When purchasing a vehicle in Nigeria, several factors guide the decision-making process. Affordability, fuel efficiency, and durability top the list, as buyers seek cars that offer the best value for money, both in terms of fuel consumption and long-term maintenance costs. Vehicles with easy-to-replace parts, readily available mechanics, and a strong second-hand market value are also favoured. Additionally, engine size (cylinder versions) plays a critical role, as vehicles with smaller engines are typically more fuel-efficient, while larger engines provide more power but come at the cost of higher fuel consumption.
Let’s take a closer look at the fuel consumption of some popular vehicle models in Nigeria and how one can economise fuel usage, especially considering the current average price of N950 per litre of petrol (PMS). Fuel Consumption Insights
- Suzuki (45-50 litres)
Suzuki models, known for their fuel efficiency, consume approximately 6-8 litres per 100 km. With a 45-50-litre tank, they can cover 625 to 830 km on a full tank, making them one of the most fuel-efficient options in Nigeria.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N42,750 – N47,500 - Kia (50-58 litres)
Kia cars, widely appreciated for their balance of efficiency and affordability, consume around 7-9 litres per 100 km. With a 50-58-litre tank, they can travel 555 to 800 km, depending on the model and driving conditions.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N47,500 – N55,100 - Hyundai (50-62 litres)
Hyundai models, offering a mix of style and efficiency, consume around 8-10 litres per 100 km. With a 50-62-litre tank, they can cover 500 to 750 km on a full tank, making them a popular choice for Nigerian buyers seeking reliability.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N47,500 – N59,900 - Toyota Corolla (50 litres)
The Toyota Corolla, known for its fuel efficiency and reliability, consumes approximately 7-9 litres per 100 km. With a 50-litre tank, this vehicle can cover roughly 555 to 715 km per full tank, depending on driving conditions.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N47,500 - Toyota Camry (60 litres)
The Camry, another popular model, consumes around 8-10 litres per 100 km. With its 60-litre fuel capacity, it can drive about 600 to 750 km per tank. This makes it a favourite for those seeking a balance between comfort and economy.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N57,000 - Honda Accord (56-60 litres)
The Honda Accord, depending on the year and model, consumes approximately 8-10 litres per 100 km, giving it a range of 600 to 750 km per tank. Its efficiency, paired with durability, makes it a top choice in the Nigerian market.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N53,200 – N57,000 - Toyota Hilux (80 litres)
The rugged Toyota Hilux, designed for heavy-duty use, consumes roughly 10-12 litres per 100 km, offering a range of 665 to 800 km per tank. While it consumes more fuel, its durability makes it ideal for Nigeria’s challenging terrains.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N76,000 - Toyota Sienna (75 litres)
This family-friendly minivan consumes about 9-12 litres per 100 km, allowing it to cover 625 to 830 km on a full tank. Though larger, the Sienna manages to maintain competitive fuel efficiency.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N71,250 - Mercedes-Benz G-Class (100 litres)
A status symbol, the G-Class consumes approximately 12-15 litres per 100 km. Its massive 100-litre tank allows for a range of 665 to 830 km. However, its fuel consumption is considerably higher than most, making it more suitable for buyers prioritising luxury over fuel savings.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N95,000 - Range Rover (86-105 litres)
Range Rover models, depending on the engine size, consume around 12-15 litres per 100 km, giving a range of 700 to 875 km on a full tank. Like the G-Class, the Range Rover is better suited for buyers willing to trade off fuel efficiency for performance and luxury.
Fuel Capacity Cost: N81,700 – N99,750
Ways to Economise Fuel Usage
Given the high cost of PMS at N950 per litre, economising fuel usage is crucial for drivers looking to reduce costs. Here are five practical tips to optimise fuel consumption:
- Maintain a Steady Speed
Avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration, as these increase fuel consumption. Driving at a consistent speed, especially on highways, improves efficiency. - Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Keeping your car in good condition through regular servicing helps maintain fuel efficiency. A well-tuned engine consumes less fuel, while low tyre pressure can increase fuel use by up to 3%. - Limit Air Conditioning
Using air conditioning puts additional load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Limit its use, especially during city driving where frequent stops and starts occur. - Reduce Excess Weight
The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it uses. Removing unnecessary items from the car can improve fuel economy, especially for larger vehicles like the Hilux or Sienna. - Plan Your Routes
Use navigation apps to find the shortest and least congested routes to your destination. Avoiding traffic jams reduces the time your engine idles, saving fuel.
While the Nigerian vehicle market favours durability, affordability, and ease of maintenance, fuel efficiency has become increasingly important. Therefore, understanding your vehicle’s fuel consumption and employing strategies to economise fuel usage can significantly cut down on expenses, especially in a market where PMS prices are on the rise.
