You won’t have to wait several years for all the new car models to get better gas mileage. Today, every automaker is looking for ways to squeeze an extra mile per gallon or two out of their existing cars, and in ways that aren’t necessarily expensive.
The race is on: who can build the most economical vehicle in its segment? For the new car buyer, this type of competition will pay off in the form of more fuel-efficient cars and trucks, resulting in less strain on the wallet.
Let’s take a look at some ways manufacturers are making their vehicles more fuel efficient for the 2009 model year:
ford exhaust – Ford’s best-selling SUV has a hybrid model, but the biggest fuel economy gains for 2009 are with the base 2WD model. A new six-speed automatic transmission, variable valve timing (VVT) and electric power steering will help increase highway mileage from 26 miles per gallon (mpg) to 28 mpg.
Pontiac G5 – Along with its sister car, the Chevy Cobalt, the G5 will now get a segment-leading 37 mpg for its XFE (eXtra Fuel Economy) model. Transmission gear ratio changes, Goodyear low-drag tires, and engine timing changes have helped GM get an additional 1 highway mpg from the car.
chrysler sebring – Paired with its sister model, the Dodge Avenger, Sebring’s midsize sedan will get 31 mpg highway, matching the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry in fuel economy. Chrysler LLC credits changing transmission shift intervals and using more fuel-efficient air conditioning compressors for helping these cars achieve better fuel economy.
While all of these gains are certainly good, the best cars are yet to come. GM, for example, has announced that its new Chevy Cruze will get 45 mpg when it shows up in 2010. Just before that, an economical Ford Fiesta will make its debut with fuel economy topping 40 mpg. Honda, Toyota, Volkswagen, Nissan and several other manufacturers have other models in the works that should make the 40-mpg segment pretty full.
So, if you’re buying a new car, check the window sticker very closely: profits can be made, but you need to find out who’s providing them.
(Source: Detroit News)