Petrol prices keep climbing, and South African drivers are feeling the squeeze. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to give up on style and comfort just to save at the pumps. 

With smart research and a few non-negotiables (like fuel efficiency and value), you can certainly find a car that works for both your lifestyle and your bank account. 

To help you determine how best to choose a fuel-efficient car that still turns heads, and makes sense for your lifestyle and budget, we have highlighted the most salient information to put you on the right track. 

Let’s Address Fuel Consumption 

In 2025, average petrol prices are hovering between R23 and R25 per litre, depending on your region. That means the difference between a car that uses 6L/100km vs 10L/100km could save you thousands of rands a year. 

Let’s look at a real-world example. On the one hand, we’ve got Vehicle A. Vehicle A boasts a fuel efficiency of 6.0L per 100km. If you hit 1,200km per month with this fuel efficiency, you’re looking at spending R1,800 a month (if fuel costs R25 per litre).

But what if you’re driving Vehicle B, that boasts a fuel efficiency of 10.0L per 100km? With the same mileage of 1,200km per month in mind, this means that you would spend R3,000 a month (with fuel also charged at R25 per litre). 

That’s R1,200/month in savings, or to put it another way, that’s R14,400 per year. 

So, all in all, fuel consumption matters a great deal.  

What Should You Look For?  

You’re in the market for a car that is fuel efficient so that you can save on your monthly fuel costs.  Unfortunately, most people shopping for a new or second-hand vehicle wouldn’t be classified as “petrolheads”.    

Before we hand out a few fuel-saving features that you should look out for, we should add that regardless of which vehicle you end up viewing, it would be in your best interests to request a full test drive and check the average fuel use on the trip computer.

Lower fuel consumption features to check for: 

• The Engine – You’re looking for smaller turbocharged engines, and for the most part, newer cars are fitted with these 1.0L or 1.2L turbo engines that offer performance without guzzling fuel. 

• The Gearbox – Check for CVT (continuously variable transmission) or smart automatic gearboxes, because these reduce unnecessary fuel use. 

• The Construction – Ask to see vehicles with a lightweight construction and aerodynamic design. 

• The Eco Edge – These would be vehicles fitted with driving modes and idle stop-start technology. 

• Hybrid or Mild-Hybrid Options – These are increasingly available, even in entry-level models, so use these search terms if you’re hunting online, or make this request to the dealers you’re working with. 

Is There Anything Else? A Final Note On Fuel Efficiency 

Surprisingly, you don’t want to simply focus on the ‘litres per 100km’ alone. You should also consider a few other factors that could impact the vehicle’s fuel consumption.  

For instance, make sure that you review the service intervals and parts pricing, because a car that sips fuel but costs a fortune to maintain may not be worth it. There’s also the tyre size and replacement costs to consider… Bigger, sportier wheels look good but can seriously drive up your overall running costs.  

Stylish, Fuel-Efficient Cars In SA (2025) 

Here are a few popular models that balance fuel efficiency and good looks. 

Make & Mode Make & Mode	Fuel Use (Combined)	Standout Feature
Toyota Starlet 1.5 XR	5.4L/100km	Sleek design, spacious interior, Apple CarPlay
Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX	5.5L/100km	Crossover styling, digital display, reverse camera
Renault Clio V Turbo	5.7L/100km	Modern European design, high-spec interior
Hyundai i20 1.2 Motion	5.9L/100km	Compact yet bold, roomy for its size
Honda Fit Hybrid	3.7L/100km	Quiet drive, futuristic styling, excellent tech

Note: Fuel consumption figures are based on manufacturer claims and may vary under real driving conditions. 

Feeling Informed? 

As much as fuel consumption should be a priority, style and savings do not have to be enemies. A good place to start is the pre-owned vehicle market. AA Certified Pre-Owned vehicles will certainly be able to find a reliable, fuel-efficient vehicle that has been thoroughly and expertly vetted. A fuel-efficient vehicle that boasts both low fuel consumption features and the style you’re after. 

If you are looking to find out how much your current car is worth, or how much the car you are interested in purchasing is worth, get a free Vehicle Valuation Report from AA Inform