With fuel prices on the increase in the UK, there’s growing pressure on automakers to produce more economical, low-emission cars. Demand for small family cars and superminis has boomed in the UK over recent years, and this is a key market for fuel efficiency. Average petrol prices currently stand at 129.4p and diesel 136.5p per litre, emphasising the importance of leaving a little longer between visits to the petrol pump.

We’ve compiled our top picks of the most fuel efficient superminis and city cars to help you choose your next eco-friendly vehicle and save money on running costs. High MPG and low-emission tax friendly cars are the name of the game. Diesel engines are traditionally more economical, however, they aren’t particularly suited to city driving. Here are five cars guaranteed to save you money – with a variety of petrol and diesel options – so you can find the economical vehicle that’s right for you.

Ford Fiesta Ecoboost

Ford’s revolutionary Ecoboost petrol engines are a real game-changer, offering punchy performance from a tiny 1.0L turbocharged unit. The Fiesta is a real joy to drive and has consistently won the prestigious car of the year award. Economy figures are impressive for a petrol engine – the 99 bhp Ecoboost model achieves 66 mpg, with CO2 emissions of just 99g/km.

Fiat 500 TwinAir

The Fiat 500 oozes style, as proven by its popularity amongst the fashionistas out there. Prices are also extremely competitive, given its premium styling. There are some areas where Fiat have emphasised style over substance, such as interior space. However, the Fiat 500 TwinAir performs well on economy. The 0.9L petrol engine produces 84 bhp and is capable of achieving 71 mpg, with just 92 g/km in CO2 emissions.

Skoda Fabia Greenline

Perhaps not the most stylish of the bunch, the Skoda Fabia makes up for what it lacks in looks with practicality – this spacious and refined 5-door supermini is a sensible choice for any buyer. There are savings to be made too – the Fabia Greenline diesel achieves an impressive 83 mpg and just 89g/km CO2 emissions.

Renault Clio 1.5 dCi

The stylish new Renault Clio is very easy on the eye. Thankfully, it’s also easy on the bank balance. The diesel engined Clio 1.5 dCi 90 Eco is capable of 88 mpg – with CO2 emissions kept down to 83g/km.

Vauxhall Corsa CDTi

As one of the UK’s best selling small cars, it’s unsurprising that Vauxhall have invested in creating a super economical model of the Corsa. The 1.3 CDTi 95 EcoFlex model uses start-stop technology to help the 95 bhp engine achieve 86 mpg and CO2 emissions of 88g/km.

If you fancy saving some money and getting your hands on a super economical supermini, look no further. The Car Loan Warehouse works with dealers and lenders to find you the best deal on car finance, regardless of credit score. Why not use our loan calculator to work out the best finance deal for you?