Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Survey Says: Fuel economy is #1 factor when buying a car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/#commentsFiled under: ,

Toyota Prius C

It seems like it was just a few years ago that car manufacturers used to laugh at us when we'd ask why a new model didn't get any better fuel economy than its outgoing predecessor. "Car buyers don't care about fuel economy," was the refrain, "They certainly won't pay for it."

A few years of three- and four-dollar-per-gallon gas has apparently changed that attitude. According to a new study by Consumer Reports, 37 percent of respondents said fuel economy was now their leading consideration in car shopping, topping all others by a landslide. Quality was the second-most-important factor at 17 percent, while safety was mentioned by 16 percent, and value by 14 percent of shoppers. Two-thirds of respondents said they expected their next new vehicle to beat their current one on fuel economy. And yes, it is the economy, stupid, as 90 percent of those surveyed said high gas prices were the reason why they wanted a more fuel-efficient vehicle.

None of this is too surprising, given what has been going on both in the auto industry and in the larger economy since the economic meltdown of 2008. But we still kind of wonder how performance managed to rate number one with just six percent of those surveyed? Is that it then, there are six times as many tee-totalers than auto enthusiasts out there in the world?

CR says that it called 2,009 people across the country to get its results, obtaining 1,702 responses from adult car owners. Scroll down to read the full press release.

Continue reading Survey Says: Fuel economy is #1 factor when buying a car

Survey Says: Fuel economy is #1 factor when buying a car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer reportsfuel economyfuel mileageTue, 22 May 2012 06:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242109/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/survey-says-fuel-economy-is-1-factor-when-buying-a-car/20242109/article-detail.xml 20242109 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/13-2012-toyota-prius-c-fd-opt-opt1.jpg <![CDATA[University of Michigan hopes to set new 3,300-mpg record in SAE Challenge [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/#commentsFiled under:

University of Michigan Supermileage Team

The University of Michigan has had one of the preeminent solar car teams in the world for more than two decades, but a new group of students is looking to make its own mark in the world of green engineering. The school will be fielding its first entry in the annual SAE Supermileage competition this year.

If you think a bunch of newbies would launch their effort somewhat low-key, you probably aren't from Michigan or familiar with the Wolverine Way. Michigan has set its goal at nothing short of the North American record of bettering 3,169 miles per gallon with its single-cylinder, Briggs & Stratton lawnmower engine. The expectation is that the Michigan car will hit 3,300 mpg.

The Supermileage competition has been held since 1980, requiring students to design and build extremely lightweight, single-seat vehicles. The competition itself involves circling the Eaton Corporation Proving Grounds test track. Last year, 27 teams competed, with Quebec's Universite de Sherbrooke dominating the competition, recording 2,158 mpg, over 500 mpg more than its cross-province rival, Universite' Laval.

The 2012 Supermileage competition is scheduled for June 7-8 in Marshall, MI. Scroll down to read the press release and watch Michigan's promotional video.

Continue reading University of Michigan hopes to set new 3,300-mpg record in SAE Challenge [w/video]

University of Michigan hopes to set new 3,300-mpg record in SAE Challenge [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel economyhypermilingmichigansae supermileage competitionsupermileageuniversite de sherbrookeuniversite lavaluniversity of michiganThu, 17 May 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20240320/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/17/university-of-michigan-hopes-to-set-new-3-300-mpg-record-in-sae/20240320/article-detail.xml 20240320 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/michigan-supermileage-team-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/michigan-supermileage-team-opt.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Salon</i> columnist asks, "Is it ethical to drive stick?" [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick/#commentsFiled under:

Manual transmission

Just don't answer. The question is neither relevant, nor is it even the crux of the column. Get past the clicky smelling headline, and what you have here is a combination of two news stories, one new and one old, both of which you've likely already come across.

We're going to play nice here and not knock over Salon columnist David Sirota's house of cards, because this is a good read and he's a talented writer - even if, off the top of our heads, we can name several popular vehicles that offer a fuel economy benefit to those willing to row their own, from the Volkswagen Jetta to the Chevrolet Sonic to the BMW 3 Series. But the guy does have a point that's probably of great benefit to many Salon readers: If a smug sense of superiority is what you're after, opting for a manual transmission is no longer a sure bet. (Locally sourced organic produce and craft beer, for the win!)

In the end, Sirota is smart enough to come to two conclusions that most of us would agree to. The first being that driving a manual is fun, and the second, that it's hard to text while steering, operating all three pedals, and working that stick.

