Real Bad Gas Mileage!

[jimdogs]

I've had my CX-7 for two and a half months now and i love the way it drives but, I consistently get real bad gas mileage around 12 - 13 miles per gallon. What's the deal? I drive approximately 50-50 city to highway not too heavy footed either. What would cause such low mileage? A/C has been on pretty much all the time, could that be it? I use mobil super 93 octane, could the 93 as opposed to 91 be it? any suggestions would be great. Thanks!

[FlipandFunk]

sounds about right, i'm getting 15-16mpg in my speed6 with 80% city driving and NO a/c.

[PAA]

I'm disappointed as well about the gas mileage of my cx-7. I have noticed a big difference between city and highway. On the highway it not that bad but in the city it terrible (more than 15liters per 100Km) and I don’t use the a/c a lot. On the highway it around 11L per 100km.

I'm wondering if it's comparable to other cars in this category?

Anyway I love my CX-7 but I hope gas prise won't get too high.

[CEW73]

I THINK WE ARE ALL HAVING THAT ISSUE(ughdance) i cANT REALLY SEE 5 YRS OF PAYING FOR THIS! YOU WOULD THINK WITH THE TECHNOLOGY THESE CARS HAVE WOULD HAVE INCREDIBLE GAS MILAGE BY NOW! IT LOOKS LIKE 10 YEARS AHEAD OF ITS TIME BUT 1990'S GAS MILAGE! OHH WELL, ILL KEEP HER FOR THE TIME BEING! BESIDES IM THE ONLY ONE IN THE LAST 2 MONTHS IVE SEEN ON THE ROAD WITH A CX7 ????? I SMOKED A SABB THE OTHER DAY(peep) GOOD THING I ONLY HAVE 1 KID IN HIGH SCHOOL :)(omg)

[FlipandFunk]

CX-7 weights 3930lbs. You are not gonna get anything close to 20mpg in the city with that much weight to pull.

[Z_Monzter]

I notice that too. And it sux. My wife is getting about 230 miles a tank. In our previous SUV (Montero Sport V6 3.5) she used to get about 250 miles a tank on cheap gas. My 350z that I drive hard and with the AC on full blast I get about 310 miles to a tank and yes I have a 20 gallon tank but still is better gas milage. According to my gas per miles gauge in my Z I get an average of 18 miles a gallon. You would think that a CX-7 4banger would give the same (being heavier) or better.

[TheMAN]

just because its a "4 banger" doesn't mean it gets awesome mileage
consider this:
the engine in the CX-7 is not a simple plain vanilla 4 banger... it has a TURBO which effectively increases the displacement of the engine to something comparable to a large V6
its also a "big engine" to begin with... 2.3 liters is in the upper end of 4 bangers.... only a few others from other makers are slightly bigger... more displacement = more air used.... more air used = more fuel burned... add turbo = air use multiplied = way more fuel burned

[Z_Monzter]

just because its a "4 banger" doesn't mean it gets awesome mileage
consider this:
the engine in the CX-7 is not a simple plain vanilla 4 banger... it has a TURBO which effectively increases the displacement of the engine to something comparable to a large V6
its also a "big engine" to begin with... 2.3 liters is in the upper end of 4 bangers.... only a few others from other makers are slightly bigger... more displacement = more air used.... more air used = more fuel burned... add turbo = air use multiplied = way more fuel burned


I agree, but 13 miles a gallon is ridiculous, mind the fact that my Z has a bigger engine, not to mention that I drive a lot more aggresive than my wife and still get better gas mileage than her CX-7.

[G-Papi]

I agree, but 13 miles a gallon is ridiculous, mind the fact that my Z has a bigger engine, not to mention that I drive a lot more aggresive than my wife and still get better gas mileage than her CX-7.

I think I've indicated before that I'm not happy with the mileage. I do understand the rationale and all the explanations, but with premium pricing out the way it currently is, it doesn't mean that I have to like it.

[mp3josh]

Gas prices have been this way for a while, so you knew that before hand right?

[Z_Monzter]

Gas prices have been this way for a while, so you knew that before hand right?

The complaint is not the gas prices (even though they suck), the complaint here is the poor gas mileage of the CX-7. Is no 18-20 miles a gallon as advertise by Mazda, is more like 13 miles a gallon, and that do sucks.

[G-Papi]

If you're saying that I bear the ultimate responsibility for the decisions I make, you're absolutely correct. BP also knew that crude would corrode pipes.

The difference is that they can absorb their missteps in judgement far more easily than I can. My quarterly profits only reach eleven figures to the left of the decimal on very rare occasions. (deadhorse

As a consequence, I'm not berating or denegrating any individual, corporation, or industry. I simply assert that when it comes to that particular aspect, I'm not happy. I do believe that I'm entitled to enjoy whatever circumstances I enjoy ~ and to refuse to enjoy whichever ones make me feel less enjoyable.

[nate0123]

quit buying SUVs if you want good gas mileage

[InFlames]

quit buying SUVs if you want good gas mileage


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/viscous/Gif/ohsnap.gif

Agreed.

[Z_Monzter]

quit buying SUVs if you want good gas mileage


(enguard) Right, I should have bought a Protege, perhaps yours right!!!

That's besides the point, the point is that CX-7 is advertized by Mazda to run 18-20 miles a gallon not 13.

Either way, this is getting old, notting to see here people, lets move on to something else. nate0123 is right, suck it up and drive on.

Point blank: Enjoy your new ride!!! And don't forget to drive it like you stole it!

[nate0123]

don't blame mazda, those are the EPA's estimates

[Lord_Zath]

I don't remember who it was that posted this (probably g-papi), but I got real worried when I read that the driver could actually see the gas needle drop when flooring it.

[TheMAN]

you know... this 2.3 liter engine isn't known for being a gas sipper.... when I first got my 3, I remember it having shitty mileage... but once it got broken in (after driving the piss out of it once it was past 3000 miles), and using synthetic oil, it seems to be staying at 24mpg mix city/highway now... this is an auto too!
it might have gotten even slightly better after I flashed the ECU to the latest version to correct the 1-2 shift shock problem in the autos.... shifts smooth as baby bottom now :D

[InFlames]

don't blame mazda, those are the EPA's estimates


EPA's estimates are always ultra conservative.

[lllateralus]

Cmon guys, give the little motor a break. Its a 4 banger that puts out 244 HP and 250+ lb feet of torque. (and a 4000 lb vehicle)

Drive that car nice and slow and stay out of boost, and I bet your milage will be great. I have no complaints about the milage of ours, but I havnt checked it yet either. My wife drives it slow, and the fuel used seems allright.

[hevysrf]

50/ 50 mix of real short trips( 3 miles) and one long hiway run, 346 miles on 16.3 gallons. I just passed 1000 miles and changed oil and filter yesterday. MartyD

[Z_Monzter]

50/ 50 mix of real short trips( 3 miles) and one long hiway run, 346 miles on 16.3 gallons. I just passed 1000 miles and changed oil and filter yesterday. MartyD


That sound good man, I guess my wife is racing every body on the road and I just don't know about it,LOL.

[cruzdreamer]

I am thinking it just needs some breaking in.....In the beginnning I had 12-13mpg when I bought my automatic RX 8 and it was stated to get 18 mpg. After about 5000 miles it was getting 15 mpg then after that it started getting 17.5 mpg consistently. Now I am finally getting 19 mpg after 2 years and 8 months and 36,000 miles. Now it is a rotary engine and I had a guy once tell me(a rotor head) it would be about 24,000 miles before I'd get the best gas mileage. He was right! Also, my car weighs around 3000-3200 lbs. Maybe the turbo needs time like the rotary??? Gosh, I hope so...I don't want 12-13 mpg when I get mine. Please continue to post gas mileage figures. Thanks!

[cruzdreamer]

I don't remember who it was that posted this (probably g-papi), but I got real worried when I read that the driver could actually see the gas needle drop when flooring it.

My RX 8 was like that too...I was scared to go fast....needle would drop....after 3000 miles that stopped! whew.

[G-Papi]

I've got 5100 miles, and I believe that my CX-7 has finally retrained my right foot, and my frontal lobe's instinct to downshift - pull over into the left lane - and tromp on it.

[spike blue]

(enguard) Right, I should have bought a Protege, perhaps yours right!!!

That's besides the point, the point is that CX-7 is advertized by Mazda to run 18-20 miles a gallon not 13.

Either way, this is getting old, notting to see here people, lets move on to something else. nate0123 is right, suck it up and drive on.

Point blank: Enjoy your new ride!!! And don't forget to drive it like you stole it!

im agree with you!! I had an msp before that one has the worst milleage gas but i knew that if i get the cx-7 it will be the same or worst but either way i love this SUV and that for me matters!!! and yeah stop complaing enjoy your SUV !!!

[Mazda3]

Gas mileage is what I expected. CX-7 is rated 22 mpg/city in Canada, which is 18 mpg/city US. I expected to get 18-19 (15-16 US), maybe less if I get heavy footed. EPA ratings are useless. They calculate city mileage at an average speed of 33 km/h (20 mph) and highway gas mileage at an average of 77 km/h(48 mph). Who the hell drives at those speeds? My Mazda's usually get pretty good mileage on the highway, but with my heavy foot around town its hard to expect much. I only get 25-26 (21-22 US) mpg around town in our Mazda 3, its supposed to get 31 city and 41 highway. I knew the mileage would be mediocre at best in the CX-7, its worth it for the smile it puts on my face. Can't wait to drive it in the snow.

[G-Papi]

Maybe I'm just a naturally critical kinda guy. Has anyone compared it to what comparably equipped other manufacturers' vehicles are doing in real life? Maybe I'll look at their forums when I get the time.

[zentrandi]

I dunno, It could be at fuel pump issue? My mom threw a CEL on her new CX-7 and it's being repaired. Plus you should get off the pedal, keep the car in low rpm you can get a good MPG from how i drove my mom's car.

[G-Papi]

I dunno, It could be at fuel pump issue? My mom threw a CEL on her new CX-7 and it's being repaired. Plus you should get off the pedal, keep the car in low rpm you can get a good MPG from how i drove my mom's car.

None of the CEL issues I've seen would affect the mpg. Was hers a fuel pump issue? If so, this would be a new item.

[Mazda3]

Maybe I'm just a naturally critical kinda guy. Has anyone compared it to what comparably equipped other manufacturers' vehicles are doing in real life? Maybe I'll look at their forums when I get the time.

I had a chance to drive a Murano for a weekend last summer. I didn't do any actual calculations, but it seemed like the gas guage dropped like a stone. I was left with the impression that it got FAR less than its rated gas mileage. And I REALLY hated the CVT transmission, I just can't get used to it.

[zentrandi]

None of the CEL issues I've seen would affect the mpg. Was hers a fuel pump issue? If so, this would be a new item.

Her's was a fuel pump issue. so you can add that to a new issue. So many problems with new cars... Her tribute was like that when she first bought it. It, like this one, was the first release, so I would expect a few recalls.

[G-Papi]

Lifted this from one of the threads at NISANMURANO.ORG. Looks like their problems are as bad - or worse.

[1Sleepy93]

I've been seeing around 15mpg in mostly city and spirited driving. Best is 21.x mpg with about 70% freeway.

[Otto]

I'm getting 15 - 16 mpg in all city driving, a/c on all the time. I don't race at every stoplight but I ain't babying it, either. I thought that's pretty low but seeing people get 12-13 mpg puts things into perspective. My Mazda6 V6 got 17-18 mpg city but of course, it was lighter, FWD and had less power.

I've also gotten 19 mpg on a tank of about 25% highway and 75% city driving. The mileage is not great, but then CX-7 is what it is - a 2-ton AWD SUV. Like others said, if you want good mileage, buy a Yaris or something.

[CEW73]

(enguard) Right, I should have bought a Protege, perhaps yours right!!!

That's besides the point, the point is that CX-7 is advertized by Mazda to run 18-20 miles a gallon not 13.

Either way, this is getting old, notting to see here people, lets move on to something else. nate0123 is right, suck it up and drive on.

Point blank: Enjoy your new ride!!! And don't forget to drive it like you stole it!

your right!!! im just gonna mod the fuck out of it now :) can it get ant worse(enguard)

[cx-7heaven]

Hmmm, I'm seeing 20.xxx with 50 miles a day of highway and usually one or two 50 mile trips in the city. I usually get 320ish miles out of a tank 2000 miles on the car.

[Zoom49]

Here's mine. Maybe the AWD saps the mileage?

Got back from our road trip up the California coast on the weekend. These are mostly highway driving with 60 to 78 cruzing speed. Our pace was a comfortable medium drive with no hard acceleration (yet)

Tank # 5 80 highway / 20 city 22.7 MPG
Tank # 6 85 highway / 15 city 24.2 MPG
Tank # 7 80 highway/ 20 city 22.5 MPG 7/06/06
Tank # 8 60 highway/ 40 city 22.3 MPG 7/11/06 2,180 mi
Tank #10 40 highway/ 60 city 21.3 MPG 7/30/06 2,900 mi
Tank #11 40 highway/ 60 city 20.4 MPG 8/05/06 3,270 mi
Tank #12 40 highway/ 60 city 21.8 MPG 8/12/06 3,570 mi

Mine is FWD GT

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Last edited by Zoom49 : 08-12-2006 at 06:16 PM.

