REMEMBER , it's not just the vehicle
model that affects fuel consumption –
these factors can also play a role:
IN-CABIN POWER USE
All those high-tech gadgets and
systems – heat, air conditioning,
GPS and the like – take energy,
and energy takes gas. So try to
run only the systems you need.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT &
TIRE INFLATION
Any unevenness creates extra
drag, which causes a vehicle
to expend more energy.
ROAD CONDITIONS
The harder your vehicle has
to work to pull through bumps,
gravel and muck (versus
smooth pavement), the
more gas it needs.
SPEED
mph
The heavier your foot on that
gas pedal, the more often
you'll need to fuel up.
ENGINE TEMPERATURE
A cold engine has to work
harder than a warmed-up one,
which takes more energy.
WEIGHT
Heavier loads mean your
vehicle has to work harder,
which translates to an
increase in fuel consumption.
ENGINE TUNING
A more efficient engine
consumes less gas than an
inefficient one – so properly
maintaining your vehicle can
save you some money on gas.
ACCELERATION
& DECELERATION
The more frequently, and harder,
you stop and go, the more fuel
you burn.
p50-51_Elements car.indd 51
13-08-12 10:04 AM