On second thought, maybe you should answer with a simple 'yes' or 'no'. See below for our completely unscientific poll.

View Poll

Salon columnist asks, "Is it ethical to drive stick?" [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automatic vs manualdavid sirotadistracted drivingfuel economymanualmanual gearboxmanual transmissionmanual vs automaticsalonstick shifttransmissionTue, 15 May 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20238596/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/15/salon-columnist-asks-is-it-ethical-to-drive-stick/20238596/article-detail.xml 20238596 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/36-2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review-opt-1337111975_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/36-2012-chevrolet-cruze-eco-review-opt-1337111975.jpg <![CDATA[Bentley Continental GT V8 hits 24 mpg highway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bentley Continental GT V8

The Bentley Continental GT with the W12 is rated at 12 city/19 highway on traditional premium, 8 city/14 highway on E85, and easily less than that on an excited right foot. When we drove the Continental GT V8 at launch we were told that official EPA mileage could be rated as high was 24 mpg on the highway, and that, even with the right-foot factor, would be a generous improvement over the W12 for sacrificing just 67 horsepower and almost nothing in performance. It turns out Bentley told the truth, the official EPA numbers are 15 city/24 highway.

According to FuelEconomy.gov, the 12 combined mpg of the W12 is raised to 15 combined with the V8. Better yet, drivers will save $1,000 on premium unleaded every year, the V8 needing $3,400 worth of the explosive liquid, the W12 needing $4,300. On top of the fact that the V8 is roughly $18,000 less than the W12, with those annual savings you'll be able to add a couple more ties to your collection every year, or one bespoke shoe. Start with the right foot - that's where the action is.

Bentley Continental GT V8 hits 24 mpg highway originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 May 2012 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleybentley continentalbentley continental gt v8continentalcontinental gtcontinental gt v8fuel economympgSun, 13 May 2012 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20236086/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/13/bentley-continental-gt-v8-hits-24-mpg-highway/20236086/article-detail.xml 20236086 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bentleycontinentalv8mpg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bentleycontinentalv8mpg.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche Boxster rated at 22/32 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

porsche boxster

If you put us in charge of Porsche Boxster development, we'd have demanded more power, less weight and improved fuel efficiency. We now know that the new 265-horsepower, 2.7-liter boxer six is capable of producing 10 more ponies than the outgoing model, and overall tonnage was slashed by 55 pounds, so the base model is already two-thirds of the way toward our vision.

Car and Driver reports that the most affordable Porsche has completed the wish-list trifecta, announcing a significant fuel economy bump. The base 2013 Boxster will boast an EPA-estimated 22 miles per gallon in the city (up two mpg) and 32 mpg on the highway (up three mpg), but only when equipped with the PDK transmission. The manual-equipped Boxster will achieve still-impressive 20/30 numbers, up one mpg and three mpg, respectively.

Noticeably absent is any mention of Boxster S fuel economy. We're suspecting the 315-horsepower, 3.4-liter flat-six will also deliver significant fuel economy improvements, but perhaps a number shy of the 30-mpg mark.

2013 Porsche Boxster rated at 22/32 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxsterboxsterepafuel economyporscheWed, 09 May 2012 10:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20233295/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/20233295/article-detail.xml 20233295 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-porsche-boxster-52-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-porsche-boxster-52-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi A8 3.0T matches 4.2 V8 fuel economy numbers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/2013-audi-a8-3-0t-matches-4-2-v8-fuel-economy-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/2013-audi-a8-3-0t-matches-4-2-v8-fuel-economy-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/2013-audi-a8-3-0t-matches-4-2-v8-fuel-economy-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , ,



When Audi announced the 2013 A8 with the 3.0T V6, it didn't mention fuel economy numbers but did tout the 333-horsepower engine's "great efficiency." According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the V6 efficiency exactly matches that of the more powerful 372-horsepower, 4.2-liter V8 - the 3.0T was rated the same 18 city, 28 highway as the naturally aspirated 4.2.

It's figured that the stop/start system fitted to the V6 will provide a slight bump, which, since the EPA doesn't factory such tech into its testing, doesn't register in the official numbers. It's difficult to make fuel economy comparisons with the same engines in other countries since they have different power ratings; in Germany, for instance, the V6 is rated at 286 hp, the 4.2 isn't offered and the 4.0 TSFI V8 makes 414 hp - but in that case, the V6 does get better gas mileage, if you're wondering.

