Hybrid Car Mpg: the Raw Truth Behind Real Numbers in 2025

Buckle up: the myth of the “50 mpg hybrid” is about to get shredded. Hybrid car mpg isn’t just a number you read off a sticker or brag to your neighbor about. It’s a battleground—one where automakers, regulators, and real-world drivers wage a silent, high-stakes war. In 2025, with climate anxiety, soaring gas prices, and relentless marketing hype, knowing the truth behind hybrid car mpg can save you hundreds, maybe thousands, over a car’s lifetime. But most buyers walk onto the lot, dazzled by the glossy “EPA combined 50 mpg” claim, without realizing that the real numbers are always messier, and often lower, than the brochure suggests. In this no-holds-barred guide, you’ll see the numbers carmakers don’t want you to see, learn why your mileage may “vary” more than you think, and find expert-backed tactics to get every last drop of efficiency out of your hybrid—without falling for industry spin.

We’ll connect the dots between mpg stats, regulatory smoke and mirrors, and the daily grind of hybrid ownership. You’ll get the inside story on how mpg is tested, why cold weather torpedoes your savings, and how plug-in hybrids shake up the numbers game. By the end, you’ll not just know what “hybrid car mpg” really means in 2025—you’ll know how to make it work for you.

Why hybrid car mpg matters more than ever

The 2025 fuel economy battleground

Hybrid mpg isn’t just a technical stat—it’s a front-line weapon in the fight for consumer dollars, regulatory compliance, and environmental credibility. In 2025, the automotive landscape is squeezed from all sides: climate-driven policies, stricter emissions standards, and gas prices that swing like a heavyweight boxer on Red Bull. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, automakers must now hit fleet averages of 49–52 mpg by 2026, or face painful fines (NHTSA, 2024). This regulation isn’t just bureaucratic theater; it fundamentally shapes what lands in your driveway and how much you pay at the pump.

Table 1: U.S. corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards and penalties.
Source: NHTSA, 2024

This pressure cooker transforms hybrid car mpg from a nerdy stat into a make-or-break feature for automakers and buyers alike. Choosing a hybrid in 2025 is less about tree-hugging and more about navigating a financial and regulatory minefield.

How consumer expectations have shifted

Gone are the days when hybrids were just for the granola crowd. In 2025, even the most die-hard gearheads and spreadsheet-obsessed deal hunters are sizing up hybrid mpg. According to the latest Consumer Reports, 2024 survey, 76% of Americans expect fuel economy to improve year over year, and most buyers want at least 30–50 mpg from their next car. But expectations don’t always match reality—especially when the “official” tests happen in spotless labs, not gridlocked streets or frozen parking lots.

“Consumers today expect hybrids to deliver 50 mpg or more, but the reality is more complicated. Real-world conditions often mean lower numbers, and that’s frustrating for buyers.” — Jake Fisher, Senior Director of Auto Testing, Consumer Reports, 2024

• Buyers are more skeptical than ever of manufacturer claims
• Younger drivers increasingly see mpg as a badge of tech-savvy status, not just environmentalism
• Many expect cost savings to appear instantly, not just over years of ownership
• The rise of mobility-as-a-service means fewer people own cars, but those who do demand “the best of both worlds”—performance and economy

This mental shift fuels the hybrid boom, but also sets the stage for massive disappointment when real mpg falls short.

The new face of eco-status

Hybrid mpg is the new status symbol—one that signals intelligence, not just eco-consciousness. In 2025, pulling up in a hybrid means you’re not just “green,” but also financially savvy and ahead of the regulatory curve. According to Deloitte’s Global Automotive Consumer Study, 2025, hybrids are emerging as the “best of both worlds” solution for buyers wary of full electrification but hungry for fuel savings. The cultural cachet is real: hybrid owners are seen as pragmatic, strategic—people who game the system, not just follow it.

Hybrid mpg isn’t just about saving gas—it’s become shorthand for smart consumption, adaptability, and keeping your options open in a world that loves to change the rules overnight.

Decoding the hybrid mpg numbers: Beyond the brochure

Who sets the standards—and who benefits?

The official mpg numbers plastered on every hybrid come from tests run by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the U.S., or the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) in Europe. But here’s the twist: these tests happen in tightly controlled labs, on dynamometers, with gentle acceleration and no hills, wind, or traffic. According to Edmunds, 2024, EPA ratings are typically 10–20% higher than what the average driver sees.