[tdf2001]

I have gotten between 18.5 (80% highway) and going as low as 13 with 100% in town driving. I am sitting on the fence waiting how it develops. I can't say that I am too happy with it at this point.

[chasmanz28]

I have gotten between 18.5 (80% highway) and going as low as 13 with 100% in town driving. I am sitting on the fence waiting how it develops. I can't say that I am too happy with it at this point.Im over 20 highway and 16 city, X is a AWD only has around 300 miles on her and i know better mileage to come when she's broken in

[nate0123]

Im over 20 highway and 16 city, X is a AWD only has around 300 miles on her and i know better mileage to comeconsidering you also have two v8 camaros I'm sure you're used to this kind of mileage ;)

[chasmanz28]

considering you also have two v8 camaros I'm sure you're used to this kind of mileage ;) Your right anything close to 20 im happy (ughdance)

[1Sleepy93]

Your right anything close to 20 im happy (ughdance)


BAWHAHAHHAHA (rofl)

[FlipandFunk]

"With 244 horsepower at 5000 rpm, the CX-7 AWD Sport hauled its 3920 pounds to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and on through the quarter-mile in 16.1 seconds at 87 mph. Those are perfectly respectable numbers, but there are some quicker tall wagons out there, such as the Toyota RAV4 (6.3 seconds to 60 mph) and Subaru Forester 2.5XT (5.9). Neither of those can match the CX-7’s 0.84-g skidpad figure (Subaru, 0.75; Toyota, 0.79), though. Consider also that we averaged 14 mpg during testing, well below the EPA’s findings of 18/24 mpg." - Car and Driver

[1Sleepy93]

19.75mpg in all city driving this last tank.

[Mazda3]

"With 244 horsepower at 5000 rpm, the CX-7 AWD Sport hauled its 3920 pounds to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and on through the quarter-mile in 16.1 seconds at 87 mph. Those are perfectly respectable numbers, but there are some quicker tall wagons out there, such as the Toyota RAV4 (6.3 seconds to 60 mph) and Subaru Forester 2.5XT (5.9). Neither of those can match the CX-7’s 0.84-g skidpad figure (Subaru, 0.75; Toyota, 0.79), though. Consider also that we averaged 14 mpg during testing, well below the EPA’s findings of 18/24 mpg." - Car and Driver

C&D has the slowest CX-7 numbers I've seen yet. I have seen numbers as quick as 7.5 and 15.5 for the 1/4.

[Zoombee]

I got 20 mpg on my second tank (40/60 city/hwy), but this last weekend we took it to Tahoe and got 19.5 mpg round trip. I thought that was pretty good considering my husband was taking the mountain turns like a NASCAR roadcourse.

[toucci]

are you guys who get bad mileage staying out of boost? that's usually essential for getting good mileage on a turbo car, but the CX-7 would probably be too slow if you never boosted.

[G-Papi]

You gotta boost to move all the weight.

[1Sleepy93]

Gotta boost to have any fun too.(first)

[zentrandi]

well, if you can pay for the car you can deal with the boost. Thats why we guys with slowteges have the cheapo car that takes them twisties =)

[cruzdreamer]

are you guys who get bad mileage staying out of boost? that's usually essential for getting good mileage on a turbo car, but the CX-7 would probably be too slow if you never boosted.

Nice Protege5....my last car before my RX 8 was the 5 and red just like yours...like what you have done to it! I am a female and when you say "boosted" do you just me mean get it to the point where the turbo kicks in? Is that around 2500 RPM's? Sorry I sound so nieve. Thanks!

[Lord_Zath]

boosting means turbo is kicking in aka spooling up.

So staying out of boost means keeping the rpm's and throttle low so the turbo doesn't start spooling up.

[pluto316]

Nice Protege5....my last car before my RX 8 was the 5 and red just like yours...like what you have done to it! I am a female and when you say "boosted" do you just me mean get it to the point where the turbo kicks in? Is that around 2500 RPM's? Sorry I sound so nieve. Thanks!

What does being a girl have to do with it?

[cruzdreamer]

What does being a girl have to do with it?

We are not always as technically knowledgeable about the cars. I love cars but don't understand all the mechanics about them. I know many guys are in the same boat.

[cruzdreamer]

boosting means turbo is kicking in aka spooling up.

So staying out of boost means keeping the rpm's and throttle low so the turbo doesn't start spooling up.
Thanks for the info...I appreiate it.

[G-Papi]

We are not always as technically knowledgeable about the cars. I love cars but don't understand all the mechanics about them. I know many guys are in the same boat.

More guys than would care to admit it.

[cruzdreamer]

More guys than would care to admit it.

Yes, but why should all men feel that they should know all about the mechanics of cars...a bit of pressure on you guys, huh! I was on another thread and a guy was bashing a guy who didn't know a couple things about cars and I thought he was really being mean! We can love our cars without knowing everything about them.....most of us are not trained mechanics. It's cool to share your knowledge on these forums...it's where I have been learning some things and that is why I ask questions. As the saying goes...."there's never a dumb question". Thanks to all who take the time out to share, people like me appreciate it!! Wendy

[Antonio DiMarco]

(enguard) Right, I should have bought a Protege, perhaps yours right!!!

That's besides the point, the point is that CX-7 is advertized by Mazda to run 18-20 miles a gallon not 13.

Either way, this is getting old, notting to see here people, lets move on to something else. nate0123 is right, suck it up and drive on.

Point blank: Enjoy your new ride!!! And don't forget to drive it like you stole it!


I think you guys are jumping the gun. Both my 5 Sport and 3S got mediocre mileage for the first 12,000 or so miles (23 for the 3S and 20 for the 5). Now my 3S gets 28mpg mixed driving consistently, while the 5 is hovering around 26 mpg mixed consistently.

Mazda cars have traditionally been below average to avergae in terms of mielage, but I consider it more than acceptable given the zoo-zoom factor.

Give the CX-7 a break. And yeah if you cared so much about mileage then maybe you should have purchased a boring Honda fit :)

[pluto316]

We are not always as technically knowledgeable about the cars. I love cars but don't understand all the mechanics about them. I know many guys are in the same boat.

I've known countless ricer men, but only one ricer woman.

[RaiderMP5]

just filled up the cx-7 for the 3rd time. Again, 21 mpg average. And my wife does like to boost!

[Lord_Zath]

Yes, but why should all men feel that they should know all about the mechanics of cars...a bit of pressure on you guys, huh! I was on another thread and a guy was bashing a guy who didn't know a couple things about cars and I thought he was really being mean! We can love our cars without knowing everything about them.....most of us are not trained mechanics. It's cool to share your knowledge on these forums...it's where I have been learning some things and that is why I ask questions. As the saying goes...."there's never a dumb question". Thanks to all who take the time out to share, people like me appreciate it!! Wendy

I was in the same boat when I first started on the forums. Give it a year or two and you'll know learn plenty :). And if someone bashes you, just ignore it.

[Mazda3]

I was in the same boat when I first started on the forums. Give it a year or two and you'll know learn plenty :). And if someone bashes you, just ignore it.

You mean you don't know everything like the rest of us? What the heck is wrong with you?!?! :D

[JayHovah]

Through our first 3 fillups mileage was horrible ~16mpg mostly highway driving. I do have a lead foot so maybe that was part of it but didn't expect it to be that bad. Fourth fillup and its finally creeping up to ~19mpg on a 3-4 hour highway trip. Did it take this long for people to notice an improvement? We're just over 1000 miles now.

[080669]

Through our first 3 fillups mileage was horrible ~16mpg mostly highway driving. I do have a lead foot so maybe that was part of it but didn't expect it to be that bad. Fourth fillup and its finally creeping up to ~19mpg on a 3-4 hour highway trip. Did it take this long for people to notice an improvement? We're just over 1000 miles now.

Based on that, I'm guessing you have an AWD? The FWDs seem to be 2-3 mpg higher.

[capk69]

So far, after about 3k miles and 124 gallons of gas, my average is 18.25 MPG, lowest was 16.17 in mostly city traffic, highest 20.94 almost exclusively highway. I did a test of NO A/C in the same routes as with A/C and was able to squeak out almost an extra 3 MPG out of the car.

13 MPG? Personally, I'd sell my CX-7 INSTANTLY if I got that.

[RaiderMP5]

Compared to a Suburban or other american junk suv's, we are pretty lucky to have the mileage we get, imo.

[G-Papi]

I will not give up my AWD
I will not surrender my turbo
I will not go below 93 octane

I will come here and bitch 'cause I got what I want and it's costing me.

That's the American way.

[cruzdreamer]

Through our first 3 fillups mileage was horrible ~16mpg mostly highway driving. I do have a lead foot so maybe that was part of it but didn't expect it to be that bad. Fourth fillup and its finally creeping up to ~19mpg on a 3-4 hour highway trip. Did it take this long for people to notice an improvement? We're just over 1000 miles now.
JayHovah.....I can't remember how many miles it took for me to get better gas mpg on my 8 but it was awhile......took quite a few months and I remember thinking this better improve or I am giving it back....but mine is a rotary engine. I was at 12 mpg for awhile then 15mpg than 17.5 mpg for the longest time and at 38,200 miles I am getting 19 with my last 4 fill ups!!! Keep us posted I want to purchase one next month so I am interested to see if things improve! Thanks.

[jrpembe]

after my first two fill-ups - here are my CX-7 GT numbers (using 91 octane):

20.3 miles/gallon (~70/30 highway/city)
19.4 miles/gallon (~50/50 highway/city)

[Xenon Expert]

Looking to get a CX-7 also but I have to say that all the houpla about putting a 4 turbo to get the performance of a V6 and great fuel economy has put me off. I don't like the numbers 15mpg that people are getting when you could get a Murano with a V6 that get 19mpg.

Let's just hope that fuel economy improves over time because as of now you don't get the smoothness of a V6 and get about the same fuel economy so Mazda going the 4 cyl turbo direction on that car right now looks kinda bleh except maybe for space under the hood and marketing about the CX-9 getting a V6.

I'll have to wait and see. I love the inside and outside of the car. I hate the fuel economy it's getting.

[cruzdreamer]

Looking to get a CX-7 also but I have to say that all the houpla about putting a 4 turbo to get the performance of a V6 and great fuel economy has put me off. I don't like the numbers 15mpg that people are getting when you could get a Murano with a V6 that get 19mpg.

Let's just hope that fuel economy improves over time because as of now you don't get the smoothness of a V6 and get about the same fuel economy so Mazda going the 4 cyl turbo direction on that car right now looks kinda bleh except maybe for space under the hood and marketing about the CX-9 getting a V6.

I'll have to wait and see. I love the inside and outside of the car. I hate the fuel economy it's getting.

Have you driven the CX 7?? Remember each driver drives it differently and the numbers will vary and I think the MPG will get better as time passes. The Murano I here does not drive as nice and is more expensive and those numbers are estimates too. Drive the CX 7 if you haven't.....kicks butt over a V6!

[1Sleepy93]

I'll take my turbo 4 over a V-6 any day.

[G-Papi]

Yes Sir!!!

[highgrovemanor]

background: just window shopping at the momemt. passenger in RDX test drive, curious to test drive cx-7


In comparing the RDX / CX-7 / Rav4, it seems as though Acura / Mazda have produced almost the exact same product, yet Toyota has faster and more powerful equivelant that gets better mileage? 21 city w/ 4wd, and 22 w/ 2wd?

I applaud Mazda for coming in with the exact same product as Acura but substantially cheaper, and I like the Mazda styling over the Acura (looks like a Mitsubishi to me), and this coming from a Honda fan. If toyota went for sport more than cute, I'd think both mazda and acura would be in trouble, as I'll take faster + 15 hp + 2 or 3 mpg ANY DAY.


So cheer up folks! I would imagine ALL the RDX early adopters are crying the same, but are an EXTRA $6k in the hole. that buys alot of gas at $3/gallon. So think of it this way: you got 34000 miles of free gas compared to the Acura guys. (thumb)

[02589]

removed

[1Sleepy93]

The CX-7 was first the RDX is a copy cat. :p

[FlipandFunk]

I test drove a couple of RAV4s before I got my CX-7. The Toyota is a pig. It's not a small SUV. It's a small minivan. And it's pretty gutless to boot.


haha your nuts, the rav4 has close to 300hp and runs low 6's 0-60. They can smoke a cx7.

[02589]

removed

[Xenon Expert]

Have you driven the CX 7?? Remember each driver drives it differently and the numbers will vary and I think the MPG will get better as time passes. The Murano I here does not drive as nice and is more expensive and those numbers are estimates too. Drive the CX 7 if you haven't.....kicks butt over a V6!

No I haven't tested it yet. I will of course. I love the CX-7 (even saw it at the dealer I pass each day) I'm just a bit dissapointed in the initial mpg reports. As for the murano, true it's more expensive but I always loved its style and the 19 mpg are the average that consumer report found over 6 000 miles + in it.

I really have to test them both in a row and see for myself. Of course the CX-7 has more bang for the buck.