Speaking of wondering, that's what many including our own commenters are doing about the space between the 333-hp V6 and 520-hp V8 in the S8. The report in Car and Driver posits a detuned version of the S8's motor. No matter what, the V6 A8 will be less expensive than all of them, which was the real point all along.

2013 Audi A8 3.0T matches 4.2 V8 fuel economy numbers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 May 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.0ta8audiaudi a8audi a8 3.0tepafuel economympgTue, 08 May 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20233416/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/08/2013-audi-a8-3-0t-matches-4-2-v8-fuel-economy-numbers/20233416/article-detail.xml 20233416 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audia8mpg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audia8mpg.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Dart will hit 41 MPG with available Aero Package]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/dodge-dart-will-hit-41-mpg-with-available-aero-package/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/dodge-dart-will-hit-41-mpg-with-available-aero-package/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/30/dodge-dart-will-hit-41-mpg-with-available-aero-package/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Dodge Dart taillamp closeup

The Environmental Protection Agency hasn't released its evaluation data for the 2013 Dodge Dart just yet, but Chrysler says the compact should be capable of returning some impressive fuel economy figures, particularly with an available Aero package. When equipped with the turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a manual transmission, the standard Dart is good for an estimated 27 mpg city and 39 mpg highway, thanks in part to active aero shutters nestled in the grille of every model. Should buyers require a few extra miles per gallon, an optional Aero package will see the highway figure jump to 41 mpg. So far, there's no word on city or combined fuel economy for the package, but there's time before the trim becomes available, as it won't be in dealerships until the third quarter of this year.

Chrysler isn't mentioning how much the Aero package will add to the bottom line or what other tweaks consumers will get for their coin. We do know that with 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, the Dart Aero should be considerably more engaging to drive than the Chevrolet Cruze Eco. While that model is good for 42 mpg highway when equipped with a six-speed manual, it does the deed with 22 fewer horsepower and 36 fewer pound-feet of torque. Hit the jump for the complete Dart press release.

Continue reading Dodge Dart will hit 41 MPG with available Aero Package

Dodge Dart will hit 41 MPG with available Aero Package originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 dodge dart2013 dodge dart aero2013 dodge dart fuel economydartdart aerodart fuel economydodgedodge dartfuel economyMon, 30 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20227285/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/30/dodge-dart-will-hit-41-mpg-with-available-aero-package/20227285/article-detail.xml 20227285 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-dodge-dart-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-dodge-dart-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ford Escape 1.6L EcoBoost officially rated at 23/33 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/#commentsFiled under: ,



When we drove the all-new Escape recently, Ford was still awaiting official EPA certification for fuel economy. Now, though, the numbers are in, and the Blue Oval can confidently state that it offers the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the small crossover segment... with an automatic transmission, that is.

The hero engine for the new Escape is Ford's new 1.6-liter EcoBoost inline-four, offering up 178 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine is good for 23 miles per gallon in the city and 33 mpg highway, besting the highway numbers of the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 and others. At 33 mpg, this means the new Escape is not only more efficient than the outgoing four-cylinder model, but it bests the numbers of the old Escape Hybrid, too.

But again, this only pertains to automatic transmission-equipped vehicles (the Escape does not offer a manual transmission with any of its powertrains). The 2013 Mazda CX-5 with its 2.0-liter Skyactiv inline-four and six-speed manual 'box is rated at 35 mpg highway, but opting for the six-speed auto drops that number to 32 mpg.

The other powertrains offered in the Escape are returning some pretty impressive fuel economy numbers, too. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter base engine is rated at 22/31 mpg, and the range-topping 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque is good for 22/30 mpg. Scroll down for the full details in Ford's press release.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Escape 1.6L EcoBoost officially rated at 23/33 MPG

2013 Ford Escape 1.6L EcoBoost officially rated at 23/33 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford escapeecoboostescapeescape epaescape fuel economyfordfuel economyFri, 27 Apr 2012 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20224880/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/2013-ford-escape-1-6l-ecoboost-officially-rated-at-23-33-mpg/20224880/article-detail.xml 20224880 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1335452688_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-ford-escape-fd-1335452688.jpg <![CDATA[NADA: 7 million car buyers to be pushed out of the market by fuel economy rules]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/nada-7-million-car-buyers-to-be-pushed-out-of-the-market-by-fue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/nada-7-million-car-buyers-to-be-pushed-out-of-the-market-by-fue/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/nada-7-million-car-buyers-to-be-pushed-out-of-the-market-by-fue/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Empty car showroom

