Escalating tensions in the Middle East, sparked by recent US-Israeli strikes on Iran, are heightening concerns among UK drivers about soaring fuel costs. Households already strained by Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine face potential new pressures on essentials like groceries and petrol.
Fuel Efficiency Emerges as Key Buying Factor
As petrol prices fluctuate, miles per gallon (MPG) ratings are guiding used car purchases. Higher MPG means longer distances on a single tank, stretching budgets further.
Recent analysis by automotive specialists ranks the top fuel-efficient used cars available in the UK. The Ford Fiesta (2008-2017 models) claims the top spot with an impressive 76.3 MPG.
Automotive experts at Cazoo note: “One of the most-loved cars in the UK, the little Fiesta has proven the right fit for countless owners across the nation. There’s good reason for that, too, as it’s good to drive, pleasant to look at and practical inside. Most importantly, it’s great on fuel. There are diesel versions available that’ll get that best-possible fuel efficiency but for most people the standard petrols will be more than frugal enough and should return around 50 MPG.”
Close Contenders in the Rankings
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (2014-2022) follows in second place at 74.3 MPG. Cazoo highlights: “It’s the diesel-powered 216d that’ll deliver the best efficiency – up to 74.3 MPG, in fact – and it also qualifies for zero road tax, so it’s a win-win!”
Joint third place goes to the Suzuki Swift (2010-2017) and MINI hatchback (2006-2013), both achieving 72 MPG.
Potential Petrol Price Surge Looms
Prolonged Middle East instability could push UK petrol prices above £2 per litre. Samuel Mather-Holgate, Managing Director and Independent Financial Advisor at Mather and Murray Financial, warns:
“If this conflict becomes drawn out, the UK could see petrol pump prices comfortably exceed £2 per litre, and potentially move significantly beyond that level if supply routes are materially disrupted. In a worst-case scenario involving sustained instability around critical transport channels such as the Strait of Hormuz, where a substantial portion of the world’s oil passes each day, prices could climb sharply and remain elevated for months. This will lead to ‘duration risk’ – as the longer it continues, the higher prices will go. That would place enormous strain on household budgets, transport costs and wider inflation.”
