Average fuel economy of U.S. light-duty vehicles has increased over 80%, from 13.1 mpg in 1975 to 23.8 mpg in 2012. However, for a time, horsepower took precedent over fuel efficiency, as average fuel economy decreased from 22 mpg in 1987 to 19.3 mpg in 2004, while average horsepower increased from 118 to 211 (see source about trucks).
Average fuel economy of U.S. light-duty vehicles has increased over 80%, from 13.1 mpg in 1975 to 23.8 mpg in 2012. However, for a time, horsepower took precedent over fuel efficiency, as average fuel economy decreased from 22 mpg in 1987 to 19.3 mpg in 2004, while average horsepower increased from 118 to 211 (see source about trucks).