I believe those ratings are according to the 07 EPA ratings which are more generous than the 08 rating system. The fit remains unchanged mechanically but the EPA tried to make their ratings more realistic in 08.

 

fine, i will see if i can dig up my window sticker. the 07 ARE rated 33/38

 

Yes, but the way cars are rated, and tested for city and highway MPG changed for all 2008 model cars. Even the honda civic now shows a more realistic rating. Do a google search and you'll see what we're talking about. Nothing changed on the car between 07, and 08. Auto, or manual, the new style shows more realistic :vtec: #'s. :cool: Trust me i picked up my new fit yesterday and did a weeks worth of research.

 

i don't doubt you did the research. and maybe the new sticker mpg values are a bit more realistic, but all i am saying is there are plenty of us who actually get what the sticker says, or better.

you also have to remember that when those EPA estimates are made, the car is stripped down. no a/c, no dash, no interior...just a seat, wheel and shifter. I personally think they need to change the way they get these estimates :rolleyes:

 

That's not entirely accurate. Check out this link. It shows the testing of a Miata, it's completely stock. The problem with the testing is it's simulated real world driving, they never take the car out of the lab!
How Vehicles Are Tested


Also, the EPA was looking to change the way they test back in '06, but the changes wont take effect until 2011.
CBS News | EPA Seeks Changes to Gas Mileage Testing