Although petrol is reportedly becoming cheaper at UK forecourts, the difference in the cost of living compared to several years ago means Britain's motorists are still searching for additional ways to make their money stretch further.

One method to achieve this is to purchase, either second-hand or new, a vehicle capable of achieving very high miles to the gallon, thereby saving you cash each month.

Consequently, knowing which car is the most fuel efficient in the country serves as a valuable benchmark. Fortunately, a collective of motoring specialists have now joined forces to share their assessment on this, and the outcome might catch you off guard.

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Whilst many might assume it would be a Toyota Prius, a VW, or some three-cylinder one-litre model, it's actually a five-door BMW saloon that's emerged victorious.

Specifically the BMW 330e, which has a maximum mpg (miles per gallon) of 217.3. Discussing their winner, Cinch's Ben Welham said: "Here's proof that economical hybrid cars don't have to be boring.

"The 330e uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor offering powerful acceleration and impressive economy.

"As with the rest of the BMW 3 Series range, the interior is high quality and filled with amazing tech. You can get some impressive deals on used BMW models as well."

Meanwhile, the Toyota Prius also performed strongly and secured second place with a maximum of 67mpg achievable, and numerous used versions of the popular Japanese model currently available on the market.

However, the BMW's triumph comes just months after it was crowned the UK's best used car.

Writing in Auto Express, the publication that awarded the BMW the accolade, Alex Ingram said the popular saloon had won due to its driving dynamics, trim levels, and the sheer variety of body styles available to prospective buyers.

He said: "Whether you're in the market for a fuel-sipping diesel or a fire-breathing M3 - or anything in between - the 3 Series line-up has you covered.

"Plug-in hybrids allow for electric-only driving on local trips, and six-cylinder petrols are both smooth and powerful. Then there are the various bodystyles, too.

"But whichever derivative you go for, the rest of the package leaves you feeling like there's no compromise at all. Ride and handling are as good as it gets, making even the most affordable models a joy to drive."