If the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration makes its proposed 2025 fuel economy standards official, cars are going to be more expensive, and that's going to shut millions of buyers out, argues the National Automobile Dealers Association. "If the price of a vehicle goes up by the government estimate of almost $3,000," says David Wagner, an analyst for the NADA Used Car Guide, "millions of people will no longer be able to finance a new vehicle." The proposed standard is aiming for an average of 54.5 mpg for both cars and trucks by 2025, and is predicted to add $2,000 to the cost of a vehicle. Add to that the $1,000 or so that's going to be added to the price of vehicles as the current fuel economy requirements phase-in between now and 2016, and the $30,000 average price of a new car rises to the point where lower income buyers may not be able to qualify for financing.

If that happens, the net effect would be a reduction in the buyer pool for the more fuel efficient, cleaner cars these fuel economy regulations are intended to create. While the increased fuel efficiency is estimated to save average owners of $8,000 over the life of the vehicle (offsetting the higher monthly payments), if people can't afford the payments or secure lending, the total ownership cost will be a moot point. "Disregarding vehicle affordability will undermine the environmental and national security benefits the administration is seeking," says Doug Greenhaus, chief regulatory counsel for environment, health, and safety for NADA.

The government's 2017-2025 rules aren't yet final, and Grenhaus and NADA suggest the Obama Administration and NHTSA study the impact the rules will have on buyers before moving forward.

NADA: 7 million car buyers to be pushed out of the market by fuel economy rules originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2025 cafecorporate average fuel economyfuel economyfuel economy 2025fuel economy standardsmpgnadanational automobile dealers associationnhtsaFri, 13 Apr 2012 13:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20214809/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/nada-7-million-car-buyers-to-be-pushed-out-of-the-market-by-fue/20214809/article-detail.xml 20214809 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/empty-car-showroom_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/empty-car-showroom.jpg <![CDATA[BMW forced to lower 2012 3 Series automatic fuel economy to 33 mpg]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/20/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series - front three-quarter view - red

Remember that new 36-mpg 2012 BMW 3 Series we were so excited about, the 328i that got better fuel economy in EPA testing than even the old 335d diesel model? Well, those early estimates haven't held up.

BMW has confirmed to Autoblog that the EPA has issued revised numbers for the eight-speed automatic-equipped F30 328i, with highway fuel economy taking a 3-mile-per-gallon hit to 33 mpg and the city number dropping by a single digit to 23 mpg. BMW is investigating the discrepancy but says the 2012 figure will stay at 33. Spokesman Tom Plucinsky: "Unfortunately, there is no provision in the EPA rules for a re-test this year. Therefore regardless of the results of our investigation, the new rating will stand for this model year."

Though BMW says its testing showed the car capable of 36 mpg on the highway, the EPA decided to validate BMW's numbers and came away with different results. As we type this, the government's fueleconomy.gov website has not yet been updated, though BMW's consumer website reflects the new numbers. According to Plucinsky, buyers of the six-speed manual 328i can expect to see a 34 mpg highway figure on their window sticker, which fueleconomy.gov corroborates at 23/34.

What's surprising about this situation is that when we test drove the new 3 Series last fall, BMW told our Matt Davis it was estimating only 32 mpg highway. Plucinsky suggests that perhaps the 32-mpg figure was an "early estimate was based on the previous version of the 328i."

While the efficiency hit is disappointing, even with the downgrade to 33-to-34 miles per gallon, the 3 Series' fuel economy figures are still class-leading, besting competitors including the Acura TL and TSX, Audi A4, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, Lexus IS and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

With all of that said, we can't help but wonder if this development will add fuel to the fire of those who have been clamoring for the EPA to "retest" the fuel economy of vehicles in the wake of owner complaints?

Click past the jump to read BMW's email explanation to us in full.

Continue reading BMW forced to lower 2012 3 Series automatic fuel economy to 33 mpg

BMW forced to lower 2012 3 Series automatic fuel economy to 33 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw 3 series2012 bmw 328i3 series328ibmwbmw fuel economyepafuel economyTue, 20 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20197411/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/20/bmw-forced-to-lower-2012-3-series-auto-fuel-economy-to-33-mpg/20197411/article-detail.xml 20197411 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-bmw-3-series-first-drive---01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-bmw-3-series-first-drive---01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Police Interceptor line gets official EPA fuel economy ratings]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2013 Ford Taurus Police Interceptor undergoing testing

Police forces didn't care much about fuel economy back in the early days of the Ford Crown Victoria, but these days, efficiency is front and center for cash-strapped municipalities. The cost of fuel keeps rising and cities continue to cut their budgets, so one or two miles per gallon might make the difference for a city deciding between a fleet of Ford's new Taurus-based Interceptor, the Chevrolet Caprice PPV and Dodge Charger Pursuit.

