Holden Captiva diesel: Poor fuel consumption

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Before buying a new Holden Captiva, Series ll, AWD 2.2-litre diesel we particularly discussed with the salesman our purpose for the vehicle, that it would be used around town, and he recommended the diesel for the best fuel economy. The vehicle is advertised as the most fuel-efficient in its class, with advertised fuel consumption of 8.3 L/100 km combined, 10.6 L/100 km urban, and 7.0 L/100 km extra urban, but we cannot get any better than 12.8 L/100 km. I am very unhappy with the high fuel consumption and have written to Holden and the dealer to have my vehicle tested under supervision, but they continually say it may get getter without actually doing anything to improve the problem. I asked Office of Fair Trading, but they just sent me the Green Vehicle Guide, which again informs me of the fuel consumption my vehicle should be using. I would like a replacement vehicle that will deliver the advertised fuel consumption. Isn't this False Advertising, what are my rights?

You have experienced the problem that is the fuel consumption guide. The fuel consumption in the ads and the guide are the results of tests done under laboratory conditions, and not necessarily an accurate guide to what might happen in real life. They are meant to be used to compare one make and model against others in the same class, they're not intended to be an outright measure of real life fuel consumption. That gives carmakers the wriggle room they need to get out of a problem when customers, like you, complain. I think you are within your rights to demand that the dealer/Holden thoroughly check your car instead of fobbing you off and make sure it is within the factory specifications. Once that is done you could test your false advertising allegation, but that's a legal question best answered by others. I do, however, have some sympathy for your view.

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