As South Africa deals with rising fuel costs, the demand for economical SUVs is surging. Finding the right balance between affordability and fuel efficiency is crucial in a market with many options. Join us on a journey to uncover the top contenders in fuel-efficient SUVs, all priced under R350,000. These vehicles promise savings at the pump without compromising on usability.
1. Ford EcoSport 1.5-TDCI Ambiente – 4.6 L/100km
The Ford EcoSport is one of South Africa’s best-selling compact SUVs, and the diesel-powered EcoSport is currently the most economical option for under R350,000. It features a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with 74 kW and 205 Nm of torque and a 5-speed manual transmission. Ford claims a fuel consumption figure of 4.6 L/100km. Production of the Ford EcoSport has ceased, so its availability in the local market may be limited. Pricing starts from R311,400. 1
2. Mahindra XUV300 1.5TD W8 – 4.8 L/100km
Introduced in early 2022, the updated Mahindra XUV300 claims a fuel consumption figure of just 4.8 L/100km for the diesel-powered XUV 300 W8. The 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine delivers 86 kW and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Pricing for the Mahindra XUV300 starts from R267,999. 1
3. Renault Kiger Turbo Intens / Zen – 5.0 L/100km
Renault’s turbocharged Kiger Zen and Kiger Intens variants offer a claimed fuel consumption figure of 5.0 L/100km. The 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine generates 74 kW and 160 Nm, matched with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Renault Kiger is priced at R229,999. 1
4. Opel Crossland 1.2 – 5.1 L/100km
Opel’s Crossland is equipped with a naturally aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine, which is particularly fuel-efficient, boasting a consumption figure of 5.1 L/100km. It delivers 60 kW and 118 Nm of torque and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Pricing for the Opel Crossland starts from R339,900. 1
5. Nissan Magnite Turbo Acenta / Acenta Red Edition / Acenta Plus – 5.3 L/100km
The quirky Nissan Magnite, when equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission, claims a fuel consumption figure of 5.3 L/100km. It is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine producing 74 kW and 160 Nm. Nissan introduced a Magnite Red Edition in late 2022, adding a touch of visual flair to the Magnite. Pricing starts from R227,900. 1
6. Suzuki Fronx GL / GLX manual – 5.5 L/100km
The recently launched Suzuki Fronx has quickly gained popularity. The Fronx’s 5-speed manual derivatives achieve a consumption figure of 5.5 L/100km. It features a 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated petrol engine delivering 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque. Pricing starts from R279,900. 1
7. Citroen C3 1.2 Feel – 5.6 L/100km
The new Citroen C3, holder of the World Urban Car Award title, boasts a fuel consumption figure of 5.6 L/100km. It is powered by a 3-cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol engine with 61 kW and 115 Nm of torque, exclusively mated with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Citroen C3 is priced from R229,900. 1
8. Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.5 GL – 6.0 L/100kmm
Suzuki’s new Grand Vitara, available in GL manual guise, claims a consumption figure of 6.0 L/100km. It is equipped with a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine generating 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque, with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed automatic is offered in the range-topping Grand Vitara Hybrid AllGrip, with a consumption figure of 5.6 L/100km. Pricing starts from R339,900. 1
In the challenging economic landscape of South Africa, where every rand counts, the pursuit of fuel efficiency in SUVs has become important. Our exploration of the most fuel-efficient SUVs under R350,000 has unveiled a range of options catering to budget-conscious South African motorists. 1
Disclaimer
This article concerns using water-repellent sprays on your vehicle’s windscreen. 1
Water-repellent sprays improve your visibility while driving. Do you have car insurance to help you should you have an unfortunate event with your vehicle? Pick affordable car insurance with unique benefits such as fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and leading service. Terms and conditions apply.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.
Sources:
