Fuel economy, expressed as miles per gallon, is a crucial metric for vehicle owners. It quantifies how efficiently a vehicle converts fuel into motion, reflecting the distance a vehicle can travel on a single gallon of gasoline. For example, a vehicle with a higher rating will generally require less frequent refueling compared to a vehicle with a lower rating over the same distance.
Understanding the fuel efficiency characteristics of a vehicle provides several benefits. It enables potential buyers to estimate long-term running costs, factoring in fuel expenses. This information also allows owners to make informed decisions regarding driving habits and vehicle maintenance to optimize fuel consumption. Historically, improvements in vehicle design and engine technology have progressively increased fuel economy, reflecting growing environmental awareness and consumer demand for more efficient vehicles.