Real world driving never gives you the gas mileage promised on the tag. Many people have purchased vehicles (even hybrids) expecting high mileage for their dollars only to be disappointed. Now the federal government is working to improve the ratings that show up on the stickers.
Starting in 2008 the miles per gallon ratings will be determined by several new tests. That means that there will be cars on the same lot with the old ratings and the new ratings – and the new ratings WILL be lower.
It is important that people understand just what kind of mileage they will be getting when they purchase a new car (or even a new to you car). The cost of gas is too expensive to make a mistake on that mileage. Many people are budgeting for the new car with savings in gas in mind.
The stickers on the vehicles are not the only place consumers can find fuel efficiency ratings. Searching on the internet can help consumers get real life estimates from people who own and drive the cars on a daily basis.
Before you invest in a new vehicle because of the amazing gas mileage you might want to do just a little more research. Even the government is finally admitting that the ratings that had been going on the tickets were not realistic.