What's the latest in MPG gauges?

[Dave's Civic Duty]

Hi all,

I just picked up a 2000 TDI Beetle 5speed? I would like to put in a Scan Gauge ii or whatever the latest or best MPG monitor is. I used to have one in my 99 Corolla 5speed that easily put me in the 40+ range. I'd like to get this TDI into the 50+ range. Almost all newer cars seem to have this as a standard feature. My 2000 Dodge 2500 & 2003 BMW 325xi do. I'm spoiled & would like this feature to help me chase hight MPG's!

Any advice/info is appreciated,
Dave

[oldtamiyaphile]

SGII is still the best.

I've got SGII, MPGuino, UG, Torque Pro and UT Comp.

Torque Pro might be OK if you don't mind having to always get your phone out and start the app. UG doesn't detect DFCO on diesels, which makes it very inaccurate if you to any sort of eco driving.

The other two have to be hard wired and I don't think they work on diesels, unless you have a factory fuel consumption signal. Technically, UT Comp is the best if you want accuracy and flexibility, but like MPGuino doesn't do engine load, though with a TDi you could wire it into the turbo boost signal.

[bentring]

If you want to just plug something in without fuss, the scan gauge would probably be the best bet. If you are the type that likes customization and enjoy fiddling around, I would recommend that you check out what what some apps like torque pro can do. A decent obd2 reader with a $50 dedicated fire tablet would give you almost unlimited options for a similar priced setup, but you better do some research first to keep from wasting money.

[redpoint5]

Torque Pro is the way to go. It's way cheaper, has more customization, and offers as many gauge options as any purpose built unit.

An ELM237 device is $10, Torque Pro is $5, and you can use any Android device. Just use an old phone or tablet you don't use any more and permanently mount it, or buy a new phone for $10, or a tablet for $40.

Having a tablet is nice because you can fit more gauges on it.

I have also owned 2 Ultra Gauges, and much prefer Torque.

The only downside is that the ELM237 devices never power down, so you wouldn't want to keep it plugged in on a vehicle that sits for a couple weeks without being driven. It would eventually drain the battery.

[bentring]

Originally Posted by redpoint5

The only downside is that the ELM237 devices never power down, so you wouldn't want to keep it plugged in on a vehicle that sits for a couple weeks without being driven. It would eventually drain the battery.

Depends on the model,because I've left mine in a car unused for almost a month without issue.