Car Mileage Calculator (km/l and Cost per km)

How to measure your mileage properly

1. Fill the tank completely at a pump, until the nozzle clicks off. Do not top up beyond that.
2. Reset your trip meter to zero.
3. Drive normally for at least 300–400 km.
4. Fill the tank completely again, ideally at the same pump and nozzle.
5. Enter the distance on the trip meter and the litres (or kg of CNG) added in the calculator.

Repeat this two or three times and average the results. Trip computers are useful but often read a little high.

What is a good real-world figure?

For petrol cars in mixed Indian driving, 65–80% of the claimed figure is normal. If you are below 60%, check tyre pressures, air filter condition and driving style, or ask your service centre to look for problems. Our best mileage cars guide lists typical real-world figures for popular models.

Turn mileage into money

Once you know your real mileage, compare running costs with other cars or fuels in the fuel cost calculator, or see whether an EV would save money with the EV vs petrol calculator. For small habits that improve mileage, read our petrol vs diesel vs CNG guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most accurate way to check car mileage?

The full-tank-to-full-tank method: fill up completely, reset the trip meter, drive normally, fill up completely again and divide the distance by the fuel added.

Why is my real mileage lower than the claimed figure?

Claimed mileage is measured in a lab under fixed conditions. Traffic, AC use, speed, load, tyre pressure and driving style all reduce real-world mileage.

Can I use this for CNG cars?

Yes. Enter the kilograms of CNG added instead of litres. The result will be in km per kg.

Results are estimates for planning. Taxes, rates and prices vary by state, lender and dealer, so confirm final figures before you sign anything.