Smart Tips for Getting More Miles Per Gallon
Fuel-efficient vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, from compact sedans and small crossovers to hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Choosing the right one means looking beyond the sticker price and thinking about long-term value, daily driving needs, and overall ownership experience. This guide will help you make the most informed buying decision.
Start with Your Driving Habits
Before you shop, take a close look at how you drive.
- Do you commute long distances or mostly take short trips?
- Do you drive mostly in the city, on highways, or a mix of both?
- Do you have access to home charging?
- Do you tow or haul heavy loads?
- Do you often drive with passengers or gear?
If your daily routine includes stop-and-go driving, hybrids are ideal for maximizing fuel savings. If you want the benefits of electric driving without changing your routine, plug-in hybrids let you run errands on electric power and use gasoline for longer trips. If you mostly drive on highways, look for gas-powered vehicles with high EPA highway ratings.
Look for Small Engines and Light Bodies
In general, smaller vehicles with smaller engines are more fuel efficient. A compact sedan with a three- or four-cylinder engine will often outperform a larger SUV or truck when it comes to fuel economy.
Pay attention to:
- Engine size and number of cylinders
- Vehicle weight and body size
- Whether the car has turbocharging or supercharging
- Front-wheel drive vs. all-wheel drive (FWD tends to be more efficient)
Also, vehicles with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) or advanced automatic transmissions are often designed to keep the engine running in its most efficient range.
Avoid Gas-Guzzling Add-Ons
Features like all-wheel drive, large wheels, heavy trim packages, or oversized engines can all reduce fuel efficiency. Other fuel-draining extras include:
- Permanent roof racks and spoilers that increase wind resistance
- Power seats and heavy entertainment systems that add weight
- Remote starters that encourage unnecessary idling
- Overly aggressive tires or off-road features that reduce rolling efficiency
If fuel savings are a top priority, keep it simple and skip the upgrades that don’t directly support economy.
Choose the Right Fuel-Efficient Features
Some features can actually improve fuel economy. Look for:
- Aluminum wheels to reduce weight
- Cruise control to maintain steady speeds
- Eco driving modes for optimized engine performance
- Trip computers that display real-time fuel use
- GPS or route planning to avoid traffic and unnecessary detours
- Tinted windows to reduce air conditioner use in hot climates
If you live in a cold area, ask about block heaters or cabin pre-conditioning to improve cold-weather efficiency.
Think Beyond the Pump
Fuel efficiency is not just about miles per gallon. Total ownership costs matter too. Plug-in hybrids, for example, can reduce both fuel and maintenance expenses. Electricity is usually cheaper than gasoline, and EV-mode driving reduces wear on the engine and brakes.
You may also qualify for tax rebates, or utility discounts when you buy a plug-in hybrid or electric vehicle. These can lower your upfront costs significantly.
Explore Used Options
Buying used can also be a smart path to fuel efficiency. Many compact gas vehicles and hybrid models retain excellent efficiency long after the original sale date. Look for models with high EPA ratings and strong maintenance records. Ask about battery health if buying a hybrid or plug-in hybrid.
Where to Shop
You can find fuel-efficient vehicles at most dealerships, online retailers, and certified pre-owned programs. Consider shopping tools that let you filter by MPG, hybrid availability, or electric range. If you're open to multiple kinds of drivetrains, test drive a few different types to compare performance and comfort.
Final Tips Before You Buy
- Check EPA mileage ratings for both city and highway driving
- Compare fuel costs with tools like a total cost of ownership calculator
- Ask dealers about fuel-saving features or eco packages
- Think ahead about how the car will fit your lifestyle over time
Make a Confident Choice
See today’s most popular fuel-efficient options:
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