Statistics show drops in auto mileage

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The 2003 model cars and trucks now reaching showrooms get poorer gas mileage on average than last year's models, reflecting what automakers and many buyers say is a higher priority on comfort and family needs.
The average fuel economy for all 2003 model cars and passenger trucks is 20.8 miles per gallon, according to the Environmental Protection Agency's annual gas mileage statistics, released Tuesday. That is down slightly from about 21 mpg last year, and about 6 percent below the peak for passenger vehicle efficiency of 22.1 mpg set 15 years ago.
For the 488 models of cars being made, the average is 23.6 mpg, marking a continued decline from 23.9 mpg for 2002 models and 24.2 mpg in 2001. For the 446 models or variations of SUVs, vans and pickup trucks, the average is 17.6 mpg, down from 17.9 mpg for 2002 but above 2001's 17.3 mpg.
The share of vehicles getting more than 30 mpg in the new crop drops to 4 percent from 6 percent a year ago.
This year, three hybrid gas- and electric-powered vehicles -- the two-seat Honda Insight coupe and five-seat Toyota Prius and Honda Civic sedans -- top the list of fuel pinchers. The Insight gets 64 mpg combined city and highway driving; the Toyota and Honda sedans 48 mpg. Next most-efficient are four Volkswagen diesel cars and the Toyota Echo.