Looking to buy a new car, but worried about the running costs? This month, we take a look at some seriously frugal motors, with our list of the top 5 most fuel-efficient cars of 2014, perfect for if you do a lot of miles, are concerned about your carbon emissions, or just want to keep running costs down.
As we’re going for frugal motors, we’ve discounted more expensive hybrid and electric cars, and only looked at those fitted with conventional engines.
1. Peugeot 308 Blue HDi
Combined MPG – 91.1
CO2 Emissions – 82g/km
Top of the tree when it comes to efficiency is Peugeot’s latest version of their popular 308 small family hatchback. Practical and dependable, it boasts generous boot space, and great green credentials.
2. Renault Clio 1.5 dCi ECO
Combined MPG – 88.3
CO2 Emissions – 83g/km
Whilst you have to go for the optional ECO pack (an extra £250) to get these figures, the efficiency boost is well worth it, making the new 1.5 turbodiesel Clio one of the cheapest cars to run. When combined with the quality interior, practical boot space and low insurance premiums, it’s a strong contender.
3. VW Golf Bluemotion
Combined MPG – 88.3
CO2 Emissions – 85g/km
With undeniable style and badge appeal to match its excellent efficiency, the VW Golf Bluemotion is the most desirable car on this list. It’s also the most expensive, but the high levels of equipment, quality cabin and low running costs do somewhat justify the high purchase cost!
4. Corsa 1.3 CDTi ecoFlex with Stop Start
Combined MPG – 88.3
CO2 Emissions – 85g/km
King of the super-minis is this super-efficient version of the Vauxhall Corsa. At over £14,000, this version is on the pricey side for a super-mini, but delivers unmatched economy and super-low emissions, making it a great option if you do a lot of miles.
5. KIA Rio 1.1 CRDi 1 ISG
Combined MPG – 88.3
CO2 Emissions – 85g/km
The new three cylinder 1.1 turbo-diesel might not be super-swift, but it is extremely frugal! Combined with 5 doors, 5 star Euro NCAP and generous boot space, the Rio is fairly practical, and comes with an excellent 7 year, 100,000 mile warranty.
Turbo tech
As you might expect, all the cars on this list are diesels, and to some degree at least, all owe their super-efficiency to the power of turbocharging.
As we’ve mentioned before here on the blog (check out a frugal future, and future turbo tech for further info), turbocharging is here to stay, and an integral part of the future of economical motoring.
New developments in materials, turbocharger component design and compressor technology are driving the tech forward at a faster pace than ever before, so that we can all benefit from increased MPG.
What about the competition?
Whilst the vehicles in this list represent cream of the crop when it comes to low running costs and maximum MPG (and as a result, tend to be fairly small) you don’t have to compromise on space or performance to benefit from low running costs.
Virtually every manufacturer is now launching super-efficient versions of their most popular models, and that includes larger family vehicles and estates.
Last month, we saw some news about a man who managed to get 60mpg over nearly 1000 miles out of his 2.0l Insignia – not bad for a large, comfortable family car with a 0-60 of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of close to 140mph! (thanks to Hayley Reeve and the excellent Motor Heads blog for the story).
How we can help
If you buy a super-efficient car these days, chances are that it will be fitted with some kind of turbocharger, and if something goes wrong – AET are here to help. With over 40 years experience, we’re experts in fixing faults on a comprehensive range of turbochargers fitted to all passenger and commercial vehicles.
If you need help with your turbo, or just want further info about any of our services, give us a call today on 01924 588 266, or email info@aet-turbos.co.uk
