I always thought that the mileage figures were given for comparison purposes only, and didn't reflect actual mileage a buyer was likely to get. "Your mileage may vary" means your mileage WILL be lower.
I would like to see ACTUAL mileage figures, but that varies widely based on driving styles by individuals, so it may be difficult to come by.
I think your right. The comparison is good. But there is something wrong. I had a Diesel Rabbit in 1978 it got 60 on the highway and 35 in the city. And it was pretty close to that. We always checked back then. Now my car doesn't get close to the poor 17 MPG it claims. I think they turn off every feature they have and then run the car. I am not sure if all these all wheel options and traction control stuff and air on both sides don't really turn up the gas usage.
But the fact that they don't change the tests means that even these great new hybrid's stink next to a 1978 Diesel Rabbit.