in 2024
PHEVs combine the flexibility of electric-only driving with the convenience of a petrol engine for extended range, making them ideal for both short commutes and longer journeys. These vehicles achieve impressive MPG when driven under ideal conditions with regular battery charging. It’s important to note that manufacturers use slightly different reporting standards (e.g., TEL and TEH), which reflect varying test conditions, so values might differ based on driving patterns and environmental factors. The MPGs shown below are assuming regularly charging the battery in between drives.
Volkswagen Golf GTE
The Volkswagen Golf GTE tops the list with a combined fuel economy of 706.2 MPG, thanks to its efficient use of both electric and petrol power. With a battery range of 81.4 miles, this model is ideal for city driving with minimal petrol usage when fully charged.
Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
Known for its pioneering eco-friendly approach, the Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid boasts a combined 564.9 MPG. With a 53.4-mile battery range, it provides ample electric-only driving for urban commutes, reducing fuel consumption significantly.
Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
The Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid offers a balanced approach with 353.1 MPG combined fuel efficiency. Its 40-mile electric range makes it a practical choice for those seeking a compact SUV that handles well in both electric and hybrid modes.
BMW X5 xDrive45e
The luxurious BMW X5 xDrive45e achieves a combined 313.9 MPG, paired with an electric range of 63.4 miles. This model is well-suited for drivers looking for a premium SUV experience with the added benefit of electric driving on shorter trips.
Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid
The Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid provides a solid 282.5 MPG, with an electric range of 43.5 miles. Combining practicality and efficiency, it’s a dependable choice for families seeking an SUV with reduced emissions in urban settings.
Top 5 Most Economical PHEV Vehicles
Petrol vehicles are renowned for their smoother operation and quicker acceleration, making them a popular choice for city driving. However, potential buyers should consider fuel efficiency and the environmental impact of petrol engines.
Electric Cars with the Longest Range for 2024
Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) offer an entirely emissions-free driving experience, relying solely on electric power stored in their batteries. With advancements in technology, modern BEVs can achieve impressive ranges and offer rapid charging capabilities. However, it’s essential to note that the range figures provided are based on optimal test conditions, and real-world results can vary depending on driving style, environmental factors, and usage of auxiliary systems like air conditioning. Charging times can differ based on the charging infrastructure used.
Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+
The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ leads the list with a staggering combined range of 481 miles, powered by a 118kWh battery. Its fast-charging capability allows it to charge from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes at a 200 kW charging station. This luxury sedan combines unmatched range with a smooth and quiet driving experience.
Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD
Tesla’s Model 3 Long Range AWD offers a robust 390-mile range, supported by a 79kWh battery. Known for its innovative features and access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network, it can charge from 10% to 80% in just 27 minutes, thanks to its 250 kW max charging rate.
BMW iX xDrive50
The BMW iX xDrive50, a luxury electric SUV, achieves a combined range of 383 miles with a large 111.5kWh battery. It supports rapid charging at up to 250 kW, taking approximately 35 minutes to go from 10% to 80%, making it an excellent option for long road trips.
Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium RWD
The Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium RWD blends performance with practicality, offering a range of 372 miles from its 98.7kWh battery. Its 150 kW max charging rate means it can recharge from 10% to 80% in 36 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime during extended journeys.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Long Range RWD
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 Long Range RWD offers a competitive range of 339 miles with its 77kWh battery. Notably, it boasts the fastest charging time in this list, reaching 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes, thanks to its impressive 350 kW max charging capability.
Top 5 Longest Range Electric Vehicles
Choosing the Most Fuel-Efficient Car for Your Needs
Choosing an economical vehicle depends heavily on your driving habits, the type of journeys you undertake, and your preferences for fuel type. If you’re looking for a traditional petrol car, the Toyota Aygo X and Mazda 2 Skyactiv lead the way, delivering impressive combined fuel economy of 58.9 mpg. Meanwhile, diesel enthusiasts can rely on the Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI SE Technology, which tops the charts with a remarkable 66.2 mpg combined efficiency.
For those interested in plug-in hybrids, options like the Volkswagen Golf GTE, with a combined fuel economy of 706.2 mpg, and the Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid, achieving 564.9 mpg, demonstrate how PHEVs can balance exceptional mileage with electric driving versatility. However, to achieve these impressive figures, regular charging and ideal driving conditions are essential.
Electric vehicle drivers can benefit from outstanding ranges and cutting-edge technology. The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ offers the longest range at 481 miles on a single charge, while models like the Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD (390 miles) and BMW iX xDrive50 (383 miles) provide excellent mileage, making them perfect for long journeys with minimal charging stops. These vehicles also offer rapid charging capabilities, reducing downtime during longer trips.
Ultimately, as the automotive industry shifts towards more sustainable options, the range and efficiency of PHEV and electric vehicles continue to improve, making them increasingly viable for all types of drivers. Each of these vehicles offers a unique blend of efficiency, performance, and practicality, ensuring that there’s an economical choice available to suit any lifestyle.
Looking for more details? Visit our website for comprehensive information on each model, car leasing options and a wide section of used cars, to help you drive smarter and save more in 2024.
At AMT, we’re committed to providing a service that’s tailored to you. Discuss models with the best fuel economy with our dedicated team to discuss your lease requirements on 0113 387 4241.