Fuel prices in India often fluctuate, but one thing remains constant: every driver wants better mileage. No matter if you drive a hatchback, sedan, SUV, or coupé, improving your car’s fuel efficiency helps you save money and cut down on emissions. Here are ten simple yet effective ways to boost your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, resulting in more kilometres per litre.
- Keep Tyres Properly Inflated
Tyres with low pressure create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tyre pressure at least once every two weeks, and always follow the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, which you’ll find on the driver-side door frame or in the manual. Also, consider nitrogen filling for more stable tyre pressure in changing weather conditions.
- Use Air Conditioning Wisely
While AC is a necessity in the Indian summer, excessive use can drag down your mileage, especially in smaller cars. Use it only when required, and avoid setting the temperature too low. At lower speeds, open windows are more fuel-efficient than using the AC. At higher speeds (above 80 km/h), it’s the opposite due to aerodynamic drag.
- Shift Gears with Precision
Driving in the right gear is essential for efficient fuel usage. Avoid high revving in lower gears or forcing the engine in higher gears. Most modern cars in India come with a gear shift indicator, so use it as a guide. For manual transmission vehicles, shifting gears smoothly at the right RPM helps maintain optimal fuel consumption.
- Drive Smoothly, Avoid Sudden Movements
Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and aggressive overtaking all waste fuel. Maintain a steady pace, anticipate traffic conditions, and use engine braking when possible. Smooth driving is safer and more economical.
- Stick to Routine Maintenance
A well-serviced car runs more efficiently. Regular engine oil changes, timely replacement of air and fuel filters, and spark plug inspections can make a noticeable difference in mileage. Don’t skip scheduled servicing, especially in high-mileage Indian conditions with stop-and-go traffic and dusty roads.
- Plan Your Route in Advance
Getting stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic wastes fuel. Use navigation apps like Google Maps to find the shortest and least congested routes. Since many Indian cities have predictable peak-hour traffic patterns, avoid driving during those times whenever possible.
- Don’t Carry Unnecessary Load
Extra weight makes your engine work harder. Remove unused luggage, tools, and roof racks that add drag and reduce efficiency. Even carrying around a half-empty water can or an unused child seat affects mileage over time.
- Warm Up Only When Necessary
Modern engines don’t require long idling to warm up. Start the car and drive gently for the first few minutes instead of keeping the engine on idle, which only burns fuel without moving you forward.
- Choose Quality Fuel
Always fill up at reliable fuel stations to avoid adulterated petrol or diesel. Premium fuels offer limited benefits for standard engines but can help in high-compression or turbocharged engines. Use your owner’s manual to decide what’s best.
- Adopt Smart Driving Tech
Use features like cruise control, if available, while driving on highways, and keep an eye on your real-time mileage through the MID (Multi-Information Display). Many cars in India now offer eco-driving modes, which can help improve fuel efficiency with minimal effort.
Final Thought
Better mileage isn’t about drastic changes but about consistency. Small, everyday habits can make a big difference in your fuel expenses. Drive smarter, not harder.
Keep all these factors in mind, and if you’re in the market for a car that’s already built for fuel efficiency, the Citroën Basalt makes a strong case. As a stylish SUV-coupé car designed for Indian roads, it offers a well-balanced mix of performance and practicality. The Citroën Basalt’s mileage, rated at 19.5 km/l, adds to its appeal for those who want to go farther on every litre.