Ford Hybrids Not Achieving EPA MPG Ratings: Report
After the recent debacle with Hyundai and Kia over their inaccurate MPG claims, Ford may now be under the spotlight as fuel economy numbers for its new hybrid models don’t seem to be living up to expectations.
Media and real-world results of Ford’s two newest hybrid models, the C-Max and Fusion Hybrid, have turned in disappointing mpg figures despite their EPA-estimated 47-mpg ratings. Many C-Max Hybrid testers and owners have reported barely achieving 40 mpg in their vehicles, while the Fusion Hybrid is reporting much less, struggling to even hit 40 mpg.
SEE ALSO: Hyundai, Kia Sued in US Over Incorrect MPG Claims
In AutoGuide‘s own first drive of the 2013 Ford Fusion we noted that during a brief drive we achieved a 40 mpg rating. To give that number context, it is better than we achieved in the Camry Hybrid, with an as-tested 39 mpg. However, the claimed mpg rating for the Camry Hybrid is just 40 mpg (a one mpg difference) compared to the seven mpg difference we saw in the Fusion Hybrid.
Though it’s still too early to draw any conclusions, these initial reports could point to a larger issue at a time when consumers are focused on real-world fuel economy after the recent news of incorrect claims by Hyundai and Kia.
[Source: Green Car Reports]
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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I'm telling you, Ford is going to be raped with the Broomstick just like Hyundai/Kia did... I hope all the automakers get this sort of scrutiny.
It should not be a big surprise that a 3,400 + # car with a higher CD (0.27) did not match the MPG of a 3,000 # car. The Butt Ugly Prius gets 48 mpg, but its 400 # lighter with a Cd of 0.25.