The Hidden Cost of a Heavy Foot
Acceleration, braking and highway speed can change how much useful driving you get from every gallon.
FUELWISE EDITORIAL
Smarter reads for every mile.
Practical reporting on what you pay at the pump, how your vehicle uses fuel, and the choices that can make every gallon go farther.
The number glowing above a gas station is the end result of crude oil markets, refining, transportation, taxes and local competition. Here's what actually moves the price you pay.
Read the story →No gimmicks. Just useful information for drivers who want to understand where their fuel money goes.
Acceleration, braking and highway speed can change how much useful driving you get from every gallon.
Pressure, temperature and rolling resistance have a quiet but measurable relationship with fuel economy.
Idling burns fuel while producing no miles. The small waits throughout your week can add up faster than you think.
At highway speeds, what you put on top of your vehicle can matter more than a few extra pounds inside it.
Higher octane costs more. Whether it actually gives your vehicle anything in return depends on what its engine was designed to use.
A lower number on the sign doesn't guarantee a cheaper fill-up once you account for the fuel required to get there.
Estimate your weekly fuel cost using your mileage, MPG and nearby fuel prices.