In this day and age, being financially smart and sustainable with our purchases seems to matter more than ever. This is more than relevant for our choice of car.
Getting a vehicle with efficient miles per gallon (MPG) makes environmental sense and it will also help you get more bang for your buck.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the best cars on the market with a good MPG. Typically, this would be a selection of hybrids, but we’re including a range of car types, including a couple of classics.
BMW 330e
MPG: 85.0mpg (2.0-litre engine)
Fuel: Petrol
If you’re looking for acceleration that has some oomph, as an economical hybrid choice, the BMW 330e has that in buckets. Yes, it’s sleek and has all the bells and whistles you want from a BMW, but the fact that it can return over 100 miles to the gallon is equally impressive.
It’s known for easy driving, smooth operation and its speed, so if you want a hybrid that feels exciting, this one’s for you.
Features:
- XtraBoost function
- 289bhp
- Four-cylinder engine
Peugeot 208 (BlueHDi 100 engine)
MPG: 72.2mpg (41-litre fuel tank)
Fuel: Diesel
The Peugeot 208 is a heavyweight when it comes to sales in Europe – and for good reason. It boasts a stylish interior and exterior, which many claim improves the user experience, plus the hybrid engine has had great reviews.
The BlueHDi 100 engine version is the most efficient but will cost you a bit more. This is worth it for the compact size, elevated design, and overall usability. The newer 1.6 BlueHDi 100 diesel engine can give you an impressive 83.1mpg capacity.
Features:
- 97bhp
- 5-speed manual gearbox
- 9.9 second acceleration (0.60mph)
Fiat 500
MPG: 50-60mpg (depending on the model)
Fuel: Petrol
Though they aren’t for everyone, Fiat 500s have a decent fuel mileage for a standard car. The hybrid versions are even better for this, so take your pick.
Small but mighty, they are known for their retro design, but they’re popular for more than just that. The compact size and light steering makes it a great first car, plus the suspension holds up well for a smaller vehicle.
Features:
- 69bhp
- Cruise control
- Heated front seats and climate control
Skoda Octavia
MPG: 68.2mpg (2.0-litre engine)
Fuel: Diesel
When it comes to value for money, look no further than the Skoda Octavia. A great choice for a daily driver, this spacious vehicle has longevity, with it being designed to withstand rougher roads and longer drives too.
For fuel economy, the diesel is a wonderful choice, but so are the newer petrol options. We’d recommend the 116hp 2.0-litre diesel model for the best mpg but there is a 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre model.
Features:
- 150bhp (for the 2.0 TDI)
- More storage options and a larger boot
- Dual-zone air conditioning
Toyota Prius
MPG: 67.0mpg (2.0-litre engine)
Fuel: Unleaded
The first Toyota Prius was released in 1997 and when many think of an environmentally friendly ride, they’ll still think of this almost classic. There’s a self-charging and plug-in hybrid version (235.4mpg) these days, so you’re truly spoilt for choice.
Toyota is known for consistently producing well-built and designed cars and this is no different, with a quiet drive that many users love. Smooth, efficient, and stylish is the name of the game with the Prius and, even after more than two decades, it’s still offering a contemporary driving experience.
Features:
- Easy interior controls
- A great fuel economy (even with a depleted battery)
- 220bhp
Renault 4
MPG: 40-60 mpg (depending on the model)
Fuel: Unleaded
Renault is always seemingly trying to improve its environmental impact, and the Renault 4 has been contributing to that for over six decades. The original was manufactured from 1961 to 1992 but, excitingly, the Renault 4 E-Tech is now available.
Whether you buy a used original or the new electric, you’ll be getting a reliable runaround. They were made for driving around the countryside, so, for a car that won’t let you down all year round, you’re onto a winner here.
Features:
- Full one-pedal driving option
- Spacious interior
- 118bhp or 148bhp
Volkswagen Golf GTD
MPG: 50+mpg (2.0-litre engine)
Fuel: Diesel
For an older diesel-powered vehicle, the Golf GTD still has a decent fuel economy, plus an exciting 180 horsepower. Originally released in 1982, the latest model came about in 2013, boasting more torque than the popular GTI but arguably less power.
You’re still getting a lot for your money here and it remains a versatile daily driver for all types of car users.
Features:
- All-wheel drive
- 181bhp
- Seven-speed automatic gearbox
Mitsubishi Mirage
MPG: 39mpg (1.2-litre engine)
Fuel: Petrol
Despite being called “Mirage”, what you see is what you get when it comes to this Mitsubishi subcompact hatchback (also available as a G4 sedan). You won’t be getting the power that others on this list have, but it remains fuel efficient and easy to drive.
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a practical and affordable choice, ideal for small families and new drivers.
Features:
- A lot of storage for a smaller car
- 15-inch alloy wheels
- 79bhp
What counts as good MPG for a car?
When on the hunt for a new car that’s also fuel efficient, you’ll be keeping the MPG in mind but what range should you look for?
For regular cars, between 30-40 can be considered good MPG and anything above 50 is incredibly impressive. For hybrid vehicles, between 60-80 would be the gold standard.
Insuring your fuel efficient car
At Adrian Flux, we understand that finding the right insurance for you needs a personalised approach, which is why we tailor your quote to your needs. Whether you’re looking for standard car insurance or hybrid insurance, we can help.
Call us on 0800 369 8590 or book a callback at a time that suits you.