And so it is with great interest we read the news today that Ford has released official EPA-certified fuel economy figures for the new Interceptor. The base model equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 is rated at 18 miles per gallon city / 26 highway, while the twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is rated at 16 mpg city / 23 highway. Finally, the Interceptor Utility (read: cop-spec Ford Explorer) powered by a 3.7-liter V6 returns 16 mpg city / 22 highway.


We scoured through official specs and data from Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge to produce the comparison table above. As you can see, the new Police Interceptor from Ford is not the precinct captain of fuel economy, not even when comparing the V6 EcoBoost model against its V8-powered competitors. The acceleration numbers, meanwhile, were all taken from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Annual Law Enforcement Vehicle Test and Evaluation Program for 2012 models. Based on their results and the official EPA numbers that we found, the Chevrolet Caprice PPV V6 looks like the best combination of both quickness and thriftness. One thing, though, is for certain: No matter which model they choose, police forces everywhere should be saving lots of fuel compared to the aged Crown Vics in their fleets now. Learn more in Ford's official press release after the jump.

Continue reading Ford Police Interceptor line gets official EPA fuel economy ratings

Ford Police Interceptor line gets official EPA fuel economy ratings originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford police interceptorcaprice ppvcharger pursuitchevroletdodgeenvironmental protection agencyepaexplorerfordfuel economylaw enforcementpolicepolice carpolice interceptortaurustaurus shoFri, 16 Mar 2012 17:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20195226/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/16/ford-police-interceptors-get-official-fuel-economy-ratings-from/20195226/article-detail.xml 20195226 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/11hmstdbc02740-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/11hmstdbc02740-opt.jpg <![CDATA[New vehicles 14% more fuel efficient than four years ago]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Capless Fuel Filler

It's amazing what a little regulation can do for an industry. In the past four years, the fuel economy of new vehicles has improved by an average of 14 percent, according to a new study by the University of Michigan. This increase comes on the heels of big hikes in the Corporate Average Fuel Economy, which Congress raised in 2007 for the first time in decades. Since then, CAFE has been set at 34.1 miles per gallon by 2016, and a new proposal that's pending would raise the fuel economy standard to 54.5 mpg by 2025.

The Michigan study showed that the average fuel efficiency of 2012 light-duty vehicles on the market was 21.5 mpg, up from 18.9 in 2008. Adjusted for the vehicles that are actually purchased, the number is even higher, with 2011 coming in at 22.5 mpg. Researchers say that shows that consumers are buying models with better fuel economy.

The biggest efficiency improvements over the past four years came from diesels, which jumped 9.8 mpg, likely as a result of more diesel passenger cars being offered. Hybrids, oddly enough, saw their average fuel economy drop by 3 mpg's, no doubt because of a number of larger and thirstier hybrids hitting the market, like the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid.

Click past the jump to read the full press release.

Continue reading New vehicles 14% more fuel efficient than four years ago

New vehicles 14% more fuel efficient than four years ago originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cafecayenne hybridcorporate average fuel economydieselfuel economyfuel efficiencygas mileagehybridporscheuniversity of michiganFri, 10 Feb 2012 09:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166169/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/new-vehicles-14-more-fuel-efficient-than-four-years-ago/20166169/article-detail.xml 20166169 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ford-capless-fuel-filler-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ford-capless-fuel-filler-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next Toyota Avalon to best Fiat 500's fuel economy?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/next-toyota-avalon-to-best-fiat-500s-fuel-economy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/next-toyota-avalon-to-best-fiat-500s-fuel-economy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/next-toyota-avalon-to-best-fiat-500s-fuel-economy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Fiat 500 is 139 inches of A-segment fury, with a heaping dose of cute and a dash of fuel efficiency. In fact, the manual transmission-equipped cinquecento averages 33 miles per gallon in mixed driving, which is better than most things on the road.

Impressed? Toyota isn't. The Detroit Free Press reports that the Japanese automaker told dealers at the National Automobile Dealers Association meeting in Las Vegas, NV recently that the next generation Avalon will get better fuel economy than the wee Fiat.

