City vs Highway MPG Comparison Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is highway MPG better than city MPG?
Highway MPG is typically 15-30% better because: steady speeds require less acceleration (which is inefficient), less stop-and-go traffic reduces energy waste, lower engine RPM at steady speeds improves efficiency, and reduced idling time. City driving involves frequent acceleration, braking, and idling, which waste fuel.
How much does city vs highway driving affect fuel costs?
The impact varies by vehicle, but city driving typically costs 15-30% more per mile than highway driving. For a vehicle getting 25 MPG highway and 20 MPG city, the cost difference is about $0.035 per mile at $3.50/gallon. Over 10,000 city miles, this adds $350 in extra fuel costs.
Do hybrid vehicles have less city/highway difference?
Yes, hybrid vehicles often have less MPG difference between city and highway driving. Some hybrids actually get better city MPG than highway MPG due to regenerative braking, which recovers energy during braking and stop-and-go traffic. The difference is typically 0-10% for hybrids vs 20-35% for conventional vehicles.
How can I improve my city MPG?
Improve city MPG by: avoiding aggressive acceleration and braking, maintaining steady speeds when possible, reducing idling time, maintaining proper tire pressure, removing unnecessary weight, planning routes to avoid heavy traffic, and keeping up with maintenance (air filters, spark plugs).
