From Saloons to SUVs - Which Car Type is Most Fuel-Efficient?

Feb 26, 2024

In terms of petrol prices and diesel prices, not all car types are built equal. If you’re thinking of factoring fuel costs into your next car purchase (which we think is a great idea!), then you’ve come to the right place. Here we’ll run through the major car styles to discern which tends to provide the best fuel efficiency: hatchbacks, saloons and estates, SUVs, sports cars and the wild card, electric vehicles.

Hatchbacks

First up and (spoiler alert) most fuel efficient are hatchbacks - these tend to be compact and comparatively lightweight which often leads to brilliant fuel economy ratings - meaning you’ll spend less on petrol or diesel. As a category, these will usually win out - their smaller engines and aerodynamic design contribute to lower fuel consumption, meaning you’ll likely have to be less concerned about fuel prices. This is especially true if your main usage is likely to be city driving and daily commutes, where these cars excel.

Saloons & Estates

Saloon and estate cars offer what most would consider a good balance of fuel efficiency with spacious interiors and a smooth driving experience. Engine size tends to be larger than in hatchbacks and they are typically heavier - which helps contribute to the smooth driving, but also leads to higher fuel consumption - but compared to SUVs and sports cars, their miles per gallon don’t look so bad. Especially in the case of saloons, their streamlined profiles can lessen air resistance on the car which can improve fuel economy compared to bulkier vehicles. At their best, saloon and estate cars should offer a smooth, balanced driving experience across most driving situations - at a moderate rate of fuel consumption and ultimately moderate fuel prices.

SUVs

It’s likely you’ve noticed a lot more SUVs on the road in recent years - while these cars have shot up in popularity due to their spaciousness and versatility, their fuel efficiency typically falls well behind that of smaller vehicles. Their larger engines, increased weight and bulky designs contribute to higher emissions, meaning higher fuel prices, higher taxes and more individual pollution. However, all is not lost for eco-conscious drivers looking for space and fuel efficiency - the hybrid and electric market is booming for SUVs, with an increasing number of options available.

From Saloons to SUVs - Which Car Type is Most Fuel-Efficient?

Sports Cars

As you would expect, the incredible performance associated with sports cars comes at a price, to the environment and to your wallet. Ultimately these aren’t made for long drives - they prioritise speed, power and exhilaration over fuel economy. Advancements in engine technology have led to improved fuel economy in some models, but this probably isn’t your best bet for fuel efficiency in everyday driving.

Electric and Hybrid Cars

The growth of electric and hybrid vehicles in the UK is rapid - though this boom is largely driven by environmental consciousness, these cars may also offer cost savings in the long-term. Hybrid cars combine traditional engines with electric motors, providing a good balance between fuel efficiency and range, whereas EVs boast zero tailpipe emissions. From a cost perspective, the initial outlay is often higher than the petrol equivalent of the same vehicle - but incentive schemes do exist and ultimately the ongoing cost is consistently projected to be lower, both from the perspective of charging up and car maintenance. More good news is that the charging infrastructure is improving rapidly now as is the availability of different models across brands.

Making an Informed Choice

While fuel efficiency is important both in terms of emissions and personal finances, it’s worth bearing in mind your driving needs and lifestyle too. A hatchback might suit you perfectly if most of your driving is shorter trips in urban and suburban areas and you’re looking for a lower upfront cost - but if you’re planning major road trips with your family and you have more to spend then taking the leap on an electric or hybrid SUV could be the best bet for you and your family long-term.

If you’re sticking with traditional fuels, make sure to keep an eye on the cheapest fuel prices in your area.If you’re thinking about going electric take a look at our article about what to consider before buying an electric vehicle or have a browse of these top-reviewed electric cars popular in the UK in 2024.

Whatever you do, it’s worth reviewing our guide on what to consider before buying a new car.

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