Are you wondering how fuel economy is calculated?
While the luxury, speed, and horsepower of a new car are very important to almost all prospective buyers, the car’s gas mileage is essential over its lifetime. While the fuel mileage statistics are determined by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency, there are a few parts to figure out the gas mileage and they vary. Beginning with the car’s weight and the capability of the engine. Even if the car is heavy, the engine tech could still lower the amount of gasoline being used. EPA ratings are usually higher in smaller cars, trucks, and SUVs because of their aerodynamics and weight. In general, these smaller vehicles do not need as much gasoline to keep them running smoothly. Another consideration is vehicle maintenance, doing stuff like making sure the tires have the right air pressure. As we know, gas mileage is critical for all cars and it takes many of the pieces working together to build an efficient car.
The distance any car can travel with a tank of fuel is figured out by the mile per gallon it gets. Vehicle size, drivetrain (AWD or RWD), and engine technology all play a huge role in calculating the fuel mileage for the vehicle. The numbers favor small sedans with hybrid models and a vehicle weight that is light enough that just barely tip the scales. While fuel mileage can dip during the life of the car, regular drives and updated maintenance are the easiest ways to keep your fuel economy high.
Looking at miles per gallon, there are 2 different numbers that define the gas mileage of your car, city and highway MPGs. The driving conditions in the real world are much different when compared to the testing conditions and the results show it. Calculating the two separate MPG ratings displays how your driving habits will absolutely change the vehicle’s MPGs. How you drive can affect the fuel economy, so measuring the two different ratings gives a more realistic description of your vehicle. Considering all the starting and stopping caused by city driving contrasted with the constant movement of driving on the highway, clearly, driving on the highway should get a higher amount of gas mileage.
Many vehicles that have been made for the past few years have equipped a couple of different drive modes to fit your driving style and preserve gas. A sporty-type mode will offer a performance-based drive while “Eco” (or Economy) mode prioritizes gas mileage. Between cylinder deactivation and driving modes, cars are more fuel-efficient than ever before.
Advantage BMW of Clear Lake is your local new and used car dealer serving the Houston, TX, area. Whether you’re looking for a great deal on a new, used, or certified pre-owned vehicle for sale, you’re sure to find something special. Visit us in person or online today. Our BMW specialists are ready to serve you.
