Guide · 2026 data
Gas vs Hybrid vs Plug-in vs Electric: 2026 Fuel Costs Compared
We took every 2026 model line the EPA rated, grouped them by powertrain and worked out what each typically costs to fuel at 15,000 miles a year.
Median yearly fuel cost by powertrain, 2026
Lower is betterMost efficient configuration of each model line; $3.10/gal regular, $3.95/gal premium, 18¢/kWh.
The numbers
| Powertrain | Model lines | Median rating | Median fuel / yr | Cheapest to run |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas & other | 187 | 23 MPG | $2,214 | Honda CR-V Fuel Cell $1,192/yr |
| Hybrid | 88 | 28 MPG | $2,032 | Toyota Prius $816/yr |
| Plug-in hybrid | 29 | 58 MPGe | $1,793 | Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid $887/yr |
| Electric | 66 | 102.5 MPGe | $888 | Lucid Air $624/yr |
How each powertrain works
Gas. A conventional engine does all the work. Many now add a mild-hybrid starter-generator for smoother start-stop, which trims a little fuel use but can't drive the car on its own.
Hybrid. A battery and electric motor recover energy when braking and help the engine, or drive alone at low speed. You never plug in. Gains are biggest in city driving (see why hybrids flip the city/highway rule).
Plug-in hybrid. A bigger battery gives a few dozen miles of electric driving before the car behaves like a regular hybrid. Its real cost depends heavily on how often you charge.
Electric. No engine at all. Energy use is measured in kWh per 100 miles; running costs depend on your electricity rate, and cheap home charging makes EVs the cheapest to run.
Your own prices change the picture: try the EV vs gas calculator or compare two specific cars.