A new round of real-world fuel consumption and emissions testing has found that more than half of 84 popular vehicles use at least 5 per cent more fuel on the road than in mandatory lab tests. Five models recorded discrepancies of over 30 per cent.
The program, conducted by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), revealed the Mazda 2 had the largest variation, using 35 per cent more fuel than advertised. Other significant discrepancies were recorded in the Suzuki Swift Hybrid (31 per cent), Mazda CX-5 (22 per cent), and MG5 (21per cent).
Michael Bradley, Managing Director at the AAA, said the results highlight the importance of real-world testing to provide accurate information to consumers and fleet buyers.
“These results again show real-world testing is needed to help consumers and fleet buyers avoid buying a vehicle that produces more emissions and higher running costs than advertised. While some cars perform as per the information at point of sale, our Program is revealing that many, if not most, do not.”
The program aims to address concerns about greenwashing and ensure the Federal Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), introduced in January 2025, is effective in reducing transport emissions. The NVES incentivises manufacturers to sell more low-emissions vehicles, and real-world testing is expected to play a key role in verifying fuel consumption claims.
“Testing cars in real Australian driving conditions will help sort the wheat from the chaff when it comes to cars delivering fuel consumption that matches their mandated laboratory test results,” Mr Bradley said. “It will act as a complementary audit regime for the NVES.”
The AAA’s Real-World Testing program is the first of its kind globally. Funded by the Commonwealth Government, it was introduced following the 2015 Volkswagen emissions scandal and concerns that some carmakers may optimise lab test results to meet regulations.
Vehicles are tested on roads around Geelong, Victoria, under strict protocols to minimise external influences such as traffic and driving style. Initial testing on a reference vehicle, a Toyota RAV4, demonstrated fuel consumption variability of less than 2.5 per cent, ensuring consistent results.
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