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What is the gas mileage on a 2008 Chevy Optra?

The fuel economy of a 2008 Chevrolet Optra depends heavily on the engine and the market where it was sold. In general, petrol variants tended to deliver lower mileage than diesel versions, with real-world results influenced by driving style, maintenance, and road conditions.


Overview of 2008 Optra engines and typical mileage


The Optra lineup around 2008 spanned several markets and offered a mix of petrol and diesel powertrains. The most common configurations were a 1.6-liter petrol engine, a 1.8-liter petrol engine, and a 2.0-liter diesel engine in many regions. Below is a general guide to what owners could expect in terms of fuel economy from these engines.



  • Petrol 1.6-liter engine: roughly 9–12 km/L in city driving and about 12–15 km/L on highways (about 21–28 mpg in the US).

  • Petrol 1.8-liter engine: typically around 11–13 km/L in cities and 14–16 km/L on highways (roughly 26–38 mpg US, depending on conditions).

  • Diesel 2.0-liter engine: commonly in the neighborhood of 16–20 km/L in city driving and 18–22 km/L on highways (about 38–52 mpg US).


These figures are approximate ranges intended to reflect typical performance across common variants. Actual mileage can vary based on transmission (manual vs. automatic), vehicle condition, load, aerodynamics, and driving style.


Factors that influence real-world mileage


Several practical factors can push mileage above or below the ranges above. Regular maintenance, tire inflation, driving habits, and fuel quality all play significant roles in the Optra’s observed fuel economy.



  • Maintenance and part condition (air filter, spark plugs, fuel filter, oil changes).

  • Tire pressure and alignment; underinflated tires waste fuel.

  • Driving style: smooth acceleration, steady speeds, and minimal idling improve efficiency.

  • Vehicle load and aerodynamics: heavy loads and roof racks can reduce mileage.


In markets where the Optra was sold with certified mpg figures (such as official tests or manufacturer leaflets), those numbers often differ slightly from real-world results due to test protocols versus everyday driving.


Tips to maximize fuel economy on a 2008 Optra


To squeeze the best possible mileage out of a 2008 Optra, consider these practical steps:



  • Keep up with routine maintenance and replace worn components promptly.

  • Maintain proper tire pressure and ensure wheels are properly aligned.

  • Use the recommended fuel grade and avoid aggressive driving.

  • Lighten the load when possible and remove roof racks when not in use.

  • Avoid excessive idling and use cruise control on highways when appropriate.


By following these practices, owners can approach the upper end of the typical mileage ranges for their specific engine and market.


Market-specific notes


The Optra was sold under various names and with different engines around the world, so mileage figures can vary by country and model year. If you need a precise figure for a specific car, check the vehicle’s owner’s manual, consult the local dealership, or refer to region-specific EPA/ARAI testing data where available.


Summary


For a 2008 Chevrolet Optra, petrol versions generally fall in the 9–16 km/L (about 21–38 mpg US) range depending on engine and conditions, while the 2.0-liter diesel commonly achieves around 16–22 km/L (roughly 38–52 mpg US). Real-world results depend on market, transmission, maintenance, load, and driving style. If you’re evaluating a used Optra, consider the fuel type, maintenance history, and typical driving conditions to estimate current mileage more accurately.

Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.