Most fuel-efficient SUV under R500,000 in South Africa

The cheapest and most fuel-efficient SUV you can buy for less than R500,000 is the Jetour Dashing, which achieves an average economy of 6.8l/100km.

Originally launched in South Africa in 2024, the Dashing is one of the most affordable midsize SUVs in the country.

It received an update earlier this year, adding a third model to the range while giving customers a choice between two versions of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine.

Kicking off the range is the Core, which starts at R359,900 and produces 108kW and 230Nm. However, this version has a fairly high average fuel consumption of 7.8l/100km.

If you’re prepared to spend more money on a higher-spec SUV that’s more efficient while also boasting more power, you can instead look to the mid-range Prestige model.

This version costs R429,900 and also has a 1.5-litre turbo; however, it has a noticeably higher output of 125kW and 270Nm.

Despite being more powerful, it has a lower official fuel consumption of 6.8l/100km, making it the most efficient sub-R500,000 SUV in South Africa.

While there are other SUVs that can achieve a significantly lower fuel stat, these models are hybrids that are much more expensive to purchase to begin with.

The Haval H6 GT plug-in hybrid, for example, has a claimed fuel efficiency of just 0.8l/100km, but this is because the owner is expected to use the electric driving mode for most journeys.

It also costs R799,900, meaning it is not a realistic option for the average consumer whose only concern is cutting back on fuel spending.

To put the Jetour’s fuel consumption in perspective, it can travel 838km on its 57-litre tank.

Motorists are currently paying R30.24 per litre for petrol 95 at inland rates, following November’s fuel price adjustments.

With this in mind, the Dashing costs approximately R2.06 per kilometre to drive, which is reflective of South Africa’s high petrol prices as much as it is an indication of the car’s efficiency.

Looking beyond its fuel usage, the Dashing comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, an electric tailgate, privacy glass, a panoramic glass sunroof, and rain-sensing wipers.

It also features keyless entry and start, leather upholstery with red stitching, an eight-speaker Sony stereo, dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, a 40W wireless charger, ambient lighting, and a dual display comprising two 10.25-inch screens for the driver and infotainment systems.

Additionally, it has an advanced driver assistance system with a 540-degree panoramic view camera system, front and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, electronic stability control, traction control, ABS, hill assist, cruise control, blind spot detection, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.