The most economical used cars in the UK you must look into – 14 picks

Fuel efficiency definitely takes centre stage when you’re planning a purchase. A more fuel-efficient car is not only better for the environment over time, but it also saves you a significant amount of money on road taxes.

In general, as cars get older, their fuel economy tends to decrease. However, this isn’t always true. Depending on the car’s make and model, how it was driven, and how well it was maintained, a used car can actually be more efficient than a brand-new one. So, don’t dismiss the idea of buying a used car if you want to spend less at the gas pump.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most fuel-efficient cars on the used market. While you’re searching, keep in mind that Carplus can help you get the car you want with flexible financing. Start your journey toward your dream car today with Carplus!

1. Toyota Aygo

The Toyota Aygo is a fuel-efficient car that achieves an average of 65.7mpg, making it a great choice for those looking to save money on fuel.

One of the secrets behind the Aygo’s efficiency is its lightweight design — just 840 kilograms and under 3.5 meters in length. This lightness, coupled with a small engine, allows the car to deliver decent performance without guzzling fuel. Speaking of engines, there are both petrol and diesel versions running at 1.0 litre and 1.4 litres, respectively.

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Aygo maximises interior space by featuring a tall body and short overhangs. However, to keep costs down and save space, the rear windows are hinged to open rather than rolling down conventionally.

2. Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius is powered by a 1.8-litre petrol engine that works alongside electric assistance, which makes it possible to achieve impressive fuel efficiency. The standard hybrid features one electric motor, while an all-wheel drive option is better for those seeking added grip. Additionally, there’s a plug-in version with an extra motor, although it delivers the same overall power.

The Prius reportedly offers 59.6-67.3mpg and low emissions of just 94 grams of CO2 per kilometre. If you opt for the all-wheel-drive version, the numbers adjust slightly to 58.7-58.9mpg and 109g/km of CO2 emissions. Despite these low emissions, both Prius models fall under the standard VED car tax rate in the UK.

3. Peugeot 208

The Peugeot 208 comes with both petrol and diesel engine options, but for those covering long distances, the diesel engines are more fuel efficient. However, the petrol engines strike a balance offering good fuel consumption and lively performance.

The smaller engines stand out, with the 1.0 VTI achieving almost 66mpg and the 1.2 VTI reaching 63mpg, according to official figures. Just bear in mind that real-world fuel usage may not always match these numbers.

Additionally, Peugeot offers an electric variant with a 50kWh battery pack, and it provides a decent 225 miles on a single charge. The most cost-effective way to run this electric car is by charging it at home at off-peak rates, whereas fast public charging will lead to increased running costs.

4. Volkswagen Up!

The Volkswagen Up! is a small car that’s designed with cost-effectiveness in mind, targeting low fuel consumption, tax, and insurance expenses.

Among the Up! lineup, the all-electric E-Up stands out for having the most budget-friendly running costs since it produces zero emissions. However, even the petrol variants deliver respectable MPG figures. Almost every petrol model claims an average of over 54mpg, with the entry-level three-door Up being the most frugal.

The most fuel-efficient petrol version, the three-door Up, also has the lowest CO2 emissions — 116g/km. Meanwhile, the sporty 115hp Up GTI, while slightly less fuel-efficient at 51.4mpg for the five-door model, still offers decent efficiency for its performance-oriented nature.

5. Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is a popular family car known for its classy appearance, practicality, and enjoyable driving experience.

For those concerned about low emissions and fuel economy, the GTE model brings its impressive blend of performance and low CO2 emissions, just 27g/km. The plug-in version can cover approximately 38 miles on electric power alone, and Volkswagen claims it can achieve over 200mpg when properly utilising the battery.

The Golf also offers impressive diesel options to save fuel — 67.4mpg. For petrol enthusiasts, the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre variants deliver similar fuel consumption figures at 51.0mpg. Even the performance-oriented GTI and GTI Clubsport versions deliver an acceptable average economy at 38.2mpg.

6. Honda Insight

One thing you should know about the Honda Insight is that it offers ample interior space and a roomy boot. But more importantly for the topic of economical petrol cars, the Insight achieves 64mpg on average. Although, the better-equipped ES and ES-T models still manage a respectable 61mpg.

While real-world driving may not always match claimed figures, the Insight remains a cost-effective choice with low road tax. It also receives further discounts for falling into hybrid cars. If Honda had managed to reduce CO2 emissions by just 1g/km, the Insight would have a free road tax.

Honda has even developed Eco Assist, a system that uses visual cues on the digital display to encourage economical driving, further enhancing fuel efficiency.

7. Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta is one of the most enjoyable small hatchbacks to drive, thanks to its nimble handling and lively turbocharged engines.

Across the Fiesta lineup, you’ll find good fuel economy figures. The most efficient model in the range is the 125hp EcoBoost Hybrid. Testers have managed to achieve approximately 45mpg in town driving and 49mpg on the motorway. On the other hand, the entry-level petrol engine may require more effort to achieve Ford’s official 53.3mpg claim. This is because it needs to be revved harder compared to the other engines.

