Methodology

Source data

We use the EPA's bulk vehicle file (vehicles.csv). Each row is one configuration EPA tested: a combination of model, engine, transmission and drive. We check the file for updates every month and rebuild the site when it changes. We do not use dealer, manufacturer or review sites.

EPA adds vehicles for the newest model year throughout the year. While that list is incomplete, hub pages treat 2026 as the current model year.

Transmission type

• Manual: EPA transmission codes beginning "Manual".
• Automated manual: codes AM and AM-S. EPA data does not separate dual-clutch (DCT) units from single-clutch automated manuals, so both appear together.
• CVT: codes "variable gear ratios", AV and AV-S. When the vehicle is a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, we label it "hybrid eCVT", because the power-split drive in many hybrids works differently from a belt CVT even though EPA codes it as continuously variable.
• Conventional automatic: codes A, S, L and "n-spd" automatics.
• Electric drive: battery-electric and fuel-cell vehicles, and single-ratio plug-in hybrids, are listed as single-speed electric drive and left out of transmission lists, whatever transmission code EPA assigns.

If EPA introduces a transmission code we have not classified, our build stops until we review it, rather than guessing.

Auto start-stop

We use EPA's start-stop field. EPA reports it consistently from the 2013 model year; for earlier years most vehicles have no value, which we show as "not reported", never as "no". Electric vehicles are left out.

Premium fuel

We show the fuel EPA tested each vehicle on. EPA data does not say whether premium is required or only recommended, so we never advise using a lower grade. Your owner's manual or fuel-door label is the authority.

Flex-fuel (E85)

A configuration is flex-fuel when EPA lists it as a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) with E85 as its alternative fuel. A model can be sold in flex-fuel and gasoline-only versions, so confirm your vehicle before using E85.

"All", "some" and "none"

For each model year we summarize every configuration EPA tested. "All" means every relevant configuration has the feature, "some" means it varies by configuration, and "none" means no configuration has it. Model pages list each configuration so differences between trims and engines are visible.

Grouping models

We group configurations by EPA's base model name. Where EPA groups unrelated cars under one name (for example, BMW M cars), we split them using a short, reviewed list of rules. These rules only change which page a configuration appears on; they never change a vehicle fact.

Which pages exist

We publish a list page only when it has enough models to be useful (at least two models for a make list and five for a year list). Smaller combinations link to the model page instead.

Limits

EPA data describes the configurations EPA tested, which may not include every trim or option sold. Always confirm on the window sticker, owner's manual or with the dealer.