Having read that Tristan Young’s wife achieved better fuel economy in BusinessCar’s long-term Skoda Superb than he did, the competitor in me compared my wife’s mpg figures with mine. Look away now, fellas, it ain’t good.

She’s recently set a new high of 54.2mpg for a trip to Lincolnshire and back, eclipsing the previous best

long-distance run of 49.9mpg, set by (male) editor Barker. As a result, the car is now averaging 41.4mpg, exactly what KwikCarcost predicts, but way below Kia‘s claimed 54.3mpg. My best is a mere 44.5mpg. Gutted.

Anyway, let’s give it up for the ladies.

Kia Sportage 1.7 CRDi 2
Mileage 6198
Claimed combined
consumption
54.3mpg
Our average
consumption
41.4mpg
P11D price £20,300
Model price range £17,015-£25,745
CO2 (tax) 135g/km (19%)
BIK 20/40% per month £64/£129
Engine size/power 1685cc/114PS
Top speed/0-60mph 107mph/11.9secs
Why we’re running it Can it genuinely take
on Nissan’s Qashqai?
Positive Extendable sun
visor, luggage net
Negative Girls being better
than boys at economy