EV vs Hybrid vs Gas: Which Really Wins on a 750-Mile Road Trip?

Wouter Smit · 2026-09-05

You've probably wondered: for a long road trip, is it better to drive an EV, a hybrid, or a plain gas car? We decided to find out. We took a Honda Accord Hybrid, a Tesla Model 3, and a Volkswagen Jetta on a 750-mile journey to see which one handled the open road best. ### The Contenders - **Honda Accord Hybrid**: A midsize sedan with a gas engine and electric motor, no plug needed. - **Tesla Model 3**: A fully electric sedan with a range of about 270 miles per charge. - **Volkswagen Jetta**: A traditional gas-powered compact sedan, no electrification. Each car has its strengths, but on a long trip, the differences become clear. ### Fueling Up: Time and Cost The Jetta was the simplest: pull into any gas station, fill up in 5 minutes, and pay about $50 for a full tank (at $3.50 per gallon). The Accord Hybrid also took gas but got better mileage—around 48 mpg—so we spent about $35 for the same distance. The Tesla was a different story. We used Tesla's Supercharger network, which cost roughly $0.28 per kWh. A full charge cost about $20, but took 30 minutes. Over 750 miles, we needed three charging stops, adding about 1.5 hours to our trip. ### Comfort and Driving Experience The Tesla was the quietest and smoothest, with instant torque. The Accord Hybrid was also quiet but had a slight drone when the gas engine kicked in. The Jetta felt more traditional, with engine noise and a stiffer ride. For long stretches, the Tesla's Autopilot reduced fatigue, but we had to stay alert. The Accord's adaptive cruise control was helpful, while the Jetta lacked advanced driver aids. ### The Verdict If you want the fastest trip with minimal planning, the Jetta wins. But if you don't mind stopping every 3 hours and want lower fuel costs, the Tesla is great. The Accord Hybrid strikes a balance: no range anxiety, great fuel economy, and a comfortable ride. > "The best car for a road trip depends on your priorities: time, money, or comfort." Ultimately, all three completed the journey. But the hybrid might be the smartest choice for most people—it combines the convenience of gas with the efficiency of electric.