There's been an increased emphasis placed on fuel economy in recent years, as many consumers want to save money at the pump. Automakers have also been investing in fuel-efficient technology, raising the amount of miles per gallon (MPGs) their vehicles receive.
Automotive analysis firm TrueCar recently revealed the average MPG rating for all new cars sold by the auto industry. The figure for this month is 23.4 MPGs, a significant improvement over 2008, when the number was just 20.3 MPGs.
The figure has risen not only due to new technology, but also to an increased consumer focus on high-MPG vehicles, which have been selling well as of late.
"Gas prices are nearing $4 per gallon nationwide and consumers are getting reluctant to pay any additional money at the pump when buying a new vehicle," said Jesse Toprak, vice president of market intelligence at TrueCar.com. "Consumer buying behavior has shifted and vehicles today are more fuel efficient than ever, contributing to significant gains in fuel economy of over three miles per gallon since 2008."
Drivers looking to improve their fuel economy on their current vehicle should practice routine auto maintenance. Things like oil changes and new tires can offer moderate fuel economy improvements, especially if the part in question was in disrepair.