Toyota Corolla beats the competition and wins the title of most economical by Inmetro; Renault, Chevrolet and Volkswagen models surprise and appear on the list

Did you know that, amid the constant search for efficiency and savings, some car models have stood out in surprising ways?

This is what a survey by the National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology shows (Inmetro). According to Inmetro, the Toyota Corolla beat the competition and won the title of most economical car in Brazil in 2024.

This survey is part of the Brazilian Vehicle Labeling Program (PBEV), which evaluates hundreds of models on the market in detail, including even the 2025 lineup of some popular vehicles.

How does Inmetro assess vehicle fuel economy?

Inmetro carries out standardized tests under controlled conditions to determine the efficiency of each vehicle.

These tests generate a classification that varies from “A” (most efficient) to “E” (least efficient), taking into account consumption in megajoules per kilometer (MJ/km) and kilometers per liter (km/l).

These measurements are essential for consumers who seek not only fuel savings, but also a lower environmental impact.

Top 5 most economical flex cars of 2024

1 Toyota Corolla

• Engine: 1.8 with flex hybrid system and CVT transmission
• Note: B
• Energy consumption: 1,21 MJ/km
• Consumption in the city: 12,8 km/l (ethanol), 18,5 km/l (gasoline)
• Consumption on the road: 11,1 km/l (ethanol), 15,7 km/l (gasoline)

2. Toyota Corolla Cross

• Engine: 1.8 with flex hybrid system and CVT transmission
• Note: B
• Energy consumption: 1,29 MJ/km
• Consumption in the city: 12,5 km/l (ethanol), 17,7 km/l (gasoline)
• Consumption on the road: 10,1 km/l (ethanol), 14,6 km/l (gasoline)

3 Renault Quid

• Engine: 1.0 flex and 5-speed manual transmission
• Note: B
• Energy consumption: 1,36 MJ/km
• Consumption in the city: 10,8 km/l (ethanol), 15,3 km/l (gasoline)
• Consumption on the road: 11 km/l (ethanol), 15,7 km/l (gasoline)

4. Chevrolet Onix Plus

• Engine: 1.0 flex and 6-speed manual transmission
• Note: B
• Energy consumption: 1,42 MJ/km
• Consumption in the city: 9,3 km/l (ethanol), 13,5 km/l (gasoline)
• Consumption on the road: 12 km/l (ethanol), 17,4 km/l (gasoline)

5Volkswagen Polo

• Engine: 1.0 turbo flex and 5-speed manual transmission
• Note: B
• Energy consumption: 1,45 MJ/km
• Consumption in the city: 9,5 km/l (ethanol), 13,7 km/l (gasoline)
• Consumption on the road: 11,3 km/l (ethanol), 16,1 km/l (gasoline)

Why is energy efficiency crucial?

The energy efficiency of a vehicle not only alleviates the owners' pockets, but it also plays a vital role in reducing pollutant emissions.

More efficient models consume less fuel, which means less CO₂ released into the atmosphere. With the introduction of the eighth phase of Proconve, vehicles such as the Hyundai HB20 and HB20S were recalibrated to meet the new emission limits, in force since January 2024.

Fuel consumption: a decisive variable when buying a car

The decision to purchase a car involves several factors, such as design, comfort and technology. However, Fuel consumption is one of the most important criteria for consumers looking for the best value for money. Analyzing energy efficiency and comparing different models can bring significant economic advantages, in addition to benefiting the environment.

Which car do you think should be at the top of the most economical list? Share your opinion in the comments!