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A person fills a European vehicle with diesel fuel at a gas station, holding a diesel pump nozzle inserted into the tank to support fuel efficiency on the road.

How to Get the Best Fuel Efficiency from Your European Vehicle

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European cars are known for their performance, not necessarily their thriftiness at the bowser. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy refined driving and fuel efficiency use at the same time. With the right driving habits, maintenance, and fuel choices, your BMW, Audi, Mercedes or Volkswagen can deliver surprisingly efficient returns — without compromising the drive.

Whether you're chasing better value per tank or reducing your environmental impact, these expert-backed tips will help you get the most from every drop of fuel.

FUEL EFFICIENCY Summary

  • Smooth, consistent driving and correct tyre pressure are key to better fuel economy.
  • Regular European car servicing helps maintain efficiency across the engine and exhaust systems.
  • Using premium fuel is often required — but choosing the right premium fuel matters too.
  • Weight, aerodynamics, and even roof racks can affect your car’s consumption.
  • Accelerate Automotive offers fuel-saving servicing and diagnostics for all European brands.

Why Fuel Efficiency Matters — Even in a European Car

Let’s face it — prestige vehicles aren’t always bought with “fuel economy” in mind. But high fuel prices, long commutes and eco-conscious living mean more drivers are keen to optimise efficiency.

The good news? Most European vehicles are engineered with adaptive driving tech, eco modes, and highly efficient engines. You just need to understand how to unlock that potential.

Driving Habits That Save You the Most at the Pump

The way you drive makes a massive difference. Here’s how to cut back fuel use without cutting corners on performance:

  • Use ‘Eco’ Mode: Most modern European vehicles have this. It adjusts throttle response and gear shifts to conserve fuel.
  • Avoid Sudden Acceleration and Braking: Smooth inputs reduce fuel demand and wear.
  • Cruise Control Is Your Friend: On highways, this helps maintain steady speeds and lower revs.
  • Don’t Idle Unnecessarily: If you’re waiting more than a minute, shut it down.
  • Use Start-Stop Systems: If your car has it — let it do its job.

Small adjustments = long-term savings.

Servicing Tips That Boost Fuel Economy in Prestige Vehicles

Your vehicle needs to be in top shape to run efficiently. Dirty air filters, ageing spark plugs, or a clogged fuel system can all increase consumption.

Make sure you:

  • Service your vehicle on schedule
     Skipping a service means your car could be burning more fuel to deliver the same performance.
  • Replace air and fuel filters regularly
     A restricted filter reduces airflow or fuel delivery, leading to inefficiencies.
  • Keep your engine tuned and software updated
     Modern European vehicles rely on software to optimise combustion. Updates matter.

At Accelerate Automotive, we perform fuel efficiency inspections alongside standard services — so you know your engine’s running at its best.

Tyre Pressure, Load and Aerodynamics: The Overlooked Factors

You could be burning extra fuel without even knowing it — because of things like:

  • Low tyre pressure: Just a few PSI below spec increases rolling resistance.
  • Excess weight: A boot full of gear can cost you litres over a long trip.
  • Roof racks and pods: These reduce aerodynamic efficiency, especially at highway speeds.

Pro tip: Check your tyres fortnightly and remove unnecessary accessories between trips.

Premium Fuel vs Regular: What’s Worth It for Your Euro?

Most European cars require premium unleaded — usually 95 or 98 RON. But is there a difference between brands? Sometimes.

  • Stick with what's recommended in your manual.
     Dropping below the required RON can reduce efficiency and cause engine knock.
  • Try different brands and monitor results.
     Some drivers report better mileage with particular fuel brands, thanks to additive packages.
  • Don't waste money on 98 RON if your car only needs 95.
     You won’t get better performance or savings — just a lighter wallet.

How Accelerate Automotive Helps You Save More per Tank

As Brisbane’s European car experts, we help you make every litre count by:

  • Running full diagnostics to identify inefficient systems
  • Replacing worn spark plugs and fuel filters
  • Checking and correcting tyre pressure, alignment and drag
  • Performing intake cleaning and throttle body servicing
  • Advising on the best fuel and driving habits for your specific model

Whether it’s a diesel Volvo, a petrol-powered Audi, or a hybrid BMW, we help you get the most from your car — and your tank.

FAQ

Q: Does using cruise control save fuel?
 A: Yes — especially on flat highways. It prevents unnecessary acceleration and keeps revs consistent.

Q: Should I run my tank to empty before refuelling?
 A: No — it can stir up sediment and make your fuel pump work harder, reducing efficiency over time.

Q: Can regular servicing really improve fuel economy?
 A: Absolutely. Clean filters, proper timing and updated software all contribute to lower consumption.

Q: Is it worth switching to a smaller car for better fuel efficiency?
 A: Not necessarily — if your European car is well-maintained and driven smartly, it can compete with smaller cars on long-distance efficiency.

Conclusion

Getting great fuel economy from your European car isn’t about downgrading — it’s about driving smarter, maintaining better, and knowing how your car works. With a few changes in habit and the right servicing support, your luxury car can be both powerful and efficient.

Want to optimise your car’s performance and fuel use? Book a fuel efficiency service with Accelerate Automotive today.

This guide is written by Accelerate Automotive, a Brisbane-based European car specialist specialising in performance servicing, diagnostics and fuel efficiency optimisation for prestige vehicles.