Lead foot Hey! Money you're throwing away.

Paul A. Eisenstein, the Detroit Bureau

Studies show that fuel economy has become the number one concern among the American car buyer – but drivers have higher top speeds, which greatly reduced the mileage Gets a car was pressure.

While the common sense might seem, a new study clearly quantifies the impact of putting the pedal to the metal. And it is that it amazingly few differences between vehicles, whether brick-like SUVs or sleek, wind was sports.

"People like rules of thumb, and if you have increased your speed of 50 to 60 miles per hour, we find the largest number of vehicles, which is about 12 percent, fuel consumption will go," said Brian H. West, a researcher at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, in Knoxville, Tennessee, where the study was conducted.

You see a little faster, press you fall 14 percent go from 60 to 70 mph, while the fuel consumption further 16 per cent will fall when you move the speedometer up to 80 kilometres.

While West says he was "surprised" by the overall results of the new study, he and the rest of the research team to make an unexpected discovery. You were expecting to see some types of vehicles do better than others, but the decline in fuel economy showed consistency across all vehicle classes even the heaviest, and boxiest SUVs, with only a one or two percent deviations from the least efficient models.

Hybrid vehicles, which are to the stop-and-go city traffic, where their batteries recharged constantly, really are included. At highway speeds, there is little opportunity for them to energy to regenerate, which serves the gasoline they compensate for consumers. And in fact, many hybrids have actually lower highway mileage reviews than what the EPA that they get in the traffic estimates.

Because West refused to discuss the political consequences of increased fuel consumption – and opponents of higher speeds could be used the new study by proponents. A vehicle that might get 40 miles per gallon to 50 miles per hour would see something closer to 25 mpg at 80 km/h.

Speeds lifted first passed federal restrictions increased significantly since Congress, during the energy crises of the 1970s, which at one point the US speed limit to 50 mph lowered and then raised it to 55, the infamous "double-nickel."

Late last year, opened Texas of country quickest route, a toll road route in the vicinity of Austin with a top speed of 85 mph.

The increase of speed created chaos for both the EPA by Congress on automotive fuel economy standards and test, and the automaker is charged depending on the monitor after EPA results.

The tests, which determine the numbers that were so-called "Munroney sticker" several times in the past four decades, last with the beginning of the model year 2012 revised the label for a new vehicle window. The latest procedures include a short burst at 80 miles per hour, but in general the results reflect slow ride, which means much less aggressive, that a large percentage of American motorists lower fuel consumption than is specified.

And the faster they go, the new Oak Ridge study confirms, the faster the gap grows.

Copyright 2013 the Detroit Bureau

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'Green'-models are not the money value, study shows

The Detroit Bureau

Toyota Prius C is "Much fuel, but no thing", according to the consumer reports study.

By Paul A. Eisenstein, the Detroit Bureau
Hoping to squeeze every last mile out of a gallon of gasoline? Automakers were have launched a flurry of new "eco" models designed to do just that. But a new report warns that the minimal additional mileage not value the hefty price - in some cases as much as 38 years go back to lower fuel costs would require.

The new study by consumer reports raises questions about a variety of conventionally powered eco models like the Ford focus SFE, Chevrolet Cruze eco and Honda Civic HF. But it was also skeptical promised by some hybrid models, benefits, such as the new Toyota Prius C, which it is declared, "fuel economy, but not a business."

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The problem is that the savings are compensated by strong first bonuses average between $500 and $800 on standard models. In some cases, the savings in fuel can however as little as $20 per year. And, in some cases consumers wind Dynamics victims on cheaper Interior and bad way further.

Chevy Cruze eco is a prime example, CR according to researchers. The special model learns some aerodynamic "tweaks" and gets low rolling tires - the price in comparison to similar Cruze lt add $800 but even increased fuel consumption only 1 mile per gallon, to a mid-pack 27 mpg in the city. Highway mileage jumps 4 mpg, 40.

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For the typical owner the income, only $20 per year would save the typical driver speed 12,000 miles a year and numbers $4 per gallon - and a 38-year "Payback" to the Cruze eco require additional cost. Savings would a little better, added the not-for profit publication, for those who follow much highway.

The Honda Civic HF pins on one another $800 to low rolling tires, rear spoiler and closed underbody aerodynamic turbulence reduced. The results in a 3 mpg jump in the compact model kilometers, to a combined 33 mpg. But even annual mileage savings are a modest $135, i.e. a payback period of 6 years - which is longer than most Americans keep a new car.

And the magazine gave the entire driving dynamics of civic HF a bad review, the "it in the bottom places" all small sedans.