[1Sleepy93]

If you have a heavy foot, they will both get sucky milage.

[chasmanz28]

You gotta love these posts, if gas wasnt so high i doubt this would even be an issue but anyways, you want something good on gas get a VW rabbit (ughdance)

[1Sleepy93]

you want something good on gas get a VW rabbit (ughdance)

BAWHAHAHAHA!

[cruzdreamer]

Why can't we complain about the gas prices being so high and wanting a vehicle that gets decent mileage?? I love this car and wish it got more like 21mpg but I love the car that I will just pay more in the gas dept. It's ok to gripe about the gas prices...at any income level it stinks!!!

[kbrennan]

Keep the rpm's below 2500 and you get great gas mileage. Its sucks to drive at that point, but you can really get sticker mileage out of it if you behave.

We testdrove the 6 cylinder rav4 before we testdrove the CX-7. The comments here are all correct. I honestly they the rav4 had a lil more pickup than the CX-7 and would probably beat it in a straight line. However add any sort of turns into the mixture and the CX-7 completely owns. The rav does handle like a pig.

And the Rav is Fugly to boot.

[slug420]

haha, just saw this thread.....funny that i get the same mileage out of my 5.4 v8....well maybe a little better...and i buy 87.

[hovanec2]

I have had my CX-7 now for about 2 months and have around 4000 miles on it. I'm experiencing around 23-26mpg on average. I dont gun it at every red light, but I dont drive like a grandfather either. I'm getting more than 400 miles per tank too. I guess each driver/cx-7 is different.

[bigfootxx2]

I've had my CX-7 for two and a half months now and i love the way it drives but, I consistently get real bad gas mileage around 12 - 13 miles per gallon. What's the deal? I drive approximately 50-50 city to highway not too heavy footed either. What would cause such low mileage? A/C has been on pretty much all the time, could that be it? I use mobil super 93 octane, could the 93 as opposed to 91 be it? any suggestions would be great. Thanks!
maybe a turbo leak I have averaged 23 mpg over the 3000 miles.(enguard) we have on it this tank of gas we have used the turbocharger ever time we leave the stoplight aint been beat yet!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and seems about the same let you know later by the way I live in Tulsa OK and I love that ac so that car is like a refridgerator.

[bigfootxx2]

No I haven't tested it yet. I will of course. I love the CX-7 (even saw it at the dealer I pass each day) I'm just a bit dissapointed in the initial mpg reports. As for the murano, true it's more expensive but I always loved its style and the 19 mpg are the average that consumer report found over 6 000 miles + in it.

I really have to test them both in a row and see for myself. Of course the CX-7 has more bang for the buck.
well my cx-7 will run between 22-25 mpg

[G-Papi]

Maybe it would be a good idea if you guys tell whether you've got AWD or FWD when you post your numbers, so people will be comparing apples to apples.

[JayHovah]

OK a couple more fillups and ~1800 miles. Gas mileage is still stuck around 16mpg. I am driving an AWD GT 75% highway. I am a sprited driver and have the AC on most of the time. Seems like it should be better by now but I guess my 19mpg tank was because it was 100% highway. Anyone else have bad mileage in the beginning and have it get better after x number of miles with an AWD model?

[CEW73]

iv got a fwd cx and the wierd thing that i notice is that when we fill it up, it taked a good 75 miles or so before the needle moves and then it keeps on trucking down to E (Elvis) faster than a freight train! 50/50 driving, but i dont have a light foot either. i think we tend to flex our muscle a little when were driving because we know it has a "turbo"
Were also seeing about 17mpg or so, but hell its a turbo suv. My mom works for the gas industry and say gas should be around 2.20$ or so in a few months! even though shes got no crystal ball, shes right 98% of the time(shocked) lets hope any way

[chrismulkey25]

We've got the FWD version and first tank came out to 21 mpg. We traded in our 04 RX-8 so we are happy to get that. Plus the stealer told us that if we were to use the lower octane that we would get crappy gas milage, and that we should only use premium to get the numbers posted. Plus, when they test the vehicle to determine the Avg mpg,(Highway and City) do they use Premium as well?

[G-Papi]

Welcome chrismulkey!!!

After about 2K i began to get 21 - 22 mpg on my AWD, with about 70% highway driving. I believe the motors are really tight, and the break-in seems to be a tad longer than the average. I do burn 93 octane, and I'm a so-called "spirited driver".

Yours should level out to be a little better than mine. Have fun!

[ncraig]

I get about 18-19, I have a heavy foot, and I use AC all the time. I have AWD GT, it has been about 2700 miles.

[dhiney]

I've had my CX-7 now for almost 3 weeks and just filled up for the 3rd time.
My mileage is getting better with each tank. The 1st tank I ran the A/C most of the time and since then it's been cool enough not too. Also, I'm trying to drive it civilized. I'v not that impressed with the turbo. It's great for a SUV but I traded-in a BMW 5 series and that was a sports car. Driving probably50-50 highway / city.

1st Tank - 20.4 mpg
2nd Tank - 21.6 mpg
3rd Tank - 23.1 mpg

Add' info
4th Tank - 22.4 mpg
5th Tank - 20.8 mpg
6th Tank - 24.1 mpg

Gas is low here -$2.35 / gal Hi-test - I keep filling up before the half way mark just to get the cheap gas. (last 3 tanks)

[Mamas Ride]

Wife has FWD Sport 50/50 2nd tank 19.7 with me stealing a few high speed runs after work...

[G-Papi]

To get the best gas prices in your area, go here, enter your zip code, and PRESTO!!!

http://autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx?zip=

[Lord_Zath]

wow that's awesome thanks g-papi!

[JayHovah]

Well I guess the combination of turbo, AWD and weight is taking its toll. I just filled up again and nudged up a bit to 16.8mpg. I guess I'm not the only one though so I feel a little better about that. The thing that is killing me is that its worse mileage then my 350Z!!!

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

Well, 13mpg was what is what my RX-8 got at best. This is good information, as I was considering a CX-7. I guess I'll keep my Tribute for a while.

What kind of gas milage are you guys getting on the highway? Also, who has the FWD and who has the AWD?

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

We've got the FWD version and first tank came out to 21 mpg. We traded in our 04 RX-8 so we are happy to get that.
Sounds like us. We traded our 04 RX-8 on the Tribute.
Plus the stealer
(lol)
Plus, when they test the vehicle to determine the Avg mpg,(Highway and City) do they use Premium as well?
Good question.

[JayHovah]

Well, 13mpg was what is what my RX-8 got at best. This is good information, as I was considering a CX-7. I guess I'll keep my Tribute for a while.

What kind of gas milage are you guys getting on the highway? Also, who has the FWD and who has the AWD?

The RX-8 is a whole different story and you can't compare them apples to apples. Different engine and drivetrain completely. Anyway I would not hesitate to trade the Tribute for the CX-7. No offense but I've driven both and there is no comparison. One is a rebadged Ford and the other drives like a well handling sedan. Ride quality, handling, fit and finish and feature content will be a level above the Tribute. On a recent highway trip I got up to 19mpg, but with mixed driving I'm back down in the 16's.

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

The RX-8 is a whole different story and you can't compare them apples to apples. Different engine and drivetrain completely.
(lol)...I'm not new to this game.
Apologies if my comment was mistaken for my comparing the two. It was simply a statement meant to convey that I dislike poor gas milage with minimal benefit. For example: my RX-8 got high 15s at the track, 13mpg, and cost me $32,000. My stock 120,000 mile old miata gets low 16s at the same track, 20mpg, and cost me $17,000. That is a close comparison in that they are in the same genre; hence my decision to make the miata my toy.

Of course the RX-8 was much better on the autocross track, but I am sure I could make the miata handle just as well if not better if I put that extra $13K into it. ;)

Anyway I would not hesitate to trade the Tribute for the CX-7. No offense but I've driven both and there is no comparison. One is a rebadged Ford and the other drives like a well handling sedan. Ride quality, handling, fit and finish and feature content will be a level above the Tribute. On a recent highway trip I got up to 19mpg, but with mixed driving I'm back down in the 16's.
Other than the Tribute's gas milage, I would expect the CX-7 to be far superior and look forward to it if I do get one. The only other car I am considering instead is a Mazdaspeed 3. I could probably fit just as much stuff in the hatch area of a 3 as the CX-7.
We shall see...

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

C&D has the slowest CX-7 numbers I've seen yet. I have seen numbers as quick as 7.5 and 15.5 for the 1/4.
Is it the slowest numbers or the slowest drivers? ;)

[nate0123]

My stock 120,000 mile old miata gets low 16s at the same track, 20mpg, and cost me $17,000.your miata only gets 20 mpg?

[JayHovah]

(lol)...I'm not new to this game.
Apologies if my comment was mistaken for my comparing the two. It was simply a statement meant to convey that I dislike poor gas milage with minimal benefit. For example: my RX-8 got high 15s at the track, 13mpg, and cost me $32,000. My stock 120,000 mile old miata gets low 16s at the same track, 20mpg, and cost me $17,000. That is a close comparison in that they are in the same genre; hence my decision to make the miata my toy.


Didn't mean to disrespect you in any way but sounded like you were comparing the two. My 350Z gets about 9-10mpg at the track (mostly NHIS, its a tight road course) and 21mpg in mixed driving. A full second at the dragstrip is harder to comeby then you might think. Can't go wrong with either though, both fun cars. I think the issue with the RX-8 is that the new Wankel is still not ready for prime time yet ;) I've heard a lot of complaints about horrible gas mileage with the rotary.

As for CX-7 vs. Speed3, thats a tough one. The CX-7 is actually my girlfriend's but I drive it all the time. I am considering a Speed3 as well maybe next spring. You have to ask yourself if you need the AWD and comfy space for passengers because the 3 won't really have that for adults on a long trip. Also you will have more overall cargo room with the CX-7 (seats folded down etc). Being a sports car enthusiast I can say that the CX-7 is the best handling crossover/SUV I have driven (haven't driven an Infiniti FX or Ceyenne yet). And you can't beat the price. I wouldn't worry too much about the gas mileage. The Speed3 isn't going to be that much better with a 250+ hp turbo. It's all you see in the news nowadays so I can understand though...

[JayHovah]

Is it the slowest numbers or the slowest drivers? ;)

Ah thus the beaty of having the same driver test all your cars :)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Stig

[nate0123]

I wouldn't worry too much about the gas mileage. It's all you see in the news nowadays so I can understand though...(poke)

lower gas mileage = more $$$

some people do actually need to think about money

[JayHovah]

(poke)

lower gas mileage = more $$$

some people do actually need to think about money

Wasn't implying not to worry about it. More so that the CX-7 isn't going too be much worse then a Speed3 or a Tribute. To me a couple mpg difference is worth driving a car I will enjoy everyday especially if we're talking spending $25-35k. Just my 2 cents.

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

your miata only gets 20 mpg?
you have no idea how I drive! ;) My little booger sees redline at almost every shift. Think of it as my "testing" the engine's durability for other's information. Happy to oblige! :D

That's city driving milage at worst. Highway only gas milage (such as what I get on road trips) is 28-30.

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

Didn't mean to disrespect you in any way but sounded like you were comparing the two.
np. I was hoping you weren't going to be the typical "you girl...me man...me know more than you about cars" neanderthal. :D
A full second at the dragstrip is harder to comeby then you might think.
I bet a turbo BP would get loads better milage though! ;)
Can't go wrong with either though, both fun cars. I think the issue with the RX-8 is that the new Wankel is still not ready for prime time yet ;)
Oh yes you can and you're right; check out why I got rid of my RX-8:
The post: http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showpost.php?p=1985541&postcount=59
The rest of the thread: http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=104126
This car only saw track time once at the autocross and once at the drag strip.

I don't feel the least bit sorry for getting rid of it. I am dissapointed that Mazda has chosen to NOT include the customer survey information from RX-8 owners. Facists...

[JayHovah]

np. I was hoping you weren't going to be the typical "you girl...me man...me know more than you about cars" neanderthal. :D



Honestly, I didn't notice your screen name until after I posted :)

Damn Judging from your threads sounds like I would have broken that thing in a week the way I drive!!! (omg)

[1Sleepy93]

Wow, your RX-8 was a piece of crap. (headshake

[wongster]

man since i picked up my car thursday August 21st, i have driven 1800 kms (1080miles).. for every fill up i get about 450-500 kms(270 - 300 miles). I think thats the right conversation.. times by .6 right?..

[1Sleepy93]

23mpg is my most recent tankful with 90-95% freeway.

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

Honestly, I didn't notice your screen name until after I posted :)
It's no big deal. :)

Damn Judging from your threads sounds like I would have broken that thing in a week the way I drive!!! (omg)
Tell me about it; I babied her too.

[Mazdaspeedgirl]

Wow, your RX-8 was a piece of crap. (headshake
They all are around here. I think it may be the heat. I used to work for the service department at our local dealership. None escaped the 10,000 mile range without some major problem, most with multiple problems.

[cruzdreamer]

They all are around here. I think it may be the heat. I used to work for the service department at our local dealership. None escaped the 10,000 mile range without some major problem, most with multiple problems.