Table 2: Comparison of hybrid vehicle fuel economy test cycles and real-world deviation
Source: Edmunds, 2024, Auto Express, 2024

"EPA and WLTP cycles are a great starting point, but the real test is the daily grind of traffic, weather, and driving style." — Edmunds Expert Analysis, Edmunds, 2024

So, who benefits? Automakers, who get to print high numbers on brochures. Regulators, who can crow about “progress.” But the average driver often finds themselves short-changed at the pump—unless they know how the game is played.

EPA ratings vs. real-world experience

If you’ve ever wondered why your hybrid never seems to hit that dreamy EPA figure, you’re not alone. The gap between laboratory mpg and real-world mpg has become a running joke among auto journalists and frustrated owners alike. According to Cars.com, 2025, the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid posts an EPA combined rating of 48 mpg, but real-world tests clocked in at a more impressive 50.9–52.0 mpg—proving some cars can overachieve. On the flip side, the 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid’s EPA numbers overshoot real-world results by 7–9 mpg, and some drivers report even bigger drops.

1. EPA test cycles are smooth and predictable—they don’t account for stop-and-go traffic, aggressive acceleration, or real hills.
2. Temperature and climate control systems are minimized—in the lab, you’re not blasting A/C or heaters, both of which sap efficiency.
3. Test weight is standardized—your weekend tailgate gear or bike rack? Not included.
4. Tire pressure, vehicle condition, and even fuel type are idealized—not the way most of us live.

It’s a cruel irony: the more you need your hybrid to save you money—think harsh climates or city gridlock—the more likely it is to underperform its sticker mpg.

Why your hybrid’s mpg is never ‘average’

Hybrid mpg is a moving target, not a fixed number. Here’s why:

Hybrid System : The complexity of hybrid systems (full, mild, plug-in) means each reacts differently to speed, load, and charge levels.

Driving Profile : Frequent short trips, lots of idling, or lead-foot acceleration can tank your mpg, while gentle highway cruising often delivers better-than-rated results.

Weather and Terrain : Cold snaps, heat waves, mountain grades, and even road surface can cause swings of 10–30% in efficiency.

Accessory Use : Running heated seats, defrosters, or wireless chargers may sound minor, but they add up—cutting real-world mpg well below “average.”

Hybrid mpg is personal. Your numbers can—and will—differ from your neighbor’s, your dealer’s, or even what you saw on a YouTube review. That’s the raw truth.

The dirty secrets: What the ads aren’t telling you

The myth of the 50 mpg hybrid

The seductive “50 mpg” number thrown around in hybrid car ads is, at best, an aspiration. Most drivers never see this figure in their day-to-day grind. According to Forbes, 2024, the 2025 Toyota Prius clocks in at 52–57 mpg EPA, but real-world numbers often fall short.

• 50 mpg is the EPA’s combined estimate—real-world city driving may yield less, especially in the summer or winter
• Factors like traffic jams, idling, and “spirited driving” can cut that number by 10–20%
• Heavier hybrids (SUVs, crossovers) almost never hit the magic 50 mpg in practice
• Plug-in hybrids can show “infinite” mpg on short trips, but only until the battery drains

“Your actual mileage will vary. Automakers know this, but the 50 mpg headline sells cars.” — Auto Express Investigative Feature, Auto Express, 2024

Hidden variables sabotaging your mpg

There’s a rogues’ gallery of unseen factors that can trash even the best hybrid’s fuel economy:

• Tire choice and pressure: Underinflated or winter tires can tank mpg by 3–7%—a fact almost never discussed in brochures.
• Battery aging: As hybrids rack up miles, battery efficiency drops slowly, slicing 1–3 mpg off your average by year five (Edmunds, 2024).
• Climate extremes: Cold snaps can reduce hybrid mpg by up to 40% during short trips as the engine runs longer to warm up.
• Weight: Even small cargo hauls or extra passengers have outsized impacts.
• Software updates: Some hybrids get “efficiency tunes” that alter how much the battery is used—sometimes after you’ve bought the car.

