"Jim Yanik" . wrote in message
.. .

What I don't understand is why you think that changing the drive
train from
RWD/4WD to FWD - while keeping the *same* engine - is going to have
some mystical enormous effect on fuel mileage. It just doesn't work
that way.

Who said "mystical"? I believe it's you that's been focused on what a
small difference it would make. But, what if you made 3 simple changes
to a vehicle,

But they are NOT "simple".

and together they added, say, 20% more gas mileage?
Would that be worthwhile if the vehicles werent' turned to crap by
doing so? Sure - maybe eliminating 4WD only adds 1 mpg. Now, add tires
which make sense for how the owner will ACTUALLY use the car.

Most SUV buyers already can pick "street" tires or heavy-duty tires for
off-road,construction or heavy load usage.Off road tires make a horrendous
noise.And one can alreadt choose 2WD or 4WD for most SUVs.But not FWD,as
it's too different from the other drivetrains.Entirely different
packaging.

Try getting some dealers to switch tires for you on a new vehicle. :-) If
you're shopping at a place that specializes in trucks, they'll be prepared
for this. But, most "civilian:" dealerships? Fuggetaboutit. Like pulling
teeth.