I still have my RX 8....it's been ok. I have the automatic and I am now getting 19 mpg city after 35,000 miles! I have had a few ECU flashes, plugs switched out, brake squeaks fixed and from time to time she idles a little rough. The car loves temps around 70-75F. Right now she's running like a dream....The rotary does not like the cold...in the beginning she bucks and hesitates a little till she's warmed up, then it's fine. I just feel she's under powered and twice I had some power loss as I was turning but that's it in the three years. Tough trying to sell it and now I hear they are gonna do some testing on all of them...a recall of sorts for the engine......some may get new ones.. Today I received a notice about them extending the powertrain warranty for free. Geez, I am gonna lose some bucks when I trade it...I doubt I will be able to sell her to a private party. 4 calls no one looked in just over a month. Why can't they put the 4 cyc. turbo engine in the 8??? It is one of the most beautiful cars on the road...it's a shame!! They just need to get some kinks out of the Wankel....I think they are almost there!! Still waiting on my investment property to sell and than I will hopefully get my 7....or 5??? Preferably the CX7!!!

[1Sleepy93]

I had high hopes for the new rotory but it seems they still need some more R&D put into it.

[Antonio DiMarco]

I still have my RX 8....it's been ok. I have the automatic and I am now getting 19 mpg city after 35,000 miles! I have had a few ECU flashes, plugs switched out, brake squeaks fixed and from time to time she idles a little rough. The car loves temps around 70-75F. Right now she's running like a dream....The rotary does not like the cold...in the beginning she bucks and hesitates a little till she's warmed up, then it's fine. I just feel she's under powered and twice I had some power loss as I was turning but that's it in the three years. Tough trying to sell it and now I hear they are gonna do some testing on all of them...a recall of sorts for the engine......some may get new ones.. Today I received a notice about them extending the powertrain warranty for free. Geez, I am gonna lose some bucks when I trade it...I doubt I will be able to sell her to a private party. 4 calls no one looked in just over a month. Why can't they put the 4 cyc. turbo engine in the 8??? It is one of the most beautiful cars on the road...it's a shame!! They just need to get some kinks out of the Wankel....I think they are almost there!! Still waiting on my investment property to sell and than I will hopefully get my 7....or 5??? Preferably the CX7!!!

At least it sounds like they're fixing the problems. Everything has issues but there are some manufcturers who turn a blind eye to the customer when things get hairy.

I look at the RX8 and Rotary as more exotic anyway, so having a few headaches would be acceptable to me. Hey some manufacturers still have problems with the run of the mill engines. By comparison the Rotary is cutting edge technology.

[bigfootxx2]

Well i don't understand how ours gets about 25 mpg about 23 if you do tires squealing starts at the light all the time. Other forums the same 24-26 mpg. You guys are 12-13 mpg. if my cx-7 drops too 20 mpg the shop is going to be checking it out.

[THOUGHT OUT]

My first fill up and I got 14.5 MPG AWD.(shocked)

Mazda filled the tank at purchase so maybe the top off and the use of 87 octane is to contribute. Also, this was the first couple of weeks with the car (what ever is is called) and a lot playing with things (while it was running) being new could also be contributing to this as well. It was my vacation week so I would say my miles were 30% highway. Let's hope the MPG improves with the 93 oct.

P.S. I love this new SUV, Car, sport wagon, space buggy thing.:)

[zentrandi]

you should stick to 91 and above octain on the cx-7

[G-Papi]

you should stick to 91 and above octain on the cx-7
Ditto thar!!
btw ~ how long did you sit in the driveway and play with it?

[THOUGHT OUT]

Ditto thar!!
btw ~ how long did you sit in the driveway and play with it?

"Yes, I played with it" (insert joke here) (open mouth, insert foot ~ I know)

Honestly, I would say no longer than a a couple of long traffic jams (less than an hour). But even an hour traveling at highway speed it should only burn 3-4 gallons which does not calculate to a loss of 12 mpg on a full tank of gas!

From here on: No more playing with it!, 91-93 octane, and 50% highway. I hope to get 18 MPG.

Funny story: I had a Dog (Dodge) Dakota with a V8 and the average MPG was 12.5. I convience my wife that we (I) would save $75-$100 a month in fuel cost with the CX-7 purchase (lease). Needless to say I am eating crow this week.

[zentrandi]

Ditto thar!!
btw ~ how long did you sit in the driveway and play with it?

i actually drove with it to dallas last weekend and it was a blast

[cruzdreamer]

At least it sounds like they're fixing the problems. Everything has issues but there are some manufcturers who turn a blind eye to the customer when things get hairy.

I look at the RX8 and Rotary as more exotic anyway, so having a few headaches would be acceptable to me. Hey some manufacturers still have problems with the run of the mill engines. By comparison the Rotary is cutting edge technology.

Yea, I am pretty happy with Mazda overall.....the bugs don't deter me from Mazda's although my husband it does somewhat! Despite it's quirks I love the car! The rotary is unique and it takes a unique person I think to buy it and not mind the quirks!! All cars have issues no doubt....as long as they fix them at no charge it's tolerable with me! I am hooked on the looks and performance of these Zoom, Zoom cars!!! Enjoy your Mazda's everyone!

[jjardine]

I bought an Ice Blue CX-7 last monday and drove it on a trip to Las Vegas wednesday. I live 450 miles from Vegas. While there I stayed about 15 miles from downtown, each day I had to drive in and out of vegas twice so I was putting on about 70-80 miles of city driving a day. I was there for 4 days so I got a pretty good sampling for what the city gas mileage was. I got 22 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. After ready this forum, I was pretty happy with that. I had no idea and was never told at the dealer that I needed to use premium fuel, so I have been using just plain regular gas. I haven't noticed any issues and the car has run great. I guess I should read the manual.

[zentrandi]

I bought an Ice Blue CX-7 last monday and drove it on a trip to Las Vegas wednesday. I live 450 miles from Vegas. While there I stayed about 15 miles from downtown, each day I had to drive in and out of vegas twice so I was putting on about 70-80 miles of city driving a day. I was there for 4 days so I got a pretty good sampling for what the city gas mileage was. I got 22 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. After ready this forum, I was pretty happy with that. I had no idea and was never told at the dealer that I needed to use premium fuel, so I have been using just plain regular gas. I haven't noticed any issues and the car has run great. I guess I should read the manual.

SOunds good, we were gonna get an Icy blue but my mom backed out it was only a Sport and she wanted the GT so we went with the silver. It's nice, and im happy with it.

PS welcome to the forums.

[cruzdreamer]

I bought an Ice Blue CX-7 last monday and drove it on a trip to Las Vegas wednesday. I live 450 miles from Vegas. While there I stayed about 15 miles from downtown, each day I had to drive in and out of vegas twice so I was putting on about 70-80 miles of city driving a day. I was there for 4 days so I got a pretty good sampling for what the city gas mileage was. I got 22 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. After ready this forum, I was pretty happy with that. I had no idea and was never told at the dealer that I needed to use premium fuel, so I have been using just plain regular gas. I haven't noticed any issues and the car has run great. I guess I should read the manual.

Hmmm....that could do some damage over the long run. Give the manual a read or go to the mazdaspeed 6 forum and see what they say...they have a turbo engine. Enjoy your car and happy to see you getting 22 city!!!!

[THOUGHT OUT]

After filling up the 2nd tank of this great vehicle with half 87 and the other half 93 octane. Yup that is right, I made the mistake of grabbing the 87, all the years in my guzzling trucks I never thought about it. So half way threw I remember that WE ARE SUPPOSED TO USE 91! I stopped the pump and continued with 93. So what does that equal? half 87 and half 93 = 90 close enough to 91 this time. Well my my last fill up was 93 and I am happier to report 16.75 MPG (14.xx on first tank) and this was about 30% highway (65mph).

Talk to you in a week or so...

[afrost59]

Okay so I shouldn't add to this B*&^% list however, I have filled up 2x's now and calculated at 14.48 miles/gallon, 1/2 highway.
Not happy at all with that. I think this should be brought to Mazda's attention, or do they really give a s#$%? I forked out the money for this and I LOVE IT! I am having so much fun, but I also thought 18 was terrible for city driving but I swallowed it and figured I could live with it. I didn't sign up for 14 mpg. Very dissapointed.
I can afford it! I just didn't expect it.

[1Sleepy93]

I'm averaging around 20mpg mostly city driving now with 3200mi on the clock.

[G-Papi]

I'm averaging around 20mpg mostly city driving now with 3200mi on the clock. about the same here. I'm at 5600 mi.

[singlemalt_18]

Okay so I shouldn't add to this B*&^% list however, I have filled up 2x's now and calculated at 14.48 miles/gallon, 1/2 highway.
Not happy at all with that. I think this should be brought to Mazda's attention, or do they really give a s#$%? ... I didn't sign up for 14 mpg. Very dissapointed. I can afford it! I just didn't expect it.

I'm not sure what may be at issue here... Obviously, different driving styles & habits have an impact, but I think something else could be contributing to the sizeable variations in the mpg numbers some owners are experiencing???

I will be filling up for the 4th time tomorrow, and I believe I will be right on the high end of my 3-tank average of 19 mpg. I have been driving a mix of city/highway, AC on/off, and I have been a bit more aggressive than usual with acceleration at times to run thru the RPM band in my first 1500 miles.

On a percentage basis, the difference between 18-19 mpg, and 14 or less seems rather significant for what are essentially identical vehicles?

[cruzdreamer]

I will be filling it up for the first time myself in about two days, so I will post my numbers for that. It appears it may be getting 20-21mpg city. Stay tuned. Hey Mazdaspeed girl...the CX7 to me is the only car that would be the best transition for an RX 8 if you need the space. I am extremely happy with it...had it only 4 days now. I feel it drives better than my 8...except for the turning ratio and that is because it's a different type of vehicle and heavier. It feels so comfortable to drive and it's a great feeling to zoom past someone...in my automatic 8 it would hesitate big time so I did not have the confidence always to go ahead and zoom around and pass someone...the CX 7 has no problem...smooth and fast!!! Gas mileage will be better than the rotary!!!!! Already is!! Miata is a fun car!! As far as the RAV 4 it is just so blah in looks......no sportiness, fun factor. It's a good car and maybe a little faster off the line but no comparison from there on out!! Sounds like the AWD's are just getting a little worse gas mileage. Sorry to hear that but I think there's hope...let her break in some more!! Enjoy your rides everyone!

[CX7_Scott]

YIKES! I thought for SURE that I'd be getting better gas mileage than this... did my first calculation yesterday and it was 18.7mpg.

Not too impressed. I mean... I'm not a jack-rabbit driver. Slow, easy starts for me. I don't do a lot of passing on the highway... using the 91-octane... I expected better than being below 19mpg.

Will try again, but was expecting at LEAST 20-22 since 95% of my driving is highway for long periods.

bummer.

-scott

[cruzdreamer]

My first tank was at 20.6 mpg city. Just average driving not too much of a lead foot. Trying to let her break in a bit. Not too bad as I was expecting around the 18-19 mpg mark.

[swank_x]

You all may not believe this, but I just got 27mpg for 90% highway driving (I currently have about 1000 miles on the CX-7).

[CX7_Scott]

jerk.

;)

[swank_x]

jerk.

;)

:)

I'm not holding my breath that it will continue to be so high....but I'm sure hoping!!

[THOUGHT OUT]

Well I filled before a long trip and I report 15 MPG.....approx. 30% highway

Went on a long trip in the HILLS of upstate NY AVG speed 70MPH and got 22MPG (99% highway)

I wonder what Flat Highways at 55MPH does for mileage? anyone from out west?

ALL WHEEL DRIVE TOO!

[1Sleepy93]

Well I filled before a long trip and I report 15 MPG.....approx. 30% highway

Went on a long trip in the HILLS of upstate NY AVG speed 70MPH and got 22MPG (99% highway)

I wonder what Flat Highways at 55MPH does for mileage? anyone from out west?

ALL WHEEL DRIVE TOO!

I doubt you'll get anyone to drive 55mph just to find the milage.

[afrost59]

Update, I just got 17.440 on my last tank. I stopped using the remote start and went up from 14.40 so I guess it was my own fault. Now I have the honor of having the check engine light on... I will be dealing with that now, tempted to just ignore it till I need to go in for service on a maint. schedule.

[cruzdreamer]

Update, I just got 17.440 on my last tank. I stopped using the remote start and went up from 14.40 so I guess it was my own fault. Now I have the honor of having the check engine light on... I will be dealing with that now, tempted to just ignore it till I need to go in for service on a maint. schedule.
It probably will go off after a few days if it is just your gas cap. Just be sure it's tight. If she's running fine than it's probably just that.

[Hasplode]

I'm averaging just under 22 MPG (about 90% highway) after 3500 miles.

[G-Papi]

I'm averaging just under 22 MPG (about 90% highway) after 3500 miles.

For majority hwy driving that sounds about right.

