U.S. Average Fuel Economy Hits Record High

The average fuel economy of new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. reached a record 24.1 miles per gallon last year, up from 23.6 mpg in the 2012 model year, according to the latestFuel Economy Trends report from the Environmental Protection Agency.

data: EPA

EPA's report, which was released today, looks at results adjusted for real-life performance. Its numbers are lower than the certification levels that appear on new-car window stickers. The analysis says fuel economy averages have climbed 25% since the 2004 model year. EPA attributes last year's gains primarily to more efficient powertrains.

Last year's results were led by Mazda (28.1 mpg), Honda (27.4 mpg) and Subaru (26.7 mpg). The least efficient carmakers were Chrysler-Fiat (20.9 mpg), General Motors (22.0 mpg) and Ford (22.2 mpg).

Average carbon dioxide emission levels for the 2013 fleet was 369 grams per mile, a 7 g/mi improvement from 2012, according to the agency. Its adjusted results are significantly higher than certification lab CO₂ levels.

The report's preliminary numbers for the 2014 model year show no change in the fuel economy ranking. All carmakers except GM made further improvements. BMW showed the biggest gain, jumping to 26.0 mpg from 24.5 mpg.

EPA says one-third of projected model year 2014 vehicles already meet 2016 carbon dioxide emission targets, and 4% could achieve the 2025 goal. The agency says average CO₂emissions were 20% lower last year than in 2004.