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They’ll be forced to adhere to the same CAFE requirements, but their technology usually lets them do it somewhat more effectively than the U.S. companies. The really bad thing, from the standpoint of U.S. companies and consumers is what it will do to the large SUVs and other light trucks. Full disclosure: I’m on my second Navigator (an ‘04), think it’s the best vehicle I’ve ever owned, and plan to buy an even spiffier one in the next few years.

I bought an old 1991 Buick LaSabre last spring which was only giving 10-17 mpg on lowest octain gasoline (85 where I live). But, she was cheap and she was pretty and in otherwise excellent condition. So, I took her home and put about $500.00 worth of ordinary maintanance into her which included all new clean new filters, oil change (using synthetic blend), brakes and a tune-up which I did myself.

When I finished, her milage had improved to 22-24 mpg but I used a hotter plug than the original.
Added some injector cleaner and high octain gas and suddenly she lept to 32-34mpg which she has consistantly maintained as long as I use the high octain gas. It might sound expensive at a few cents more per gallon than the lowest or even midgrade, but I get so much more milage on it that it’s cheaper to use! Not bad for a 16 year old car.
(she’s a 305v6)
So, with that in mind, I see no reason whatsoever for the auto industry not to improve on mpg’s with a few minor engine modifications. My car is a sedan, not a compact, very comfortable and roomy with lots of electrical gadgets..fancy. If I, a non-mechanic can improve an old vehical that much, surely folks who know what they’re doing can make a few hotrod changes in current engines without sacrificing comfort and appeal. They started the process back in the 80’s and here it is 20 years later with more/better technology.

I just don’t think it’s been financially cost effective for them to do so since gas and oil are secondary sales, much like vacume cleaner bags offer an ongoing source of revenue for vacume sales.