• Tire choice and pressure: Underinflated or winter tires can cut mpg by up to 7%.
• Driving style: Aggressive acceleration and high speeds kill hybrid advantages.
• Software and updates: Some models quietly update their energy management, sometimes reducing battery-only driving.
• Weight and load: More passengers and gear? Say goodbye to your EPA figures.

Winter, heat, and the MPG rollercoaster

Living in a place with real seasons? Your hybrid’s mpg will ride a rollercoaster, thanks to physics—and a little deception in the testing protocols.

Table 3: Seasonal impact on hybrid mpg.
Source: Edmunds, 2024

What’s happening? In winter, your hybrid’s engine must run more to heat the cabin and keep the battery at optimal temperature. In summer, your A/C drains power, and windows-up highway cruising increases drag.

So, if you’re in Minneapolis or Phoenix, forget about “EPA combined” mpg—you live on the margins.

Real stories: Hybrid mpg in the wild

Urban commutes vs. highway hauls

Let’s get brutally honest: where and how you drive decides your real mpg, more than what’s written on your window sticker. In city commutes, hybrids shine—stop-and-go traffic is where regenerative braking and electric-only power earn their keep. On the highway? The story flips.

Table 4: Real-world mpg for hybrids by driving scenario.
Source: Original analysis based on Cars.com, 2025, Edmunds, 2024

Choose your routes wisely—more city means better hybrid returns, but only if you drive with the right mindset.

Cold climate vs. hot climate ownership

Hybrid efficiency is allergic to weather extremes. In cold climates, expect:

• Longer engine idling to heat up the battery and cabin
• Less effective regenerative braking (due to cold batteries)
• Battery range shrinkage of up to 30%

In hot climates, your enemy is the A/C and tire wear. Short trips with max A/C can shred your mpg. According to Edmunds, 2024, these penalties make a supposed “50 mpg” hybrid dip closer to 35–40 mpg on tough days.

• In winter, hybrids struggle to warm up efficiently, often running on gas longer.
• In summer, climate control and high-speed cruising dominate, eating into battery advantage.
• Transitional seasons are your only shot at hitting EPA numbers consistently.

Three drivers, three outcomes

Three drivers, identical cars, wildly different results:

Driver A: Conservative urban commuter, never breaks 40 mph, careful acceleration—achieves 54 mpg in a 2025 Prius.

Driver B: Highway warrior, 80 mph cruise, heavy foot—averages 39 mpg in the same car.

Driver C: Suburban mix, frequent short trips, lots of idling—hovers around 42 mpg.

“I thought buying a hybrid would guarantee me 50 mpg. Instead, my driving style and city traffic made it impossible to crack 45. It’s eye-opening how much my habits matter.” — Actual Prius owner interview, Edmunds Owner Stories, 2024

Moral: Hybrid mpg is as much a function of you as the car itself.

Hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid vs. electric: The mpg face-off

How plug-in hybrids mess with the numbers

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are the great disruptors of the mpg conversation. They can post insane “100+ mpg” claims—but only if you religiously charge at home and drive mostly on battery. Once the juice runs out? They often drop to regular hybrid mpg, or worse.

Table 5: Fuel economy and electric range comparison.
Source: Original analysis based on Forbes, 2024, Edmunds, 2024

MPGe : “Miles per gallon equivalent”—a controversial stat that puts electric and gas miles on a comparable scale, but is often misunderstood.

Charge Depletion Mode : When a PHEV runs out of battery, it switches to hybrid mode—usually with lower mpg due to added battery weight.

Energy Mix : The source of your electricity (coal, renewables) also shapes your real environmental impact, though not reflected in mpg numbers.

Total cost of ownership: Not just about mpg

Obsession with mpg can blind you to the bigger cost picture. Fuel is just part of ownership; maintenance, battery health, insurance, and resale all matter.

• Maintenance: Hybrids can save on brake wear thanks to regenerative braking, but batteries are expensive to replace out of warranty.
• Insurance: Some hybrids cost more to insure, thanks to pricier parts.
• Battery life: Degradation is slow but real—a 10-year-old hybrid may see up to 15% lower mpg.
• Resale value: Hybrids retain value better than most pure gas cars, but less than some EVs in hot markets.

Case study: The long-term hybrid gamble

Consider this: buying a 2025 hybrid Civic over its gas sibling costs about $2,000 more upfront. Fuel savings (at $4/gallon, averaging 15 mpg better) means break-even in just under four years, according to original analysis of current fuel prices and ownership trends.

