News

The pinch at the pump


Published: May 8, 2008

It's hard to steer clear of soaring gas prices.

The national average reached an unprecedented $3.66 per gallon this week and $3.60 in Massachusetts, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Even the thriftiest of car owners have noticed a change. But for those who drive larger sport utility vehicles, gas has reached an unwelcome benchmark, $100 per tank.

We checked in with the owners of three different makes and models to compare their gas receipts and car experiences.

— Stacie N. Galang

2004 Navigator

Cost to fill tank: $100.01

Distance on a tank of gas: 308-448 miles

Fuel economy: 16 mpg highway, 11 mpg city

Tank size: 28-gallon main premium unleaded fuel

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Lisa Tocco, a busy Beverly mother of three, owns a 2004 Lincoln Navigator. She's constantly shuttling her children and their equipment — like bulky hockey gear — from one function to the next. One of her daughters takes gymnastics classes four times a week in Gloucester. So the SUV gives the family the space they need to travel distances near and far, especially on ski trips.

But last week, her fill-up surpassed a mark she could hardly believe.

"I actually called my husband at work to tell him," Tocco said.

2007 Prius

Cost to fill tank: About $35

Distance on a tank of gas: 607-714 miles

Fuel economy: 51 mpg highway, 60 mpg city

Tank size: 11.9-gallon main unleaded fuel

Nancy Doyle of Hamilton tootles around town in her 2007 Toyota Prius. She feels like the car lets her do the right thing for the environment and for her pocketbook.

Doyle said she gets excited talking about her Prius. That may be because she averages 46 to 47 miles per gallon.

She and husband, Rich Schreuer, added roof storage, which allows them, their two boys and the dog the extra space to travel even with all their ski gear.

The hybrid has paid for itself, the couple say.

2004 Accord

Cost to fill tank: About $40

Distance on a tank of gas: 410-581 miles

Fuel economy: 34 mpg highway, 24 mpg city

Tank size: 17.1 gallon main unleaded fuel

Dominic Civiello of Lynn drives his 2004 Honda Accord daily to work in Beverly. For his city driving, through Swampscott, Salem and Beverly, he gets between 20 and 22 miles per gallon.

While he'd love the convenience of a truck, Civiello said he has his sedan for its fuel economy. He fills up about once a week. Not bad for city driving.

"It gets good gas mileage, that's why I have it," he said.

His four-door vehicle also has plenty of room for all his needs.

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Source of car specs: automotive.com