Car buyers still looking for fuel efficiency

With the price of gas plummeting, people are buying more cars, and when they do they're still looking for fuel efficiency. That can only bode well for future gas prices as America's fleet demands fewer miles per gallon. Two of the most popular models at Brown & Brown Chevrolet in Bourbonnais are economy cars that get good gas mileage — the Chevy Cruze and Hyundai Elantra. The dealership sells both new and used vehicles.

"What we get are people who want to lower their monthly payment and have more fuel efficiency," said Jon Netyus, Brown & Brown's general manager. "We do have a lot of people looking for fuel efficient cars."

Last month alone saw a spike in care sales of 5 percent, much more than industry experts had expected. Overall, sales have increased to 17.2 million for the year, well above the 16.3 million sold at this time last year. Even more, the fuel efficiency of cars and light trucks for the 2013 model year increased to a record 24.1 miles per gallon, according to figures the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released last month.

A key factor in the current dip in gasoline prices is a lack of demand for oil, which has sent prices plummeting.

Netyus said the most important factors among people buying cars are the monthly payment, insurance costs and fuel efficiency. The Chevrolet Cruze gets 25 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. The Hyundai Elantra gets 28 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon on the highway.

"It's less out of pocket, and you can afford the vehicle," Netyus said.

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