The magazine was much more optimistic about the "solid feel" the Ford focus SFE - short for Super fuel economy - which flush wheel covers, a rear spoiler, and the higher mileage tyres. The SFE package gets a bump 3 mpg, $145 per year would save 31 mpg combined, which appreciates consumer reports. The package costs only $495 so payback is one shorter 3.5 years.

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While Toyota Prius hybrid often has praised original model by CR, the magazine report is far less kind to the new Prius c, the compact addition to the expanding Prius "Family." While the new model city mileage rating of 37 mpg is "stellar", the compromise on the General look and feel of the vehicle is.

At a price of only $20.850 explains, "receive the magazine drivers what they pay." "This subcompact hatchback, with the Yaris linked lackluster Toyota, suffers from a stiff ride, very noisy cabin, slow acceleration and cheap-looking Interior."

"Overall the Prius C test result, said consumer reports, puts it slightly under his chief competitors, the mediocre Honda insight, and is too low for us to recommend the model."

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The best used cars and SUVs for the money

It’s never been more difficult for buyers to find a bargain in the used car market. Fortunately we’ve dug deep into the data to identify 11 worthy late-model cars and SUVs that are truly great deals.

According to the used-car valuation experts at Kelley Blue Book, the average value of a one- to three-year-old used vehicle has increased from $15,000 in 2008 to more than $23,000 in 2011, which amounts to an average boost of nearly 16 percent per year. This is causing an affordability problem among cash-strapped buyers who can’t otherwise afford a new car, which on average costs nearly $30,000 according to the industry research and forecasting company TrueCar.com.

“While the pace of used-car appreciation is likely to subside as supply, and ultimately sales, improve, shoppers in the market for a used car will continue to pay more, making it difficult to buy at a discount.” says Alec Gutierrez, manager of vehicle valuation for Kelley Blue Book.

This situation can be blamed largely on the economist’s old friends, the forces of supply and demand. The industry is currently suffering from a diminished stock of used models on dealers’ lots, just as pent-up demand is bringing buyers back into the market. This lack of inventory is widely attributed to an extended period of slow new-car sales, which resulted in fewer trade-ins, combined with a rollback in new-car leasing between 2008-2010 that would have otherwise yielded two- and three-year-old used models coming off lease. What’s more, over 690,000 used cars — albeit older and less-desirable models — were taken out of the market by the so-called “cash for clunkers” program in 2009.

Analysts predict used car prices will finally begin tapering off, perhaps as early as year’s end, with healthier new-car sales — including those from Japanese automakers recovering from production disruptions because of the earthquake and tsunami in March — helping to refill the supply chain via trade-ins. “Used car prices at the end of the year will still be higher than last year, but not at the levels during the peak in May and June when prices jumped 25-30 percent higher,” says Jonathan Banks, a senior analyst with the National Automobile Dealers Association Used Car Guide.

But that doesn’t mean there still aren’t some advantageous deals to be found in the used-car market. The key here is to find the “best” late-model pre-owned vehicles that, for one reason or another, have lower-than-average resale prices.

Age, condition and mileage largely determine a car’s value in the resale market, but comparable models can still cost more or less than each other because of various market forces. According to Automotive Lease Guide, a vehicle’s value down the road can be affected by something as superficial as a particular make or model’s market perception. Cars initially sold with big cash rebates tend to take a greater hit in terms of depreciation, as do vehicles that have significant fleet sales, which ensures a steady flow of models into the resale market each year.

Our list of Best Used Cars for the Money consists of vehicles from the 2008 model year that received average or above-average scores from the most recent J.D. Power & Associates U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study and boast average or below-average long-term ownership costs as reported by Intellichoice.com. Even so, they all suffer below-average resale values as estimated by Kelley Blue Book, which makes them outstanding deals. Used-car values cited for comparison are based on dealers’ estimated retail prices for three-year-old models in excellent condition, equipped with a typical assortment of features and driven an average 46,500 miles. Actual transaction prices will vary according to a vehicle’s precise condition, exact mileage and a buyer’s negotiating skills.

One caveat: Even the sweetest used car deal can ultimately go sour if the vehicle’s been abused, has hidden damage or was improperly maintained. That’s why it’s always prudent to have a trusted mechanic carefully inspect any used car or truck under your consideration to get an impartial evaluation of its operating condition, especially if you’re buying it from a private party. Particularly in the wake of this year’s devastating floods, be sure to run a model’s vehicle identification number (VIN) through a title-search service like carfax.com to make sure it hasn’t been previously flood-damaged or salvaged and subsequently rebuilt.

