It seems that a highway rating of 40mpg has become the new standard in the compact category, but that benchmark could be blown away when Dodge’s 2013 Dart hits the Detroit stage early next week.
According to preliminary internal testing, Dodge’s Fiat-based Dart will achieve a combined rating of 40mpg. That figure not only matches the highway fuel economy of the Hyundai Elantra and Ford Focus, but also beast the best combined average in the segment by a significant 7mpg.
Word of the 40mpg figure is said to come straight from Chrysler, but no other details were revealed. However, it is believed that average will be achieved through the combination of a 1.4L turbocharged engine mated to a new nine-speed automatic transmission.
The EPA has yet to post its fuel economy findings for the new Dart, but we should learn more at next weeks North American International Auto Show. Be sure to check back for Leftlane’s live coverage from Detroit.
