With Emirates of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, traveling long distances is common. With trips that cover longer distances and an emphasis on being green, fuel-efficient rental cars are a great option for saving money on your trip.
All rental fleets now have a selection of new hybrids and low fuel consumption cars for rent which maintain their steady speed on the highway, are able to withstand the heat outside and consume less fuel with the air conditioning on. It’s essential to choose cars that are fuel efficient, speedy, comfortable and reliable.
1. Toyota Corolla Hybrid (Best Overall Efficiency Choice)
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is one of the most popular fuel efficient car rentals in the UAE and can be used on the streets and motorways.
Why is it great for UAE road trips?
- Fuel efficient (23-30 km/l with traffic not exceeded)
- Ideal for Dubai to Abu Dhabi journeys, and other long, highway driving
- Low maintenance and easily accessible for hire
It is perfect for travelers who want maximum savings without sacrificing comfort or reliability.
2. Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (Modern Comfort + Efficiency)
The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is a favourite choice for rental car companies in the UAE as it has a more contemporary interior.
Why it works well:
- Decent fuel efficiency (average 22 – 24 km/l)
- Highway-worthy seats
- Whisper quiet hybrid engine; low traffic fuel use
- Excellent stylish fuel efficient long distance car.
This is ideal for drivers who want something stylish yet economical for long-distance travel.
3. Toyota Camry Hybrid (Best for Comfort on Long Drives)
If you’ll be driving a long distance and spending a large amount of time on the highway, the stylish and fuel efficient Camry Hybrid is the vehicle to go for if you want luxury.
Popular in rentals in UAE because:
- Comfortable and spacious family car, good fuel efficiency
- Perfect family highway commuter to other emirates
- Easy to drive on UAE’s roads at high speed
It’s a hybrid vehicle which consumes much less fuel than a normal car, especially on different road types.
4. Toyota Yaris (Budget-Friendly Fuel Saver)
Yaris is the most affordable petrol car for rent in UAE and is widely popular for short journeys.
Why it’s a smart choice:
- Highly fuel efficient (19-20km/l)
- Light and easy to drive/handle
- Cheapest fuel saving pickup to rent
It’s a great choice for solo or couple travellers if you’re after most affordable fuel and rental costs.
5. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (Best SUV for Families)
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is an environmentally friendly SUV in UAE that offers more space.
Why it stands out:
- More fuel-efficient than other SUVs due to hybrid engine
- Spacious for people and luggage
- Relaxing and safe for longer journeys
It’s perfect for long trips like getting to Fujairah or Ras Al Khaimah, or for desert road trips.
6. Honda Civic (Reliable Petrol Efficiency Option)
The Honda Civic is a good alternative to a hybrid, for those UAE buyers who don’t want a hybrid.
Why it’s useful:
- Strong highway fuel efficiency for a petrol sedan
- Comfortable driving experience for long trips
- Reliable performance in UAE heat and conditions
It’s a good balance between performance and economy if you don’t want a hybrid.
Final Thoughts
The most fuel-efficient rental cars in UAE for long journeys are obviously hybrids (Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Hyundai Elantra Hybrid etc.), as they provide the best combination of savings, comfort and best performance on the highway during hot weather.
For comfort, choose the Camry Hybrid. For space, go for the RAV4 Hybrid. If you need to be cheap, the Yaris and Civic are good options.
In the UAE, with long highways and the AC on, you can save a great deal of money on your trip and make the trip more comfortable, by selecting a fuel-efficient rental car.