Since the current generation Avalon is five feet longer and considerably wider than the 500, that's an impressive claim. Heck, the Avalon is bigger than the Camry, and buyers currently have to step into a Camry Hybrid model to surpass the fuel economy numbers of the pint-sized Fiat.

The sky-high fuel economy of the Avalon wasn't the only good news Toyota delivered to dealers. The automaker reportedly informed the car-selling audience that 19 new models were coming in 2012.

Next Toyota Avalon to best Fiat 500's fuel economy? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1ghz500avaloncamryfiatfuel economytoyotaWed, 08 Feb 2012 15:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166661/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/next-toyota-avalon-to-best-fiat-500s-fuel-economy/20166661/article-detail.xml 20166661 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/avalon-500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/avalon-500.jpg <![CDATA[California breaks rank again, demands over 15% of cars sold be non-polluting by 2025]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/#commentsFiled under: , ,

California Air Resources Board

Less than a year after everyone with any sort of say in the matter seemed to agree that 54.5 miles per gallon by the year 2025 was a properly attainable goal, the California Air Resources Board has decided to change things up a bit.

In addition to CAFE requirements of a 54.5-mpg fleet average (using the government's formula, not what you see on window stickers), at least 15.4 percent of all cars sold by any major automaker doing business in California will have to be either fully electric, a plug-in hybrid or be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell by 2025. There are questions about the "over-compliance" section of the bill, which we'll be investigating further.

According to Mary Nichols, chair of the California Air Resources Board, 15.4 percent is "actually a relatively modest goal, but that's all that we're mandating." Most automakers are on board, says Nichols. "Probably the most heartening aspect of this whole rulemaking was the level of cooperation that we received from the industry... Overall, the degree of support for the package was just extraordinary."

Even if automakers are on board, though, there's still a question of who will actually buy the vehicles. While everyone wants better fuel efficiency, not everyone is willing to pay for it, counters the California New Car Dealers Association, estimating that the plan would add about $3,200 to the average price of a new car or truck. Perhaps to help dissuade such fears, Nichols added that "direct incentives to people who buy these cars (like) rebates and credits" are also in the works.

At least 10 more states are likely to follow California's lead, reports Automotive News. That would put the total number of advanced green vehicles (either with a plug or powered by hydrogen) at around three million total units by 2025, 1.4 million of which would be in California.

California breaks rank again, demands over 15% of cars sold be non-polluting by 2025 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cafecaliforniacalifornia air resources boardcarbevfuel economyfuel mileagemary nicholsphevzero emissionsFri, 27 Jan 2012 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20158865/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/california-breaks-rank-again-demands-over-15-of-cars-sold-be-n/20158865/article-detail.xml 20158865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/carb-meeting_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/carb-meeting.jpg <![CDATA[UAW President Bob King pumped about new CAFE standards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/uaw-president-bob-king-pumped-about-new-cafe-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/uaw-president-bob-king-pumped-about-new-cafe-standards/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/uaw-president-bob-king-pumped-about-new-cafe-standards/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bob King, United Auto Workers president

Bob King, President of the United Auto Workers, is adding his voice to those who have already chimed in with support for the new Corporate Average Fuel Economy standard of 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025. In what might be a historic break from the union's contentious past, King is throwing in for the new fuel efficiency rules because he thinks it will mean jobs for his members as the auto industry reacts to the mandate.

In the past, such a decree could have meant much wailing and gnashing of teeth from both the automakers and labor unions. Instead, The Detroit News reports King told a meeting of representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency and Nathional Highway Traffic Safety Administration "We are excited about the new green technologies that are being developed in the United states and produced in UAW-represented facilities." King went on to praise the rules as a change that will save people money at the gas pump and reduce pollution.

The proceedings in Detroit weren't all smiles, however. Don Chalmers of the National Automobile Dealers Association expressed worry that the technology to make the fuel efficiency goal possible will tack on between $3,500 to $5,000 to the price of new vehicles, squeezing buyers with low cashflow or difficult credit inordinately. Still, the surprising bout of rainbows and puppy dogs that this latest CAFE requirement has engendered may be a harbinger of a new attitude all-around, as long as dealers can figure out how to put buyers into the newly efficient cars that automakers and labor leaders are so pleased to be creating.

