Top Ways to Boost Fuel Economy in a Compact SUV
Year after year, consumers just can’t seem to help falling for the 2017 GMC Terrain. Why you ask? Well, for starters, as a compact SUV, it offers great space with a large backseat that slides and reclines for added comfort, a quiet interior, and a super supple ride even on rough roads. Its content list is also impressive with everything from remote engine start and heated front seats to driver memory settings and adjustable power liftgate. Though the latest Terrain to hit the 2017 lineup year doesn’t see many changes, it’s hard not to love it just the same. If you’ve only ever had smaller vehicles, like compact sedans and hatchbacks, your largest concern about making the switch to an SUV is most likely fuel economy – a completely viable reason! While it is true that SUVs aren’t the best in fuel efficiency (unless they’re a hybrid, of course), automakers have made great strides in improving them. Not only that, but there are many things you can do yourself to increase fuel economy – and they are very easy to do! Here are the top ways to boost your fuel economy when opting for a compact SUV like the 2017 GMC Terrain.
Drive Reasonably
Take a moment to consider what kind of driver you are. Are you someone who is cautious and calm behind the wheel? Or are you someone who thinks life is a race the second you step behind the wheel and often feel the fury of road rage crawling up your spine? If you fall into the aggressive driver category, then you aren’t just causing unsafe conditions for you and others on the road, but you are actually causing your gas tank to take a negative hit. Aggressive driving – speeding, rapid acceleration and braking – can lower your gas mileage by up to 30% at highway speeds and up to 40% in stop-and-go traffic.
Avoid Roof-Top Cargo
The more aerodynamic a vehicle is, the more fuel efficient it will be. You may not be able to change the exterior design of your vehicle, but you can avoid doing things that increase aerodynamic drag. One way is by eliminating roof-top cargo. Sure, roof-top cargo boxes can be great when needing to tote along more than your vehicle can hold, but it does come at a price. Due to their large, blunt shape, they make your vehicle much less aerodynamic and cause a negative blow to fuel economy. If you have to use items like these, opt for rear-mounted cargo boxes instead because they won’t cause as big of a hit on fuel. Also, be sure to remove all external cargo containers from your vehicle when not in use. This will ensure savings in gas and money.
Don’t Idle
Letting your car’s engine idle is a quick way to burn through gallons of fuel while just sitting there. While it isn’t always possible to avoid idling, there are definitely times when you can, such as when you are sitting in the carline at your kids school or in a never-ending drive-through line at a pharmacy or fast-food chain. A good rule to follow to save gas is to turn off your engine if you will be idling for longer than one minute.
Use Cruise Control
On long stretches of highway and hours spent on the road, cruise control can be one of the most wonderful features your vehicle has. Not only can it keep your leg from falling asleep, but it can also make your entire journey more relaxing and enjoyable. But did you know it can help save fuel? Many believe that using cruise control will cause more gasoline to be burned. False! Actually, cruise control saves fuel because it puts less stress on your engine by keeping your vehicle at one set speed.
To learn more about the top-selling 2017 GMC Terrain, and for more automotive tips, visit our dealership in Harrisburg, PA.
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