We just bought a 2005 brand new Honda Element. Our gas mileage is coming in at 19.5 in town and 21.5 on the highway. The best we ever got was 22.5 mpg out of a tank.
What are other people experiencing?
This is our first experience that the EPA estimate has been so far off. Our other cars came in around EPA estimates.
I drive in Chicago also. Weather has been pretty mild this winter but the expressways are fast. If you are driving 70 - 80 much of the time, the aerodynamics of this vehicle are going to cut into milage a lot more than in an Accord.
I see that the EPA numbers for this car are 21/25 so you are pretty close on the city. Warmer weather, a little more break-in and slower driving if applicable could easily make up that difference. Warmer weather will help on the highway also, especially at higher speeds. I think the EPA highway estimate is based on 55 mph. If you do a steady
55 on the interstate on a warm day in June, you could get at least close to 25 mpg if you aren't driven off the road.
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