About this episode

This episode discusses strategies for saving on fuel costs amidst fluctuating gas prices.

As gas prices fluctuate and drivers look for ways to cut costs, on this week's episode we answer the questions drivers are asking most: Is premium fuel worth the extra cost? Does ethanol save money? Do Eco modes actually improve fuel economy? And should high fuel prices push you toward a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or EV? From choosing the right fuel and finding the best prices at the pump to understanding the long-term costs of different vehicle types, we separate fact from fiction and share practical strategies to help drivers spend less on fuel without sacrificing performance or reliability. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 Intro 00:15 Gas prices 00:51 Ethanol fuel blends 08:30 Premium vs. regular gas 17:04 Real ways to save at the pump 18:47 Hybrids, EVs, and PHEVs 29:08 Oil shortages, diesel, and alternative fuel 34:17 Eco mode and fuel-saving driving tips 37:06 The future of fuel efficiency and electrification ---------------------------------- Best deals on fuel-efficient cars & SUVs…

Topics covered

• gas prices
• fuel economy
• hybrids and EVs
• fuel types
• cost-saving strategies
• eco driving tips

Keywords

• gas prices
• fuel economy
• hybrids
• plug-in hybrids
• EVs
• ethanol
• premium fuel
• Eco modes
• cost-saving tips

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Consumer Reports

Products: premium fuel, ethanol, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, EV, Eco modes, diesel, alternative fuel, fuel-efficient cars, SUVs

Places: high gas prices

More episodes of Talking Cars (Video)

• Why Does Every New Car Feel Like a Smartphone? · July 15, 2026 · 30 min
• Small Trucks Are the Perfect Size for Nobody: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz · July 8, 2026 · 33 min
• Everything That's Wrong with the American Auto Industry · July 1, 2026 · 58 min
• The 2026 Subaru Uncharted's Identity Crisis · June 24, 2026 · 47 min
• Get a Job As a CR Tester, Rivian vs. Lucid, Unfair Minivan Bias · June 17, 2026 · 22 min
• 2026 Dodge Charger R/T · June 10, 2026 · 48 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Talking Cars (Video) podcast page.