Honda Car Forum

We recently purchased a new 2008 Acura MDX. Over the first 400 or so miles, we're averaging 10-11 mpg in fuel economy. We drive in mostly urban conditions and some highway use, but when we bought it we were told it got 15 in city and 20 in highway. So given our driving thus far, we were expecting more like 16 or 17. Did they just lie to us about the actual fuel economy? Anyone else have this issue? Is fuel economy worse when you first purchase the car?

The Environmental Protection Agency's MPG rating for your car is indeed 15 city / 20 highway: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/2008s...=Acura(Usually the EPA rating is indeed a bit on the high side.)You might want to check your tire pressure. If they are underinflated, it will cost you 1-2mpg easily.New cars also have a break-in period. You should see a 1mpg improvement once the moving parts in the drivetrain are broken in after the first 1000 miles or so.And of course driving habits affect fuel economy immensely-- Jackrabbit starts, 70mph highway speeds and hard braking will all cost you gas mileage.

the advertised fuel economy is projected, tested in the best possible conditions, in other words, close but not really to be expected. good luck. should prove top be a good vehicle though. as soon as you put the kids in the back seat and your materials in the trunk, you have increased the amount of work that the engine has to do, and the amount of fuel being used.

the epa fuel economy rating is 15/20 city/highway mpg so those numbers you are getting are average numbers for the suv.

What your getting sounds right considering the fact that the stated fuel economy of cars is mostly inaccurate and are tested in conditions that vary from the way most people drive. Do check your tires to make sure they are inflated to the optimal pressure. Also, cut weight where you can. Don't carry anything heavy if you don't need to. Don't drive with a lead foot. Let the car accelerate at a steady pace.

I also have an Acura.Dealers and mileage quotes are always misleading.But It does seem high.Yes fuel economy is slightly worse when you first buy any new car because of break in period and Lead Foot showing off new car.But bring it back to the dealer to check .Service with Acura is very good they give loaners if yoy need one.Good Luck with the new car.