But—if you get unlucky with a battery replacement, or drive mostly highway miles, your savings can evaporate. Real-world ownership is full of these curveballs.

“In our 100,000-mile test, the hybrid paid for itself in fuel—but only just. Factor in an out-of-warranty battery, and you’re in the red.” — Long-term test report, Cars.com, 2025

The “hybrid premium” is only worth it if your driving profile matches the car’s strengths and you play the long game.

The science behind hybrid efficiency

How hybrid drivetrains really work

Strip away the marketing, and hybrids are a lesson in clever engineering. At their core, hybrids blend a combustion engine with one or more electric motors and a battery. Key to their magic is the ability to switch seamlessly between gas, electric, or both—optimizing for efficiency at every turn.

Hybrid Synergy Drive : Toyota’s approach—gas and electric motors powering the wheels together or separately as needed.

Series Hybrid : The engine acts as a generator, never driving the wheels directly (rare in mainstream cars).

Parallel Hybrid : Both engine and motor can directly drive the wheels (the most common type in 2025).

Mild Hybrid : Uses a small electric motor mostly for assist, not full electric drive—cheaper but less effective at boosting mpg.

Regenerative braking: Not as magical as it sounds

“Regen” braking is the poster child for hybrid tech—but it’s not a free lunch.

When you brake, the electric motor works in reverse, slowing the car and generating electricity to recharge the battery. But in practice, regen’s benefits are limited:

• Most effective at low speeds and light braking—hard stops rely on regular brakes, wasting energy as heat.

• In cold weather, regen is less efficient due to battery chemistry.

• Overuse can lead to battery overheating in rare cases, triggering system cutbacks.

• Regen gives back 10–30% of energy lost in braking, but only if you drive gently.

• City driving maximizes regen; highway speeds reduce its impact.

• Don’t expect “infinite” battery—energy losses (heat, resistance) mean real-world gains are modest.

Battery health and the mpg connection

Battery health is the silent killer of hybrid mpg. Degrade the battery, and your electric-only range shrinks, forcing the gas engine to step in more often.

Table 6: Estimated hybrid battery degradation and mpg impact.
Source: Original analysis based on Edmunds, 2024

Keep your battery healthy (gentle driving, regular maintenance), and your mpg stays strong. Ignore it, and you’ll pay—at the pump and when you sell.

How to actually maximize your hybrid mpg

Driving tips that work (and those that don’t)

Getting top hybrid mpg isn’t magic—it’s disciplined driving. Here’s what actually works:

1. Smooth acceleration: Pretend there’s a raw egg under your pedal—slow, steady starts keep the car in electric mode longer.
2. Anticipate stops: Coast early and let regen work; racing to the light and slamming the brakes burns gas and wastes kinetic energy.
3. Short trips are mpg killers: Warm up the car fully before hitting errands—cold engines and batteries crush efficiency.
4. Kill unnecessary loads: Ditch heavy gear and run climate control wisely.
5. Monitor tire pressure: Check monthly; underinflated tires can drop mpg by 2–4.

Biggest myths? Drafting behind trucks, using only cruise control, or running premium fuel in a regular hybrid. None of these move the needle much, according to authoritative sources.

Maintenance moves with the biggest impact

• Keep tires inflated to spec—use a digital gauge for accuracy.
• Change engine oil with the right grade and interval—hybrids often require specific low-viscosity oils.
• Ensure battery cooling systems are clear; blocked vents can overheat the pack, reducing efficiency.
• Stay up-to-date with software updates—you might get efficiency improvements, or at least bug fixes.
• Regularly check air filters; dirty filters reduce both performance and mpg.

Neglect these basics, and you’re throwing away the very fuel savings you paid extra for.

Routine maintenance is your best defense against creeping mpg loss. The payoff is real—both at the pump and when it’s time to sell.

Apps, tech, and hacks: The new mpg frontier

• Use real-time mpg apps (like Fuelly or manufacturer-specific apps) to track trends and spot problems.
• Many hybrids offer “eco coaching”—pay attention, and adapt your driving.
• Map your routes to avoid traffic snarls and maximize regen opportunities.
• Simple hacks—like parking in the shade (to reduce A/C load) or pre-conditioning the car while plugged in—can add up.

