Most Fuel-Efficient Cars to Drive in 2024

How efficient your vehicle is will be a major factor in buying your next car. So, what are the most fuel-efficient cars of 2024? Let’s read on and find out.

How is fuel economy measured?

Fuel economy is measured in miles per gallon (mpg) and is an easy way to compare between cars the maximum range you can get from your fuel. Electric range is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Or more commonly, the total miles of range the vehicle is capable of. We are currently in a split world where some cars are measured in miles per gallon and some in kilowatt-hours. It’s sometimes hard to compare a petrol-fuelled to an electric car.

The mpg number that we are familiar with tells you how many miles your car gets to 1 gallon of petrol or diesel. The miles per kilowatt-hour (mi/kWh) figure tells you how many miles the electric car will get per 1 kWh.

One gallon of fuel is equal to 33.7kWh of electricity. Which means nothing when you’re trying to quickly figure out whether an electric car has a good mi/kWh figure. But here’s an inkling of whether the electric car you’re considering will have good mileage. A decent mi/kWh figure is currently around 4 mi/kWh.

The bottom of the pile figure would be around 2mi/kWh.

What are the most economical cars?

Different fuel types make a difference to how many miles your car can do too. Diesel cars have always been the best mpg cars to run, however that comes at a price with their emissions. Petrol cars have been most popular for driving around town and shorter journeys like commutes.

With the introduction of hybrids and electric vehicles comes a whole other category of comparison, measured in miles per kWh.

Electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles are low-emission or emission free. They are the power source that all manufacturers are going towards. Their range figures are improving all the time, with some outstripping petrol vehicles for range nowadays. As long as they’re driven with economy in mind.

Both miles per gallon and miles per kWh figures should be taken with a pinch of salt. You, the driver, will have a huge input in what the car can produce. If you’re a heavy-footed driver then regardless of vehicle type - you will get less miles out of your petrol, diesel or electric car.

Driving your car gently and methodically will give reward to the range of any car.

What are the most fuel-efficient petrol cars to drive?

Mazda 2

The used Mazda 2 is a great drive, with comfortable interior materials and plenty of driver-assistance features. Most importantly, it’s great on fuel.

The middle-of-the-road petrol engine option offers 90hp and is the perfect mile-muncher. Paired with its manual gearbox and you’ll get 60.1mpg from your Mazda 2. If an automatic shifter is more your style, you can get 52.3mpg out of it.

Kia Picanto

If tiny city cars are an option, the used Kia Picanto makes an ideal run-around, with a decent boot for its size and a pleasant driving feel.

The smaller petrol engine option is the best for economy, with 66hp and a five-speed manual gearbox giving you up to 60mpg, even in city driving.

Toyota Aygo X

If style is as high up as economy on your ‘must’ list, the used Toyota Aygo X would be ideal. With a variety of exterior designs to choose from and a stylish interior.

With one engine choice, it’s easy to pick your Aygo X.

The 1.0-litre petrol engine will give you up to 58.9mpg and 72hp, enough to see you nicely around town. And to impress you with low fuel spending.

What are the most fuel-efficient diesel cars to drive?

Volkswagen Golf

The used Volkswagen Golf has long been the staple of economical fun cars. So, it’s no surprise that the car comes out on top for miles per gallon figures.

With their 2.0-litre TDI engine, you can easily reach the top end of an impressive 70mpg. What’s more relaxing on your commute than seeing that number on your dash?

Audi A3

A classic, the used Audi A3. Most economical in the saloon variety, thanks to an aerodynamic sweeping body shape.

The 2.0-litre diesel, named the 30 TDI with 116hp and can give you up to 65.7mpg. Partner it up with the manual gearbox and the lower Teknik trim level for best results. Smaller wheels are always your friend for economy.

BMW 1 Series

Offering two competitive diesel options, the used BMW 1 Series give you options. A to B and economical, or economical and fun.

If you’re not fussed on nipping off the line at traffic lights, the 116d is ideal. Offering up to 60mpg and packaged in a comfortable well-kitted out car into the bargain. The 118d gives you more punch, without too much compromise on economy - up to 58mpg.

What cars are cheaper to run?

A car is more than just the price of purchase. The variations on taxing, insurance, miles per gallon, the fuel type. Even reliability, how much the model depreciates over time, and replacement parts. They all factor into influencing cars that are cheapest to run.

To read more about cars that are cheaper to run, visit our Cheapest Cars to Run in 2024 blog.

What are the most fuel-efficient cars to drive as a taxi?

The most favoured overall for the most economical taxi seems to be the used Toyota Prius. With up to nearly 59mpg, compact size and reliable reputation, the Prius is hard to beat.

Unsurprisingly for those taxi drivers among you, the used Skoda Octavia reigns supreme as the most economical diesel. However, with compliance rules changing - particularly around cities - the Skoda Octavia plug in hybrid is waiting in the wings.

How to make your cars more fuel-efficient

Choosing your next car based on efficiency doesn’t mean you choose boring. Small things like driving in a more measured way will help you get the most out of your car. Nowadays, a lot of cars even indicate when to change gear on the dash. This will give you optimal shifting to make your fuel go further.

What changes can I make to save fuel consumption?

A big fuel user is your air conditioning. Switch it off where you can, and you will make up some miles.

The next money saver is easing up your right foot. Drive your car as smoothly as possible, from setting off to cruising the motorway.

Stating the obvious perhaps but, don’t use it! If you’re nipping round the corner for milk, take a walk to do it. Using your car for short journeys isn’t advisable anyway. It wears the engine down faster than if you allow your engine to cycle properly like it does on longer journeys.