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Originally Posted by Pete4
I really don't think EPA numbers are the best case scenario, rather average case IMO and that means some people will do better and some worse.
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In general, I would agree with your statement. But there are numerous articles out there specifically about hybrid cars, and how the formula for calculating EPA estimates does not really apply to how hybrid engines work. Consumer Reports does "real-world" fuel calculations and they are consistently less than the EPA. Heck, for the HCH the EPA rating is 51 city and Consumer Reports came out with 40MPG. So when I said "best-case scenario", I was specifically talking about for hybrids, and in particular the TCH. Based on where I live and work, I will never see anything close to 40mpg city, because half the time I will be starting from a dead-stop on a hill. And my 45mile commute is not on flat-land, so no way will I see 38mpg highway. So far I am getting about 36mpg combined mileage, and although that is below the EPA estimates, I'm perfectly happy with that number for the size car I'm driving.