Which of these MPVs will give the best economy?

Hi, I asked you a question before, I was planning to buy a Nissan Qashqai, and just double checked the mpg with you. I'm so glad I did, just over 40mpg is a little low for my budget. So now I am looking at the following cars, and am hoping you could give me an idea again of the economy I can expect to get:

Citroen C4 Picasso 2007 1.6 HDi

Citroen Xsara Picasso 2008 1.6 HDi

Ford C-Max 2008 1.6 diesel

Renault Scenic 2008 1.5 diesel

Thanks in advance!

Dawn Higgins (Edenderry)

Aug 2013 Filed under: fuel economy and emissions

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Expert answer

Hi Dawn,

Going on personal experience, I'd say that the C4 Picasso would be the most economical of the bunch. All of them should be able to get between 45-50mpg, and I'd say the C4 should just nudge above 50mpg. That said, you have to remember that what dictates fuel economy more than the car is your driving style. Practice driving with light throttle openings, anticipating further ahead and always using gentle control inputs and you should be able to get that economy figure improved. Also, take any excess weight out of the car, make sure the engine is serviced regularly and the oil changed often and get a good set of low-rolling resistance tyres, and keep them at the right pressure. It all helps.

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe