Millions of European families will pack up and go on vacation this summer, but the key question remains – which car models are the best choice for such long trips? To help drivers choose, the independent vehicle assessment organization Green NCAP analyzed the models that offer the best balance of energy efficiency, usable range and charging speed.
The testing simulated a typical 800-kilometer journey that includes a mix of highways, local and city roads. In order to make the conditions completely realistic, a four-member family with luggage and the constant operation of the air conditioner during the summer heat were taken into account.
The results of their analysis overturned a common misconception: a larger battery in electric vehicles does not necessarily mean a more efficient trip. Due to their large mass, dimensions, aerodynamic drag and wide tires with high rolling resistance, heavy electric SUV models consume significantly more energy than the most efficient cars in this analysis.
The best electric models
It stood out as the absolute winner among electric vehicles Mercedes-Benz CLA EQ 250+. Thanks to the 85 kWh battery installed in the aerodynamic four-door sedan, this model achieved an extremely low energy consumption of just 16.5 kWh per 100 kilometers on a simulated route, with an estimated range of 605 kilometers on a single charge. Starting with a full battery, the CLA EQ 250+ only requires about 14 minutes of rapid charging to cover the entire 800 kilometer journey. Its system provides an average charging power of 286 kW, which recharges the battery from 10 to 80 percent capacity in less than 23 minutes, securing it the maximum five stars for sustainability.
For families who prefer more compact solutions, Renault 5 E-Tech the five-door offers an excellent package with a five-star rating, a 52kWh battery and a consumption of 19.9kWh per 100km, giving it a range of 296km under test conditions.
MINI Cooper E with three doors, it consumes 19 kWh per 100 kilometers and proved to be the second most efficient electric model. However, its smaller 36.6 kWh battery limits the range to 224 kilometers, which is why it needs a total of 104 minutes of charging for a trip of 800 kilometers.
It offers a more practical alternative crossover Volvo EX30 with an extended range of 344 kilometers, which takes about 59 minutes to charge for the same route, and offers significantly more space for passengers and luggage.
Hybrid and petrol options
For families who are not yet ready to switch to fully electric drive, hybrid vehicles represent a good compromise. It’s in that category Toyota C-HR achieved the best result with an average consumption of 5.7 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. With a 43-litre fuel tank, this compact SUV offers a potential range of 754 kilometres, which means it needs only one short stop to refuel to cover the test route.
If space is the primary requirement, the SUV stands out Dacia Bigster with five seats and a large trunk. Its hybrid drive consumes 5.9 liters per 100 kilometers, and thanks to a 50-liter fuel tank and a range of 847 kilometers, it can cover the entire 800-kilometer journey without a single stop. Both hybrid models earned three and a half stars for sustainability due to exhaust emissions.
Finally, for drivers who don’t want an SUV or electrified powertrains, SEAT Ibiza has established itself as the most economical classic gasoline engine. This compact family hatchback without hybrid assistance, it consumes 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers under full load and with the air conditioner on. Its 40-liter tank provides a range of 645 kilometers, requiring one quick stop at a gas station during the 800-kilometer journey. Just like the hybrids tested, the Ibiza ultimately achieved a sustainability rating of three and a half stars.