Four underrated family vehicles with excellent fuel consumption

We get it; South Africa's motorists have a rigid idea of what they like and what falls to the wayside. Bakkies and 4x4s are a traditional favourites, thanks to their utility. And if a Ford Ranger is too big for you, you can do just as much when bombing around in your Nissan NP200 instead!

The frustration is understandable for those who travel over 50kms a day. With a less than ideal mass transit system in Gauteng and practically nothing else, your car to get you around anywhere else. The winning formula is looking for a fuel-efficient yet reliable vehicle that is not breaking your bank balance.

Luckily, Homes of Distinction has done a little digging to find four exceptional vehicles that fit these criteria and more.

Suzuki Celerio - Great for students
 

Image Source - Autodeal.co.za
 

While not as distinguished as Toyota, Honda, Mazda, or Nissan, Suzuki has come a long way since the debut of its Jimny back in the 70s. Today, it's one of South Africa's premium dealerships.
 

The Celerio has seen a significant upgrade since its previous iteration. Roomy, boot space to lounge in (should the mood take you), and all the essential features one comes to expect from a modern fuel saver. It is quickly becoming a top seller among parents looking to find an affordable yet safe first car for their college kids.
 

Starting at a reasonable R174 900 for its entry-level 1.0-litre GA manual, this funky little car boasts an exceptional 4.7-litres/100kms on SA roads, adjusting to 4.9-litres for highway commutes. Converted for manual and AT transmission, you may also upgrade to the top GL AMT model for R209 900.
 

Take a look at the Celerio range - Suzuki.co.za.

Mitsubishi ASX - An unrivalled compact SUV
 

Image Source - MitsubishiMotors.co,za
 

For reasons unbeknown to us, Mitsubishi remains yet another fantastic brand that simply flies under the radar here in SA. It's a strange reality since Mitsubishi is known in European markets for producing top-quality vehicles with exceptional NCAP Safety Ratings.
 

The ASX, in particular, boasts an excellent build and tends to line up within the same bracket as the Ford Eco Sport and Haval Jolion. Despite its niche appeal, it comes with all the essential accessories. Perfect for moms with young kids, thanks to ample leg room and a spacious interior. It also comes standard with anti-lock brakes, airbags, electronic brakeforce distribution, hill start, cruise control, operational stability, and keyless entry and ignition.
 

With an asking price of R371 995 for its 2.0 litre naturally aspirated engine, this compact SUV has an array of added features. Fuel consumption varies, but Joburgers can expect between 7.3-litres and 8.0-litres/100kms. They say the ASX remains one of the most reliable vehicles in the country.
 

Take a look at the ASX range - Mistubishi.co.za

Mahindra XUV300 - Surprisingly plush
 

Image Source - Cars.co.za
 

A couple of years ago, we saw an inundation of Asian manufacturers from GWM to Mahindra, and unsurprisingly, our set-in-stone motoring scene took to them like a fish out of water. Despite this initial slump, Mahindra's growth in sales expanded so quickly that it had to rush to open seven more dealerships in a year.
 

The XUV300 is one of Mahindra's most prized vehicle designs. After its initial launch in 2019, the facelift graced our shores at the beginning of the year. The XUV300 comes in a 1.5-litre turbo diesel and 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine with more frugal fuel consumption at 4.8-litres to 5.6-litres/100kms.
 

With fuel prices heading towards almost R30 per litre, we believe the asking price of R234 999 is pretty reasonable given just how stock full of features it is.
 

Take a look at the XUV300 range - Mahindra.co.za

Volvo XC40 - A premium contender
 

Image Source - Cardekho.co.za
 

The Volvo XC40 is a premium contender. Despite its asking price, this nifty little compact SUV has a lot going for it. While its looks may be of an acquired taste, it grows on you-Scandinavian quality.
 

While consumption lies on the higher end, this vehicle's engine is the only one in the category with a handy start/stop function. You can expect a range of 8.5-litres/100kms. Don't forget Volvo's signature NCAP rating of 5 stars.
 

While the price tag of R673 600 may be steep, it is still one of the best vehicles on the road. This is especially true if you're looking for a long-term vehicle to retire alongside. Beyond that, all the standard features built into the price, making it a value-for-money buy.
 

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