Which Toyota is the Most Fuel Efficient? | Thompson Toyota (2024)

Aggressive Driving:Speed demons, take note! Aggressive driving habits like speeding, rapid acceleration, and frequent braking can significantly lower gas mileage. You could be looking at a reduction of roughly 15% to 30% on the highway and a whopping 10% to 40% in stop-and-go traffic.

Excessive Idling:Keeping your engine running while parked is a fuel economy buster. The more you idle, the lower your miles per gallon (MPG) become. Even though the EPA city test accounts for idling, excessive idling will still take a toll on your MPG.

High-Speed Driving:Cruising at higher speeds might be exhilarating, but it comes at a cost. Driving faster increases aerodynamic drag, which means more wind resistance, ultimately reducing fuel economy. The new EPA tests factor in aerodynamic drag up to highway speeds of 80 mph, but some speed enthusiasts may push beyond this limit.

Cold Weather and Short Trips:If you're a fan of winter or frequent short trips, your fuel economy might suffer. Cold weather slows your engine's warm-up process, and short trips don't give your vehicle enough time to reach its optimal temperature. Fun fact: Letting your car idle to warm up doesn't harm your fuel economy—it actually consumes more fuel and increases pollution.

Excess Weight:Carrying cargo or cargo racks on top of your vehicle? Planning a road trip with heavy cargo or towing a trailer? During testing, vehicles are assumed to carry only up to 300 pounds of passengers and cargo, so excess weight can impact your MPG.

Declutter Your Vehicle:While having essential items like an emergency kit in your car is crucial, unnecessary clutter can weigh you down and reduce fuel efficiency. Start by removing forgotten backpacks, sports gear, and extra books. You'll be amazed at how these seemingly small changes can add up.

Minimize Idling:Many modern vehicles come equipped with a stop-start system, which conserves fuel by automatically shutting down the engine when the car comes to a stop and restarting when the brake is released. Surprisingly, idling consumes more fuel than restarting your car and results in 80% more pollution when compared to driving. So, the next time you find yourself waiting for someone while stopped, consider turning off your engine to save on fuel.

Maintain a Steady Speed Within the Limit:After reaching speeds of 45-50 mph, your car's fuel efficiency begins to decline. The faster you go, the greater the impact on fuel consumption. To maximize your fuel efficiency, it's best to drive at the speed limit and utilize cruise control whenever possible. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, as they can quickly deplete your fuel reserves.

Check Your Tire Pressure:Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for optimal fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires can increase fuel consumption by up to 3%. Additionally, improper tire inflation can lead to quicker tread wear. To determine the right PSI for your tires, consult your owner's manual or check the tire wall.

Prioritize Regular Maintenance:Neglected maintenance can adversely affect your fuel economy. Dirty air filters, worn spark plugs, and faulty connections can all contribute to decreased efficiency. By adhering to the maintenance schedule recommended by your dealership, you can ensure that your vehicle operates more efficiently and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Regular tune-ups at your dealership can include air filter replacement, motor oil changes, tire rotations, and more.

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