Figures quoted (especially in catalogues or guy in pub) are rarely believable. Our petrol 1.4 Fiat grande Punto gives (in mixed driving) 48mpg or in the Winter 46mpg - we are both 'steady' drivers, and as I'm a cyclist I'm used to just slowing (rather than braking) and a slow speed generally
Given the inaccuracies in speed/distance measurement allowed (manufacturers are allowed 10% over, and try to get as close as poss so it gives a higher perceived mpg), we are getting between 42 and 44 mpg all year round, which I think is great. Interestingly because of the low final drive (this car is a 'city car') the economy doesn't really increase once on a Motorway, as it only does 20mph/1000 revs, so spinning away at 3500 at 70mph!
