When buying a car, most people think about the price on the lot. But gas is one of the biggest ongoing costs, and it adds up fast. The kind of car you drive can mean the difference between spending $900 or $2,500 a year on fuel.
In this article, we break down how much you can expect to pay for gas each year when driving five of the most popular vehicles in the United States.
What This Comparison Is Based On
We used the latest fuel economy ratings from the EPA and assumed 12,000 miles of driving per year, which is close to the national average. Gas prices are calculated at $3.75 per gallon, which reflects recent national averages.
Annual Fuel Costs by Vehicle
| Vehicle | Type | Average MPG | Estimated Yearly Gas Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford F-150 | Full-size truck | 20 MPG | $2,250 |
| Toyota RAV4 | Compact SUV | 30 MPG | $1,500 |
| Toyota Camry | Midsize sedan | 32 MPG | $1,400 |
| Honda Civic | Compact car | 36 MPG | $1,250 |
| Toyota Corolla Hybrid | Hybrid sedan | 50 MPG | $900 |
Note: Actual costs vary based on driving conditions, habits, and fuel prices in your area.
What Each Car Costs You at the Pump
Ford F-150
As the best-selling vehicle in the country, the F-150 is popular for good reason. But its fuel economy is on the lower end. At 20 MPG, you can expect to spend around $2,250 each year in gas if you drive 12,000 miles.
Toyota RAV4
This compact SUV offers better mileage than most larger vehicles. With an average of 30 MPG, the RAV4’s yearly gas cost is about $1,500. It balances space, performance, and efficiency.
Toyota Camry
Known for reliability and comfort, the Camry averages 32 MPG. That puts its annual fuel cost around $1,400, making it an affordable choice for families and commuters.
Honda Civic
The Civic is one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid cars on the market. With 36 MPG, it will cost about $1,250 per year to fuel. If you do a lot of city driving, the savings can be even better.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid
This is one of the most fuel-efficient cars available without going fully electric. At 50 MPG, the Corolla Hybrid will cost you about $900 per year in gas. It is ideal for daily commuters looking to cut fuel expenses.
How to Lower Your Fuel Costs No Matter What You Drive
Even if you already own a car, you can lower your fuel bills with a few small changes:
- Keep tires inflated properly and follow your maintenance schedule
- Drive smoothly and avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking
- Use apps like GasBuddy to find cheaper stations nearby
- Lighten your vehicle by removing unnecessary items from the trunk
- Combine errands to reduce total mileage
Final Thoughts
Over five years, your choice of car can mean saving or spending several thousand dollars just on fuel. For drivers looking to save money, fuel economy should matter just as much as purchase price.
Smaller sedans and hybrids may cost a bit more up front, but they can pay off quickly. If you’re shopping for a car or just curious about how yours compares, keep an eye on the fuel numbers. The savings are real.
