I drive my son to daycare every morning. It is about 3.5 miles and takes about 15 minutes. This is mostly in traffic. The WORST tanks I ever got were in the 22mpg range. This is in the peak of summer with the AC on full. In freezing winter temps, the lowest tanks tend to be in 24-25mpg range. Running the heat will sap warmth from the engine and will thus delay the onset of EV mode.

Will the FEH/MMH operate at its peak full potential on short drives? No. Will it still outperform any other SUV on the road? Yes.

I bet that with my commute in an Xterra I would be lucky to get 14mpg.

-Tim

2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid AWD
Black with Pebble interior
Premium Package with Nav & Moonroof



Current ODO: 22,909
Typical Drive: 20 min crosstown in heavy traffic (3.5mi there and back twice a day)


457 Gallons of gas saved
That's 9,150 lbs less CO2