Introduction

The 2012 Fuel Consumption Guide provides model-specific fuel consumption information about 2012 model year light-duty vehicles, including passenger cars, pickup trucks, minivans, large vans, special purpose vehicles (i.e. sport utility vehicles [SUVs]) and alternative fuel vehicles. The information can be used to compare the fuel consumption of different models and help you to select the most fuel-efficient vehicle that meets your everyday needs.

Fuel use is an ongoing expense and should be considered when purchasing or leasing a vehicle. Choosing the most fuel-efficient and appropriate size of vehicle, driving in a fuel-efficient manner, using your vehicle only when needed and following the manufacturer’s operation and maintenance recommendations for your vehicle can save you fuel and money year after year – even more if fuel prices rise.

The choices you make about the vehicle you drive and how you drive it also have a significant impact on the environment and our health. Greenhouse gases (GHGs), particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), are produced when fuel is burned in your vehicle’s engine. CO₂ emissions are directly proportional to the amount of fuel consumed – for every litre of gasoline used, about 2.3 kilograms (kg) of CO₂ are generated. Although not directly harmful to our health, CO₂ emissions contribute to climate change.

Visit vehicles.nrcan.gc.ca to find out more about buying, driving and maintaining your vehicle to save fuel, save money and reduce your impact on the environment.

Taking action to reduce emissions from new cars and light-duty trucks is an essential element of the Government of Canada’s strategy to reduce GHG emissions to protect the environment and the health of Canadians. Accordingly, regulations that establish progressively more stringent GHG emission standards for new passenger automobiles and light trucks are now in effect. These regulations align with similar regulations in the United States. The Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations are the first regulated national GHG emission standards in Canadian history and will achieve significant and sustained GHG reductions and fuel-saving benefits.

To learn more about the Government of Canada’s efforts to address climate change in ways that achieve real environmental and economic benefits for all Canadians, visit ecoaction.gc.ca.

To request additional copies of the Guide, call 1-800-387-2000 (toll-free).

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Introduction

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