2008 Ford Taurus
Ironically, while this accommodating full-size sedan enjoys a top ranking for reliability from J.D. Power & Associates, it’s saddled with poor resale value, which makes it an especially attractive choice as a used car. It comes nicely powered by a 263-horsepower V6 engine that’s mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. If you live in the Snow Belt, look for models equipped with the optional all-wheel-drive system for top traction. Otherwise, the car delivers a smooth ride with surprisingly lively handling. With an estimated retail price of $14,685-$20,370 for the 2008 version you’ll save quite a bit of money over a comparable Toyota Avalon at $20,200-$26,770.

2008 Hyundai Accent
Here’s another model that gets top rankings for reliability, but is saddled with rock-bottom resale values. With a retail price in excellent condition estimated at $9,580-$10,705, the subcompact Accent is a good deal compared to models like the Nissan Versa at a projected $11,580-$12,850 and the Honda Fit at $14,030-$15,550. Offered in a choice of sedan or hatchback body styles with only modest features, performance was not the 2008 Accent’s strong suit with only a 110-horsepower engine under the hood, but it boasts admirable fuel economy at 27-city/33-highway mpg.

2008 Buick LaCrosse
This large near-luxury car boasts top reliability with low long-term ownership costs and sells at bargain prices in the resale market. You’ll find the 2008 vintage with either a sufficient 200-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine or a more powerful 300-horsepower 5.3-liter V8. While the current model features snazzier styling, the 2008 model gives up nothing in terms of passenger comfort, with a buttery smooth ride. It retails for an estimated $14,765-$19,505, which edges out its closest competitor, the Chrysler 300, at $15,550-$22.865.

2008 Hyundai Elantra
While the previous generation Elantra compact sedan isn’t as expressively styled as the current model, it performs well in most respects and garners top scores for reliability after three years of ownership. A 138-horsepower four-cylinder engine is peppy enough, especially when mated to the standard five-speed manual transmission. The 2008 model is a decent deal with a projected retail price of $11,650-$13,600, versus an estimated $12,510-$16,780 for the class-leading Honda Civic.

2008 Cadillac DTS
They don’t make luxury cars like this any more (literally, as the DTS was discontinued at the end of the 2011 model year). The old-school DTS is big as a boat and emphasizes comfort above all else. A choice of 4.6-liter V8 engines delivers 275 or 292 horsepower, with the car receiving top reliability scores. Look for models equipped with what are still among the latest safety features, including lane-departure and blind-spot warning systems. At an estimated retail price of $22,300 (with little else in the market with which to compare it) it’s a classy ride at a bargain price.

2008 Mitsubishi Galant
The midsize Galant sedan performs admirably, with better-than-average reliability and uncluttered styling that remains fresh. You’ll find model-year 2008 Galants equipped with either a 160-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a smoother and more powerful 258-horsepower V6 in the top Ralliart model. The Toyota Camry might be a more popular choice, but a 2008 Galant is more affordable at an estimated retail price of $12,630-$18,255 versus $15,385-$20,440 for the Camry.

2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer
This midsize truck-based SUV can tackle the toughest trails and tow a decent-sized boat or trailer when properly equipped, which are tasks few of today’s car-based crossovers can accomplish. There’s no shortage of power, with a range of V6 and V8 engines delivering from 285-390 horsepower. Mechanically equivalent to the GMC Envoy, both models were discontinued after the 2009 model year. The 2008 Trailblazer can be found on dealers’ lots in excellent condition for around $17,650-$26,165. Those instead seeking a 2008 Toyota 4Runner will be asked to pay a costlier $25,530-$32,605.

2008 Cadillac SRX
While the current generation of Cadillac’s luxury crossover SUV is smaller and more stylish, the 2008 version holds its own with solid performance from a choice of V6 and V8 engines at 255 and 320 horsepower, and sportier-than-average handling. Its roomy interior can seat up to seven passengers when found with the available third-row seat. With a projected retail price of $26,300-$28,035 you’ll keep a couple thousand dollars in your pocket by choosing a 2008 SRX instead of the Lexus RX350 at $28,500-$30,000.

2008 Dodge Durango
While large truck-based SUVs have largely fallen out of favor, those with a purposeful need for a roomy vehicle with stalwart towing abilities will find the 2008 Dodge Durango to be a godsend. You’ll find dealers asking around $14,685-$23,970 for a three-year-old model in excellent condition versus a projected $24,835-$34,805 for a Chevrolet Tahoe. The Durango’s base 3.7-liter V6 is barely adequate at 210 horsepower; it’s better equipped with either of the available V8s at 303 and 335 horses. This generation ran through the end of the 2009 model year with a similar version sold as the Chrysler Aspen.

