Going diesel can help you get the most out of your fuel. Not only are diesel engines more efficient than gas-powered engines, but the fuel itself also contains more energy per gallon compared to unleaded gas. Diesel cars are also a great investment.
The average diesel vehicle lasts anywhere from 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 miles, while gas-powered cars only last 200,000 miles on average. That means you can drive these cars five to seven times longer than the leading gasoline vehicles. But not all diesel engines are made equal when it comes to fuel efficiency.
A new crop of vehicles is raising the bar in terms of how far these cars can go on a single gallon of gas and get the best mileage.
Factors that Affect Fuel Efficiency
Before we jump into the list, it’s important to remember how these ratings are calculated. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for administering fuel efficiency ratings using laboratory tests. The results are based on a moderate driving style and do not always reflect real-world ratings. Several factors will determine how many miles you get per gallon, including the condition of your vehicle, the overall weight, and your driving style.
You need to maintain your diesel engine to get the most out of every gallon. It starts with understanding how the engine injects fuel into the combustion chamber. The fuel needs to reach the ideal pressure before being injected into the chamber as a fine mist. That means having a robust diesel fuel injector pump. Using dirty fuel can lead to sputtering, misfires, and poor fuel efficiency.
Most diesel engines use some type of exhaust treatment process to reduce NOx emissions that contribute to climate change. But your fuel efficiency will take a hit if this system isn’t working properly. If the car uses a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to treat the exhaust, using diesel exhaust fluid will improve your mileage.
Watch out for blue or black smoking coming out of the tailpipe and replace your exhaust system parts when these symptoms appear. Change out your oil, filters, and other ailing parts at the recommended intervals. Save money on repairs by buying your diesel truck parts online. Practice safe driving by obeying the speed limit and avoiding overloading your vehicle to keep your mileage in check.
The 7 Most Fuel-Efficient Diesel Vehicles
1. Peugeot 208
Fuel Efficiency: 74 mpg
This sport hatchback will serve you well in the country or the city. It comes with a 100bhp 1.5-liter turbo diesel engine that won’t wake up the neighborhood when you drive. But the interior may leave you wanting. There isn’t a lot of headroom, and your guests might feel a little snug in the back seat.
2. Citroen C3
Fuel Efficiency: 71 mpg
Easily one of the quietest cars on the market, the C3 makes for the perfect getaway car whether you’re taking a road trip or commuting to work. It gets a combined fuel efficiency that sets it apart from the competition, but the info-entertainment system is lacking.
3. Vauxhall Corsa
Fuel Efficiency: 71 mpg
The Corsa is powered by a 1.5-liter turbo diesel engine with an impressive mileage rating. The trunk space is limited, and it lacks some of the features you’d find on the Peugeot 208, but it is surprisingly fun to drive for such a small car.
4. Volkswagen Golf
Fuel Efficiency: 67 mpg
The new Golf lets you choose between a 115 bhp or 150 bhp 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine with a mileage rating of 67 mpg or 63 mpg respectively. It has a simple, no-nonsense design that makes for a comfortable ride without the exorbitant price.
5. Peugeot 2008
Fuel Efficiency: 66 mpg
The Peugeot 2008 SUV also tops the list with its combined fuel efficiency rating. If you’re looking for more room and storage space, this is the car for you. The 110 bhp 1.5-liter turbo diesel is a bit noisier than the other makes and models on this list, but it’s perfect for families and those who like to travel.
6. BMW 3 Series
Fuel Efficiency: 61.4 mpg
A luxurious look with strong mileage makes the BMW 3 Series seem too good to be true. It comes with a spacious interior and state-of-the-art info-entertainment system to help pass the time. Consider upgrading from the 50 bhp model engine to the 286 bhp 330d for more horsepower. It still gets an impressive 54.3 mpg.
7. Ford Focus
Fuel Efficiency: 61 mpg
A sporty alternative to the company’s best-selling F Series, the Ford Focus is compact, with a humble interior. It comes with a 120 bhp turbo diesel engine that performs well in the city or in the country. It’s also listed at a price most drivers can afford.
Keep these tips and models in mind to save money on gas and get the best mileage. Choosing the right vehicle is only the beginning. It’s up to you to maintain the engine as you start racking up the miles.
Best Mileage article and permission to publish here provided by Bostech Auto Content. Originally written for Supply Chain Game Changer and published on June 22, 2023.
Cover image by ImageParty from Pixabay