Words: Autocar
Published 10 March 2026
It’s no secret that ongoing conflicts are sending fuel prices skyward, and we seem to be particularly affected in little old Aotearoa.
With some experts predicting prices as high as $4 per litre in some cases, we decided to put together our picks on how best to avoid paying big at the pump.
Richard Edwards, Managing Editor: Leapmotor C10 AWD
As the resident EV head I am already in the best position, with a BYD Atto 3 in the driveway. The Atto 3 is pretty much the Corolla of EVs now, a safe, easy choice, and they are everywhere.
But if I had to add something new? I am really partial to the Leapmotor C10 AWD at the moment. I can be saving money on fuel, while having enough power (440kW) under my right foot to embarrass the V8 drivers. Sure, there are faster EVs, but they look like it too, and I want to be subtle.
Read our review on the Leapmotor C10 AWD here
Kyle Cassidy, Editor: BYD Atto 2
The best way to beat fuel price rises is by not requiring the volatile substance in the first place. Expect EV owners to be driving around looking particularly smug if things do get as bad as predicted.
There are a raft of recent new EV arrivals in the $40k zone, the BYD Atto 2 perhaps most worthy of consideration. A used MG4 can be had for between $25k and $30k, and is quite a decent drive too.
A long range plug-in hybrid could also be worth considering for those that fear road tripping in an EV. The $46k Geely Starray gives 75km of EV range (and with cheaper RUCS), which would suit urbanites. It’s a practical size, well specified but has a car as appliance vibe.
A ‘self charging’ hybrid will save you money at the pump, Toyota making the best of them. Don’t overlook the humble Corolla, there are plenty of used import versions too, while the Corolla Cross is a good choice if you must have an SUV sort of thing.
Read our review on the BYD Atto 2 here
Andrew Sluys, Digital Editor: Honda Super-One
Who says cheap electric cars have to be boring? Well, I’m not sure anyone has actually said that, but someone probably thought it at some point.
I’ve followed the trend here, and avoided internal combustion power entirely, as it’s no longer a necessary evil to get from A to B.
The Honda Super-One isn’t actually available to buy in New Zealand yet, but the brand has confirmed it will be launching locally in the second half of 2026. On top of the ‘80s-like styling, the Super-One gets a single electric motor on the front axle producing 70kW. While this isn’t a lot of grunt, you won’t need much to have fun in this dinky little machine.
If you can’t wait for the Super-One to launch, there’s also the Honda e, which was never officially sold here, but is just as quirky, and can be picked up on the second-hand market.
Amber Erasmus, Contributor: Triumph Scrambler 400XC
Well as the resident bike head, my first choice would be a bike, but nothing big, say a LAMS bike in the 400cc range. My pick at the moment, a Triumph Scrambler 400XC. Fun, but comfortable and nimble for my Shore-to-city commute. Plus I can head into the wilds on the weekend. And at 3.8-litres per 100km, it sips!
Read our review on the Triumph Scrambler 400XC here
As we are heading into winter, and because I tow, I will need a car as well. A ute to be specific. The Ford Ranger PHEV would be my pick, though a BYD Shark could sway me for the extra electric range.
