What is a good MPG? Average miles per gallon explained

Miles per gallon (MPG) is a simple way to measure how far a car can travel on a gallon of fuel. It’s an important factor to consider when buying a vehicle because it directly affects how much you’ll spend on petrol or diesel. Over time, what counts as a good MPG has changed as car technology has improved and the average MPG has gone up.

Whether you’re looking at a new or used car, paying attention to its MPG will help you make a smarter choice. For your next car, let’s figure it out together.

What is MPG, and why does it matter?

MPG, or miles per gallon, measures how efficiently a car uses fuel. It tells you how many miles you can drive on a single gallon (4.55 liters) of petrol or diesel. For example, if your car gets 50 mpg, you can travel 50 miles on one gallon.

Mileage matters because it helps you understand how high the running costs will be. This is especially pressing when fuel prices are high. Also, cars with good MPG are better for the environment because they can travel further on a full tank, which means they produce fewer emissions.

Factors affecting MPG

Here are the factors that can make or break a good MPG figure:

• Size and weight — Larger, heavier cars use more fuel because they need more power to move (sometimes, they have too much power).
• Design — Cars with a sleek, aerodynamic design usually have better MPG.
• Fuel type — Diesel cars are more efficient than petrol cars because diesel fuel packs more energy.
• Technology — Innovations like mild-hybrid powertrains, start-and-stop systems, and eco modes help save fuel.
• Engine size — Bigger engines, especially in sports cars, generally use more fuel.
• Driving style — High speeds, heavy braking, and rapid acceleration all lead to higher fuel consumption.
• Extra loads — Carrying heavy items, like roof boxes or towing a caravan, can also reduce your fuel efficiency.

Understanding MPG ratings: WLTP and NEDC

You can find the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) rating for your car, which shows the best possible fuel efficiency under ideal conditions. Older cars might use the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) instead, which was the older standard.

Once you own the car, you can measure your own MPG to see how it matches up with the rating.

How to calculate your car’s real MPG

Here’s how to calculate MPG yourself: drive about 100 miles, then fill up the tank. Divide the miles driven by the amount of fuel you added. For instance, if you drove 100 miles and needed 2 gallons to fill back up, you’re getting 50 miles per gallon.

What is a good MPG for a new car?

Look for a car that gets good mileage with an MPG between 50 and 60. This range is considered good MPG, meaning lower running costs and often lower tax rates. But it’s not uncommon for the car’s mileage to be higher in the new car market.

What is a good MPG for a used car?

When buying a used car, keep in mind that the manufacturer’s MPG figure will no longer be accurate. So, you need to check the vehicle’s history thoroughly.

Ask for the maintenance records. These will show if parts have been replaced and how often the oil has been changed, giving you an idea of the engine’s condition. Even a car that’s done a lot of miles can still have a good MPG rating if it’s been properly maintained.

For a car that’s efficient and has low running costs, look for models that are no more than a few years old. Newer cars tend to get better mileage, so even though they can cost a bit more upfront, you’ll save on fuel and maintenance in the long run. A good rule of thumb is to consider cars from around 2014 or later. This age typically ensures the vehicle is in good shape and might include modern fuel-saving features.

Aim for an average car MPG of around 40 to get good value. You can find one for yourself right here - reliable used cars on finance

Real-world MPG considerations

When checking MPG, think about how you’ll use the car. Things like traffic, frequent gear changes, and your driving habits can all affect how much fuel you actually use. Small city cars usually offer great mileage for city driving but are not as efficient on long trips or motorways.

Also, keep in mind that the MPG provided by the manufacturer is an ideal number calculated under ideal conditions. Use the WLTP and NEDC ratings as a starting point, but expect slightly lower mileage in everyday use.

Most fuel-efficient cars on the market

Here are some of the most fuel-efficient cars (and also some of the most affordable ones) you can find today, sorted by their average MPG:

1. Skoda Superb Estate 2.0-litre TDI 150bhp — 54.8
2. Renault Kadjar 1.5-litre dCi 110bhp — 55.2
3. Skoda Citigo 1.0-litre 60bhp — 55.2
4. Volkswagen Up 1.0-litre 75bhp — 55.9
5. Seat Leon 1.6-litre TDI 110bhp Ecomotive — 56
6. Vauxhall Astra 1.6-litre CDTi 110bhp Ecoflex — 56.3
7. Suzuki Celerio 1.0-litre — 57.8
8. Suzuki Ignis 1.2-litre Dualjet Hybrid — 59.9 (front-wheel drive)
9. Toyota Yaris 1.5-litre Hybrid — 59.93

Tips for improving your car’s MPG

As mentioned, getting good MPG also depends on how you drive. If you drive efficiently, it impacts MPG, and you can achieve the best fuel economy, even reaching the figures from the WLTP test.

Here are some tips for driving economically:

• Keep the engine RPM around 2,000. If you reach this level, shift to a higher gear.
• Try to anticipate stops and slow down by easing off the accelerator, using the brakes only when necessary.
• Avoid sudden braking and accelerating.
• Remove unnecessary items from your boot, and avoid using roof racks or boxes if you don’t need them.
• Regularly ensure your tyres are properly inflated according to the car’s manual.
• Only use air conditioning when necessary.

Final words

With petrol and diesel prices seemingly always on the rise, cutting down on trips to the pump means keeping more money in your pocket. Plus, opting for a small, safe, and fuel-efficient car can also help lower your insurance costs, so it’s a win-win for your budget.

As a general guideline, a good MPG figure is anything from 30 to 40 mpg. However, this can vary based on the type of vehicle — large SUVs, for example, will use more fuel. Typically, petrol cars come in at about 36 mpg, and diesel cars average around 43 mpg. Hybrids tend to average 59 mpg. Fully electric cars are expectedly more efficient, averaging around 159 mpg-e.

Happy car shopping!