AWD gas Mileage

dvmbryan · 12-13-2007, 03:46 AM

I have heard rumors that the car gets better gas mileage if you leave it in AWD. This sounds like crap to me, but I was wondering if anyone has tried it.

F.B. · 12-13-2007, 09:13 PM

According to one test I read, the mileage is slightly worse in AWD. That agrees with my results. 1-2 mpg worse. Unless the roads are clear, dry and free of leaves, I'll still leave it in the auto mode. Even on clean roads, the auto mode could help in emergency maneuvers.

magnum759 · 12-14-2007, 12:22 AM

all of the write ups and stories I have read about the SX4 is that it is a Gas Hog. But my feelings are, if you want 40 plus MPG, go buy a TDI VW.

If you want an all-weather vehicle that costs less than a Impreza, buy an SX4.

Leaving it in 2wd will always get you better mileage, due to less mechanical components making contact, hence less friction.

magnum759 · 12-28-2007, 06:37 PM

just went over to Eastern Washington and back to the coast, 650 miles total and averaged 27 mpg. Not bad figuring it's still not broke in.

rovert97 · 12-28-2007, 09:22 PM

consider this link Best Gas Mileage Four Wheel Drive
the next time you feel like the mpg for this car isnt great. its on the top of the list of AWD/4WD vehicles next to an Audi!

magnum759 · 12-28-2007, 10:49 PM

Cool, that means I'm making just about normal for my HEAVY FOOt driving.......

adamkob32 · 01-03-2008, 04:51 PM

I actually haven't been too overly thrilled with my gf's mileage in the SX4. I honestly thought it would have been decently higher for what the car is. She does a mix of city and highway driving, and is just a hair over 24 mpg. I'm going to assume it has a lot to do with how heavy the car is.

--Adam

salituro64 · 01-15-2008, 10:12 PM

I have never averaged above 28MPG in all highway driving. It's Ok, but I would of assumed for it's size and engine size, the all highway would of been in the 30s. Using all synthetic oils as well and AWD or not. Always avergae the same 27 - 28.

fryguy · 03-28-2008, 08:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dvmbryan

I have heard rumors that the car gets better gas mileage if you leave it in AWD. This sounds like crap to me, but I was wondering if anyone has tried it.

I am testing this theory as well. I have found that once I filled up the tank and reset the MPG display and traveling rural to city and back about 10 to 20 miles round trip. Speeds range from 35 to 55 MPH. I went from 26-27 FWD ONLY to 27-28 AWD AUTO. I have yet to try highway.

F.B. · 03-28-2008, 09:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fryguy

I am testing this theory as well. I have found that once I filled up the tank and reset the MPG display and traveling rural to city and back about 10 to 20 miles round trip. Speeds range from 35 to 55 MPH. I went from 26-27 FWD ONLY to 27-28 AWD AUTO. I have yet to try highway.

The round trip may have had different slopes, or wind effects, or traffic lights, or traffic patterns, etc. It is simply a bad set of data. There is no way adding the extra friction in AWD will improve gas mileage. I've used the instantaneous display on flat roads and switched back and forth between AWD & FWD and AWD was slightly worse. AWD might only get you better mileage in slippery conditions. Even Suzuki says mileage is slightly worse in AWD.