Mazda 2008 Tribute HEV - Manual (Page 270)

2. Each time you fill the tank, record the amount of fuel added (in
gallons or liters).
3. After at least three to five tank fill-ups, fill the fuel tank and record
the current odometer reading.
4. Subtract your initial odometer reading from the current odometer
reading.
5. Follow one of the simple calculations in order to determine fuel
economy:
Calculation 1: Divide total miles traveled by total gallons used.
Calculation 2: Multiply liters used by 100, then divide by total
kilometers traveled.
Keep a record for at least one month and record the type of driving (city
or highway). This will provide an accurate estimate of the vehicle’s fuel
economy under current driving conditions. Additionally, keeping records
during summer and winter will show how temperature impacts fuel
economy. In general, very hot or very cold temperatures give lower fuel
economy.
Driving style — good driving and fuel economy habits
Since it is able to operate in electric mode and to collect braking energy,
your hybrid vehicle will get better fuel economy in city driving than on
the highway. This is contrary to conventional vehicles. However, many of
the same actions that improve fuel economy in a conventional vehicle
will also improve fuel economy in this vehicle.
Give consideration to the lists that follow and you may be able to
improve your fuel economy.
Habits
• Avoid aggressive driving. Quick acceleration and deceleration decrease
fuel economy.
• Drive at a smooth, constant speed. Excessive variation in pedal input
causes more operating mode changes and reduces efficiency.
• Drive at reasonable speeds. Traveling at 60 mph [96 km/h] uses
approximately 20% less fuel than traveling at 70 mph [112 km/h]).
• Minimize A/C and defroster usage. Selecting defrost, or defrost/floor
mode on the climate control system will force the engine to run
continuously, which reduces fuel economy. Selecting AUTO will
typically force the engine to run continuously, unless ECON is
selected.
2008 Tribute Hybrid (thv)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA (fus)
Maintenance and Specifications
270