In the realm of compact yet feature-packed city vehicles, foreign hatchbacks have emerged as the go-to choice for discerning car buyers. These nimble vehicles not only navigate tight city spaces with ease but also prove their mettle on the highway, surprising enthusiasts with remarkable fuel efficiency. We’ve meticulously compiled a list of the top 10 most fuel-efficient hatchbacks in the Philippines, focusing on their highway fuel economy ratings.
The Criteria: Highway Fuel Economy Excellence
To make it onto our coveted list, a hatchback must boast both a review and a highway fuel economy rating of no less than 20 kilometers per liter. This criterion ensures a level playing field, with hybrid hatchbacks omitted from consideration. In case of a tie, the vehicle with a superior City fuel economy rating secures a higher ranking.
Now, let’s delve into the impressive lineup that made the cut.
1. Toyota Wigo: Affordable, Feature-Packed, and Frugal
A perennial favorite among car buyers, the Toyota Wigo stands out as an affordable, feature-packed option. Despite not wielding the most powerful engine, its frugal gasoline engine delivers excellent fuel economy, clocking in at a commendable 20 kilometers per liter on the highway. Its attractive price point makes it a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable vehicle.
2. Honda Brio: Compact, Sporty, and Fuel-Efficient
For enthusiasts yearning for a compact and sporty hatchback with stellar fuel efficiency, the Honda Brio emerges as the ideal choice. Sporting a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, it manages an impressive 20.3 kilometers per liter, a testament to its intelligent engine technology and lightweight design.
3. Suzuki Swift: Sizeable and Fuel-Efficient
If you desire a slightly larger hatchback without compromising fuel efficiency, the Suzuki Swift fits the bill. Powered by a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, it achieves a commendable 21.5 kilometers per liter, making it an excellent choice for those craving a bit more space without sacrificing frugality.
4. Mazda 3 Sportback: Stylish, Feature-Rich, and Surprisingly Frugal
The Mazda 3 Sportback not only captivates with its style and features but also impresses with its fuel efficiency. Despite its larger size, it achieves an enviable 22.1 kilometers per liter on the highway, a remarkable feat that complements its great driving dynamics.
5. Mitsubishi Mirage: Locally Assembled and Impressively Frugal
As one of the few locally assembled vehicles, the Mitsubishi Mirage boasts a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine renowned for its frugality. Despite its seemingly modest power, it excels with a highway fuel economy rating of 23 kilometers per liter, solidifying its place on our list.
6. Mazda 2 Hatchback: Sporty, Skyactive, and Fuel-Efficient
For enthusiasts seeking sporty driving dynamics, the Mazda 2 Hatchback with skyactive technology delivers. With a consistent 23.6 kilometers per liter on the highway, it outshines its rivals with the same engine displacement, making it a compelling choice for those who value both style and efficiency.
7. Chevrolet Spark: Tech-Savvy and Efficient
Equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Chevrolet Spark impresses not only with its tech features but also its fuel efficiency. The CVT variant achieves an impressive 24.3 kilometers per liter on the highway, securing its place in the top tier of fuel-efficient hatchbacks.
8. Suzuki Espresso: Affordable and Efficient
Coming in at an attractive price point, the Suzuki Espresso proves that affordability can coexist with efficiency. Priced just over 500,000 Philippine Pesos, this compact hatchback delivers a frugal 25 kilometers per liter on the highway, making it a serious contender for budget-conscious buyers.
9. Kia Picanto: Small Yet Refined
The Kia Picanto, with its two engine options, offers refined fuel efficiency. While the figures for its one-liter variant elude us, the 1.2-liter model attains an impressive 25 kilometers per liter on the highway at an average speed of 90 kilometers per hour. A delight for highway travelers seeking a small yet frugal daily driver.
10. Suzuki Celerio: The Pinnacle of Efficiency
Securing the top spot is the new Suzuki Celerio, boasting a new body but retaining its one-liter gasoline engine. Despite its updated exterior, this hatchback excels with an impressive fuel efficiency of 26 kilometers per liter on the highway. An excellent choice for those prioritizing efficiency without compromising on style.
As we witness the rise of hybrid vehicles in the Philippine automotive landscape, these fuel efficiency figures are poised to grow even more. With every launch, our savings—both for our pockets and the environment—will continue to expand. Thank you for joining us on this insightful journey into the world of fuel-efficient hatchbacks. Stay safe, and we’ll see you soon.