Aside from fuel costs, Ford has equipped the Fiesta with plenty of modern amenities. For instance, it comes standard with a floating infotainment screen and safety features like lane departure warning.

8. Fiat 500

The Fiat 500, though larger than its classic predecessor, remains a very small car by modern standards. With Britain’s roads, narrow and winding, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking fuel-efficient cars that are also great fun to drive.

The entire Fiat 500 lineup is known for its money-saving choices. The TwinAir engines, in particular, bring a combined figure of 70.6mpg and 92g/km. Even the more powerful model maintains a fuel economy of 67.3mpg. Another perk for Fiat 500 owners in the UK is the discounted VED rate, which applies from the second year onwards.

9. BMW 3 Series

For the purposes of this review, let’s consider the BMW 3 Series as a premium sporting saloon with five doors. Overall, it’s renowned for its all-around excellence and fun-to-drive nature.

If you prioritise fuel economy, the plug-in hybrid has 217.3mpg on paper. However, achieving this requires carefully managing the battery and staying within its 38-mile electric range. For practical everyday driving, the diesel options are more economical, especially for motorway travel — 47.1-58.9mpg. Even the petrol engine models provide decent mileage — 36.2-43.5mpg.

The BMW 3 Series is proving to be a reliable choice, although BMW’s overall reliability varies by model.

10. Citroën C1

The Citroën C1 is a fuel-efficient city car, compact in size (less than 3.5 meters long) and lightweight (less than one tonne). And its efficiency is possible thanks to its tiny VTi 72 1.0-litre engine.

In real-world testing on a mix of A- and B-roads, along with some motorway driving, the C1 returned 58mpg. For city driving, you can expect more than 45mpg. If you have a light foot and take it on gentle countryside drives, you may even achieve up to 60mpg.

One unique feature of the Citroën C1 is the option to have an electric sliding canvas across roof racks, which opens up the entire cabin to the outdoors. Although, it can be a bit noisy for everyday use.

11. Škoda Citigo

The Škoda Citigo is known for its smart design, both inside and out, surprising spaciousness for its size, and affordability in terms of purchase and ownership costs.

Even the least fuel-efficient petrol variants — the 59bhp manual and 74bhp automatic models return 64.2mpg on a combined cycle. The more economical petrol, the 74bhp manual model, goes even further with 68.9mpg. As for the electric one, Škoda claims the Citigo-e iV will manage 161.5 miles between charges.

When it comes to vehicle tax, Škoda’s small cars fall into two brackets, with a slight £25 difference between the cleanest and dirtiest models.

12. Suzuki Swift

The Suzuki Swift competes in the supermini class and offers a compact package with strong fuel economy. While it may not be the cheapest option, the Suzuki Swift is more of a back-to-basics small car rather than a budget offering.

The Dualjet engine features low CO2 emissions of 106g/km and an official fuel economy of up to 59.7mpg. Models equipped with the CVT auto transmission are slightly less efficient at 55.3mpg. Opting for the four-wheel-drive model still returns a respectable 52.3mpg.

The cabin lacks soft-touch plastics, but it’s solidly assembled and built to withstand the test of time in the used car market.

13. Vauxhall Corsa

Continuing the list of fuel-efficient cars, the Vauxhall Corsa is available with various engine options. Based on testing, the normal petrol engine achieves 55.4mpg. The turbocharged version is not far behind with 57.6 mpg in six-speed manual form. The diesel engines are even more frugal, with the now discontinued 1.5-litre unit officially capable of 70.6mpg. Such efficient engines are remarkable for a non-hybrid car.

For those interested in electric vehicles, the Corsa-e comes with a range of up to 222 miles. The range may vary depending on the driving mode selected, with the official figure based on the Normal setting.

Other than that, the Vauxhall Corsa has a modern design both inside and out, with high-quality trim and modern tech.

14. Nissan Micra

The Nissan Micra comes in lively colours and exudes a sense of fun, especially when you choose a bright hue. This sense of excitement continues when you hit the road.

You have a choice of 1.0-litre petrol cars paired with either a five-speed manual or CVT automatic gearbox. The manual version returns up to 53.3mpg; if you opt for the automatic, expect efficiency at up to 47.1mpg. If you prefer diesel cars, the Micra’s diesel cars achieve a solid 52.3mpg.

The manual Micra emits 121 grams of CO2 per kilometre and falls into a reasonable Benefit-in-Kind tax band for company-car drivers. That said, the automatic version emits more CO2 and falls into a higher tax band.

Final Words: Most Fuel-Efficient Cars in the UK

When it comes to picking your next car in the UK, prioritising fuel economy is a smart move. One, it obviously helps you save money on fuel; and two, it’s better for the environment.

You have various engine choices, but the most fuel-efficient ones are typically petrol engines with hybrid assistance and some newer diesel engines, especially for longer trips. The latter is especially great if you have a long daily commute. However, even regular petrol engines have become more efficient thanks to technologies like turbochargers and hybrids.

Hopefully, this list of class leaders and the best MPG used cars gave you valuable insights to make the right choice. And to explore car finance options, reach out to Carplus today! We will provide expert guidance and assistance to make your car purchase hassle-free and affordable.