UAW President Bob King pumped about new CAFE standards originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2025 cafe targetbob kingbob king cafecafecafe 2025corporate average fuel economydon chalmersfuel economympgnational automobile dealers associationuawWed, 18 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20150789/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/18/uaw-president-bob-king-pumped-about-new-cafe-standards/20150789/article-detail.xml 20150789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bob-king-uaw-boss-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bob-king-uaw-boss-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Mazda CX-5 front three-quarter

Mazda has released the official EPA fuel economy figures for its 2013 CX-5, and as anticipated, the new compact crossover has achieved an all-important best-in-class designation. The front-wheel-drive, six-speed manual-equipped CX-5 is rated at 26 miles per gallon city and 35 mpg highway, thanks to Mazda's efficient Skyactiv direct-injection 2.0-liter inline-four. In fact, Mazda claims the CX-5 actually gets the best fuel economy rating of any SUV (read: crossover) sold in America, full stop.

CX-5 models equipped with front-wheel drive and Mazda's new Skyactiv six-speed automatic transmission are good for 26/32 miles per gallon city/highway. And while those highway numbers match up with the four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox, the Mazda's 26 mpg city rating bests the Chevy by a whopping four mpg. All-wheel-drive CX-5s are rated at 25/31 mpg city/highway. Follow the jump for Mazda's official release.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating

2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx5fuel economymazdampgWed, 11 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145103/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/20145103/article-detail.xml 20145103 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-mazda-cx-5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Why the 2013 Dodge Dart won't really get 40 mpg combined]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Dodge Dart

Chrysler dropped a bombshell today, insinuating that its forthcoming 2013 Dodge Dart will have a combined fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon. Some media outlets have regurgitated this number without question. But it just isn't true, as that 40-mpg fuel economy number is unadjusted and will most certainly be lower once it gets printed on window stickers.

To better understand the way fuel economy numbers get calculated, we'll point you to this page on the Environmental Protection Agency's website. The short version is that cars are tested by the EPA to determine fuel economy for Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE), then adjusted for real world conditions before they are published, both on the EPA website and on Monroneys, or window stickers. City numbers are dropped by 10 percent, while highway numbers get a 22-percent reduction. Some rough estimating says that the Dart will probably be rated at about 34-mpg combined once the final adjustments are made. Still a good score, for sure, but far from 40.

So why did Chrysler even mention 40? In its big announcement today that Fiat had increased its ownership stake, the explanation is that Chrysler has met one of the conditions of the bankruptcy agreement, that it produce a 40-mpg vehicle for CAFE. That vehicle is the Dart.

Could Chrysler have done a better job of explaining what the fuel economy number really means? Sure, but then we wouldn't have been able to write this post.

Continue reading Why the 2013 Dodge Dart won't really get 40 mpg combined

Why the 2013 Dodge Dart won't really get 40 mpg combined originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 dodge dart40 mpg40 mpg combinedcafedartdodgeenvironmental protection agencyepafuel economyThu, 05 Jan 2012 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20141216/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/05/why-the-2013-dodge-dart-wont-really-get-40-mpg-combined/20141216/article-detail.xml 20141216 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-dodge-dart-teaser-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-2013-dodge-dart-teaser-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Auto applications sought for new advanced metal that's 100x lighter than Styrofoam [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/auto-applications-sought-for-new-advanced-metal-thats-100x-ligh/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/auto-applications-sought-for-new-advanced-metal-thats-100x-ligh/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/auto-applications-sought-for-new-advanced-metal-thats-100x-ligh/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

HRL Microlattice

Automakers are being pinched to increase safety and improve fuel efficiency, but those two goals often work against each other. That could change thanks to a material that is 99.99-percent air.

Ward's Automotive reports that the California Institute of Technology, HRL Laboratories and the University of California-Irvine have combined to develop a micro-lattice material that is said to be 100 times lighter than Styrofoam and strong like steel. We'd call this material paper-thin, but the truth is even more impressive: the material is comprised of tiny woven tubes that are 1,000 times thinner than a human hair.

The U.S. Department of Defense is obviously interested in this material for top-secret projects like next-generation aircraft, but the micro-lattice is also of great interest to the auto industry. The material could greatly reduce weight and drag, which would in turn significantly increase efficiency. At the same time, the material can reportedly almost completely recover after stress of up to 50 percent and has impressive energy absorbing characteristics. That means the material could also be a safety asset, which is good news for automakers and consumers.

Cal Tech Professor Julia Greer adds that the material could ultimately replace any non heavy-steel component that isn't already light in weight. A material with less air would reportedly be the next step in the evolution of lightweight metals, and the scientists are working on a nano-lattice that can do just that.

