Best Cars For High Mileage Commuters

Despite recent public transport improvements, most Brits still drive their car to work. A recent RAC Foundation report revealed that six in 10 commuters either drive or grab a lift in a car or a van - 16.7 million people - which rises to more than seven in 10 when you single out rural areas. And, a 2013 survey from car insurer Allianz found that drivers spend hours in their cars as part of their daily commute. According to the research, the average British motorist will drive 7,130 miles a year to work and back. If your daily commute is long, finding a car that offers good fuel economy and a comfortable ride is essential. So, we’ve put together a guide to three of the best cars you should consider if you have a long commute every day.

Mazda 6

As well as being one of the most stylish cars in its class, the new Mazda 6 also offers a great ride, excellent fuel economy and all the interior features you’d expect in a leading saloon. Mazda’s SkyActiv technology means the powerful 2.2-litre diesel engine emits just 104g/km of CO2 and does 74.2mpg. Auto Express reports that this ‘puts it well ahead of the 2.0-litre diesel Ford Mondeo, which does 54.3mpg and 119g/km of emissions.’ What Car? says ‘for such a large car, the Mazda 6 delivers remarkable fuel economy and CO2 figures.’ The petrol engines are also excellent. They are leaders of their class in terms of efficiency, with the entry-level 2.0-litre unit managing average mpg of 51.4 and emissions of 129g/km. Autocar adds that the Mazda 6 ‘is as composed as a Ford Mondeo, but with a fleet-footedness that the sturdier Ford can’t equal.’

Kia Rio

If you are looking for a reliable, economical car then you don’t have to look much further than the Kia Rio. Fitted with a 1.1-litre, three-cylinder engine, the 74bhp entry-level turbodiesel Rio five-door is among the most economical combustion-engine series production cars in the world, giving you an astonishing 88.3mpg on the combined cycle. And, of course, when you buy a Kia you’re not just getting a solidly built car with excellent internal specification and superb fuel economy. You also benefit from the peace of mind of Kia’s market leading seven year warranty and its Care-3 servicing offer, which buys three years of services for just less than £300, and is transferable to the next owner. Considering that prices for the Kia Rio start at just £9,345, it’s an increasingly popular choice with cost conscious drivers.

Skoda Octavia

Repeated surveys have found that Skoda owners are amongst the most satisfied with their cars. The Octavia gives great fuel economy and features for its price, with What Car? awarding it a full five stars for ‘buying and owning’. The magazine said: ‘The Octavia costs less to buy and run than most of its rivals – no matter if you’re a private buyer or a company car driver,’ adding that its ‘fuel economy is impressive for such a large car’. Autocar calls the Octavia ‘a perfectly acceptable A-road and motorway companion’ meaning it is ideal if you have a long commute to and from the office. And, the equipment and build quality is, according to the magazine, ‘as good as anything at the price.’ In conclusion, Autocar says ‘factor in the Octavia\'s range of decent engines and low running costs, and the overall package is an appealing and sensibl