Families going off-road would be better off in a Renault Duster dCi. (Jean-Brice Lemal)
The holiday season is upon us, and if you are looking for a new car that will decrease your travel expenses and be a safe, comfortable, logical option for the family holiday this list might help you conclude your purchase.
It includes a variety of vehicle shapes to cater to various family sizes and personal preferences, whether it is just you and your partner or your three kids and grandparents in tow.
5. Renault Triber
This is the first car on my list for no other reason than because it is the most efficient seven-seater car available in South Africa.
Although it may lack power, especially under full load, there is plenty of cargo space if you are carrying five people and, with the option of the two rear seats, there is plenty of room for the whole family.
The Triber does a healthy 5.5 litres per 100km and, considering its size and load capability, could make your holiday a whole lot cheaper.
The Renault Triber is an efficient seven-seater.
4. Fiat 500
Many factors characterise the perfect road trip vehicle and, although the Fiat 500 is the most frugal car on this list, its size does bring down its score for the ideal economical road-trip car, with emphasis on the road trip part.
It’s very light on fuel at 4 litres per 100km but you better pack light as there isn’t much cargo space.
Also, this car provides a great option for couples, but add another passenger or two and space becomes rather limited.
With that said the price you’ll pay for the lack of comfort will be balanced out by your fuel expenditure.
The Fiat 500 is light on petrol but there’s only really room for two
3. Mazda MX-5
There is little as pleasurable as taking a sporty coupé along coastal roads, but these cars can be thirsty.
This entry is also focused on the couples out there as coupés typically have space for only two people.
The MX-5 is the go-to for those who like road trips and a fun drive.
It gets just over 6.0 litres per 100km which is on the heavy side for this list, but you would spend the extra couple of 100 bucks to bring an enjoyable car on holiday over a stale yet frugal option such as an entry-level hybrid.
The sporty Mazda MX-5 is great for couples
2. BMW 320d
The BMW 320d has been an impressive car for decades, providing amazing ride quality on the highway, surprising power and low-end torque and a playful nature in the corners, all while reserving your fuel.
It has good space inside for passengers and plenty of boot space, paired with the simple yet aesthetic BMW interior with good tech and impressive safety features. The 320d is a lively diesel which is lots of fun and has a low consumption of just 5 litres per 100km.
You feel at peace on the highway with an incredibly smooth and quiet ride, along with the thought of travelling around 1 200km without needing to fill up.
The BMW 320d has plenty of room for passengers and luggage
1. Renault Duster dCi
The Renault Duster is a car that is slept on in this industry. Its spacious size, yet compact style, provides a nimble little SUV with good space for passengers and cargo and a decent ability to tackle the off road.
Gravel roads are a breeze in this SUV, and you’ll never have to worry about tackling the road less travelled on your adventures.
However, the most impressive factor of the Duster is its economy. It does a respectable 4.8 litres/100km.
Arguably the most all-round road- trip car which will leave you stress-free on any road surface, waving at the petrol stations as you drive by.
Conclusion
This list has a variety of frugal cars in different categories to cater for different drivers. But it seems that diesel is still the go-to for fuel efficiency without hybrid support.
It’s a shame, as diesel has been slightly more expensive than petrol but, in the long run, you will spend the same amount of money on the slightly thirstier petrol variant.