Last month I bought a new 2012 V6 automatic (couldn't be happier). I have 4,000 miles on the car. Using the odometer and fill ups to carefully figure gas mpg on two 300 plus mile trips I got 31.1 and 31.4 mpg respectively. Problem is, I was driving 75 to 85 mph each trip. I wouldn't think the mileage should be that high at those speeds, that's better than our 4 cyl. 2010 Accord. A slightly off odometer running up some extra miles could account for some extra mpg by inflating the mpg falsely. Is this a known odometer problem, or does the sixth gear at those speeds provide for this great mpg surprise?

Also, I enjoy using the shifter to drop from D to 3rd gear for certain passing situations and frankly for fun. I am guessing this practice is fine for the engine and transmission?

Thanks!

 

Edit:
Dude, take this crap to OT.
Only warning.

 

That's a problem?!

Well, if you don't have the Performance Package you have the lower axle ratio. If you have the base configuration you have energy saving tires too. And the 6-speed auto is probably the most fuel efficient combo. So yeah, it passes the smell test (at least for me) and good on ya!

If you want to be sure the odo is right, go out on the highway and find a "measured mile." Set the cruise for 60 MPH and see if it goes by in 60 seconds. (Or 120 MPH and 30 seconds, but hey it's your license!)

Mine with the 3.31 ratio from the PerfPak, but sticky tires and a stick gets between 25 and 27 MPG back and forth to work. Highway could be 1-2 MPG higher than that, but I haven't had a chance to make a good road trip in it yet.

 

Okay, certainly happy, just very unexpected. Thanks!

 

I suspect you have the lower gear ratio as opposed to the higher, better performance gears. But at steady highway cruising, you SHOULD be getting close to the EPA rating.

 

Missed this question the first time. If you're under redline, you'll be fine. This engine REALLY likes to wind, so have at!

 

Enjoy that car!