If you live in Ghana, you’ll know that fuel prices significantly impact daily commuting expenses. With a harsh economy, rising inflation rates and an ever-increasing cost of living, selecting a fuel-efficient vehicle is not just a practical choice but a wise one as well. Whether you are navigating through Accra’s bustling streets or travelling to other regions frequently, a fuel-efficient car can offer substantial savings at the filling station without necessarily compromising on comfort or performance. Most average Africans, particularly Ghanaians, prioritise fuel-efficiency and readily available spare parts over more sophisticated vehicular brands. This is why Toyota cars, especially the Corolla are very common in Ghana. Let’s discuss the six most fuel-efficient cars in the country.
Toyota Vitz
The Toyota Vitz, also known as the Yaris in some markets, is a compact and portable saloon car celebrated for its reliability and efficiency. Its small size makes it ideal for urban driving, while its fuel economy appeals to both city dwellers and those embarking on longer trips. The Vitz typically comes equipped with either a 1.0-litre or 1.3-litre petrol engine, both designed to balance performance with fuel efficiency. In urban settings, the Vitz achieves approximately 14.09 km per litre, while on highways it can reach up to 15.67 km per litre. This impressive fuel economy makes it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting. In Ghana, it is one of the most common vehicles used for ride-hailing services such as Uber, Yango or Bolt due to its fuel efficiency, which maximises driver profits. The Vitz also offers a surprisingly spacious interior and ample cargo space. It includes standard safety features such as airbags and anti-lock braking systems, prioritising both driver and passenger protection.
Toyota Corolla
This is arguably the most common car in Ghana. With easily accessible spare parts, proven reliability and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Corolla is a cost-effective car suited to a tough economy like Ghana’s. Additionally, the Corolla’s longevity makes it ideal for average Ghanaians who do not intend to buy another vehicle every few years. It is commonly powered by a 1.8-litre petrol engine, offering a good blend of power and economy. Drivers can expect the Corolla to deliver around 12 km per litre while driving in cities such as Accra and Kumasi. Like all Toyota vehicles, the Corolla boasts a spacious cabin with quality materials, ensuring a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. Modern and more expensive models come equipped with touchscreen infotainment systems, Bluetooth connectivity and advanced driver-assistance features. The Corolla remains a wise investment for those considering long-term ownership, with readily available spare parts and dependable fuel efficiency.
Kia Picanto
The Kia Picanto is a compact vehicle that combines a small design with practicality. It is typically equipped with a 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre petrol engine, both offering commendable performance suitable for city driving, though it may be less ideal for continuous use on rough terrains such as mountainous areas. The Picanto achieves approximately 16.7 km per litre, with highway figures reaching up to 18.9 km per litre. Its compact size makes it perfect for navigating tight city streets and parking in limited spaces. Another favourite for ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, the Picanto offers features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a user-friendly infotainment system, making it both functional and comfortable for everyday use.
Hyundai i10
The Hyundai i10 is another familiar vehicle on the streets of Accra, and its fuel efficiency is a major reason for its popularity. It has a straightforward design that may lack sophistication, but its performance is reliable enough to make it a sensible choice for budget-conscious drivers. i10 models typically come with air conditioning, electric front windows, foldable rear seats for increased cargo space, a CD audio system, driver and passenger airbags, central locking, and front and rear crumple zones. The car is available in multiple engine options, including 1.0-, 1.1-, and 1.2-litre petrol engines, as well as a 1.1-litre diesel engine. The petrol versions boast impressive fuel economy, offering nearly 22 km per litre on average. This combination of affordability and efficiency makes the i10 an appealing option for many first-time car owners in Ghana.
Hyundai Accent
Unlike the i10, the Hyundai Accent features a more stylish exterior, giving it a slight edge in status among drivers compared to the earlier cars mentioned. Its larger size compared to the Vitz and Picanto provides extra boot space, making it more appealing to drivers who require greater cargo capacity. Typically equipped with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, the Accent delivers a respectable balance between power and fuel economy. City driving yields approximately 15.6 km per litre, with slightly higher figures achievable on highways. The Accent is particularly suited to families due to its big boot and increased legroom. It also comes with standard entertainment features like Bluetooth connectivity and a touchscreen infotainment system. With safety features such as multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and a reinforced safety cell, the Accent is well-equipped for protecting its occupants. Its fuel efficiency and practicality make it a go-to vehicle for Ghanaian middle-class families.
Suzuki Swift
This list will not be complete without the Suzuki Swift. The car is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine that produces 61 kW and 113 Nm of torque, sent through the front wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox. Fuel consumption is claimed at just 4.9 L/100 km, making it highly reliable in terms of fuel efficiency. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.8 seconds, offering reasonable performance for its category. With sporty styling, the Swift is another popular choice among urban drivers in Ghana. It features 15-inch alloy wheels, dual front airbags, a multifunction steering wheel, a colour touchscreen infotainment system, keyless entry/start, and rear parking distance control with a reverse camera. Its combination of efficiency, compact form and smart design has made it a popular and dependable choice in Ghana’s urban areas.
Opting for a fuel-efficient vehicle in Ghana is not just a prudent decision, it saves significant amounts of money in the long run and supports environmental sustainability. Each of these models offers a unique mix of features and efficiency, catering to varying preferences and needs. Especially for middle-class, first-time car buyers, it is more financially sound to choose vehicle options that are both affordable initially and cost-effective in the long term. With fluctuating fuel prices and economic pressures, these vehicles stand out as reliable companions on Ghana’s roads.
