On the whole, modern cars are much more fuel-efficient than their older counterparts. But ditching their current model and splashing out on a new, more economic replacement is just not an option for most people at the moment with the implications of the Credit Crunch.

If cash constraints forbid the new car route to cheaper motoring, you’re left with one option - trying to drive more economically. Here are ten useful tips for getting that all-important extra mileage out of your car’s fuel tank.

1. Don’t leave the car idling waiting for the engine to warm up. On cold days drive off immediately and allow the engine to warm-up while you stick to a medium rev range.

2. Drive at steady speeds. Anticipate developments ahead that might slow you down and reduce your speeds accordingly; obstructions may have cleared by the time you arrive. Use the car’s highest gear wherever possible.

3. Don’t step on the accelerator while coasting and keep the car in gear. If you have to stop for more than a minute or so, turn the engine off.

4. Accelerate briskly but not aggressively, moving up through the gears as quickly as possible. Drive in 5th gear from about 30mph and try to keep to low revs.

5. Use only 75% of the vehicle’s top speed.

6. Avoid ‘pedal to the metal’ acceleration and use of kickdown functions with automatic or automated manual cars.

7. Check tyre pressures regularly and keep tyres properly inflated.

8. Remove the roof rack when it’s not in use, the extra wind-resistance that this creates can make quite some difference to fuel consumption over time.

9. Remove unwanted objects from the car, particularly heavy items, and turn off any electrical systems that you don’t need.

10. Service the vehicle regularly, keeping it in good working order and ensure that the engine is functioning at optimum levels.