C7 Corvette Closes In On 30 Em Pee Gees
Published: July 9th, 2013
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17/29 mpg city/highway. That’s what the C7 Chevrolet Corvette is expected to return as far as fuel economy figures go. When the C7’s “Eco” mode is selected, it will apparently be capable of the magic 30 mpg mark.
The figures released yesterday are applicable to the 7-speed manual model running on premium gas. Opt for the automatic or use regular fuel and you can expect an unspecified penalty in terms of fuel consumption. In the mean time, I’m going to stare forlornly at my Miata, capable of a mere 26 mpg on the highway (frequently less in the real world) while delivering roughly 1/3rd the power. Anyone who denies that we are living in a golden age of automotive technology is a liar.
More by Derek Kreindler
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Why do we allow the auto companies to keep us fixated on the EPA highway number? It's meaningless. The EPA highway cycle is not "freeway" driving, it's an average of 48 mph, never exceeding 60. Any car will register decent MPG for a leisurely drive down an empty country lane with no stop signs or traffic lights. The city number is closer to reality for the vast majority of drivers.
Not surprised in the least... my brother managed 30 MPG highway in his 'Vette (C5 auto). I get nearly 26 MPG from my 350Z and have seen 28s on pure highway runs (cruise on A/C off). Once again we are talking HIGHWAY mileage here! Put the thing in top gear and cruise steady at 65-70 mph. Powerful engine + light vehicle + aerodynamic wedge shape = very easy on gas at speed. I think its mostly an aero issue since my V8 Dodge truck gets the same mileage city or highway when TOWING (13 for those keeping score). At speed (65 mph is plenty) the drag from the boat behind me acts as parachute. You can physically FEEL the difference driving into even a mild head wind. Lift off the throttle and it will scrub 15 mph easy (IE: air brakes). Where as in the city lifting off the throttle does almost nothing since the lumbering mass from the boat behind keeps pushing me forward (IE: momentum). Its simple physics people.
I like the idea of 3 overdrive gears. You don't NEED to use 7th, or 6th gear, but they're there if you need/want to use them. My Sonic 1.4T 6 -speed has 3 overdrive gears. If you make it to 6th, you're NOT looking for another gear, unlike most other small cars.
The new C7 Corvette done right? - - - - http://www.autoblog.com/2013/07/16/sin-r1-is-a-corvette-v8-in-a-german-wrapper/ Wonder how well this puppy corners? ------------------------