Fuel Economy Calculator

How Canadian fuel economy is calculated

• L/100km = litres used ÷ km driven × 100 (lower is better) — Canada’s standard measure.
• MPG (imperial) = 282.481 ÷ L/100km, using the imperial gallon of 4.54609 litres.
• km/L = km driven ÷ litres used.
• Total fuel cost = litres used × price per litre.
• Cost per km = total fuel cost ÷ km driven.

Canadian stations price gasoline in cents per litre. For the most accurate reading, measure the kilometres and litres between two brim-full fill-ups. Smooth driving, correct tire pressure and less idling all improve economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate L/100km?

Litres per 100 km = litres of fuel used ÷ kilometres driven × 100. For example, 48 litres over 600 km is (48 ÷ 600) × 100 = 8.0 L/100km. A lower number means better fuel economy.

Why does Canada use L/100km instead of MPG?

Canada adopted the metric system, so fuel economy is officially measured in litres per 100 kilometres and fuel is priced per litre. MPG is still seen informally, usually using the imperial gallon.

Which gallon does Canadian MPG use?

Canada uses the imperial gallon (4.54609 litres), the same as the UK — not the smaller US gallon (3.78541 litres). So a Canadian MPG figure is about 20% higher than the US MPG for the same car.

How do I convert L/100km to MPG (imperial)?

MPG (imperial) = 282.481 ÷ L/100km. So 8.0 L/100km ≈ 35.3 imperial MPG.

What is cost per kilometre?

Cost per km = total fuel cost ÷ kilometres driven, where total fuel cost = litres used × price per litre. It is a quick way to budget a trip.