There's a lot that goes into mileage calculations. Driving conditions, driving style, seasonal fuel changes etc. I didn't notice any significant change in mileage until 8,000 Kilometres and it steadily improved after that. My combined city/highway average has been 10.5 L/100km which equates to 22.4 mpg (U.S) or 26.9 (Imperial). That total is for 36,000 plus kilometres. It's not a fuel miser or a glutton. Given the size of the Journey and the performance of the 3.6, I'm quite satisfied. My wife and I went on an extended (13,654 KM's or 8484 miles) road trip in 2013 and I wrote a report on the forum in which I shared our experience. You can search for it in "Owner Impressions" page 2. The winter fuel makes a huge difference, as does a heavy foot which the 3.6 tempts me to have on occasion. As long as I act my age it's not so bad LOL. Whatever you decide I wish you the best. The only thing to fear is fear itself.