It's a fine balance between efficiency, emissions, and safety. Cars in the US tend to be heavier by a few hundred pounds compared to the euro versions due to va

It's a fine balance between efficiency, emissions, and safety. Cars in the US tend to be heavier by a few hundred pounds compared to the euro versions due to various safety requirements and the california emissions standards tend to set the pace for the rest of the country. If you want your car to meet 50-state approval you aim for Cali's standards and take the efficiency hit.