Someone tell BMW that 28MPG for a car sucks

[dcb]

I hate some commercials. "test drive one of our fuel efficient vehicles today", rubbish.

[bennelson]

It's all a matter of perspective.

The more I drive and see how dependent we really are on oil, the more I realize that 30 mpg just isn't good enough.

But truth be told, there are lots of people who AREN'T getting 28 or 30 mpg. So, to them, it sure does sound efficient.

The marketing also shows how the manufacturers are starting to realize how important fuel economy is becoming. They may not actually improve it right away, but they will say it's important to them in the advertisements, no matter how truthful it is or not.

[RH77]

Originally Posted by bennelson

It's all a matter of perspective.

The more I drive and see how dependent we really are on oil, the more I realize that 30 mpg just isn't good enough.

But truth be told, there are lots of people who AREN'T getting 28 or 30 mpg. So, to them, it sure does sound efficient.

The marketing also shows how the manufacturers are starting to realize how important fuel economy is becoming. They may not actually improve it right away, but they will say it's important to them in the advertisements, no matter how truthful it is or not.

I had the same discontent -- until I realized that many viewers of the same TV ad were probably getting around 18 mpg in their trucks. The prospect of trading-in the $40,000 SUV for an exotic import that gleans 25+ mpg for the same price might sound like a good deal. Plus you can claim that you drive a "Beemer".

Look at the target market in this economy...

RH77

[MechEngVT]

Also consider that BMW doesn't produce vehicles known for "acceptable" performance, they are somewhat of an enthusiast's car. As such they are more powerful and more sporting than the standard vehicle of their class and that sportiness comes with a fuel efficiency price.

Can't be too hard on BMW...they've been putting standard instantaneous FE gauges in their cars for YEARS. I'm sure that helps owners improve their economy beyond EPA ratings. A former co-worker bought a 2005 325i new and under the old ratings it was 21/30. He took it on a FL vacation and said he got two tank averages of 30 mpg and drove 80mph the whole trip (the car was new to him at the time so he was attentive to satisfy his curiosity).

I don't get nearly 28mpg. I'm not in the market for a vehicle but may be soon, and maybe my standards aren't high enough but I'm wanting at least 30mpg highway (or reasonable expectation of it with minimal ecodriving techniques). There just aren't enough vehicles I care to drive (or can, at 6'3 and with a need for a rear-facing infant seat) that substantially exceed that number.

[dcb]

Originally Posted by MechEngVT

I don't get nearly 28mpg.

You don't drive a CAR

28mpg for a brand new CAR is not "fuel efficient". It may be luxury, it may be performance, but it aint fuel efficient which is what they were selling.

[dann_04]

While you're at it tell the dealerships that just because it has a four banger doesn't mean it's a "fuel sipper/miser". They have cars that get 22mpg advertised as fuel sippers! Aw well, just a pet peeve i though i would throw in while we were on the topic.

[MazdaMatt]

My post was simply stating through satyre that MPG is relative. To make a luxury sports sedan run 28mpg is VERY good mieage. People want a lot from their cars, some people want a smooth, quiet ride with quality brakes, a good stereo, leather seats and the ability to go fast when desired. To put all that into a 28mpg package is impressive.

[Metro502]

Is that the commercial where a BMW is driving through the european countryside? I hate that one too. I guess Europe copes with high gas prices by buying expensive Beemers. I love the people in the commerical though. Looking at that car like it's the first they've ever seen in their lives! Haha!

[ankit]

Yes, it seems like many companies are taking advantage of the "GREEN" mindset for profit. In this case it isn't too bad since 28 MPG highway is alright for such a quick car (that's higher EPA rating than my slow 4 banging family sedan). Some companies are actually doing something to clean up their act while others make it look like, by doing little or nothign, they are a truly green company. Atleast they are giving the subject a second glance.

[jmilk]

The thing you guys are forgetting here is that Europe and the US are two completely different markets. You can buy a BMW 5-Series in Germany with a four-cylinder engine or a TDI. And the Audi A8 can be had with a 2.8l V6 or a 3.0l TDI. The 2.8 is rated 28mpg for the European mileage cycle, which frankly is pretty darn good for a flagship luxury sedan. My '04 A8L quattro barely ever broke 20mpg.