As car technology changes, the expected mileage remains a concern for all drivers. Getting better mileage so you can save money and reduce the strain on the world's fuel resources is a big deal, especially when gas prices rise. When shopping for a new car, the difference in mileage between their old car and the new one, as well as the difference between city and highway mileage in the new car, can be a lot different than what they're used to. In fact, the mileage might initially seem too low in the new car because the driver's driving habits may have temporarily changed as they get used to the new car. To make the transition smoother when you buy a new car, it's best to ensure you're following good habits that improve gas mileage.

Stops and Starts

If you're marveling at your new car's excellent braking system, maybe you're braking a little more than usual as you drive the car around town. Watch out for that. Even if you're just testing the system occasionally, all that stopping and starting can make mileage drop. Return to your usual driving patterns and see if that helps boost your mileage.

What's in the Trunk?

New car, new trunk space, and some new car-care toys as well all can contribute to a pileup in the trunk. Whether you've added a lightweight cargo net or a new toolbox, all of the things you keep in the trunk can add up. If you're carrying more items than before, that weight will drag down the car's mileage. Make sure what you have in there is what you need, and make sure the weight is distributed well, too.

Tire Condition

Tire alignment, wheel balance, tire pressure—everything about your tires can affect your mileage. Bad pressure can increase the drag on the tires on the road, for example. Have the car's tires inspected and aligned; your warranty likely covers those if they're done to find a potential problem.

The Right Type of Gas

Cars have a preferred or minimum octane rating for gas. Double-check that your new car uses the octane you've been giving it. If you had a car that required 87 octane, for example, and your new car requires 91—but you're still getting 87 at the gas station out of habit—you can place extra strain on the engine and see a drop in mileage, along with other phenomena like engine knocking. Get the owner's manual and verify which octane you're supposed to use.

Newer cars have better technology that makes the vehicle much more user-friendly for those drivers who want to maximize mileage. Whether you get a model specifically made to be fuel-efficient, like a newer Kia Optima, or you apply mileage-saving techniques to other car models, you can make your trips around town a lot more fun and financially feasible no matter what gas prices do.

For more information about mileage in cars like the new Kia Optima, contact a local dealer, like Gary Rome Kia.