Practical guide

How to calculate your car's real MPG

A fill-to-fill method, imperial MPG formula and common measurement errors.

Imperial MPG formula

MPG = miles ÷ (litres ÷ 4.54609)

Fill-to-fill method

Fill the tank, reset your trip counter, drive normally, then refill. The second fill gives a practical estimate of litres used over the measured miles.

Why it can differ

Real-world economy changes with traffic, temperature, tyres, load and driving conditions.

Open the real MPG calculator →


Last reviewed: 31 August 2026. See also methodology and sources.