5 Fuel Efficient Family Cars You Should Know About

With the rising cost of living and unpredictable fluctuations in oil prices, families are now looking for more economical options when buying a car.🚗

Finding a car that maximises fuel consumption without sacrificing space and comfort is key.

The good news is there are plenty of vehicles on the market that offer excellent fuel efficiency.

In this useful guide, we’ll explore why fuel efficiency matters, explain what real MPG means, and offer tips on choosing the best fuel-efficient car.

We’ve also picked out the top 5 most fuel-efficient cars in the UK, perfect for families looking to balance practicality with cost savings.😀

Why Fuel Efficiency Matters for Family Cars

Fuel efficiency doesn’t just affect your day-to-day expenses, but it also has broader implications for the environment and the value of your vehicle.

Here's why opting for a fuel-efficient car is a smart choice:

It’s Cost-Effective: Fuel-efficient cars reduce fuel costs, making them budget-friendly for families.

Their Environmental Impact: Lower fuel consumption means reduced carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.

Longer Range: Efficient use of fuel extends the driving range, reducing how often you need to stop to refuel.

Increased Resale Value: Cars known for good fuel economy often result in better resale value.

Regulatory Compliance: Fuel-efficient cars typically comply with regulations, helping to avoid potential regulatory issues.

Best Fuel Efficient Cars: Top 5 Picks

There are plenty of fuel-efficient cars to choose from, and to make them more budget-friendly you can opt for a hire purchase deal.

Here are our top 5 picks for the best fuel-efficient family cars:

Mercedes C-Class PHEV

 Leading the pack with an impressive 470.8 mpg, the Mercedes C-Class PHEV is a game-changer in fuel efficiency.

It's an ideal choice for families seeking luxury and eco-friendliness in one package.

The spacious interior and advanced safety features make it perfect for family trips, while its fuel efficiency ensures long-term savings.

Kia Sportage PHEV

 Offering 252 mpg and a 43-mile range, the Sportage is an excellent option for families.

Its roomy cabin and comfortable design ensure you enjoy the journey. The car’s safety features, and reliability, are also a benefit for family-focused drivers.

Volvo V60 PHEV

With its 353.1 mpg and 54-mile electric range, this stylish estate car is great for families needing extra space.

Its roomy boot accommodates family essentials, and the high safety ratings typical of Volvo cars make it a trustworthy choice.

Peugeot 308 PHEV

 Achieving 281.1 mpg and offering a 37-mile electric range, the Peugeot 308 combines fun and efficiency.

It is well-suited for families thanks to its spacious design, safety features, and smooth handling, making every drive enjoyable.

Toyota RAV4 PHEV

 This SUV, with 282.4 mpg efficiency and a 46-mile electric range, is ideal for family adventures.

Its robust build, spacious interior, and advanced safety technology provide both comfort and peace of mind.

These top models offer families a range of options that balance economy, performance, and eco-friendliness. You can find out how much each model will cost you with a car loan calculator.

What does real MPG mean?

Real MPG refers to the actual miles per gallon a car achieves under normal driving conditions.

This real-world measurement gives a more accurate picture of a car's fuel efficiency, helping families gauge the true cost of running the car.

Manufacturers often provide more optimistic figures when they advertise MPG. It’s rare you’ll get the exact efficiency they claim you will.

By having the real MPG figures, you’ll be able to accurately compare the fuel consumption of different models.

This ensures you choose a family car that best fits your needs and budget.

How to Calculate Fuel Efficiency

Calculating fuel efficiency involves figuring out how many miles your car can travel per gallon (MPG) of fuel.

To calculate this, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Begin by filling up your tank and reset your trip odometer.

Step 2: After driving until you need to refuel, note the miles travelled and the gallons of fuel used to refill.

Step 3: Divide the miles driven, by the gallons used, to get the MPG.

This method gives you a real-world understanding of your car's fuel consumption.

With modern cars, there are typically onboard computers that calculate MPG for you. This lets you consistently see the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.

The higher the MPG, the more fuel-efficient the car is.

Tips for Choosing a Fuel-Efficient Family Car

When selecting the best fuel-efficient family car, consider these tips:

1. Assess Your Needs: Consider the size of your family, how much you typically carry, and your driving habits. A larger family may need more space, while those living in a city may require a smaller, more manoeuvrable car.

2. Check the MPG: Look for cars with high miles per gallon (MPG) ratings to ensure fuel efficiency.
3. Review Safety Features: Safety is paramount. Choose a car with excellent safety ratings and features like airbags, anti-lock braking systems, and electronic stability control.
4. Consider Comfort: Ensure the car has enough room for all passengers and comes with features like comfortable seating and climate control.
5. Research Reliability: Opt for models known for their durability and low maintenance costs to ensure longevity and fewer expenses over time.
6. Think Resale Value: Some fuel-efficient cars retain their value better than others. Research which models are likely to offer a better return if you plan to sell in the future.

If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to choose the best fuel-efficient car to fit your family’s needs.

Once you know which car is right for you, why not make it more affordable with Carmoola?

We provide used car loans to help spread the cost of your new set of wheels. You can apply online and get a decision in minutes.😄

Read more about the best fuel-efficient cars:

• How Can You Get the Most from Your Tank of Fuel?
• What is a Hybrid Electric Car?
• What’s the Difference Between an Electric Car and a Hybrid?