Picture your typical Mauritian drive: navigating the morning hustle of Port Louis or winding along the eastern coast at sunrise. What if your car could sip petrol instead of guzzle it? This guide highlights some of the most fuel-efficient cars you can get in Mauritius, helping you cut your fuel bills without giving up comfort or practicality.
Official fuel consumption figures from manufacturers are a good guide, although real driving in Mauritian conditions may differ. For easy comparisons, we’ll use the current petrol price of around Rs 61.20 per litre from the State Trading Corporation. This lets us show what each car might cost to run per 100 km.
City hatchback – Suzuki Swift Hybrid
A nimble and light hatch that’s easy to manoeuvre in tight city streets. The hybrid system gives it impressive economy, with official figures around 4.4 to 4.9 L/100 km. That’s roughly Rs 270 to Rs 300 per 100 km, making it one of the most wallet-friendly options from a local dealer.
Compact SUV hybrid – Kia Niro
The Kia Niro combines the practicality of a compact SUV with remarkable fuel efficiency. Official WLTP figures from Europe report combined fuel consumption of approximately 4.4 to 4.6 L per 100 km, which equates to around Rs 270 per 100 km using local fuel costs.
SUV hybrid – Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
A premium-feeling SUV with the practicality to match, the RAV4 Hybrid delivers around 4.7 L/100 km in official figures. That works out to roughly Rs 288 per 100 km, making it a smart choice for those wanting comfort, space and strong fuel economy.
Here’s a quick guide to see how fuel use translates into cost:
These numbers make it easier to compare models at a glance when browsing the market.
Let’s consider diesels. At the time of writing, diesel costs about Rs 2.25 less per litre than petrol, and diesel vehicles often achieve better fuel economy on long, steady drives, making them appealing for high-mileage highway use.
In Mauritius, however, most driving involves shorter, stop-start trips, which can lead to diesel particulate filters clogging without extended runs to clear them. For most drivers, an efficient petrol car or hybrid offers a simpler, lower-maintenance ownership experience.
No matter what you drive, a few habits can keep your fuel bills lower:
Accelerate and brake smoothly
Keep tyres properly inflated
Maintain moderate speeds where possible
Small changes can make a noticeable difference over time.
While hybrids used to enjoy generous tax perks in Mauritius, recent changes have reduced these benefits. Their main draw now is fuel efficiency in daily use, not lower import costs.
If you want to compare cars by engine type or estimated running costs, AutoCloud.mu makes it easy. Filter, shortlist, and enquire in one place to find the right fit for your budget and driving needs.