When it comes to buying a new car, one of the biggest decision-making factors car owners consider tends to be the fuel efficiency of the car. It's understandable too, with more and more people prioritising reducing their carbon footprint and looking to save on everyday costs.
There are a tonne of factors that influence whether or not a vehicle model is considered 'fuel efficient' or not, from the car's weight, engine size and technology, to aerodynamic efficiency. These elements are always at the forefront of our manufacturing process and we're happy to say that we're recognised as leaders in this area by New Zealanders;
"The Suzuki range of compact SUV models are winning the race for low emissions and frugal fuel economy following the results of independent testing on New Zealand roads" - The New Zealand Herald
With this said, within our range of vehicles and models there are some surefire winners when it comes to fuel economy and the most bang for your fuel bucks spent. We count down our top 3 most fuel efficient small cars at Suzuki NZ, below.
Fuel efficient car #3: The Suzuki Ignis
Taking third place in Suzuki's fuel efficient car race is the roomy Ignis. While technically an SUV due to it ride height and extra ground clearance - it's unique compact SUV design makes it as super economical as our 'small car' range.
The zippy Ignis is a fuel saver starting at 5.2 L/100km for the manual, with the automatic transmission only slightly higher at 5.4 L/100km (WLTP-3 conversion).
Its fuel efficient performance and low CO2 emissions (107-114 g/km) are due to clever design and use of high tensile steel and other weight saving measures in the body, affording the Ignis fuel efficiency ratings that are normally associated with a compact car. Unlike most small cars though, the Ignis is much higher making it a breeze to get in and out of and just as easy to park.
This compact SUV can reach a whopping 687km of driving on $100 worth of petrol at $2.80 per litre.
Impressive, right?
>> Take a closer look at the Ignis here.
Fuel efficient car #2: The Swift 3rd Gen GL
Coming in at number two is the Suzuki Swift 3rd Gen GL. There's a reason that the Suzuki Swift is the number one selling supermini in New Zealand for 17 out of 18 years. It looks fantastic, has all of the features you need in one fun-filled package and it runs on ‘a sniff of an oily rag’.
So, why is the Swift such a fan favourite when it comes to fuel efficiency? Essentially, it comes down to a combination of smooth curved design and a unique HEARTECT lightweight platform paired with a powerfully efficient yet small 1.2 VVT engine.
Driving on $100 worth of petrol, the Swift GL manual version of this classy number will take you 700km on New Zealand roads, while the automatic will get around 674km. This makes the Swift GL not only fuel efficient and affordable, but a confident performer around town and country.
Did you know that the top spec Swift RS with direct injection BoosterJet turbo engine achieves similar money-saving levels of fuel consumption, at just 5.1 L/100km? With the 6 speed auto and the clever technology under the bonnet, it optimises the fuel intake, generating the power equivalent of a larger 1.8L engine with the efficiency of a much smaller engine.
The added bonus of a Swift is that while it is small in size, it’s cleverly designed cabin has generous head room for a larger sense of space. That way, you're not having to compromise on comfort or performance for a truly fuel efficient car.
>> Take a closer look at the Swift GL or Swift RS here.
And the winner is... the all-new Suzuki Swift!
Taking out the top spot in our Suzuki NZ small car fuel efficiency chart, is our most economical car yet, the all-new Swift.
With a fuel consumption figure of 4.0L/100km in the GLS manual and 4.3L/100km in the auto, the all-new Suzuki Swift is a clear winner. Sporting a new self-charging fuel-saving engine it will take you wherever and whenever you want to go. This eco-friendly hatch seamlessly integrates the 1.2 litre DualJet engine with Smart Hybrid technology to deliver amazing fuel efficiency. Plus it's light on CO2 emissions at 91-97g/km across the range.
Here's how it works:
The Swift’s Smart Hybrid system uses an electric motor called an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). Working alongside Swift’s petrol engine to help improve fuel efficiency, the ISG is powered by a 10Ah lithium-ion battery that is charged as the car decelerates and brakes.
While cruising, the battery helps power all of the additional electrical systems like safety features, air conditioning, Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity, plus all the electrical components that help the car to move.
With a fuel consumption figure of only 4.0-4.3L/100km combined, the all-new Suzuki Swift is a clear winner in the race for fuel economy and affordability.
>> Take a closer look at the Swift here.
One last thing, it important to remember that the driver and the roads you drive on have a considerable influence on fuel efficiency. Different drivers can achieve different economy levels so a tip is to monitor the instantaneous fuel consumption display to see the impacts of changes in driving style.
The fuel economy figures listed above are a combined figure of urban and open road driving and are a guide only. Actual fuel consumption will vary due to many factors such as vehicle condition, driving style and traffic conditions.
Need a little extra help deciding?
No problem! We've put together a Guide to Buying a New Car that you can download for FREE below.