Tech won’t replace common sense, but it will make your mpg obsession a lot more data-driven.

The hybrid car buyer’s checklist for 2025

What to demand on your test drive

Don’t let the dealer steer you—take control of your hybrid test drive:

1. Insist on a full cold start: Warm engines hide hybrid quirks.
2. Try both city and highway segments: See real mpg in both worlds.
3. Check the trip computer: Reset it and monitor instant/average mpg during your drive.
4. Test climate systems: See the mpg hit with A/C or heat blasting.
5. Ask about battery age and warranty: Especially for used models.

A few extra miles during your test drive can save you years of regret.

Questions for the dealer (that they hate answering)

• What is the real-world mpg reported by other buyers in this region?
• Has the car had any battery-related service or recalls?
• Are there software updates that affect mpg or battery usage?
• What’s the replacement cost of the hybrid battery, and is it covered under warranty?
• How does this car’s mpg compare to plug-in or electric alternatives?

“If your dealer can’t or won’t answer these questions, walk away. Real transparency is rare—but that’s where true savings are found.” — Consumer Reports Buying Guide, Consumer Reports, 2024

Demanding answers is your right—don’t let “hybrid mystique” cloud your judgment.

Red flags and deal-breakers

• Battery warranty shorter than 8 years/100,000 miles
• Poor service history with hybrid-specific repairs
• Unrealistic mpg claims, or no real-world data from other owners
• Missing or outdated software updates

If any of these crop up, move on. The hybrid market is big enough—don’t compromise.

You shouldn’t need a PhD in engineering to buy a car, but knowledge is your best defense.

The future of hybrid mpg: Where do we go from here?

Upcoming tech that could flip the script

Hybrid technology never stands still. Breakthroughs like solid-state batteries, more efficient motors, and smarter energy management are making headlines.

• Solid-state batteries: Promise lighter, longer-lasting packs (still rare in 2025).
• Advanced power electronics: Reduce energy losses, boost regenerative recovery.
• AI-driven driving modes: Adapt efficiency strategies in real-time to your habits.

But don’t let the hype distract from what’s available now—the latest hybrids already pack serious innovation.

Hybrid mpg in a full-EV world

The rise of electric vehicles casts a long shadow, but hybrids still fill crucial gaps—especially where charging infrastructure is thin or long road trips are common.

Table 7: Hybrid vs. PHEV vs. EV ownership factors.
Source: Original analysis based on Edmunds, 2024

Hybrids remain the “bridge technology”—not perfect, but practical for most buyers today.

The hybrid’s sweet spot is flexibility—no charging anxiety, solid fuel savings, and lower entry costs than most EVs.

Will hybrids still matter in 2030?

Hybrids are often dismissed as a “transitional” technology, doomed to obsolescence. But with policy, infrastructure, and consumer needs evolving at wildly different speeds, hybrids offer a crucial safety net.

“Full electrification is coming, but hybrids will remain relevant for millions who can’t—or won’t—make the EV leap yet.” — Industry analyst comment, Deloitte, 2025

For now, hybrid car mpg remains the sharpest tool for drivers who want to save money and hedge their bets in a shifting landscape.

Controversies, myths, and the real risks

Busting the biggest hybrid mpg myths

• Myth: “Hybrids always save money.”—Only if your driving profile matches the car’s strengths.
• Myth: “Batteries wear out every 5 years.”—Most last 8–12 years, with slow degradation.
• Myth: “All hybrids are eco-friendly.”—Manufacturing impact and source of electricity matter.
• Myth: “Any hybrid is better than any gas car.”—Some small gas cars can outperform heavy hybrids for efficiency.

EPA Combined MPG : The weighted average of city and highway mpg; not a guarantee, but a best-case scenario under controlled conditions.

MPGe : Used to compare PHEVs and EVs to gas cars, but subject to wide interpretation and not always useful for real-world decision-making.

Battery Warranty : Industry standard is now 8 years/100,000 miles, but always check the fine print.

Who loses when mpg numbers lie?

When mpg claims are inflated, consumers foot the bill—buying cars that underdeliver, miscalculating savings, and suffering unexpected costs. Automakers get a short-term sales spike but risk long-term backlash. Regulators lose credibility when lab numbers don’t match reality.

