Fuel efficiency is all the rage for car buyers, especially as manufacturers continue to improve the number of mpg that new models can get. When you are considering purchasing a new car, make sure to understand what the numbers and phrases mean so you can get the most for your money.
Assess the Size
Smaller cars weigh less than bigger ones, obviously, but the size also impacts the fuel efficiency. In order to power and move a larger car or truck, the system uses more fuel and this decreases the efficiency. If you spend a lot of time in the car by yourself, commuting or running errands, you might not need to invest in an SUV or van. On the other hand, you won’t be happy with your investment if you sacrifice the space you need for better fuel efficiency, so choose a car that will keep up with your daily routine.
Do Your Homework
Once you have decided what size vehicle will be best for your needs, start doing some research. There is a lot of variation in fuel economy, even between cars that fit into the same class. When you start looking at estimates, you may notice that the numbers come from the Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA. This agency provides standard numbers based on testing, but they tend to be a bit higher than actual numbers that drivers get when they are on the roads. The estimates are better used as comparison points between cars instead of cold, hard facts.
Skip Some of the Options
While there are some features that won’t alter the fuel economy, many upgrades actually decrease how many miles you can drive on a full tank. An automatic transmission or four-wheel drive can limit the fuel economy. If you add any extras after you purchase your new car, like a rooftop luggage rack or ski rack, you may also notice that the mpg number starts to drop, since these add weight and diminish the aerodynamics of the car.
Look Into Diesel
In the past, diesel was typically used in semi trucks and other large commercial vehicles. But in today’s driving world, diesel is a great option that provides improved fuel efficiency in even compact sedans. Diesel engines use higher temperatures for combustion and higher compression ratios, which leads to more efficient operation. A gallon of diesel also contains more energy than the same gallon of gasoline. These diesel factors combine to provide up to 50 percent better fuel efficiency than gas.
Shop Newer Cars
Because technology continues to improve, auto manufacturers add extras that can often help improve fuel efficiency and overall miles driven per gallon. You don’t necessarily have to buy brand new from the lot, but stick to cars made within the last couple of years.
As you test drive vehicles to find out which car is the best for you, consider these factors to help you make an informed decision and protect your investment for years to come.
Image via Toyota.com
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