Navigating Fuel Economy: Real-World Insights and Practical Tips
Fuel economy is one of the key considerations for car buyers, but figuring out what’s “good” can be tricky. Discrepancies between lab-tested ratings and real-world performance often leave drivers puzzled. To help, we’re diving into the latest insights on fuel efficiency, breaking down lab-versus-real-world results, and offering tips to achieve better fuel consumption.
Lab-Tested vs. Real-World Fuel Economy
Fuel consumption figures in car brochures are based on controlled lab tests. However, real-world results can vary significantly due to factors like driving conditions, load weight, terrain, and individual driving habits.
According to the Australian Automotive Association (AAA), real-world testing has revealed that many cars consume more fuel than their official ratings suggest. For example, in the fifth round of AAA’s testing program:
- The Chery Omoda 5 (2023) consumed 32% more fuel in real-world conditions (9.1L/100km) than advertised (6.9L/100km).
- The GWM Haval Jolion Hybrid SUV (2023) consumed 6.6L/100km, exceeding its 5.0L/100km claim by the same percentage.
Car manufacturers and industry bodies, like the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), caution that these real-world figures can vary due to external factors, potentially leading to consumer confusion.
What’s a Good Fuel Economy?
Fuel efficiency benchmarks vary by vehicle type. To help, here are recommended ranges for popular classes:
| Vehicle Class | Ideal Fuel Economy (L/100km) |
|---|---|
| Plug-in Hybrid SUV | 0–5.0 (depending on battery charge) |
| Hybrid Sedan | 4–5.0 |
| Petrol Hatchback | 5–9.0 |
| Petrol Medium SUV | 7–12.0 |
| Petrol Large SUV | 7–15.0 |
| Diesel Large SUV | 7–13.0 |
| Diesel Ute | 7–13.0 (unladen) / 12–16.0 (loaded/towing) |
Understanding Fuel Economy Ratings
Fuel consumption ratings are measured across three cycles:
- Urban: Tests low-speed, stop-start traffic (usually shows higher consumption).
- Extra-Urban: Simulates consistent-speed driving on highways (lower consumption).
- Combined: An average of urban and extra-urban results.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) considers cars with a combined fuel economy of under 7L/100km as fuel-efficient.
How to Calculate Your Fuel Economy
If your car doesn’t automatically track fuel consumption, follow these steps:
- Record Distance: Note the odometer reading before and after refueling.
- Measure Fuel: Record how many liters you refuel.
- Use the Formula:Fuel Consumption (L/100km)=(Liters UsedDistance (km))×100Fuel Consumption (L/100km)=(Distance (km)Liters Used)×100
Example: If you use 60L of fuel to drive 500km, your fuel consumption is:
(60500)×100=12.0𝐿/100𝑘𝑚(50060)×100=12.0L/100km
How Does Australia Compare?
Fuel consumption averages in Australia are among the highest globally:
- Passenger cars: 6.9L/100km (compared to 4.2L/100km in the US and 3.5L/100km in Europe).
- Light commercial vehicles: 9.9L/100km (vs. 6.1L/100km in the US).
Tips for Better Fuel Efficiency
Improving fuel economy is possible with small changes:
- Regular Maintenance: Follow your car’s service schedule to keep the engine running efficiently.
- Correct Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption.
- Drive Smoothly: Avoid rapid acceleration and sudden braking.
- Minimize Drag: Keep windows closed at high speeds and limit roof racks or excess luggage.
- Use Eco Mode: Many cars have an economy mode that optimizes fuel usage.
- Reduce A/C Usage: Air-conditioning draws power from the engine.
Looking Ahead
With new emissions standards on the horizon and a growing focus on lower-emission vehicles, fuel economy will remain a top priority for Australian drivers. Programs like AAA’s Real-World Testing offer valuable insights, but remember: your driving habits and conditions play a huge role in determining fuel efficiency.
If you’re in the market for a new car, consider these tips and ranges to find a vehicle that meets your needs while keeping fuel costs manageable.