In the realm of automotive enthusiasts, one can often categorize individuals based on their approach to fuel management – those who diligently refuel once the tank hits the halfway mark and those daring few who push the boundaries by driving on a near-empty tank. A recent MarketWatch Guides report has captured the attention of the latter group by delving into the mileage capabilities of various vehicles when running on fumes.
It is essential to acknowledge that the vehicles featured in the report may originate from international markets, potentially impacting the direct applicability of their empty-tank mileage to U.S. models. Nonetheless, the data presented offers valuable insights into the general performance of comparable vehicles. Despite this, it is crucial to emphasize the risks associated with operating a vehicle with minimal fuel levels.
According to the study, the Toyota RAV4 Icon FWD leads the pack in terms of mileage efficiency on an empty tank, capable of covering over 73 miles post-illumination of the fuel light. Such a range provides drivers with a sufficient buffer to reach the nearest gas station, potentially luring some into prolonged journeys with the warning light on. The top 10 contenders on the list display impressive empty-tank mileage capabilities.
MarketWatch’s methodology involved calculating a vehicle’s distance potential by dividing its fuel tank capacity by ten to establish a 10 percent fuel capacity benchmark. This figure was then paired with fuel economy ratings to estimate the vehicle’s travel range under specific conditions. However, it is vital to recognize that various variables, such as driving habits, weather conditions, and cargo load, can influence the accuracy of these estimates.