Fuelling the debate

05/07/11

Fuelling the debate: can petrol motors be as efficient as diesel?

It is common knowledge that you get more miles for your fuel if you own a diesel motor, and that overall, despite the pump price, you can make savings by switching to diesel. Right?

Well, it’s not necessarily that simple. Driving a diesel motor off the forecourt will generally set you back more than a similar petrol car, and it can take quite some time to recoup the extra costs. Therefore, if you’re a relatively low-mileage driver, think carefully before switching.

What’s more, petrol cars are increasingly fuel-efficient these days. You really can get a lot of miles out of a gallon of unleaded. To give you some inspiration, here are our favourite five petrol cars that will give you over 60mpg.

Toyota Aygo

There are plenty of these small city cars on the market at the moment, but the Aygo is one of the cutest around in our view. It should give you around 61mpg. Well-built and stylish, it’s definitely worth a look for a run-around.

Nissan Pixo

Less well-known that its Japanese cousin, but it’s a real gem if you’re willing to sacrifice the looks of the Aygo for a few extra miles, as it should give you around 64.2mpg.

Honda Civic

This may come as a surprise, but you don’t have to go for a super-mini city car to get more miles for your money. Choose the right model of boys favourite the Honda Civic and you can get up to 61.4mpg.

Toyota Auris

Everyone knows the Prius, and not everyone is a fan of its looks. If you’re after something more ‘conventional’ looking, how about a hybrid Auris? Very inoffensive on the eye, and can reach up to a whopping 70.6mpg. Impressive.

Honda Insight

Another alternative to the Prius, some would say the Insight has a bit more ‘attitude’. A great looking car that certainly performs, at around 65mpg.