In 2022, the U.S. experienced its highest inflation rate in 40 years, soaring above 8% according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Although inflation has decreased since then, it continues to strain shoppers’ budgets, particularly in sectors where costs are rising rapidly. For many households, transportation is the second-largest expense after housing, as highlighted by the U.S. Department of Transportation. As consumers seek ways to manage their finances amid ongoing inflation, selecting a fuel-efficient vehicle becomes increasingly crucial.
The Cost of Fuel: A Growing Concern
As of now, the average price of a gallon of regular gasoline stands at $3.41. Fuel costs are a significant factor in vehicle expenses, and choosing the wrong vehicle can lead to unexpectedly high transportation costs. According to automotive analyst Cruze, “Gas is always a consistent part of the equation,” making it essential for consumers to consider fuel expenses carefully.
Here’s a breakdown of the 11 most expensive vehicles to fuel, ranked from lowest to highest cost per fill-up.
11. Toyota Sequoia
The 2025 Toyota Sequoia, a full-size SUV, features a gas tank capacity of 22.5 gallons. With a hybrid system, it achieves between 21 and 24 miles per gallon. Filling up the Sequoia from empty costs about $77, and the vehicle’s price ranges from $64,000 to $82,000 depending on the trim.
10. Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe, another full-size SUV, has a 24-gallon tank. At current gas prices, a full tank costs approximately $82. With a 5.3-liter V-8 engine, it gets around 20 miles per gallon on the highway. Pricing for the 2025 Tahoe starts at $59,000 and can reach up to $79,000.
9. Chevrolet Silverado
Like the Tahoe, the Chevrolet Silverado holds 24 gallons of gas, leading to a fill-up cost of around $82. The gas four-wheel-drive version achieves up to 22 miles per gallon, while the diesel model offers better fuel efficiency. Despite high fuel costs, the Silverado remains a popular choice, with prices starting at $47,645.
8. Cadillac Escalade
The Cadillac Escalade, another vehicle with a 24-gallon tank, also costs about $82 to fill up. It features a V-8 engine that delivers 19 miles per gallon on the highway. The 2025 model starts at $85,000 and can go up to $155,000.
7. Ram 1500
With a 26-gallon gas tank, the Ram 1500 has a fill-up cost of approximately $89. It is relatively fuel-efficient for a full-size pickup, achieving between 21 and 25 miles per gallon depending on the engine. The 2025 Ram 1500 starts at $42,270.
6. Nissan Titan
The Nissan Titan also has a 26-gallon tank, leading to a fill-up cost of about $89. Its 400-horsepower V-8 engine offers up to 21 miles per gallon. Prices for the 2025 Titan start at $48,700.
5. Infiniti QX80
The Infiniti QX80 features a 26-gallon tank, resulting in a fill-up cost of around $89. The rear-wheel-drive model gets up to 20 miles per gallon. The 2025 QX80 starts at $84,445 and can reach $122,000.
4. Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada, holding 26 gallons of gas, has a fill-up cost of nearly $90. Its four-wheel-drive version achieves only 18 miles per gallon. Pricing starts at $58,530 for the 2024 model.
3. Ford Expedition
With a 27.8-gallon tank, the Ford Expedition’s fill-up cost is close to $95. The all-wheel-drive model delivers up to 22 miles per gallon. The 2024 base model starts at $57,625.
2. Chevrolet Suburban
The Chevrolet Suburban holds 28 gallons of fuel, making a full tank cost approximately $96. Despite its large size, it offers decent fuel economy, achieving up to 27 miles per gallon. Pricing starts at $62,000.
1. Toyota Tundra
Topping the list is the Toyota Tundra, with a 32-gallon tank and a fill-up cost of over $100. The Tundra achieves up to 24 miles per gallon in two-wheel drive. Prices for the 2025 model start at $42,000.
Tips for Reducing Transportation Costs
Cruze offers several strategies for managing vehicle-related expenses during high inflation:
- Buy Used Vehicles: Cars depreciate quickly, often losing up to 20% of their value in the first year. Opting for a used car can help you avoid the steepest depreciation costs. Cruze suggests purchasing a vehicle that’s a few years old and avoiding new car purchases unless your financial situation allows for it.
- Pay Cash: Avoiding car loans can save you from paying interest on a depreciating asset. Cruze advises saving up to buy a car in cash, if possible, to eliminate the burden of monthly payments.
- Limit Car Value: To ensure you don’t overspend, Cruze recommends buying a car worth no more than 50% of your annual household income. For instance, if your household earns $100,000 annually, aim for a vehicle priced at $50,000 or less.
By carefully selecting a vehicle with favorable fuel economy and adhering to these financial tips, consumers can better manage their transportation costs amidst ongoing inflationary pressures.
