92 MPG combined is an extraordinary figure. In the case of the 2024 Honda Prologue AWD Elite, it represents the electric equivalent of gasoline fuel economy. This isn’t your traditional MPG; it’s MPGe, or miles per gallon equivalent, a metric the EPA uses to compare the energy consumption of electric vehicles to gasoline-powered ones. The Prologue, as Honda’s entry into the all-electric SUV market, focuses on practicality, comfort, and efficiency, something that resonates with families and buyers looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing everyday usability and premium features.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Prologue AWD Elite achieves 99 MPGe in the city and 84 MPGe on the highway. The higher city rating reflects the regenerative braking system’s effectiveness in stop-and-go traffic, recouping energy during deceleration and feeding it back into the battery pack. Highway driving typically results in lower efficiency for electric vehicles as there are fewer opportunities to regenerative braking. Drivers who frequently undertake longer commutes or road trips should bear this in mind, but the Prologue’s engineering prioritizes minimizing the efficiency difference between city and highway environments. You can view PROLOGUE MPG across all years to understand how Honda approaches efficiency in its electric vehicles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Honda Prologue AWD Elite at $850. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and assumes the national average electricity price. Individual costs may vary depending on electricity rates in your area and your personal driving habits, but $850 provides a good point of comparison against gasoline-powered vehicles. For example, a comparably sized SUV with a traditional internal combustion engine might easily rack up $2,000 or more in annual fuel costs, depending on its fuel economy and gasoline prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA’s MPGe figures provide a useful benchmark, real-world energy consumption can vary depending on several factors. Ambient temperature significantly affects battery performance. Cold weather typically reduces range and efficiency due to the energy needed to heat the battery and cabin. Driving style also plays a critical role: aggressive acceleration and high speeds consume more energy, while a more relaxed driving style allows for greater efficiency and range. The use of climate control features, such as air conditioning and heating, also impacts overall energy consumption. Consider your typical driving conditions and habits to better estimate your actual energy costs with the Prologue.

How it compares

The electric SUV segment is becoming increasingly competitive, and the Prologue’s efficiency stacks up well against its rivals. The Chevrolet Blazer EV, for instance, is another option, and the AWD version achieves around 89 MPGe combined. The Tesla Model Y Long Range, a benchmark in the electric SUV space, boasts a combined rating of 122 MPGe. The Hyundai IONIQ 5, also available with all-wheel drive, achieves around 114 MPGe combined. The Honda’s target buyer appreciates its blend of familiar ergonomics, traditional SUV styling, and reputation for reliability even though the top trims from Tesla and Hyundai may achieve higher MPGe than the Prologue, elements not always present in more radical EV offerings. Many shoppers will also want to view all Honda fuel economy data to better understand the manufacturer’s approach to efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. The Prologue offers adjustable regenerative braking levels, allowing you to tailor the deceleration to your driving style. Experiment with the different settings and use one-pedal driving where possible to maximize energy recovery and reduce wear on the brake pads.

Precondition the battery before driving. In cold weather, use the preconditioning function (available through the HondaLink app) to warm up the battery while the vehicle is still plugged in. This helps optimize battery performance and range when you start your journey, rather than drawing from the battery’s energy reserves while driving.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary roof racks or cargo carriers, as these increase wind resistance and reduce efficiency, particularly at highway speeds. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure to minimize rolling resistance.

Plan your charging strategy. Use off-peak electricity rates, if available, to reduce your overall charging costs. Public charging networks offer varying pricing plans, so research and compare options to find the most cost-effective solutions for your typical charging needs. Regular top-ups are often more effective than waiting to charge from near-empty, especially in colder climates.