My drive sounds like yours...

I think a good driver who is focused can get better mileage than the CC, but when you are distacted CC does a better job. As a general rule I use the CC on the downhills and take over control on the uphills (and slow down to keep the rpms within reason). I also use CC exclusively when I am driving the kiddies around (only on the freeway of course), since they are a huge distraction.

The advantage you have over CC is that you can predict what is happening ahead, but it is better able to hold a steady speed. Downhill CC seems really good at using the re-gen since it keeps the speed from getting to far out of control, but uphill it just wants to plant the gas pedal on the floor.

Another trick that I do is turn off the a/c or defrost durning the steepest part of the climb, that frees up that much more power for the climb.

Good luck

Chris Brown - Mendocino County Ca.