I checked my mpg today after a medium size trip. This trip was 90% 2 lane roads, some up and down etc. I filled the tank at the beginning and end of the trip with 93 octane. After 210 miles it took 4.9 gallons to fill the tank. This works out to 42.9 mpg. The computer read 45.7 mpg, so there is some error on the computer. I reset speed, mileage and odometer on the 1st fillup. The average speed was just over 45 mph. I wouldn't say this would be typical for highway mileage as I did not drive on the interstate but then again the highest gear used was 5th. For most of the trip I rode with windows open as it was only in the low 70s. I also always drive with the sport button on as I like the way the steering feels with it on. I don't think the mileage drops with the cooper with sport button on, unless you are WOT on every shift. In fact I think with sport button on in cooper it gets rid of the flat spot between 1500 and 2000rpm.

 

+1

 

Korby
Yes, here in Texas 93 is readily available. As you drive west into New Mexico it seems that 92 is the highest. We regularly make trips to New Mexico and mpg's don't suffer significantly between here and there, but maybe the lower octane is offset by the altitude.

 

I get about the same mpg as this. I even had the OBC tell me I got 47 on an interstate drive of about 180 miles. Window open, cruise on 70. I'm definetly getting better than the new estimates and average about the old estimates or a little better. I drive fairly conservatively and usually get a little better than the old estimates on all my cars.

 

I really researched this issue after I saw the new EPA estimates and before I ordered my MINI. When I saw the new estimates, I was pretty disappointed. I went to the EPA site and read all about it. Basically, they are applying more "usual" driving methods in their testing. I understand that and have no problem with it. However, it seems the EPA has done this for a number (how many I dont know) of cars, then applied the effect they saw to all cars for 2007/08 as a percentage. I seriously doubt they have really tested enough or all cars.

So, being down on the MINI's new estimates I headed to NAM and searched all the MPG posts. I have to thank all the members out there who posted excruciatingly detailed driving conditions and MPG estimates based on tank calculations. In the end, I think you will see the 2007 MINIs getting closer to the previous EPA estimates. I think this is due to the fact that the EPA has applied these new ratings (for now) by means of a simple percentage and calculation. The MINI, however, has more energy saving technology than the average car, and I think you will see better 2008 estimates for the MINI in the future.

After a LOT of reading, that's my 2 cents.

As for the ethanol issue, my father actually builds the ethanol plants and is a chemical engineer. I'll have to ask him specifically but as I understand it (from the conversations we have had) you will definately feel an effect from an ethanol mix (particularly if >10%) but it should have really minimal, if any, effect on gas mileage. I'll have to get him to give me a more detailed explaination when I pick up my MINI, along with the equations about energy.

Cheers!

 

Mileage will vary on 2 exactly same cars due to the loose nut behind the wheel.

 

Thats right. This loose nut doesnt get that great of gas mileage!

 

3300 miles. 29 city, 36 highway. 91 octane. EPA estimates are accurate in my book.