fuel economy

[chricton]

It seems that the fuel consumption rate is DECREASING with the last couple year models. I have an '06, manual transmission, and getting 36+ MPG. The window sticker reads 30/36 (city/highway). From what I can tell the last two model years gets HIGHWAY mileage in the 30-32 MPG rate which is my model years CITY rate.I'm sure I missed something (such as larger engine, change in transmission gearing, change in EPA rating scheme) but this seems like a backwards motion. The model years should be getting BETTER mileage as time moves along.

[bull77]

yup -- the epa ratings changed recently --- check out:http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg...22102

[Cgrrl]

I have an '08 Vibe and just returned from a long roadtrip. 4 adults with all their luggage. I got about 34 mpg average. That's hwy/city combined. I was MORE than happy!

[joatmon]

Quote, originally posted by chricton »I'm sure I missed something (such as larger engine, change in transmission gearing, change in EPA rating scheme) but this seems like a backwards motion. The model years should be getting BETTER mileage as time moves along.the correct answer is C) change in EPA rating scheme

[chricton]

Looks like bull77 AND joatmon hit it on the head. The site shows both OLD and NEW EPA ratings. The differencies I see for my Vibe are in line (more or less) with what I am seeing on the Pontiac site for the new Vibes.(And with a little judicious shifting, I've even gotten 38-39 MPG in combined driving no less. Love that manual transmission )

[vibolista]

First full tank (manual 08)... measured 37.6 mpg. Easily driven but not really broken in yet... so could end up getting higher mileage eventually. Love it so far. Manuals rule... chricton!

[DarkSpork]

The EPA rating changed in 2008 to be more "realistic" and for the most part as far as I can tell they are. I had driven an automatic 2003 to Vancouver once and got 40mpg on some tanks during that trip though. Long trip mileage is usually I higher (I managed to get over 34 in my GT which is way above what the EPA rates it at and that was doing 80 with A/C on). Usually I get anywhere from 23-30 (it really depends on how you drive it, usually I get 30 because I don't really think its that fun to have to rev the hell out of the engine to go fast).

[jerryn]

I've got a 2.4L 2009 Vibe GT and I have NO complaints about the realworld mpg I am getting.I get 31mpg most of the time. 29mpg If I drive it like I stole it or stuck in traffic for a bit.

[renate]

I fill up when I am at 1/2 tank,because when the 2007 wildfires hit,I had to wait 1 1/2 hours in line to get gas.Today when I got gas I got 5.54 gallons and had driven 108.6 miles and that comes out to 19 miles a gallon.