Most Economical Cars

24-May-2008

Feeling the petrol pinch?

advertisement ^

Just when we thought petrol prices couldn't get any worse, this weekend will see us hitting a whole new low (or should we say high) of a whopping $2 a litre.

Unfortunately, the increasing cost of oil means higher petrol prices that seem to be exceeding quicker than Gwyneth Paltrow's stilettos at an Iron Man premier. And according to experts, you should steady yourselves, because it's just going to get a whole lot worse.

With this in mind, perhaps now is the time to think about investing in a more economical vehicle. Not only will this save you money at the bowser, most purse-friendly cars also happen to be good for the environment (aka they use less petrol, which of course equals less green house emissions); so when buying a more economical vehicle, this also means you can help save the world and your hard-earned cash.

So if you're keen to get lean (and green) with your next new car, think high-efficiency engines, diesels and hybrids vehicles and consider one of the following economical options

Fiat 500

Not only is the Fiat a cute little Italian, he'll take you out for a nice dinner with a little spare cash for a movie, using only 4.2L per 100km. Did we mention the Fiat is not only sporty, handsome and fun to drive, but also has recently picked up a 5-star ANCAP safety rating? RRP $25,990.

Toyota Prius Hybrid

The greenest car on the market right now also rates right up there when it comes to the eco (economical, that is) factor, using only 4.4L per 100km.

The Prius of course runs on a hybrid engine, meaning it uses an electric motor that powers the vehicle at low speeds or when idling, helping to reduce nasty fumes and emissions into the atmosphere. It's good to go at a RRP of $37,400.

Citroen C3 HDi

If you're after a small car that's big on features, then you should consider the Citroen C3. Not only does it love and hug curves like J-Lo, it offers a stop-start motor that idles when stopped and turns itself on again when you accelerate. Cute and smart, the C3 uses only 4.4L per 100km. You can snap one up at a RRP of $23,990.

Audi A3 1.9 TDIe Diesel

For those who demand a car with luxury, the Audi A3 is for you. Audis are synonymous with good design, style and class and are well-known for being a quality vehicle. The A3 is all that. This car is not only sexy, but also economical, using only 4.5L per 100km. Economy comes with a price tag with the A3 however – you will pay now and save later with a RRP of $38,900.

Citroen C4 SX HDi Diesel

Extremely spacious and very practical, the Citroen C4 is also little quirky. But that's what makes it so endearing. It's quiet to drive, very safe with the inclusion of front passenger airbags, front side airbags, side impact protection, pretensioned seatbelts in the front, force limiters in all seatbelts and of course includes ABS and EBD. The Citroen makes the list, sipping a frugal 4.5L per 100km.

And if you aren't in the market for a new car just yet, then never fear. There are ways you too can save!

Petrol Saving Tips...

· Don't drive! Take a bus, walk or peddle when possible!

· When purchasing a new car, choose a fuel efficient vehicle

· Get up to speed on fuel consumption information

· Make friends and dive into car pooling

· Invest in a GPS to find the quickest route to your destination (saving you from driving around in circling after getting lost!)

· Don't accelerate or brake unnecessarily

· Don't 'warm' your car up forever!

· Service your car regularly

· Make sure your car tyres are perfectly pumped

· Switch off your air-conditioner

· Travel light and get rid of excess baggage.

* Article posted on the Australian Women's Weekly online.