What raises consumption in the cold
- A cold engine and gearbox have more friction until they warm up.
- On short trips the engine never reaches its working temperature.
- Heated seats, the rear demister and the blower draw power.
- Idling to warm up burns fuel without covering any distance.
- Tyre pressure drops with temperature and rolling resistance rises.
How to use less fuel in winter
- Drive off after a few seconds instead of warming up on the spot.
- Combine short errands into one trip.
- Check tyre pressure once a month, when the tyres are cold.
- Use heated seats and the rear demister only as long as needed.
Winter diesel
In low temperatures diesel can form wax crystals that clog the filter. Stations supply winter diesel with cold-flow additives; for hard frosts, premium diesel usually gives an extra margin.