Fuel Cost Calculator
Calculate trip fuel cost from distance, efficiency, and fuel price. Supports MPG (imperial) and L/100km (metric).
Fuel Cost Reference — Common Trips
| Trip | Distance | 30 MPG @ $3.50 | 25 MPG @ $3.50 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily commute (one way) | 15 mi | $1.75 | $2.10 |
| City to suburbs | 30 mi | $3.50 | $4.20 |
| Weekend getaway | 200 mi | $23.33 | $28.00 |
| Cross-state drive | 500 mi | $58.33 | $70.00 |
| Cross-country (US) | 2,800 mi | $326.67 | $392.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate fuel cost for a trip?
For imperial (MPG): divide distance (miles) by fuel efficiency (MPG) to get gallons used, then multiply by price per gallon. Formula: Cost = (Distance / MPG) × Price per gallon. For metric: Cost = (Distance × L/100km / 100) × Price per litre.
What is a good MPG for a car?
A good MPG depends on the vehicle type. Compact cars typically achieve 30–40 MPG combined. Mid-size sedans average 25–32 MPG. SUVs and trucks typically achieve 15–25 MPG. Hybrid vehicles can reach 45–60 MPG. Electric vehicles are measured in miles per kWh rather than MPG.
What is L/100km and how does it relate to MPG?
L/100km (litres per 100 kilometres) is the metric equivalent of MPG. Lower is better — a fuel-efficient car might achieve 6 L/100km, while a large SUV might use 12 L/100km. To convert: MPG = 235.2 / (L/100km). So 8 L/100km ≈ 29 MPG.
How much does it cost to drive 100 miles?
It depends on your vehicle's efficiency and fuel price. At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon: Cost = (100/30) × $3.50 = $11.67. At 25 MPG and $3.50/gallon: Cost = $14.00. At 20 MPG and $4.00/gallon: Cost = $20.00. This calculator handles the math automatically.
Why do my actual fuel costs differ from estimates?
Real-world fuel economy typically differs from EPA estimates by 10–30%. Factors include driving speed (highway vs city), air conditioning use, tyre pressure, cargo weight, weather conditions, and driving style. Aggressive acceleration and braking significantly reduce efficiency.