AWD vs FWD and mpg
Posted: Thu Mar 09, 2017 5:20 pm
Our 2nd Vibe has just been totaled and we're not ready to leave the VIbe family yet! I've never owned an AWD. Does it get worse gas mileage than the FWD typically?
The simple answer is yes, AWD's get fewer MPG.
Below is a link to an EPA MPG ratings comparison for automatic 2005 and 2010 FWD & AWD Vibes.
https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do ... 2&id=26444
The 1st Gen used the same 1.8 l engine for FWD (except GT) and AWD, so the combined MPG ratings are close 27 MPG vs. 25 MPG, but many think the AWD is under powered.
The 2nd Gen had two engines for FWD 1.8 l and 2.4 l. The larger engine had worse fuel economy and AWD's came with the 2.4 only. The ratings for the FWD 1.8, FWD 2.4, and AWD 2.4 are 28 MPG, 24 MPG, and 22 MPG respectively.
As they say, your mileage may vary.
