The average fuel economy of new light vehicles sold in the U.S. in January reached a record 25.3 mpg (9.3 L/100 km), up 2.5% from same-month 2013 and 20.7% from the base score of fourth-quarter 2007.
Average national gasoline prices increased for the second month in a row to $3.39, but were still significantly below 2013’s 12-month average of $3.58.
Market share of light trucks fell for the first time in five months, but remained higher than cars.
The average rating for cars hit a record-high 29.4 mpg (8 L/100 km). Large cars peaked to 23.5 mpg (10 L/100 km) and luxury cars grew to 26.1 mpg (9 L/100 km). Small (31.1 mpg [7.6 L/100 km]) and midsize cars (29.8 mpg [7.9 L/100 km]) did not post increased index ratings, but higher market share of these most fuel-efficient segments boosted the overall score.
Light trucks topped last month’s record reaching 21.1 mpg (11.1 L/100 km). CUVs hit a record 23.1 mpg (10.2 L/100 km) and represented the only light-truck segment to gain market share from December. SUVs (18.0 mpg [13 L/100 km]) and pickups (17.7 mpg [13.3 L/100 km]) also achieved new high scores.
Each of the Detroit Three reached their highest points, boosted by record light truck scores. Ford continued to be the top automaker of the group, coming in at 24.4 mpg (9.6 L/100 km). Chrysler reached 21.2 mpg (11.1 L/100 km) and General Motors hit 23.2 mpg (10.1 L/100 km).
The Detroit Three’s success was the major factor in a record average score for domestically built light trucks.
Honda (26.8 mpg [8.8 L/100 km]) and Subaru (25.3 mpg [9.3 L/100 km]) also posted new highs due to improved light-truck averages.
Porsche reached a record 21.1 mpg (11.1 L/100 km) with increased sales of its more fuel-efficient models, especially the Panamera plug-in hybrid.
Jaguar Land Rover (19.1 mpg [12.3 L/100 km]) recorded its highest ratings for both cars and light trucks.
Mitsubishi remained the top automaker (excluding Tesla) with 29.8 mpg (7.9 L/100 km).