We don't know much about these micro and nano materials, but we're guessing it will be a while before the materials are inexpensive enough for automotive applications. But if the U.S. government and airplane manufactures can jump aboard and bring down the manufacturing costs, we could see this type of material helping automakers achieve those 50+ mile per gallon fuel economy standards. For more information and a demonstration of the micro-lattice's properties, check out the videos after the jump.

Continue reading Auto applications sought for new advanced metal that's 100x lighter than Styrofoam [w/video]

Auto applications sought for new advanced metal that's 100x lighter than Styrofoam [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cal techcalifornia institute of technologydepartment of defenseefficiencyfuel economyhrl laboratorieslatticelightweightmaterialmicro latticestyrofoamvideoFri, 30 Dec 2011 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20135176/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/30/auto-applications-sought-for-new-advanced-metal-thats-100x-ligh/20135176/article-detail.xml 20135176 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/hrl-microlattice_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/hrl-microlattice.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Toyota Camry gets <i>Consumer Reports</i> "Recommended" rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2012-toyota-camry-gets-consumer-reports-recommended-rat/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2012-toyota-camry-gets-consumer-reports-recommended-rat/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/30/2012-toyota-camry-gets-consumer-reports-recommended-rat/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 Toyota Camry SE front three-quarter view

Toyota was once the unquestioned lead sled dog when it comes to the Consumer Reports "Recommended" list, but the automaker and the consumer advocacy group have had a bit of a falling out over the past couple years. In 2010, the publication removed the Recommended ratings of many models as a result of Toyota's unintended acceleration controversy. In January Ford nearly overtook Toyota in overall Recommended ratings.

We're on the verge of a new year, and it appears that the Toyota is getting back on CR's good side. Bloomberg reports that the February issue of CR reveals that the 2012 Camry has scored the coveted tag. The non-profit lauded the Camry for its improved interior and fuel economy, along with an upgraded ride. The four-cylinder Camry averaged 27 miles per gallon during CR testing, tying the Hyundai Sonata for most efficient in the mid-size segment.

We're quite certain that the 2012 Camry would have sold like gangbusters whether or not it was Recommended by Consumer Reports. But at the same time, CR subscribers seem to really like their Toyota models, so it certainly helps to have a thumbs-up from the powerful publication.

2012 Toyota Camry gets Consumer Reports "Recommended" rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 toyota camrycamryconsumer reportsconsumer reports recommendedfuel economyrecommendedtoyotaFri, 30 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20137392/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/30/2012-toyota-camry-gets-consumer-reports-recommended-rat/20137392/article-detail.xml 20137392 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-toyota-camry-se-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-toyota-camry-se-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Ford Edge Limited EcoBoost]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/2012-ford-edge-limited-ecoboost-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/2012-ford-edge-limited-ecoboost-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/2012-ford-edge-limited-ecoboost-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EcoBoost Finds Right Mix Of Power, Efficiency

2012 Ford Edge EcoBoost

The sport utility vehicle became an endangered species not long after fuel prices began to skyrocket. But while vehicle buyers changed their shopping habits, they didn't actually stray that far from the SUV formula. Many of today's hottest-selling vehicles are crossovers; essentially the same tall wagons as the SUV, but with a lighter unibody chassis.

Among other things, the CUV promised to deliver superior efficiency, and while some improvement has been evident, in many cases, the genre's fuel savings have failed to impress. A good case in point is the Ford Edge. When Ford's two-row CUV entered the market in 2007, it managed only 24 miles per gallon on the highway, and many buyers struggled to hit 20 mpg in mixed driving cycles. There were plenty of reasons for its unimpressive efficiency. Most crossovers remain substantially heavier than a comparable four-door sedan, and with plenty of frontal area, they don't exactly slice through the wind. But perhaps the biggest issue has been unevolved powertrains.

Ford thinks it has the answer to that problem in the form of its new EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Ford is using the compact, turbocharged mill in a variety of crossovers, including the 2012 Ford Edge, and we sampled a well-equipped Edge Limited to see how effective the Blue Oval's engine downsizing strategy is going.

Continue reading 2012 Ford Edge Limited EcoBoost

2012 Ford Edge Limited EcoBoost originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford edge ecoboostecoboostedgeedge ecoboostfeaturedfordfuel economyreviewreviewsWed, 28 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20136139/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/28/2012-ford-edge-limited-ecoboost-review/20136139/article-detail.xml 20136139 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-ford-edge-ecoboost-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-ford-edge-ecoboost-review.jpg -1 2