[jmhumr]

I've had my car about three weeks and here are my results:

First tank: 17.8 MPG (278.9 mi)
Second tank: 19.8 MPG (312.5 mi)

I think the key to good gas mileage is not popping the turbo. The mileage should continue to improve for several thousand miles, so I'm very pleased with it so far. I know other small SUV owners who are getting much worse at the beginning of their vehicle's life. :)

[RaiderMP5]

3300 miles on the car. First oil change since purchace with 800 miles on it. 6 quarts of Mobil1 full synthetic, replaced oil filter cartridge. First fill up 230 miles later with 9.8 gallons, 23 MPG basically, with Shell 93 octane. driving 50/50 city and freeway,

[02589]

removed

[RaiderMP5]

and stickers are like 10 horsepower!! ;) I was shocked at fillup, trust me. Hope it remains up there, too.

[02589]

removed

[RaiderMP5]

Sweet.

[THOUGHT OUT]

Another fill up of 93 octane in the CX-7 AWD, 50-60% highway 18.05 MPG.

[1Sleepy93]

Another fill up of 93 octane in the CX-7 AWD, 50-60% highway 18.05 MPG.

Drive the crap out of it this tank. You'll get crappy milage but it will help to loosen the motor up. Also it's a hoot to do. :D

[JayHovah]

Hi All,
Haven't posted for a while but now we're up to 3500 miles. We have a GT AWD and we are still getting around 16mpg with aprox 2/3 highway driving! :( We do drive spiritedly.

Has anyone actually brought this up to Mazda? I have heard of other manufacturers offering ECU flashes to cure various problems in this area.

Thanks.

[G-Papi]

I doubt whether Mazda cares. They know what their cars do. And besides, they sell.

[Antonio DiMarco]

Hi All,
Haven't posted for a while but now we're up to 3500 miles. We have a GT AWD and we are still getting around 16mpg with aprox 2/3 highway driving! :( We do drive spiritedly.

Has anyone actually brought this up to Mazda? I have heard of other manufacturers offering ECU flashes to cure various problems in this area.

Thanks.

If you drive spiritedly then it's to be expected. Hey both my 5 and 3 are normally aspirated engines and they also guzzle gas when I drive spiritedly (highway or city). I've seen my 3 and 5 drop to 20mpg in mixed driving, but have also seen them get 30+ when I drive at 65 on the hwy.

These fuel economy discussions are getting old. Listen, you got an SUV with a turbocharged engine that makes a lot of low-end torque. What do you expect? I'll say it again, if you want a car that is consistently fuel efficient then get a Honda that makes all it's power at 6 million RPM. There's a reason why Honda's are more fuel efficient, it's because most people don't rev the hell out of them. They stay in the low RPM region that does not create a lot of power and therfore does not consume much gas.

G-Papi, it maybe a side-effect of e-discussion, but it sounds like you are constantly accusing Mazda about "not caring"- whether it be for fuel economy or crash worthiness (seats). Am I wrong or do you have a bone to pick? :)

[CX7_Scott]

I remember being shocked when gas jumped-up to 45¢ per gallon... I was too-young to drive, but I remember it. I think the lowest I recall is 25¢ p/g.

And back then, one guy filled the tank and two other guys came-out... one checked fluids and the other cleaned the glass.

I'm not even 40yo and I remember that.

I wouldn't have guessed gas costing OVER 10x that amount. :)

In High School... $8 filled my tank.

[G-Papi]

G-Papi, it maybe a side-effect of e-discussion, but it sounds like you are constantly accusing Mazda about "not caring"- whether it be for fuel economy or crash worthiness (seats). Am I wrong or do you have a bone to pick? :)
Not a bone to pick; just an intelligent curiosity and concern, coupled with a realistic understanding of corporate mentality. Whether it be auto manufacture, or oil production, the corporate mentality (rightly) places profits as the bottom line indicator of corporate success.

I'll probably never know why the gentleman's rails that support his seats in a $30k automobile failed in a minimal impact rear-end collision, but I've got the right to want to know, and as an owner whose family rides in those same type seats, I'm legitemate in having a concern, and I believe I adequately addressed that legitemacy in the other thread.

Find a graph that shows the oil company profits for the past six years. These are dollars that, prior to being in the profit column for BP, Exxon, and the rest, were in the consumers' pockets that have been transferred. Does this transfer of dollars from consumer to producer ease the instability of the middle east? Does it solve the political problems with OPEC? Does it sweeten the taste in peoples' mouth over Chavez? (btw~ Chavez does what he feels is best for Venezuela and Chavez, much as Bush does what he feels is best fot the U.S. and Bush, we hope.) Does it reduce the likelihood of catastrophic natural events that impar oil production and/or distribution? I tend to doubt it. Would it have built several new refineries? Are they being built? (not to my knowledge) Where's the money gone? ( your guess is as good as mine.)

Mazda has made a great car in the CX-7. I'd probably buy the same type vehicle as I did, given the same circumstances. Mazda is successful in this endeavor. They're apparently selling like hotcakes (maybe better, since I haven't checked hot cake sales lately).

In these regards the oil and auto CEO's and Boards have been faithful to their callings. They've made profits for their owners. That's their job.

Now, to the question at prompted my response about whether or not Mazda cares that your and my CX-7 gets at best, low 20's in mpg.

I challenge anyone with the time to waste, to approach Mazda and ask them to find a "fix" for this mpg issue. Document the contacts you make as well as the progress you make in resolving this matter. I'd be interested to know your scientifically reached conclusion as to whether Mazda cares that the CX-7. as configured, gets the mpg that it does.

Ironically, the best you could ever hope for would be something like, "This will be addressed in our 2008, or 2009 model lineup, with a new configuration that burns less, or a lower octane fuel." - Translation = "Wait 'till next year, and buy a new one."

No bone to pick - they're just doing their job(s), whether my issues are addressed, or not. It's the corporate way.

[pdfh]

(enguard) Right, I should have bought a Protege, perhaps yours right!!!

That's besides the point, the point is that CX-7 is advertized by Mazda to run 18-20 miles a gallon not 13.

Either way, this is getting old, notting to see here people, lets move on to something else. nate0123 is right, suck it up and drive on.

Point blank: Enjoy your new ride!!! And don't forget to drive it like you stole it!

(first) All, I understand there was a plug problem with the first cx-7's. Dealers have a different plug that radically improves mileage. I have a new cx-7 with 961 miles. First tankful was 20 mpg w/ mixed driving. I have over 300 miles on this tankful with the gauge at 3/8's full. Good luck!

[jrpembe]

Here are my first 8 readings so far (US miles/gallon):

23.0
20.3
19.4
22.6
20.9
19.5
20.6
17.0

Have to say I'm kind of disappointed with that last one. I do mostly city driving but still, anything below 20 is a disappointment in my books. Hopefully its just an anomaly. I can always tell when its going to be a bad one when I get to half a tank and haven't even hit 300km.

[cruzdreamer]

The range on the sticker is because of different circumstances....driver,driving conditions, weight etc......Yes, I'd hate to get that lower number and would want to figure out why, but we all knew what we were getting into. It's a turbo engine and a heavier vehicle. Luckily, I am getting and average of 20.4 mpg city and I am happy with that since I figured I'd get around 18 mpg. Hopefully one day we can have a turbo. great handling and size and get great mpg! Right now I think 20mpg is decent. my RX 8 got 12 mpg initially(I was mad), then 15 and then 17.5 mpg for over a year and than finally got 18 and then 19mpg my last 4 tanks I filled. Had the car almost 3 years. I think the AWD gets the lesser gas mileage consistently. It's rated at 18 and if you are getting 16 mpg and you drive spiritedly than 16 mpg seems about right. Enjoy but go easy too and it will get better!! Good luck!

[THOUGHT OUT]

Another fill up of 93 octane in the CX-7 AWD, 50-60% highway 18.05 MPG.

Another fill up of 93 octane ($2.45 keep dropping!) 30% highway 15.4 MPG.http://www.msprotege.com/vbb225/ubb/icons/icon13.gif

[G-Papi]

Another fill up of 93 octane ($2.45 keep dropping!) 30% highway 15.4 MPG.http://www.msprotege.com/vbb225/ubb/icons/icon13.gif
93 octane is about $2.22 here.

[motopilot]

Another fill up of 93 octane ($2.45 keep dropping!) 30% highway 15.4 MPG.http://www.msprotege.com/vbb225/ubb/icons/icon13.gif

We only have 1002 miles on ours (and 2 months old) but we are getting 21mpg on each tank so far with about 60% highway driving. I find that in the city driving you just have to be easy with the turbo and not get too heavy footed. Even though we do not have a lot of miles on her yet, we love the car!

[G-Papi]

Another fill up of 93 octane ($2.45 keep dropping!) 30% highway 15.4 MPG.http://www.msprotege.com/vbb225/ubb/icons/icon13.gif

You'll do far better with an increased highway mileage percentage. When it's all said and done, you'll average out around 20 mpg.

[JayHovah]

If you drive spiritedly then it's to be expected. Hey both my 5 and 3 are normally aspirated engines and they also guzzle gas when I drive spiritedly (highway or city). I've seen my 3 and 5 drop to 20mpg in mixed driving, but have also seen them get 30+ when I drive at 65 on the hwy.

These fuel economy discussions are getting old. Listen, you got an SUV with a turbocharged engine that makes a lot of low-end torque. What do you expect? I'll say it again, if you want a car that is consistently fuel efficient then get a Honda that makes all it's power at 6 million RPM. There's a reason why Honda's are more fuel efficient, it's because most people don't rev the hell out of them. They stay in the low RPM region that does not create a lot of power and therfore does not consume much gas.


Well to put it another way I also own a 350Z which I drive more then spiritedly and am averaging 21-22mpg on the same route to work. So go figure. They also both have a 6th gear for highway cruising. I think part of the questioning of these facts is that some people are getting such widely different numbers. When driving the Z at the track I average 8-10mpg. Driving the CX-7 a little faster then is needed shouldn't cause this much variation in mileage. The CX-7 is not that heavy but yes I do realize its a turbo AWD vehicle. Just my 2 cents...

[mikey1981]

All i know is this

If you use the AC more frequently rather than less frequently
If you accelerate more moderately than conservetively
If you hammer the accelerator on the highway

you will burn more gas. driving conservatively saves mpg - if you want to drive liek a grandmother you should have bought a different car. The CX has a mission, that should have been apparent when you bought a car with a turbo that squirts something like 15psi and 268 torgue. If you think its burning more gas, well, IT IS!

You do not buy this car and then expect CRV-like mpg ratings. Its not possible and i think its being unfair

[xavier]

All i know is this

If you use the AC more frequently rather than less frequently
If you accelerate more moderately than conservetively
If you hammer the accelerator on the highway

you will burn more gas. driving conservatively saves mpg - if you want to drive liek a grandmother you should have bought a different car. The CX has a mission, that should have been apparent when you bought a car with a turbo that squirts something like 15psi and 268 torgue. If you think its burning more gas, well, IT IS!

You do not buy this car and then expect CRV-like mpg ratings. Its not possible and i think its being unfair

I agree with you to an extent. I purchased the cx7 with the mindset of "I want a sporty car with ample power, good handling, quiet cabin, nice features, and enough room for the family". The cx7 delivers in all categories. I dont know what gas mileage I am getting nor do I really care. All I care about is the drive and I must say that drive is satisfying.

On the other hand, Mazda printed something like 18 city and 24 hwy mpg (someone keep me honest). If they print/advertise those numbers I feel they better be close or spot on the mark as they developed the vehicle and had ample time to test it to achieve what they felt are fair real-world numbers.

In conclusion, I would have still purchased if it said 14 city and 19 hwy... I was sold on the drive!

[mikey1981]

I really and truly think 18/24 is accurate, if you are driving as conservatively as possible. Those ratings have been reached by almost everyone. The lower 14's 15's i would like tothink lends itself towards driving style & AC use. I filled up tonite but i emptied my tank much quicker driving it really hard the last 3 days. The engine does react pretty harshly to hard driving/MPG. Quick accell spurts and hard highway merges really make the gas evaporate

[CX7nCali]

I drive 70-80 percent highway, and after 4 tanks, they all averaged 18 mpg from 17.7 to 18.2 and this sucks!

[Mazda3]

I get 17-18 MPG consistently with 90% city driving and a heavy foot. I got only 16 on the last tank, but that was because we had 2 blizzards last week.

[Otto]

The EPA estimates on the window sticker are just that - estimates. They are obtained, I would assume, using some standardized test and are more useful in comparing between vehicles, rather than absolute guide to mpg.

I was a bit disappointed at first but really, if your want a 2-ton vehicle (in my case with AWD) that moves at least reasonably swiftly, it's gonna get 15-18mpg in the city no matter what the sticker says. One solution would be a diesel engine, but that option is just not available in the U.S. so it's a moot point for now. Petrol engines, be it a 4-cyl with turbo or a large displacement V6/V8, are fun but you gotta pay to play ;)

I got over 23mpg on an all-highway trip, fully loaded with 4 people + luggage. I usually get ~16-16.5 mpg in mostly city driving. FWIW - over time, I think these figures will improve as the engine breaks in. Just don't expect miracles and try not to floor it every chance you get. Must resist the turbo temptation :D

[1Sleepy93]

Must resist the turbo temptation :D

Resistance is futile! (drive2)

[xavier]

Resistance is futile! (drive2)
So true. That may be the reason I dont get to drive the cx7 nearly as much as I want too. My right foot is just too heavy!

