Guys

This is not a Volvo ralated question but it is always nice to hear some feedback about this subject. Due to my job I have to drive alot of rental cars and almost all of them are American(Chevy, Chrysler, Olds, Pontiac Ford etc). Usually almost all of them have low millage but I also drove a rental with 40K.

Based on my experiences I always do some research on the internet regarding the rentals I am driving and I have to admit that the gas millage figures reported in the specifications where ALWAYS way off. For example recently I renter a 5K mile 250HP Chrysler Pacifica which was rated at 20mpg average. Well guess, after I drove the car for 107 miles with 85% of driving in the Highway I got a staggering....15-16mpg. This is a full size van in the vicinity of SUVs and Vans. This is not the only case. I also recently drove a 2002 Buick full size car with a 3.2 engine and I got 18mpg Average. Not to mention that most other American cars I drove were WAY off of the rated MPG ratings.

When it comes to European cars I have to admin that they have very good economy ratings. My brother in laws 96' 325 get 27-28mpg in the highway and 25mpg combined. My 85' 240 gets 25mpg combined.

What is the deal with the American automobile manifactured and how do they ge away with this.

Any opinions?

Thanks