The 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid gets 42 MPG combined, a figure that shows Honda’s engineering in a vehicle designed for efficiency. The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid isn’t focused on racetrack thrills or off-road adventures; it’s built for those who prioritize minimizing their environmental footprint and shrinking their fuel bills without sacrificing comfort or usability. Its target audience is focused on value, reliability, and a tangible reduction in running costs, and its MPG reflects that mission perfectly.

City and highway performance

The Clarity Plug-in Hybrid performs well in city driving, with an EPA-estimated 44 MPG. This high city MPG is due to the electric motor’s assistance, allowing the gasoline engine to switch off frequently, especially during stop-and-go traffic. On the highway, the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid still achieves a respectable 40 MPG. While the electric motor helps less at higher speeds, the 1.5L 4-cylinder engine is designed for efficiency, prioritizing fuel conservation over outright power. The automatic transmission, with its variable gear ratios, manages power delivery to maximize efficiency at any speed.

Annual fuel cost

According to EPA estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid is $1,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a percentage of city and highway miles that represent combined normal driving conditions, at the national average fuel prices. The real-world annual expenditure may vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the frequency with which the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid is driven in electric-only mode. However, the $1,050 EPA estimate gives potential buyers a solid benchmark to compare against other vehicles and quantify the potential savings. Examining all Honda fuel economy data will show how well Honda performs against its peers.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful starting point, remember that real-world fuel economy can change. Factors like driving style, climate, terrain, and even tire pressure can influence your MPG. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will reduce efficiency, and consistently driving at higher speeds will decrease MPG as well. Cold weather can also negatively impact fuel economy, as the engine needs to work harder to reach optimal operating temperature. However, drivers who prioritize smooth, conservative driving habits and frequently use the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid’s electric-only mode will likely see MPG figures that meet or exceed EPA estimates. Also, CLARITY MPG across all years will be informative when considering this vehicle.

How it compares

The 2018 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid does well against competitors in the plug-in hybrid segment. Consider the Toyota Prius Prime, which achieves an EPA-estimated 54 MPG combined as a plug-in hybrid. While the Prius Prime gets better MPG than the Clarity, the Clarity has greater electric-only range, addressing a different consumer need. A more direct competitor is the Chevy Volt (discontinued after 2019), which achieved 42 MPG combined, virtually identical to the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid. However, the Volt offered a different driving experience, with a focus on electric torque. The Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid gets 46 MPG combined, a significant advantage for commuters covering long distances, and a meaningful boost for cost-conscious buyers. The value of each car depends on individual priorities, focusing on electric range, cargo space, or price.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid’s electric-only mode whenever possible, especially for short trips around town. Pre-condition the cabin while the vehicle is plugged in, either in the summer or winter, to reduce the load on the climate control system while driving. This allows the car to heat or cool the cabin using grid electricity, saving the battery’s energy for propulsion.

Practice smooth and gradual acceleration, avoiding sudden bursts of speed. Aggressive acceleration depletes the battery charge quickly and forces the gasoline engine to work harder, thereby lowering overall MPG. Anticipate traffic flow and coast whenever possible, allowing the regenerative braking system to recover energy and recharge the battery. This process is far more efficient than hard braking, which wastes kinetic energy.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can change.

Minimize accessory use, such as air conditioning and headlights, which consume additional energy and reduce fuel efficiency. Turn off headlights when not needed and use the air conditioning sparingly, opting for ventilation or recirculated air when appropriate. Every small adjustment adds up to significant savings over time.

Keep the vehicle well-maintained, including regular oil changes and air filter replacements. A poorly maintained engine works harder and consumes more fuel. Following the recommended maintenance schedule ensures optimal performance and efficiency.