Six of the most economical family cars money can buy: True MPG figures reveal Seat Leon is cheapest to run

Petrol prices have fallen in recent months. But despite this, the price of unleaded is still almost double where it stood at the turn of the Millennium.

For that reason, when it comes to choosing a family car, it is important not only to find one large enough for the rigours of household life, but also one that is going to give the best fuel efficiency to keep consumption costs to a minimum.

But can you trust the manufacturer's figures when it comes to the crunch?

Economical: The Seat Leon topped WhatCar?'s True MPG test for family cars.

A list by specialist magazine WhatCar? has delivered what it says are the six most economical family motors you can buy. It has done this by using its own ‘true MPG’ test. WhatCar? says the biggest difference between its fuel economy test and the official tests are that the magazine's are conducted in ‘real-world conditions rather than in a laboratory.’

You can read in detail how WhatCar? calculates its own MPG figures on its website.

This is Money takes a look at the cars that make its list – and how much they cost to buy brand new.

TOP SIX FAMILY CARS FOR FUEL ECONOMY

1. Seat Leon 1.2 TSI 105

Official MPG: 57.6. True MPG: 45.4

Price: From £15,370

It has been a good year for the Seat Leon, pictured above.. Auto Express named it overall new car of the year back in July, being described as a ‘brilliant all-rounder,’ the first time the Spanish brand had won the much coveted award. It was also praised for being stylish inside and out with lots of equipment and a spacious interior. WhatCar? says that this car has the smallest engine in the list – but it is the most efficient.

2. Mazda 3 2.0 Skyactiv-G 120

Official MPG: 55.4. True MPG: 42.8

Price: From £16,995

This motor snuck into a top ten list of cars that hold their value best in recent research by Glass’s for This is Money and is a popular choice when it comes to comments from our readers. WhatCar? describes it as a fun car to drive and although it might not be the best family motor out of the six mentioned here, it’s not far off.

3. Audi A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI 122

Official MPG: 54.3. True MPG: 42.5

Price: From £18,280

The Audi A3 is the only car on this list that is in the top 20 list of new cars sold in Britain in 2013 proving its popularity with drivers. It also won WhatCar? overall car of the year describing it as an ‘outstanding buy.’ It added: ‘It should be on the shortlist of anyone looking for this size of car.’

4. Kia Ceed 1.6 GDi 133

Official MPG: 52.3. True MPG: 42.1

Price: From £13,500

Although this car makes it into the WhatCar? the magazine describes the petrol version of this car as a disappointment with the diesel version being much ‘punchier.’ It adds that it is spacious and a great value family hatchback which can compete with the best in a number of areas.

5. Mercedes A180 BlueEfficiency 122

Official MPG: 51.4. True MPG: 41.5

Price: From £20,715

Top Gear magazine says that the A180 is a lovely thing to steer and sit in and easily trumps the BMW and Audi on exterior grace and style. But WhatCar? says that while safety and equipment levels are up there with the best, most versions are disappointing to drive and the ride on all models is far too firm. Still, if you’re sold on the A-Class, this petrol engine is the one to go for.

6. Skoda Octavia 1.4 TSI 140

Official MPG: 53.3. True MPG: 40.6

Price: From £16,790

This car was named the best estate car in the Auto Express new car of the year where it was praised for its stylish looks, massive boot and great value. WhatCar? says the Octavia might not be the most stylish car of its type but it’s still one of the best while the petrol engines are smooth and quiet.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Do you own one of the cars above? Or have a different family motor which is economical? Should those wanting to save money simply buy second-hand instead? Let us know your thoughts below…