Best Fuel-Efficient Small Cars

While there has been a lot of attention on the rapid advancement of electric cars in recent years, it’s also true that conventional ICE (internal combustion engine) models have also come a mighty long way in terms of economy and emissions during that time.

This is good news for those who may not be able to stretch to the price of a pure electric car or have immediate access to charging facilities because there are an increasing number of cars on the market that still offer excellent fuel economy in affordable packages.

Cheap to buy and cheap to run, here are Vertu’s top pick of fuel-efficient small cars you can drive today.

Toyota Aygo X

Toyota has been at the forefront of promoting fuel-efficiency for many years, as demonstrated by its ground-breaking Prius, which introduced technology that mated a conventional engine with a small battery to allow emissions-free driving at low speeds.

That technology has come on leaps and bounds over the years, so much so that multiple models in the Toyota range now feature self-charging hybrid technology.

The latest model to get this is the latest generation Toyota Aygo X, which mates a 1.5-litre engine with a small battery to greatly improve fuel economy by operating largely on electric in low-speed environments, such as the city in which it is designed for.

As such, it is possible to achieve more than 80mpg and low emissions figures, all without needing to recharge it.

Toyota Yaris

While the Toyota Yaris is larger than the Aygo X, it also gets the same hybrid technology and therefore delivers similarly impressive fuel economy figures of around 70mpg.

As well as being frugal, the Yaris is also one of the most accomplished options all round in the small hatchback sector with its mature driving manners and solidly built, well-equipped interior.

A model that has evolved over the years to retain the fun spirit of the first-generation model that transformed the class back in 1999, the latest iteration sees the Yaris at its very best.

Considering the potential savings made on the road, the Yaris is also excellent value with prices starting below £24,000.

Mazda 2 Hybrid

No, your eyes do not deceive you, the Mazda 2 Hybrid does look an awful lot like a Toyota Yaris.

In an effort to give Mazda a more fuel-efficient runner in the small hatchback class, the Mazda 2 Hybrid is heavily based on the Toyota Yaris. It is sold alongside the original Mazda 2, which comes without the hybrid system.

Being based on the Yaris means the Mazda 2 gets the same accomplished traits of its donor vehicle, namely its fuel-efficient hybrid system – which delivers 74mpg – high-quality interior and stylish looks.

While there isn’t much to differentiate the Mazda from the Toyota, the 2 Hybrid does get slightly reworked looks – including a new grille and alloy wheels – but if you live nearer to a Vertu Mazda dealership, it’s definitely worth your attention.

MG3

It already counts itself as one of the cheapest new cars you can buy in the UK, but the MG3 doubles down on its affordable reputation by being one of the most fuel-efficient too.

Indeed, the MG3 represents a lot of car for the money already with its full-size five-door hatchback body style allowing generous room for five people.

Better yet, if you opt for the Hybrid+ trim – which features a 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to a small battery – it is possible to achieve almost 65mpg without any of the faff that comes with recharging.

It’s well-equipped too with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a built-in satellite navigation system and a reversing camera standard at ever trim level.

Honda Jazz

Like the Toyota Yaris, the Honda Jazz has evolved to integrate a hybrid system to complement its already plentiful qualities as a small, yet spacious car.

Indeed, Honda – along with Toyota – was an early innovator of hybrid fuel systems, which has led to the Jazz receiving a small battery to complement its 1.5-litre petrol engine.

As a result, it can return fuel economy of well over 60mpg and do so in a car that also features the segment’s most flexible interior boasting lots of head and legroom for passengers.

Better yet, the Jazz comes with the choice of either the standard hatchback, or as the more rugged SUV-style Crosstour, pictured here.

Peugeot 208

Though relatively late to the party, Peugeot – along with Stellantis stablemates Citroen and Vauxhall – has integrated hybrid power to its celebrated small car range.

As such, the Peugeot 208, Citroen C3 and Vauxhall Corsa all come with the bonus of hybrid power to eke fuel economy out to around 65mpg.

Of the three models, it is the Peugeot 208 that delivers the most impressive fuel economy figures, while its sharp looks and high-tech cabin make it an endearing choice overall.