2008 Chevrolet Equinox
This pleasant compact SUV is not only capable, coming powered by either a 3.4-liter V6 engine at 185 horsepower or a 3.6-liter V6 with 264 horses, it’s comfortable, with a back seat that can slide fore or aft to maximize legroom or cargo space. A similar model was sold as the Pontiac Torrent. It’s a better deal than the import competition, with an estimated retail price of $17,050-$22,805 for a 2008 model versus around $18,785-$23,635 for a similar Toyota RAV4.

2008 Hyundai Sonata
While Hyundai is at the top of its game right now with the current-generation Sonata, there’s still a lot to like about the previous generation of this midsize sedan, particularly if you find one with the smooth and powerful 234-horsepower 3.3-liter V6 engine. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a sufficient 162 horses was otherwise standard with the 2008 model. You’ll find it packed with features at an affordable price, which is pegged at about $13,115-$16,635 at retail in excellent condition. By contrast, dealers will ask a steeper $17,975-$19,635 for a 2008 Nissan Altima.

Jim Gorzelany is author of the "Automotive Intelligentsia 2011-2012 Sports Car Guide."

© 2011 Forbes.com

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The cars that pack the most for the money

Things will look in this year for the automotive industry: global new car sales are expected to rise would hit 6 percent through 2010, the record selling 70 million units in 2007. J.d. power and Associates has said, US car sales will reach 13 million units this year by 12 percent through 2010.

But much could happen to the rosy forecasts to fail. Unrest in the Middle East and North Africa has the oil market on the edge and higher prices or the fear of them directly affects how and when consumers of a new car money - and how they choose.

The main driver will in these days is something that they can trust for the long haul, says David Wurster, head of product development and analysis for the automotive analytics company Vincentric. An unstable Outlook for fuel costs affected more than you might think everything from small cars - SUVs.

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"When fuel jumps up to $4 a gallon, now suddenly no one truck want," says Wurster. "Then the residuals start to fall and this will increase the deprecation and will increase the cost of ownership."

Compacts are some of the safest bets when it comes to the most for the money these days. The Mazda2, Nissan versa and Chevrolet Cruze take three of the first four places on our list of the value packed cars on the market.

To compile our list, we used cost-of-ownership data from Vincentric, based in Bingham farms, me. First, we have the 114 vehicles, which get value ratings of "excellent." is we then interest ranked based on the retail price of the manufacturer and as a total operating costs of depreciation, taxes and fees, costs, insurance, affected five years, Opportunity costs, maintenance and repairs. We have the top 10 cars from this group with the lowest cost of ownership on our list cars are "very good" most value-packed.

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An annual rate of 15,000 miles per vehicle and fuel does the input expenditure of $2.899 for regular, $3.189 for premium and $3.186 for diesel fuel powered. Fuel prices are a weighted average of the national fuel prices the previous five months, which is distorted in the past few months. All costs are applied based on projections of Vincentric than projections analysts and gas prices include an inflation rate of 3.5 percent.

Depreciation is the biggest factor in determining how much a vehicle of owner is cost. Most new cars lose anywhere between 10 and 20 per cent of their sticker price from the moment they the game leave – are luxury cars generally value more trim interior as other, outdated thanks to price premiums based on brand image, and new-fangled technology losing rendered by the next-generation model.

One of the reasons why, the Toyota Prius of our list made is outstanding depreciation/performance ratio. Alt-fuel vehicles do especially well with at resale.

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"Diesel and hybrid have values, excellent resale" says Jake Fisher, senior automotive engineer of consumer reports. "You want to go and buy a Prius 60,000 mile, top dollar for it'll numbers you."

Cars non-luxury manufacturers have something else happens to them when it comes, a list as follows: she simply cost much less than a new Porsche 911 or BMW M3.

In fact no vehicles on our list of cost is more than $26,850 Prius - even though the $26,645 near Honda CR-V. Four of the ten models on our list are made by Honda, and two of Toyota, both companies known for inexpensive but reliable cars.

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"It generally, that the costs of ownership number much higher for an expensive vehicle be," Wurster says. "Think of value added tax." As you search not ratios or percentages - it is just gross tax - the number will be higher on something expensive. "

Of course, one guarantee low starting price not for a good value. The Chevrolet Aveo $11,965, $13,255 Toyota Yaris and $13,320 Ford Fiesta, for example, all more economical than the Mazda2 $14,180 and $20,825 Honda element - both made our list. But their relatively high rates and proportionate repair shot their total cost far too high to qualify as good.

Still, a low MSRP helped several pickup trucks and crossovers make the list, such as the $19,745 Hyundai Tucson and the $22,515 Toyota Tacoma. Both they require a bit more for fuel costs over five years as their smaller counterparts, but their reliability (low maintenance and repair costs), EIAs available low and - most important - current low rates qualify it as a value-packed cars.

Now, big rig could follow suit with only more of their brothers.

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© 2011 Forbes.com

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