Sajil blog

How to Save Fuel in a Rental Car: Practical Tips for Saudi Roads

09 Nov 2026 3 min read Sajil Rent a Car
How to Save Fuel in a Rental Car: Practical Tips for Saudi Roads

After the rental price, fuel is usually your biggest expense, especially on long highway trips or a month of daily commuting. The good news is that a few simple choices can cut it noticeably.

1. Start with the right car

The most economical cars in the Sajil fleet are the small sedans and hatchbacks:

For a full comparison read the cheapest rental cars compared. A large SUV makes sense when you really need the space, not just for two people in town.

2. Use the right fuel

Saudi stations sell 91 and 95 octane petrol. Most economy cars run perfectly on 91, while some turbo engines recommend 95. The label inside the fuel flap tells you which one the car needs, or ask the branch at pickup. Paying for 95 in a car that needs 91 does not save fuel.

3. Drive smoothly

  • Accelerate gently from traffic lights and look ahead so you brake less.
  • Use cruise control on the highway where the car has it.
  • Fuel use rises sharply at very high speeds; keeping to the limit saves fuel as well as fines.

4. Use the air conditioning wisely

The air conditioning is essential in summer. To make it work less hard, park in the shade or use a sunshade, and drive the first minute with the windows slightly open to let the hot air out.

5. Avoid idling

Leaving the engine running for a long time while waiting burns fuel for nothing. Switch it off when you are parked for more than a few minutes and the weather allows.

6. Keep the boot light

Extra weight costs fuel. Take out heavy items you do not need, and do not leave a roof box on if you are not using it.

7. Plan the route

Combine errands into one trip and avoid peak hours. In Riyadh, leaving 20 minutes earlier can save a long crawl in traffic.

Fuel and the rental contract

Return the car with the same fuel level you received it with. A full tank at the station is usually cheaper than paying a refuelling charge. See the pickup and return checklist.

Frequently asked questions

Which Sajil car uses the least fuel?

The small cars: Dzire, Grand i10, Pegas and Yaris. They are also among the cheapest to rent.

Does monthly rental include fuel?

No, fuel is paid by the renter. Choosing an economical car for a monthly rental saves a lot over the month.

Is it fine to use 95 in every car?

Yes, it will not harm the engine, but it costs more and gives no benefit if the car is made for 91.

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