“There’s a real cost to consumers when lab numbers don’t reflect reality. Trust is eroded, and progress on emissions stalls.” — Auto Express Editorial, Auto Express, 2024

Ultimately, transparency is the foundation of real progress.

The only winners in the mpg numbers game are those who understand the system—and use it to their advantage.

How to spot greenwashing in car ads

1. Look for asterisks: “EPA combined up to 57 mpg”—check what that means in real-world reviews.
2. Demand regional data: National averages hide regional mpg drops due to climate or altitude.
3. Check for third-party testing: Sites like Edmunds and Cars.com offer user-tested numbers.
4. Beware of “infinite mpg” claims on PHEVs: Only true if you never use the gas engine.
5. Compare like with like: Don’t compare a compact hybrid’s mpg to a full-size EV or a subcompact gas car.

Don’t get played by marketing—the details, not the headlines, tell the real story.

Adjacent topics every hybrid buyer should know

The evolution of hybrid technology

The hybrid story is one of relentless iteration:

Table 8: Timeline of key hybrid technology breakthroughs.
Source: Original analysis based on Forbes, 2024, Edmunds, 2024

Hybrid tech isn’t a recent fad—it’s the result of decades of innovation and adaptation.

Each leap forward brought not just better mpg, but more mainstream credibility.

How hybrid mpg shapes urban planning

Hybrid adoption has knock-on effects for cities:

• Less tailpipe pollution in dense areas means better air quality and public health
• Hybrids reduce demand spikes at charging stations, easing infrastructure challenges
• Cities can reallocate fuel tax revenue as gas consumption drops
• Urban parking incentives may shift to favor PHEVs or full EVs over traditional hybrids

The rise of high-mpg hybrids is literally reshaping city streets and policy.

As hybrids become more common, expect cities to value efficiency and emissions over engine type.

The global picture: Hybrid adoption worldwide

Hybrid market share varies wildly by country, policy, and infrastructure.

Table 9: Global hybrid market share and leading models (2025).
Source: Original analysis based on Forbes, 2024, Deloitte, 2025

Different regions move at different speeds, but the hybrid wave is global—and gaining momentum.

Your next move: Making hybrid mpg work for you

Building your personalized MPG strategy

The real “best mpg” isn’t universal—it’s all about tailoring your approach:

1. Analyze your driving profile: City, highway, mixed? Plot your routes.
2. Pick the right hybrid type: Standard, plug-in, or mild hybrid—match to your habits.
3. Track your fuel use: Use apps to identify trends and spot drops early.
4. Maintain religiously: Don’t skip tire checks, oil changes, or battery inspections.
5. Stay cynical: Always question marketing claims and seek out real-world user data.

It’s your money, your commute, your rules—so own every decision.

Every driver’s hybrid mpg journey is different. Make yours a success story, not a cautionary tale.

Leveraging tools like futurecar.ai

• Use AI-powered platforms (like futurecar.ai) to compare real-world mpg data across models.
• Get personalized recommendations based on your unique driving profile and local climate.
• Access expert analysis of total ownership costs—not just brochure stats.
• Find verified owner reviews and regional data, not just national averages.
• Stay updated on incentives, maintenance costs, and model updates.

By arming yourself with unbiased, data-driven insights, you slash the odds of buyer’s remorse.

Smart platforms give you an edge in a market full of smoke and mirrors.

Final takeaways: Cutting through the noise

Hybrid car mpg is the most misunderstood number on the lot—and that’s no accident. It’s a statistic sculpted by lab tests, weaponized by marketers, and shaped by forces as unpredictable as the weather or your morning commute. But if you look past the hype, the red flags, and the fine print, you’ll find real savings, real flexibility, and real power to shape your own driving future.

“Don’t fall for the sticker. Hybrid mpg is messy, personal, and—handled right—a real advantage. But only if you’re armed with the facts.” — Auto Industry Analyst, Deloitte, 2025

If you play the game with open eyes, ask the tough questions, and let real data—plus tools like futurecar.ai—guide your choices, your hybrid won’t just be a car. It’ll be a statement, a strategy, and your secret weapon against a world that keeps moving the goalposts.

So the next time a dealer whispers “50 mpg,” smile. You know better now.