[Renesis8]

Cant really compare a Turbo motor to a NA one in terms of gas mileage. Off boost, yes, it'll get decent mileage, but the turbo spools early, at 2500rpm, so you REALLY have to drive slow. When it hits peak boost at 15psi, it gets double the air a normal 2.3L would, not to mention the rpms would be pretty high. so when ur on full boost all the time, please expect really bad mileage. And the CX-7 is near 4000pounds. Its a SUV, not a sports car that weights 3000lbs.

[mixmasterlove]

I just did the math on a 1/4 tank and I am getting like 9-10 miles per gallon (AWD model), should I go to the dealer for a update OR flash ???

[sephiroth]

I just did the math on a 1/4 tank and I am getting like 9-10 miles per gallon (AWD model), should I go to the dealer for a update OR flash ???
deduct 2-3 gallons from your total fuel capacity. That's usualy the amount that's remaining in the tank even though the needle rests on E. For example, even though I have a 13.2gallon tank, when I hit the 1/2 mark I've only used about 5.6gallons.

[mixmasterlove]

deduct 2-3 gallons from your total fuel capacity. That's usualy the amount that's remaining in the tank even though the needle rests on E. For example, even though I have a 13.2gallon tank, when I hit the 1/2 mark I've only used about 5.6gallons.
I measured from 1/2----1/4 tank. I don't know which steps to take.

[Otto]

I measured from 1/2----1/4 tank. I don't know which steps to take.
The markings are irrelevant and inaccurate - it does not show 1/2, 1/4 atc accuirately. The only reasonably reliable way to measure mpg is to get a full tank of gas, reset trip computer, use up most of tank, refill tank (preferably at the same pump) and calculate mileage.

On edit: By calculate the mileage, I of course mean divide the number of miles driven between the fillups by gallons pumped at the pump. Just wanted to clarify.

[mixmasterlove]

I did a FULL tank---down to a 1/4 tank and got 235 miles on 3/4 of a tank =ing about 17.41 mpg is this good?? I have a AWD GT

[CXRabbit]

The only way to accurately calculate mileage:

Fill you tank. Reset the trip odometer.
Drive.
When you get down to 1/4 of a tank go to the gas station and fill up. Look at the gas pump and write down how many gallons the car took. Then look at your trip odometer (while still at the gas station) and write down how many miles you drove (then reset trip odometer for next time). Divides miles driven by gallons used.

Any other way is just flat-out wrong. You cannot rely on the markings for 3/4, 1/2 and 1/4 of a tank, or getting down to when you fuel light comes on. If you want to do it accurately, the above method is the only way to do it. Anyone estimating how much is in their tank and using the "guessing" method is calculating wrong and not giving an accurate picture of the MPG this car is getting -- and it's also way too easy to WANT to estimate high.

I also uploaded a spread sheet for anyone who wants to track...
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123653975

[offset_98]

So far I've been tracking my mileage...Tank 1: 19.1 MPG Tank 2: 19.6 MPG Tank 3: 21.6 MPG and a top off (1/2 tank) today: 23.4 MPG. I'm now at 1,080 miles and I can't say I've had a problem with gas mileage. I was Christmas shopping today running around to a couple different malls...today's highest rating I'd say came under 65% hwy and 35% city with lots of just going 5 MPH waiting for parking spots.

With these numbers...we've NEVER shut the climate control off and did some mountain driving yesterday...drove in the snow too! Thats a story for another thread though.

[CXRabbit]

I'll be calculating my 4th tank tomorrow... I can tell I've already done better than the last tank (which ended up around 14.5 mpg)... don't yet have 1000 miles on her, so still in break-in.

I also go for my first oil change end of this week.

[Byrnie]

man my last tank was still 16ish. Come on 17 *crosses fingers*.

[CXRabbit]

hehehe 16 is better than the 14 I've been getting -- I'm hoping for 16/17 this tank...

[Nash04]

hehehe 16 is better than the 14 I've been getting -- I'm hoping for 16/17 this tank...

Just came back from a 400 miles trip and at 65 mph did about 18 mpg but at 75 mph did about 19.5 now talk about weird!! Have appointment with dealer tomorrow for other issues and oil change and will let them know how dissatisfied I am about the mpg and will bark loud if I do not see any improvements, after all they did advertise it at 22-24 mpg on the hwy even though it's an estimate, I would expect it to be around 20+ !! I do have 3,800 miles on her so she could be getting better over time. I'll ask them to flash my pcm.
(enguard)

[1Sleepy93]

I've found the best mileage comes around 75-80mph.

[Nash04]

I've found the best mileage comes around 75-80mph.

Drop the car off at the dealer and they told me that starting this September they'll be (all brands of vehicle) advertising a different EPA mileage sheet which more likely will drop the mpg 2-3 mpg. EPA has requested to adjust their estimated mpg to account for weather, area of the country and driver's skills i.e. speed, aggressiveness so our vehicle should drop to around 20-23 mpg on hwy. They also told me that I need to wait till after 10,000 miles to see the gas mileage "improvement"....we'll see (shocked)

[xavier]

I have calculated the mileage on my third tank (since Ive been logging) and with around 4000 miles on the odom, I averaged 14.1 mpg with mixed driving. So far since I started logging, Ive gotten: 12.4, 13.1, 14.1. These were all calculated the same way. The method I have been using is the resetting the odom and filling the tank. Then running it near empty and filling it up. Divide the gallons that went in from the odom reading...just in case anybody questions.

[CXRabbit]

Xavier,

The way you're doing it is the ONLY accurate way to calculate. I am pretty convinced that a lot of people out there claiming to get 20 (or close to it) mpg around town are doing the guestimate way by looking at the gauge and guessing how much gas they used... especially the people who have less than 2000 miles on the car. I can't believe there are such huge discrepancies from one driver to the next. I KNOW how I drive, and I don't beat on the car, but I don't baby it either. I'm a pretty average driver who likes to have a little fun. I don't have the 5th-6th gear issue on the highway. If I'm getting low MPG around town (that I'm seeing improve as the car breaks in), I would imagine that should be fairly consistant for most people.

I've been keeping a log since the beginning and for the most part, am seeing improvements with each tank. So far it's been: 14.08, 13.89, 14.55, 16.65, 15.46 and the latest was 18.18 (with 1300 miles on the odometer). I do a LOT of around-town driving... probably 80-90% of the time during the school year it's like that. During the summertime it's a LOT more highway mileage (since I'm back and forth taking my daughter to camp 80 miles a day). It'll be interesting how I do then seeing as the engine should be substantially broken in as well.

Nash - you can't blame the dealer for the MPG on the sticker. That isn't done by them, it's done by the EPA. And they way they do it is pretty unrealistic to the real-world.

[1Sleepy93]

I've gotten 20-23mpg on several occasions and use miles divided by gallons to get my mpg. Those tanks where 70% or more freeway driving however. Average mpg with 70-80% around town is 19mpg.

[CX7andMiata]

I've gotten 20-23mpg on several occasions and use miles divided by gallons to get my mpg. Those tanks where 70% or more freeway driving however. Average mpg with 70-80% around town is 19mpg.
With the A/C off (as much as I can make it) and driving around town I am getting about 20-21. With the climate control system in auto I get about 18 so something is definitely different when the climate control is not in auto...

[9Hooker]

I've found the best mileage comes around 75-80mph.

Then I doubt you drive at a consistent 60mph everywhere.

because of aerodynamics and in GENERAL...

The power required to overcome the aerodynamic drag is given by:

P sub d= F sub d * v = - .5 * rho * v^3 * A * C sub d
[Pd=Fd*v= -(1/2)pv^3ACd]

Note that the power needed to push an object through a fluid increases as the cube of the velocity. A car cruising on a highway at 50 mph (80 km/h) may require only 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) to overcome air drag, but that same car at 100 mph (160 km/h) requires 80 hp (60 kW). With a doubling of speed the drag (force) quadruples per the formula. Exerting four times the force over a fixed distance produces four times as much work. At twice the speed the work (resulting in displacement over a fixed distance) is done twice faster. Since power is the rate of doing work, four times a work in half the time requires eight times the power.


Best mileage comes where the power required curve (vs speed) meets the torque[work] (vs speed) curve. Best acceleration, and therefore best fuel efficiency comes at the torque[qork] peak, not horsepower[work over time]. Best power required is @ approaching 0 mph because of the above formula. We know the slope of the curve and we can get a torque vs mph graph at any competent dyno....

My (very) educated guess is the best gas mileage will come just before torque peak (2500 rpm IIRC) in 6th gear in a no wind condition. So what's that, like 60-65mph?

[Nash04]

Xavier,

The way you're doing it is the ONLY accurate way to calculate. I am pretty convinced that a lot of people out there claiming to get 20 (or close to it) mpg around town are doing the guestimate way by looking at the gauge and guessing how much gas they used... especially the people who have less than 2000 miles on the car. I can't believe there are such huge discrepancies from one driver to the next. I KNOW how I drive, and I don't beat on the car, but I don't baby it either. I'm a pretty average driver who likes to have a little fun. I don't have the 5th-6th gear issue on the highway. If I'm getting low MPG around town (that I'm seeing improve as the car breaks in), I would imagine that should be fairly consistant for most people.

I've been keeping a log since the beginning and for the most part, am seeing improvements with each tank. So far it's been: 14.08, 13.89, 14.55, 16.65, 15.46 and the latest was 18.18 (with 1300 miles on the odometer). I do a LOT of around-town driving... probably 80-90% of the time during the school year it's like that. During the summertime it's a LOT more highway mileage (since I'm back and forth taking my daughter to camp 80 miles a day). It'll be interesting how I do then seeing as the engine should be substantially broken in as well.

Nash - you can't blame the dealer for the MPG on the sticker. That isn't done by them, it's done by the EPA. And they way they do it is pretty unrealistic to the real-world.

Sorry about the confusion but I never blame the dealership except perhaps Mazda themselves for the EPA rating but as I stated earlier, the EPA are changing their ways starting this September. Also the dealership flash my PCM and TCM so next time I'm on the road, I'll check it out but I can already tell the performance was better. If you need the update done, let them know that you have hesitation btwn 60-70 mph and the transmission keeps going from 6th to 5th, back and forth.

[cocoagyrl77]

quit buying SUVs if you want good gas mileage

I know this is late but, True...true...

[jrpembe]

Respectfully, my issue with the CX-7 is not that it gets "bad" gas mileage, rather that it is getting mileage significantly belowthe EPA rating. I'm aware that the EPA ratings are not "real world" numbers, however with previous vehicles I've owned I was able to get within 10-20% of the EPA numbers. I'm well aware that the CX-7 will never get the mileage of a Hybrid Civic, however if the EPA/Mazda say this thing can get 24mpg then I expect to get reasonably close (all things being equal).

I recently experimented with my CX-7 while doing a mix of city/highway driving (minimal inner city idling). I concentrated on keeping the RMP's down and not engaging the turbo (basically I drove like my grandmother). I actually recorded mileage higher than the EPA rating - not unexpected but I have no intention of driving like this in the future. However it was nice to know it could be done.


I am so late...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by nate0123
quit buying SUVs if you want good gas mileage


I know this is late but, True...true...
__________________
She is lovely...and I call her "Black Beauty"

[CXRabbit]

Well, considering the EPA does indeed test all cars as if a grandmother were driving them, it's not at all surprising. With SOME vehicles there is going to be less discrepency when you drive hard vs. soft -- but in a turbo? There's going to be lots of room for variability. Trust me, I'd LOVE to be getting 24mpg, but it's never going to happen as long as I own this car and drive like I drive.

[Madame X]

Trust me, I'd LOVE to be getting 24mpg, but it's never going to happen as long as I own this car and drive like I drive.

See, now THAT is an honest response!

I'm on my fourth tank on my CX-7 now, and all four have been 20-21 MPG. Admittedly, I rarely "get on it", but I have been pleasantly surprised with my mileage.

I have to wonder what the driving styles are like for those getting poor mileage. You KNOW the EPA isn't going to get on the throttle very hard when they're doing their estimates.

[9Hooker]

I was under the impression that the EPA doesn't even drive the cars and that it's a number coming strictly from a convoluted formula...

?

[CXRabbit]

See, now THAT is an honest response!

I'm on my fourth tank on my CX-7 now, and all four have been 20-21 MPG. Admittedly, I rarely "get on it", but I have been pleasantly surprised with my mileage.

I have to wonder what the driving styles are like for those getting poor mileage. You KNOW the EPA isn't going to get on the throttle very hard when they're doing their estimates.

How much highway driving are you doing? I do MOSTLY city driving and so far, I've been lucky to get 18mpg (my highest). I'm about to fill up again and I think I did worse this time (don't know for sure yet) AND that's with an all-highway round-trip of about 3 hours.


As for how the EPA tests:
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/how_tested.shtml

[9Hooker]

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/fe_test_schedules.shtml

HA!

Who drives @ 60?!?!?!

