With fuel prices constantly climbing and our economy under pressure, most South Africans want to save every rand possible at the pumps. We've rounded up some of the most fuel-efficient and inexpensive options to buy new and used.
Related: How to improve your fuel consumption.
Budget hatchbacks: Small on price, big on savings
The Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL remains an unbeatable option. Its real-world consumption is around 5.1L/100km, and its starting price is R224 900. Its peppy engine and nimble handling make city driving a breeze.
Related: New small cars on a budget
For those needing to go even cheaper, the Suzuki S-Presso 1.0 GL manages a frugal 4.9L/100km, starting at just R178 900. Yes, it's a bit quirky-looking with its mini-SUV styling, but the high seating position and surprising interior space make it perfect for budget-conscious city dwellers.
Also consider the Suzuki Celerio 1.0 GA (R188 900) and Toyota Vitz (from R178 800), which have roughly the same fuel consumption.
Remember that these consumption figures are based on perfect conditions. Driving under normal circumstances easily adds 2L/100km to these numbers!
Related: Best petrol-saving cars in SA
Hybrid heroes: Worth the premium?
The Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV XS (Hybrid) makes a compelling case at R494,400 if you're primarily a city driver. Over five years, the fuel savings can offset a significant portion of the price premium.
The average consumption during our time with the Corolla Cross hybrid was about 5.9, and highway driving will raise that figure. So, before committing to a hybrid, ensure you don't drive too many long distances. A hybrid is a great solution if you're mostly in the city.
How does the fuel economy of hybrids compare to that of traditional cars?
Used hybrids that make sense include the Honda Jazz hybrid and the Toyota Yaris hybrid, but you can always opt for the previous Corolla Cross hybrid if a new one's pricing is too steep.
Related: More of SA's most fuel-efficient cars in 2025
Diesel efficiency champions
Kia's heavily acclaimed Seltos is a winner, if you can afford to pay over R500k for the most affordable diesel model. The diesel Duster has been discontinued, as Europe moves away from oil-burning engines. The answer? Go to the used-car route.
To save plenty of cash, be clever and opt for a pre-loved previous-gen diesel Duster or a pre-owned diesel Kia Seltos. Also, look into pre-owned Nissan Qashqai models, as well as the Hyundai Creta. The diesel Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson are also great used alternatives if you need more space.
Mahindra's diesel XUV300 compact SUV is a safe option too, and pre-loved models are very affordable.
New and affordable seven-seaters we highly recommend for fuel savings include the Hyundai Alcazar from R599 900 for the 1.5D Executive; read our review here.
Our top picks
For tighter budgets, the Suzuki Swift hatch remains unbeatable value. Pre-owned Swifts are easy to fix and cheap to run too.
Also consider a pre-loved Suzuki Baleno and Toyota Starlet.
If you'd like some ground clearance and that sexy crossover shape, consider the new or used Kia Sonet (the new LS model is priced just under R300k!), Hyundai Exter, Suzuki Fronx, and Toyota Starlet Cross.
The previous-generation Toyota Urban Cruiser and Suzuki Vitara Brezza also make great cars for those who don't want to spend their life savings on fuel.
