How to measure real mileage
Fill your tank completely, reset the trip meter (or note the odometer reading), drive normally until the tank is nearly empty, then fill up again and note exactly how many litres it took. Divide the distance by the litres used — that is your real-world mileage, which is usually a little lower than the claimed figure on a vehicle’s brochure.
Why your mileage varies
- City traffic with frequent stops uses more fuel per kilometre than highway driving
- Tyre pressure, AC use and extra load all reduce mileage
- Aggressive acceleration and braking can cut mileage by 15–20%
Once you know your km/l, use the Fuel Cost Calculator to budget an upcoming trip.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my calculated mileage lower than the manufacturer’s claim?
Manufacturer figures come from controlled lab tests. Real traffic, terrain and driving style almost always bring the number down.