With fuel prices remaining high, switching to a more fuel-efficient car is a smart move – as long as you know what to look for. And don’t assume you’ll have to sacrifice space or comfort to save at the pump. Thanks to advances in technology, newer SUVs and sedans are becoming increasingly fuel efficient, giving you more options than ever before.
- Engine size
Smaller engines generally use less fuel, especially during stop-start city driving where efficiency is paramount. However, when considering performance alongside fuel economy, turbocharged engines present a compelling option. They use exhaust gases to spin a turbine, forcing more air into the engine, which allows a smaller engine to produce the power of a larger one while maintaining greater efficiency under normal driving conditions. This offers a good balance between necessary power for overtaking or highway cruising and overall fuel efficiency.
- Fuel consumption rating
Always check the litres per 100km (L/100km) rating. This metric indicates how many litres of fuel the vehicle consumes to travel 100 kilometres. Generally speaking, the lower the number, the better the fuel efficiency and the more money you’ll save at the pump over time. Anything under 6.5L/100km is considered fuel-efficient, depending on the vehicle type.
- Maintenance and reliability
A fuel-efficient car that’s expensive to maintain can completely cancel out your savings at the pump. Therefore, it’s crucial to look beyond the initial purchase price and fuel economy figures. Prioritise models that are widely known for reliability and affordable servicing, as lower long-term maintenance costs will ensure you genuinely save money over the life of the vehicle.
Content by Weelee.
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