GUIDE深度 · Deep dive
Does Higher MPG Always Save Money?
MPG measures fuel efficiency, not total cost. Fuel cost per mile is price divided by MPG, but vehicle cost, insurance, maintenance and depreciation also count. At low annual mileage, a high-MPG new car may not pay back.
Cost per mile
At $3.50/gal, 25 MPG costs $0.14/mile; 50 MPG costs $0.07, saving $0.07/mile.
At 10,000 miles a year that is $700 saved; if the new car costs $10,000 more, payback is over 14 years.
When upgrading pays
High annual mileage, high fuel prices and rising repair bills favor a high-MPG car.
Low mileage, a large price gap and higher insurance favor keeping the old car.
FAQ
How much does 25 to 30 MPG save?
Fuel cost per mile falls from $0.14 to $0.117, about 17 percent.
Is a hybrid worth it?
It depends on annual mileage and price gap; city driving and high mileage improve payback.