Episode 7 :: Vehicle choices
Work out the right type of car for you, and then shop around for the most fuel efficient vehicle for the job. Choosing an efficient car will cut your running costs for years to come, and it's much better for the environment.
An easy way to compare fuel efficiency is to look at the fuel economy label, which appears on all new cars and many late-model used cars. The more stars, the more efficient the car.
Work out the right car for your needs
Size
Choose your car size (and engine size) based on what you usually do - not what you sometimes do.
Safety
When it comes to safety, bigger is not always better.
Environmental impact
A car's carbon dioxide and pollutant emission levels depend on how much fuel it uses and how cleanly the fuel is burned.
Look for the most efficient option for the job
An easy way to compare fuel efficiency is to look at the fuel economy label, which appears on all new cars and many late-model used cars. The more stars, the more efficient the car.
The amount of fuel a car uses per kilometre can vary a lot between seemingly similar vehicles. The least efficient cars in a category may use over twice the fuel as the most efficient ones. Find out more about the vehicle fuel economy label.
It's not just what you drive
The way you drive and care for your car can also have big impacts on your fuel use, no matter what you drive.
More information
- Find out more about choosing a car
- Find out some simple ways to cut your fuel use
- Compare fuel economy, safety and environmental ratings at rightcar.govt.nz
