With fuel prices continuing to rise, more and more drivers are looking for ways to save money at the petrol station. One great option is to buy a used fuel-efficient car. While new electric and hybrid models grab the headlines, there are plenty of affordable, economical used cars that can dramatically cut your fuel costs without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll look at five of the best fuel-efficient used cars available from car dealerships in Edinburgh and elsewhere in Scotland. Buying one of these wallet-friendly whips is a smart way to beat the pumps.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius pioneered hybrid technology when it launched worldwide back in 1997. Now on its 4th generation, the Prius remains one of the most frugal vehicles you can buy. Models from the past 5 years offer around 70 mpg fuel economy – far better than comparable petrol or diesel-powered family cars.
As one of the world’s best-selling hybrids, Priuses are easy to find at car dealership advertising across Scotland. With their bulletproof reputation for reliability, a used Prius is a savvy choice for high mileage drivers looking to slash their petrol bills.
Toyota Yaris
Toyota strikes again with the Yaris, a supermini that’s big on fuel efficiency. The economical 3-cylinder petrol engine delivers performance that belies its modest size. In 1999-2005 Mk1 models you can expect around 45mpg, improving to 60 mpg+ for 2006-2011 Mk2 versions.
As a Toyota, the Yaris is renowned for sturdy mechanicals that go the distance. Look for SE or SR models which have extra kit like alloy wheels and aircon. The Yaris is the ideal affordable small car for nippy urban commuting.
Skoda Octavia
The Octavia is Skoda’s family-sized hatchback and estate that offers Volkswagen build quality for less. Frugal petrol and diesel engines provide anything from 40-70 mpg depending on power output and specification.
Early Mk1 models are bargain buys, while Mk2 examples from 2004-2013 feel more upmarket. The later Mk3 Octavia (2013-on) is more luxurious still. Well-equipped Elegance models are the ones to go for. Overall, the Octavia is an economical used car choice for both families and business users.
Vauxhall Corsa
A used Vauxhall Corsa is one of the most popular starter cars for younger drivers. The Corsa consistently appears in lists of top 10 economical used cars. Mk4 (2006-2014) versions manage around 50mpg, while the current Mk5 models deliver 60mpg.
With vast numbers sold, there’s a huge choice of Corsas at dealerships everywhere. As well as petrol engines, the ecoFLEX models feature super-frugal diesel units that can eke out over 80 mpg. A second-hand Corsa is ideal for low-mileage local driving.
Ford Fiesta
The Fiesta has topped the UK best sellers list for years. Ford’s supermini icon is available with a range of economical engines offering around 60 mpg in real-world driving. There’s a huge choice of petrol and diesel-powered Fiestas at local dealers.
Focus on Zetec and Titanium models which have nicer trim and extra equipment. Later sixth and seventh-gen cars (2008-onwards) are more sophisticated. For great fuel economy in a stylish package, a used Ford Fiesta ticks all the boxes.
With the average cost of petrol set to continue rising, using less fuel is vital for keeping motoring affordable. The used cars highlighted here blend frugal running with fuss-free reliability – an appealing combo. Choosing a second-hand economical car like a Prius or Corsa from a local dealership’s forecourt display is a savvy way to start saving your hard-earned cash.
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