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Well it's been about 1500 plus miles now and I am averaging 46 MPG. Drove 300 miles at Interstate speeds (65-70 MPH) with two of my 3 brothers. Total payload was probably close to 700 pounds, still showed 47 MPG using my techniques. Hills allowed some DFCO in 6th gear and some neutral coasting. The transmission reengages very nicely from speeds even as high as 65 MPH. The transition is just as smooth as a manual. I was surprised at the mileage with that payload and average speed, which was 55 MPH due to local driving at the end the first leg and beginning of the second. Over 300 miles and it was still showing over half a tank on the gauge and the distance to empty was always just over 600 miles when combined with the miles already travelled (if that makes any sense).
Considering the weight, AT, and engine size, I am very impressed with this Fiesta. Ride quality is superb and I drove it for 5 hours at freeway speeds with no problems. We just had to move the passengers seat up some to give my youngest brother a little leg room.
Considering the average MPG is just over 46 right now versus the Maxima at 28-29 I am rethinking the bikes. I might just sell the Kawasaki (sold CBR and Maxima for $6600), if I can get $2200 for the Kawasaki then I will just be $1100 short of an even trade for the two bikes and the Maxima for the Fiesta.
I'll keep my two antique bikes since they can be insured for $90 per year and the tags are permanent, with no property taxes or other costs. The lower registration fees and insurance costs of 1 vehicle compared to 3 offset most of the fuel savings and maintenance costs.
I also got an original 1971 Virgina motorcycle plate for the 1971 CB350, and tagged it as an antique. Rode it 16 miles in the last two days.
regards
Mech
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