[CXRabbit]

Like I said, LOL, "the EPA does indeed test all cars as if a grandmother were driving them".

[Lord_Zath]

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/fe_test_schedules.shtml

HA!

Who drives @ 60?!?!?!

people who go 5 over in a 55 mph zone (rtfm)

I did try this once - a 2.5 hour journey from Chicago to Bloomington/Normal, IL at 60 mph took 2.25 hours at 70 mph. A small price to pay for gas savings!

[1Sleepy93]

I'd rather get there 15mins sooner. (burnout)

[Joffar]

Yeah me too... or even sooner, going 75-80... coming from Norway with curvy roads, highways here are straight, relatively boring and should be used to get from A to B in a reasonable time, not looking for a parking spot... ;)

[ZooM-Skip]

I had my first fillup today. The cx-7 had a full tank when puchased and I put 15.6 gallons in today w/ 328 miles on the odometer=21MPG.

[Madame X]

How much highway driving are you doing? I do MOSTLY city driving and so far, I've been lucky to get 18mpg (my highest). I'm about to fill up again and I think I did worse this time (don't know for sure yet) AND that's with an all-highway round-trip of about 3 hours.


As for how the EPA tests:
http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/how_tested.shtml

I estimate my driving to be about 70% rush hour/stop-and-go freeway driving, 20% city and 10% unobstructed freeway. I would say my average freeway speed when I'm not in traffic is 75-80 MPH (our speed limits are 55-65). I tend to not be heavy on the throttle when accelerating from a complete stop, but I'll get on it when passing (especially when people aren't driving the speed limit... ) (ughdance)

Just filled up again today and got 22.08 MPG.

[CXRabbit]

I estimate my driving to be about 70% rush hour/stop-and-go freeway driving, 20% city and 10% unobstructed freeway. I would say my average freeway speed when I'm not in traffic is 75-80 MPH (our speed limits are 55-65). I tend to not be heavy on the throttle when accelerating from a complete stop, but I'll get on it when passing (especially when people aren't driving the speed limit... ) (ughdance)

Just filled up again today and got 22.08 MPG.

How are you calculating your mileage?

[THOUGHT OUT]

Yeah, the milage sucks compared to the EPA estimate (they are like weathermen). I have just learned to accept it at and average of about +16 MPG. I posted many fillup stats on the board here, they average 16!

I did notice the one day the it got cold here in New England the automatic LOW tire presure gauge light did go on. So I checked the tires and they where all set at 25 PSI! I change them all to 32 PSI and think it might have giving me a 1 MPG improvement on average. Got to love that automatic tire low tire gauge!

Many reports have always said synthetic oil will improve MPG. I need to do the math on oil cost vs gas savings and see if it is well worth it. Most likely yes, especially if you take it upon yourself to go longer on the oil change intervals (that brings up the warranty issue, but I am on only 2 year lease, ha!)

The best long trip "cruise control" MPG I have seen is 22 MPG (@ 2,000 odometer)

Reminder: To all those looking for a the iPod holder for their Mazda, you can purchase the FlexPED and then get a $15 Audio Link iPod adaptor discount here (http://thoughtout.biz/podcast/2006/10/26/mazda-cx-7-installed-with-a-flexped-holder-and-the-audio-link-ipod-connector/).

[papaalex]

1st fill up.. 15.91mi/gal

[altaski]

I got a CX 7 to and miss my 92 Turbo Toytoa Supra. I don't know whay the big difference in mileage but it was a 3.0 liter straight six, weighed in at 4000 lbs and got 26 miles to the gallon consistantly. So I agree with the other guy, why can't they make a CX7 that gets more mpg than it does. It might be power to weight ratio. The Toyota had a better ratio because of the higher displacement?


I've had my CX-7 for two and a half months now and i love the way it drives but, I consistently get real bad gas mileage around 12 - 13 miles per gallon. What's the deal? I drive approximately 50-50 city to highway not too heavy footed either. What would cause such low mileage? A/C has been on pretty much all the time, could that be it? I use mobil super 93 octane, could the 93 as opposed to 91 be it? any suggestions would be great. Thanks!

[ZooM-Skip]

My second tank was 16.5 gallons with 307 miles=18.6 mpg. A little less than first fill-up but at a different gas station. This week I'm trying Valero.

[erhayes]

My thoughts on why the CX7 returns poor gas mileage from an engineering view. The CX7 weighs ~ 3950 pounds and the engine is 2.3L. The mild EPA driving cycles with modest acceration between stops still requires that the turbo provide additional power to meet the driving profile. During day to day driving the problem increases as one has to maintain traffic flow which again requires use from the turbo. If the engine were sized bigger (~3.0L) then the turbos power would only be needed for spirited driving or for passing. I think Mazda engineers realized this problem and tried to overcome this deficiency by using direct injestion which allowed them to raise the compression from ~ 8.5 to ~ 9.5:1. The DI system helps but, not enough. Just my thoughts on the subject of poor fuel economy from the CX7. I still want to trade my Forester for a CX7 but, fuel consumption is a concern considering I drive about 20,000 miles per year.

[mikey1981]

My second tank was 16.5 gallons with 307 miles=18.6 mpg. A little less than first fill-up but at a different gas station. This week I'm trying Valero.


DO NOT GET VALERO - see my post in the lounge

[THOUGHT OUT]

My thoughts on why the CX7 returns poor gas mileage from an engineering view. The CX7 weighs ~ 3950 pounds and the engine is 2.3L. The mild EPA driving cycles with modest acceration between stops still requires that the turbo provide additional power to meet the driving profile. During day to day driving the problem increases as one has to maintain traffic flow which again requires use from the turbo. If the engine were sized bigger (~3.0L) then the turbos power would only be needed for spirited driving or for passing. I think Mazda engineers realized this problem and tried to overcome this deficiency by using direct injestion which allowed them to raise the compression from ~ 8.5 to ~ 9.5:1. The DI system helps but, not enough. Just my thoughts on the subject of poor fuel economy from the CX7. I still want to trade my Forester for a CX7 but, fuel consumption is a concern considering I drive about 20,000 miles per year.
erhayes,

I could not agree more with you! The near 2 tons (3,950lbs) is definately the issue (and AWD), to put that into perspective I traded out of a 4,300lbs Dodge Dakota with a V8. The Dakota's MPG was an honest 13. I DON'T have a complaint with the CX-7 (such a nice ride for my life style) I do have a compliant that the EPA can get away with such false info (well not any more says the news media. I guess they have until 2011 or something to get it right now, Ha! such a joke)

I did get 21-22 MPG with the CX-7 on a LONG trip during break in at 65-70 MPH. So atleast honest highway mileage might improve with age (and slowing down some) and make it to 24MPG.

Did I mention anything about iPod holder for Mazda's (http://thoughtout.biz/podcast/2006/10/26/mazda-cx-7-installed-with-a-flexped-holder-and-the-audio-link-ipod-connector/)

[dmitrik4]

i don't think it has anything to do w/ the turbo...the simple fact is that the CX-7weighs 4000 lbs, and while it's sleek-looking, it's still tall and wide, and thus punches a sizeable hole in the atmosphere.

the gas mileage isn't great, but in the end it's comparable to similar vehicles.

if you're really only getting 12-13 mpgon a consistent basis, there is probably something else wrong.

[mikey1981]

and, city driving, even if it may be 30% crushes the MPG on this car. which, i really dont care, but if you are going to and from work, it just will not return a high mpg, even with a light foot, its just too heavy for the start stops of the road . Bright side is, the pickup will smoke a majority of cars on the street and the grin you have, going from start stop, i think is worth it haha

[CXRabbit]

That's really the way you have to look at it... it's enjoyable to drive and that outweights the crappy mileage.

Around-town is SUCKS down the gas... trust me, I'm learning that fast since the majority of my driving is short trips around town. And some of that certainly has to do with the fact it's a Turbo engine. You can't compare a 4 cylinder Turbo to a 6 cylinder, because of COURSE the 6 cylinder will drink gas too. Compare it to another 4 cylinder WITHOUT Turbo and you'll see a difference (and off course, won't be able to "get up and go" either).

[9Hooker]

It's disheartening. I had a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab with the baby V-8 (4.8L?). It would consistently get 13 mpg city and I would thrash the crap out of it. I have written a complaint to Mazda about the fuel economy.

[THOUGHT OUT]

It's disheartening. I had a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 quad cab with the baby V-8 (4.8L?). It would consistently get 13 mpg city and I would thrash the crap out of it. I have written a complaint to Mazda about the fuel economy.

9Hooker,

It it not Mazda who falsified this information of 18-24 MPG, it is our own government funded EPA (http://epa.gov/fueleconomy/). And I love this quote from the top of their page

"Your fuel economy will almost certainly vary from EPA's fuel economy rating"

The only job better than the weatherman! Lets all sue, oh wait that would mean we are suing ourselves. Well. at least it is going to change in 2008 (or so).

[CXRabbit]

I think with mixed highway and around-town driving 18mpg is possible - I've gotten a tad better than that in those conditions. It's the around-town part that kills ya. People doing a lot more highway/open road/no traffic mileage are fairing much better... either that or a lot of people are calculating their MPG wrong (LOL)

[erhayes]

My last 4 vehicles yeilded mpg figures that equaled or were slightly better than the EPA estimates. Those vehicles were a 1986 Saab turbo, a Volvo P1800, Jeep GC I6, and my present Subaru Forester. I would expect no difference with the 19/24 mpg figure (FWD) for the CX7. If I constantly used the extra HP of the turbo, then yes the gas mileage will fall. My complant is that even the EPA ratings are low comparded to say the new RAV4 (265 hp V6) & Mitsu Outlander (220hp V6) which will out run the CX7 easly and gets an EPA rating of 29 mpg or 5 more than the same size CX7. I do not beleive that the EPA is misleading us on the Mazda ratings as ALL vehicles are tested using a fixed driving profile. The EPA numbers should be very good when comparing vehicles.

[dmitrik4]

the complaint is with the EPA, not with mazda. they provide the vehicle to the government, and the government comes up with the numbers. mazda has nothing to do with those numbers. if you choose to believe that there is a vast MPG conspiracy going on in Hiroshima, than go for it.

the government's test does not do a good job approximating real-life conditions; as with any other standardized testing, some cars will match those numbers more closely under different conditions than others will. if you accelerated like the EPA test does, you'd not make many friends in the traffic behind you, nor would you get to your destination in any reasonable amount of time.

as others have stated, real-world city driving takes a big toll on the CX-7's gas mileage (as it does with almost every turbo car, including the Saab turbo we traded on the CX. that car got 20 city, 31 highway). perhaps the natually-aspirated cars don't have such a dropoff under heavier real-world acceleration.

BTW, the 2007 RAV4 EPA numbers are: 23/27 (4-cyl); 21/28 (6-cyl). the Mitsu's are 19/26.

[9Hooker]

I understand that I should be blaming the EPA. Mazda can willing come forth and say "this car gets normally XXX or YYY mileage". My salesman talked up and down about all his supposed customers getting 20 mpg easy.

Hell, for near the same price, I could have walked away with a Honda Pilot (fitting car name) with more space, 3rd row seating!!), a bigger motor and would probably have gotten their EPA rated 17/24.

I like the CX-7 don't get me wrong. But it reminds me of the false claim of the RX-8 horsepower deal. Who is to say the motor doesn't make that much hp and the tranny eats it all up? Bah.

/rant

[CXRabbit]

No dealership or car manufacturer is going to give you anything other than EPA, and it would be SUICIDE for Mazda to do so when none of their competitors do. Be realistic. If you drive the car like the EPA tests the vehicle, you'll get close to their ratings. Problem is, your results with a Turbo are going to vary a lot more than with a non-Turbo car.

And sure, you could have gotten the Honda Pilot but it wouldn't look half as good (you going for that Soccer Mom look?) nor be 1/2 as fun to drive... and for what? A few MPG better? Their EPA is actually nearly the same as the Mazda CX-7. We don't buy SUVs, sports cars or cross-overs to get good gas mileage.

It's not a false claim on Mazda's part, so it can't remind you of any car-maker's false claim. It's a goverment rating, so let it remind of you of... *clears throat*... okay we won't get into politics and the false claims of politicians ;)

[jrpembe]

I agree with erhayes - coincidently my previous vehicle was a Subaru Forester (before that a Mazda B4000 4X4) - with both of those vehicles I got mileage numbers almost spot on to the EPA rating. My Forester said ~28mpg and that's what I got consistently for 6 years (and I drove the piss out of that thing). Of course the Soob wasn't 4000lbs and didn't have a turbo, but it was also shaped line a brick and had AWD.


My last 4 vehicles yeilded mpg figures that equaled or were slightly better than the EPA estimates. Those vehicles were a 1986 Saab turbo, a Volvo P1800, Jeep GC I6, and my present Subaru Forester. I would expect no difference with the 19/24 mpg figure (FWD) for the CX7. If I constantly used the extra HP of the turbo, then yes the gas mileage will fall. My complant is that even the EPA ratings are low comparded to say the new RAV4 (265 hp V6) & Mitsu Outlander (220hp V6) which will out run the CX7 easly and gets an EPA rating of 29 mpg or 5 more than the same size CX7. I do not beleive that the EPA is misleading us on the Mazda ratings as ALL vehicles are tested using a fixed driving profile. The EPA numbers should be very good when comparing vehicles.

