5 tips for buying a fuel-efficient vehicle

Everyone needs a break these days and that includes saving money when you buy a new vehicle. Think about buying the most fuel-efficient one that meets your needs to save money at the pumps and also maximizes savings over the long haul. The money you save could go towards that dream vacation or big screen TV that you have always wanted.

The experts at Natural Resources Canada have put together these tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Do some research before you leave home – The NRCan website, www.vehicles.nrcan.gc.ca, has a fuel consumption ratings search tool to help you compare the fuel consumption ratings of various years, makes and models of vehicles.

2. Check out the EnerGuide Label – Compare vehicles using the EnerGuide label that is found on all new cars and light trucks. The label shows city and highway fuel consumption ratings and the estimated annual fuel cost for that particular vehicle model.

3. Choose a vehicle that fits your everyday needs in terms of size and power – Put some serious thought into your space and cargo needs – do you really need a minivan when a compact would do? Passenger cars with smaller engines tend to deliver better fuel consumption than those with larger engines.

4. Two-wheel drive vs. four-wheel drive – The added weight and drive train losses you get with four-wheel and ‘all-wheel’ drive systems increase fuel consumption. Although all-wheel drive can offer better traction when accelerating under slippery conditions, it doesn’t assist in braking; there is no substitute for safe driving habits.

5. Think about your extras – Accessories and power features can be a big drag on an engine, increasing fuel consumption. How much do you really need all those gizmos? Are they worth the increased fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions?

By following these tips and doing your homework, you can watch your savings add up and your greenhouse gas emissions go down.