The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently released a comprehensive report detailing the fuel economy and emissions of vehicles across the country. These statistics outline the efficiency of several major auto brands in the U.S., focusing specifically on how much bang drivers get for their buck at the gas station.
Results of the study showed that Honda achieved the highest average fuel economy across its entire fleet of any brand. Honda and Acura vehicles boasted an average of 26.6 mpg in 2012, which is 2.5 mpg more than the 2011 figures. That is good enough for a 9.7 percent increase - a growth many drivers will want to keep in mind as they strive to save money at the pump.
Honda narrowly beat out Mazda, edging it by 0.10 mpg. While that may seem so close as to be negligible it actually makes Honda's win all the more impressive. The brand produces several larger SUVs and minivans that typically have lower fuel economy, whereas Mazda manufactures predominantly smaller cars.
Although anyone searching for the best value brand will need to take things like the cost of ownership, frequent car repairs and standard vehicle maintenance into account as well, getting an inside look at fuel economy is a good first step.