[PuroMexicano]

11.60 mpg on my third tank, I'm really pissed off, (pissed)

Well, I hope it gets better.

BTW, I have a slightly heavy foot (glare)

[BadakVT]

Less than 12 mpg???? Damn.... My mpg has been dropping as well mainly because of the cold weather. Before the winter I was getting 19-21 mpg w/ some highway driving. On my last tank I got 15mpg with mostly very short city driving. But 12mpg... that's just sad...

[mikey1981]

11.60 mpg on my third tank, I'm really pissed off, (pissed)

Well, I hope it gets better.

BTW, I have a slightly heavy foot (glare)

What brand of gas are you using? By heavy foot do you use manual mode alot? Keep the engine in the higher rev range? under 12 would make me suspicious that something isnt working right even if ur driving the piss out of it.

Trying to crush a full tank of gas and driving aggresive in any stretch of road, i have never gotten less than 240 miles out of a full tank. (16 gal fillup)

I know this may sound strange to some of you , but, i have actually noticed much better MPG when its very very cold out, im talking 10 - 20 degrees. Some reason, i get improvement during cold weather. It happened in NH, where i got close to 380miles from 1 tank. And, its happeneing now, we have had a week of weather below freezing, and again, i am getting about 100 miles more out of 1 tank of gas. Wierd, but true (shocked)

[PuroMexicano]

Mikey I use 93 octane Mexican gasoline. It's crap. But I don't think is the real reason of that low gas mileage.

I'll be monitoring 2 more gas tanks before going to the dealership.

I'll keep you posted

[mikey1981]

my bet is that its the gas. hope thats the prob and not somethin more serious.

[Xenon Expert]

If you guys look at what people are saying in the Acura RDX forum, it's exactly the same as here.

EPA is to blame....not manufacturers. And when you have AWD + Turbo = so so gas mileage.

The only thing in that where I think these manufacturers (Acura AND Mazda) have gone wrong is with telling people the 4 turbo offers the same performance as a V6 with greater fuel economy. Last time I checked some V6 were getting at least same or better gas mileage. Acura and Mazda both said a V6 can't fit in the CX-7 and RDX. I still think that with a little work they could have managed it. Some still prefer a turbo in their car. Me I don't care as long as it has guts under the hood. A V6 would have gotten the job fine in these vehicles too and with regular instead of premium.

Anyway, great vehicles but if you're looking at these and think you'll have above 20 mpg you are dreaming.

[mikey1981]

I'm not extremely familiar with Mazda's vehicles across the board - but, i think that the reason why the truck has a turbo 4 is because that was Mazdas most powerful engine type at the time? Their V6 in the 6 was severely inadequate for the CX-7, and as i can see it, the V6 was still either in development with Ford for the Edge/CX-9 or it just was flat out not available.

Also, in terms of a marketing standpoint, the CX-7 & the 9 would/should not share the same powerplant because that would just be a bad idea for sales.

As for the RDX, might have been better off with the V6 from the TL, but maybe it just really couldnt fit under the hood.

[CX-7 Bratt]

I am getting bad gas mileage as well. I have around 4400 miles on my CX 7 and the last two fill ups were 12.4 and 11.99 per gal. I took it to the dealer after the 12.4 fill up and they flashed some update; told me to let them know if it helped or not. I filled up and got the 11.99 per gal! I called them and they said they would call Mazda and ask some questions. I heard back from the service mgr and he said Mazda said that my car is still in the break in period and that I should bring it in so they can check some setting via the computer, and if that setting is ok, then they want me to drive the car in Manual mode for the next 30 miles. All my driving is in town. No highway driving for the most part. I also drive conservative!

[meanstreak]

I understand that I should be blaming the EPA. Mazda can willing come forth and say "this car gets normally XXX or YYY mileage". My salesman talked up and down about all his supposed customers getting 20 mpg easy.

Hell, for near the same price, I could have walked away with a Honda Pilot (fitting car name) with more space, 3rd row seating!!), a bigger motor and would probably have gotten their EPA rated 17/24.

I like the CX-7 don't get me wrong. But it reminds me of the false claim of the RX-8 horsepower deal. Who is to say the motor doesn't make that much hp and the tranny eats it all up? Bah.

/rant
I also considered the Honda Pilot but I didn't need third row seating and the Pilot just doesn't handle like a CX7. I won't even talk about the looks. The Pilot's steering wheel had way too much play for my taste. I could move it back and forth quite a bit and it did not affect the steering. The salesmen told it was designed like that to avoid sudden manuevers that could cause a roll-over. ( I doubt it ) It's acceleration was smooth but let's face it the car is a behemoth and it drives like one. Also, I believe the Pilot would have cost me a bit more if I went feature for feature. The Pilot did not skimp on some of the obvious features that I felt should be included, but nothing that made me say I gotta have it. Also, their were some issues with wheel vibration at 70 I kept reading about.

Bottom line is that it depends on what you want or are used to and willing to trade off. No vehicle does it all. The other vehicles I drive eat up the road so I needed an SUV that could deliver the goods in the the drivability area. I saw nothing out there that could deliver the goods like the CX7 without going into German engineering and spending 40,000 and up, though it's possible I missed something.... and no I didn't want an RDX or a Murano.

[CX-7 Bratt]

Update on my car. My dealer just told me that my car was reading high in carbon. So they "de carbonized it" and told me to just drive it normal and check the gas mileage at the next fill up. I hope this works. I did noticed a lot of wispy white smoke coming from the exhaust after I turned the car off. We shall see if this helps with the gas mileage!

[mikey1981]

Did someone just compare the 7 to a pilot, wow.

hey whats next, lets compare the Civic to a TL, almost the same!

[singlemalt_18]

Seeing that this is an issue that won't seem to go away, I am beginning to think that the reason for most of the 12 mpg experiences comes down to the individual driver. The current EPA ratings, and misleading marketing have have certainly contributed to the frustration, but I can only conclude that the performance characteristics of the 4 cylinder DISI turbo engine must be to blame.

There is no question, that when called upon to produce power, IT DELIVERS !!!

But does it do so with a reckless abandon of sorts?

I am 47 years old, and I have never gotten less than 17 mpg in the 4700 miles logged on my AWD GT; I average about 18.5 mpg. Last week however, my wife & I were moving some of my office stuff, and we had the CX loaded down with more than I imagined we would be able to fit; it was at least an additional 500 to 600 pounds. To my delight, the CX-7 did not seem to loose an ounce of spunk! To my chagrin, the gas guage appeared to be in free fall.

Imagine for moment, that you have two big bottles of Jack Daniels, two shot glasses, and a bucket. Take one bottle of JD, open it, and pour a shot of the bourbon into one of the shot glasses. That is easy.

Take the other bottle of JD, and empty it into the bucket. Now pour a shot of bourbon into the other shot glass from the bucket... do you think you may have spilled a little bourbon? (And this assumes you did not consume any of the bourbon first!)

Take it a step further. Imagine you now need to fill a bucket with bourbon as fast as possible. Would it be quicker to fill the bucket from a bottle of bourbon, or fill the bucket from another bucket?

At my age, I KNOW I have become a much more conservative driver than I was 20 or even 10 years ago. There is no avoiding it - it just happens. I think the engine is capable of delivering bourbon by the bucket, and most of the time, all any of us want is a shot.

Please forgive my analogy, but at my age, I'm more concerned with spilling a drop of 18 year old scotch, than I am about burning a little extra gasoline. Its much more expensive!

Any thoughts...?

[mikey1981]

my thought is people cant seem to get over what it says on the window sticker and enter into reality.

[CXRabbit]

I think part of it the the window sticker.
I think part of it is people out there reporting they are getting 24+ MPG without knowing if they're even calculating properly.
I think part of it is how you drive.
I think part of it is where you live (different mix of gas).
I think part of it is climate (cold weather warm-ups and idling).

For me, part of it is the plummet I've experienced. First few tanks I got around 14 MPG. Totally expected it. Next four tanks were 16.54, 15.46, 18.18 and 17.23. Again, totally expected results. But now my last two tanks have been 14.79 and 13.12! A big surprised (or wake-up call, LOL). I've been doing more around-town driving and a lot of warming up the car longer (because of cold weather) both of which kill mileage.

Over the long haul, I do hope it average out a little higher (my average now is 15.45 MPG)... but if it doesn't, that's the price I pay for buying an SUV. It's not something I'm mad about (life is too short) but I did HOPE for close to the EPA estimates. I think people who get closer to what the EPA says we should get are doing a lot more highway mileage than I do -- and it won't be until the summertime that I'll be able to put that theory to the test.

[mikey1981]

the avg for this car, if you drive it around town even w/some highway, is going to be 14-16.

if its the reverse like 80% highway, u may reach near 20.

if its all highway, u will be in the low 20's.

i think that, in a nutshell, is what to expect.

[Hasplode]

the avg for this car, if you drive it around town even w/some highway, is going to be 14-16.

if its the reverse like 80% highway, u may reach near 20.

if its all highway, u will be in the low 20's.

i think that, in a nutshell, is what to expect.

I can't argue with that. Over the first 11,000 miles (90-95% highway) I'm averaging 20.3 MPG.

[simonxda]

Compare to this and a bimmer then I think its a little more depend on where you drive. I did mine few week on 80% highway and its 480Km(298miles) for 60L(13.2G) and fully city for 350Km(217miles),(60L/13.2G). This car consume the same as other made on highway but does different on city. I guess its the gear ratio that makes the different. Cause I don't use up to 5th gear on city, only 4th. So if you live in and do mostly city, you will expect a higher consumption.

[azcat]

This vehicle has a "saddle" tank--it stretches across the drive shaft running to the rear differential (or the place where the drive shaft would be), with a lump in the middle and two lobes dropping down on either side (left and right). That makes it very, very difficult to fill. Even a different pump at the same station will shut off at different levels. I've added as much as a gallon after the pump shut off the first time (and I'm not saying I overfilled nor did the fuel come out the filler neck).

I think one cause of these "poor" or "bad" gas mileage results comes from a "short" fill (not getting the tank completely full) followed by a "long" fill (actually getting it full). Now that I've seen the tank (I crawled under it), and based on my experience with an AWD Santa Fe with the same tank design, I've 1) made an effort to really get the tank full; 2) made an effort to use the same pump at the same station for refueling; and 3) blown off (or taken with a grain of salt) any mpg calculations that are from different pumps, even at the same station. Doing this, I've gotten, on several tanks, over 23 mpg, on mostly Interstate driving.

Other than the "short fill/long fill" issue, factors that affect the mpg are:

1. Your foot. Easy driving gets better mileage. Duh. It seems especially true in this vehicle. Consistently running over 2.5k rpm will kill mpg.

2. As CX7Rabbit said, the type of fuel. Using the same pump at the same station, I still get crappy mileage (17-18) when the blend is 10% ethanol. Ethanol has a lower BTU per gallon than gasoline. It's physics. Like gravity, it will have its way. Get over it.

3. The type of driving you do. I get my best mpg setting the cruise on 74 mph and letting him run for about two hours on the Interstate, with a minimum of braking, hill climbing, or accelerating-to-pass. Difficult? Yes. PIA? Yes. Worth it? Probably not. Life's too short to piss and moan about mpg.

My $0.02. (butt)

[CXRabbit]

I think one cause of these "poor" or "bad" gas mileage results comes from a "short" fill (not getting the tank completely full) followed by a "long" fill (actually getting it full). Now that I've seen the tank (I crawled under it), and based on my experience with an AWD Santa Fe with the same tank design, I've 1) made an effort to really get the tank full; 2) made an effort to use the same pump at the same station for refueling; and 3) blown off (or taken with a grain of salt) any mpg calculations that are from different pumps, even at the same station. Doing this, I've gotten, on several tanks, over 23 mpg, on mostly Interstate driving.

I agree with you on most of your other points, but this one, not really. My last three tanks MPG has been 14.79, 13.12 and 13.03... even if what you say is true and I might have used a gallon less of gas than I thought, it would only change those numbers by about 1 MPG. My last fill up the car took 15.04 gallons of gas... but let's assume I ACTUALLY only used 14.04 gallons... My MPG would still only be 13.96 MPG for the 196 miles I drove.

I do agree that for the best accuracy you have to try to get the tank full the same way every time... I don't know about you, but I have a HARD TIME at some gas stations just getting the nozzle to nessle in there properly. A lot of the pumps at stations around here have those stupid rubber/plastic flexi-things around the nozzle and it's a tight fit on the Mazda (and a real pain in the a$s).

[simonxda]

Hi CXRabbit, Wonder why I can't fill up my gas tank till 15gallons(68Liter) I can only does 61L(13.5G) or 62L when my empty lights up? 15gallons must be really empty..:)

[CXRabbit]

Getting 15 gallons in the tank the gauge is reading below a 1/4 of a tank. My warning light came on only once and when I filled up that time it took about 15.8 gallons. Capacity of the tank is just a tad over 18 (18.2 if I remember correctly).