New 2003 model cars show decline in fuel economy

WASHINGTON -- Average fuel economy for the galaxy of shiny new 2003 model cars and passenger trucks headed for showrooms is 20.8 miles per gallon, about 6 percent below the high point set 15 years ago.

Among the highest achievers, the percentage of the new crop of vehicles getting more than 30 mpg drops to 4 percent from 6 percent a year ago. Only 33 of the 934 cars, trucks and vans listed in the 2003-model annual fuel economy statistics released Tuesday by the Environmental Protection Agency are that efficient. That compares with 48 of the 865 models available last year.

This year, three hybrid gas- and electric-powered vehicles -- the Honda Insight coupe and five-seat Toyota Prius and Honda Civic sedans -- top the list of fuel pinchers. The Insight gets 64 mpg, the Toyota and Honda sedans 48 mpg.