Which fuel efficient cars should you consider in NZ? A useful shortlist includes the Toyota Aqua, Toyota Prius, Honda Fit Hybrid, Honda Insight, Toyota Corolla Hybrid and selected petrol Mazda Demio and Suzuki Swift models.
There is no single ranking that covers every year and version. Compare the exact vehicle’s fuel economy information, then consider its purchase price, safety, condition and suitability for your driving.
At Dave Allen Motors in Hamilton, we can help you compare available vehicles and understand their advertised fuel economy figures.
How to Compare Fuel Economy in NZ
Look at the Vehicle Emissions and Energy Economy Label and the information available on Rightcar.
- Litres per 100km: A lower figure means less fuel used over the same distance.
- Energy economy stars: These describe energy efficiency, not crash safety.
- Estimated annual cost: Check the assumed distance and fuel price before applying it to your budget.
- Exact specification: Engine, transmission, drivetrain and model year can change the result.
Compare figures on a consistent measurement basis. An older overseas brochure figure may use a different test method from the information displayed on a current NZ label.
Rightcar’s annual energy cost estimates use an assumed distance of 14,000km and nominated energy prices. Your spending may differ if you drive more or less, use another fuel price or experience different conditions.
Hybrid Cars to Shortlist
Toyota Aqua
The Aqua is worth comparing if a compact hybrid suits your commute and parking needs. Confirm its passenger and luggage space before choosing it mainly for fuel economy.
Check: Exact generation, economy information, hybrid condition, safety equipment and insurance quote.
Toyota Prius
A conventional Prius offers another hybrid option if you want a larger car to compare for passengers and luggage. Different generations and related models have different specifications.
Check: Whether it is a conventional or plug in hybrid, its economy figures, maintenance and hybrid assessment.
Honda Fit Hybrid
The Fit Hybrid is worth considering when you want a compact car with interior flexibility. Its mechanical systems differ between generations.
Check: Generation, transmission type, service records, recall completion and fuel economy for the exact version.
Honda Insight
An Insight can provide another hybrid to compare within your budget. Assess its purchase price and condition alongside potential fuel savings.
Check: Hybrid battery condition, transmission operation, maintenance and age related expenses.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Selected Corolla Hybrid hatchbacks, sedans and wagons may suit buyers wanting an everyday vehicle with suitable passenger space. Compare the actual body style and specification.
Check: Economy information, hybrid condition, safety rating and differences between imported and NZ new versions.
Compact Petrol Cars to Compare
Mazda Demio
Selected petrol Demio models are worth comparing if you want a compact car without a hybrid system. Do not assume every engine or generation has the same consumption.
Check: Petrol or diesel specification, economy information, maintenance and insurance. Include road user charges when assessing a diesel.
Suzuki Swift
Selected 1.2 litre petrol Swift models provide another small hatchback option. A smaller engine alone does not establish the lowest running cost.
Check: Exact engine and transmission, fuel economy, safety equipment, condition and insurance quote.
What Does a Fuel Economy Difference Cost?
Illustrative example: At 12,000km per year and an assumed petrol price of $2.80 per litre, annual fuel spending would be:
| Fuel consumption | Annual fuel use | Annual fuel cost |
|---|---|---|
| 4L/100km | 480 litres | $1,344 |
| 5L/100km | 600 litres | $1,680 |
| 6L/100km | 720 litres | $2,016 |
| 7L/100km | 840 litres | $2,352 |
In this example, each reduction of 1L/100km saves $336 per year. These figures are hypothetical consumption scenarios, not claims about the shortlisted models or current petrol prices.
Calculate your annual fuel cost: Annual kilometres divided by 100, multiplied by litres per 100km, multiplied by the fuel price per litre.
Does Your Driving Suit a Hybrid?
Frequent urban driving can give a hybrid opportunities to recover braking energy and reduce engine use. However, very short journeys and repeated cold starts can still affect fuel economy.
A hybrid can also suit longer journeys. Compare consumption for your actual routes rather than assuming every hybrid has the same advantage over petrol.
Read our hybrid and petrol running cost comparison for purchase price and fuel saving calculations.
Low Fuel Use Is Only Part of Low Ownership Cost
Include insurance, servicing, tyres, repairs and finance costs in your decision. A car using slightly more fuel may still cost less overall if it has a lower purchase price or fewer immediate maintenance needs.
For a used hybrid, ask about battery assessment information. For any vehicle, review servicing, history, recall completion and inspection findings.
Safety also matters. Check the exact vehicle’s safety rating separately from its energy economy stars.
Improve Economy in the Car You Choose
- Accelerate and brake smoothly.
- Anticipate traffic while maintaining a safe following distance.
- Maintain tyre pressures recommended by the manufacturer.
- Remove unnecessary loads and roof equipment when not needed.
- Keep servicing up to date.
- Combine errands where practical.
Read EECA’s efficient driving guidance for more practical advice.
Compare Economical Cars in Hamilton
Dave Allen Motors is an MTA Assured dealership at 5 Norris Avenue, Te Rapa, Hamilton, with 700+ Google Reviews and 52,000+ vehicles sold.
Tell our team your annual distance, typical journeys, budget and passenger needs. We can help you compare current stock and the information available for each vehicle.
Finance approval, rates and terms depend on lender assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most fuel efficient car in NZ?
There is no single answer covering every vehicle and driving pattern. Compare current economy information for the exact versions you are considering, using a consistent measurement basis.
What does litres per 100km mean?
It describes the amount of fuel used to travel 100km. A lower figure means less fuel used over the same distance.
Are hybrids always cheaper to own?
No. They may reduce fuel spending, but total cost also depends on purchase price, insurance, maintenance, repairs and finance.
Does the annual fuel cost on a label match my spending?
Not necessarily. It uses assumed distance and energy prices. Calculate your own estimate using your annual kilometres and fuel price.
What economical petrol cars should I compare?
Selected petrol Mazda Demio and Suzuki Swift models are useful starting points. Check the exact version’s economy information and total ownership costs.