Hybrid vs Petrol for Uber Driving: What Works Best in 2026?

Choosing the right vehicle for Uber driving in 2026 

The vehicle you choose for Uber driving has a direct impact on how much you earn each week. Fuel costs, servicing, cover, and vehicle size all play a role in your take-home income.

In 2026, many Australian Uber drivers are choosing hybrid vehicles as a practical middle option between petrol cars and full electric vehicles. Hybrids help reduce running costs without changing how drivers work day to day.

This guide explains when hybrids make sense, when petrol still works, and which vehicle types perform best for different Uber driving styles.

What is the difference between hybrid and petrol cars for Uber driving? 

Hybrid cars use both a petrol engine and an electric motor. Petrol cars rely only on fuel.

For Uber driving in Australia, hybrids usually cost less to run each week, especially in city and suburban traffic. Petrol vehicles often have a lower weekly entry price but higher ongoing fuel costs.

Drivers choosing between hybrid and petrol should think about how they drive, not just the weekly vehicle cost.

Why are hybrid vehicles better for Uber driving in cities? 

Hybrid vehicles are more efficient in stop-start traffic because they use electric power at low speeds. This reduces fuel use during short trips, traffic delays, and frequent pick-ups.

This makes hybrids well suited to most Uber driving patterns.

Key reasons Uber drivers choose hybrids

• Lower fuel costs in city driving

• No charging required

• Smooth, quiet driving for passengers

• Easy switch from petrol vehicles

For drivers who want lower weekly running costs without changing how they drive, hybrids are often the easiest upgrade.

When does a petrol vehicle still make sense for Uber drivers? 

Petrol vehicles may still suit some Uber drivers. They can make sense if you:

• Want the lowest weekly entry price

• Mostly drive long highway trips

• Need a vehicle type not widely available as a hybrid

However, petrol vehicles usually cost more week to week due to higher fuel use, especially in urban areas.

For many full-time Uber drivers, petrol is now a short-term or transitional option rather than a long-term solution.

What most Uber drivers choose in 2026 

For many drivers, the best balance is clear: hybrid vehicles that offer space, comfort, and predictable weekly costs.

Large hybrid SUVs are growing in popularity across NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, and the ACT. They suit a wide range of Uber trips and help reduce fuel spend compared to petrol SUVs.

Hybrid vs. Petrol for Uber Driving (Quick Comparison)

What type of hybrid vehicle is best for rideshare driving? 

Most Uber drivers choose vehicles based on how they earn, not only the weekly cost. Below are the most common vehicle types and when they work best.

Best for longer trips, airport runs and Comfort driving (Hybrid)

Hybrid SUVs suit drivers who:

• Work long shifts

• Do frequent airport trips

• Carry passengers with luggage

• Want lower fuel costs without charging

Toyota Kluger Hybrid

A large hybrid SUV built for space, comfort and fuel efficiency.

• Fuel consumption: 5.6L per 100 km

• Estimated weekly fuel cost: ~$105*

• Boot space: Up yo 552 litres

• Key features: Rear-view camera, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, smart key entry, large touchscreen infotainment

• Price: From $479 per week on Splend Flexi Own plans

Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

A refined hybrid SUV offering comfort and strong fuel savings.

• Fuel consumption: 6.2L/100km fuel economy

• Estimated weekly fuel cost: ~$105*

• Boot space: 628 litres

• Key features: Rear-view camera, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, wireless phone charging, driver-assist safety features

• Price: From$459 per week on Splend Flexi Own plans, with express ownership available on selected vehicles

Best for city driving and premium Uber trips (Hybrid)

Some hybrid vehicles work especially well in busy city driving while also offering strong passenger comfort.

These vehicles suit drivers who complete frequent city trips and want access to higher-value Uber categories.

Lexus ES 300h Luxury

A smooth, efficient hybrid sedan built for city and Comfort trips.

• Fuel consumption: 4.8L per 100 km

• Estimated weekly fuel cost: ~$85*

• Boot space: 454 litres

• Key features: Rear-view camera, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, wireless phone charging, refined and quiet cabin

• Price: From $559 per week on Splend Flexi Own plans.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid GX

A versatile hybrid SUV that performs well in city driving and busy metro areas.

• Fuel consumption: 4.7L per 100 km

• Estimated weekly fuel cost: ~$95*

• Boot space: 542 litres

• Key features: Rear-view camera, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, rear parking sensors, spacious boot for luggage

• Price: From $329 per week on Splend Flexi Own plans, with express ownership available on selected vehicles

Best for flexibility and lower upfront commitment (Petrol)

Petrol vehicles can still suit drivers who:

• Drive fewer hours

• Mix personal and Uber use

• Want the lowest weekly commitment

They can work well short term, but usually cost more to run over time.

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace 110TSI Life

A spacious petrol SUV suited to mixed city and suburban driving.

• Fuel consumption: 7.7L per 100 km

• Estimated weekly fuel cost: ~$155*

• Boot space: 230 litres

• Key features: Rear-view camera, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, digital cockpit display, large boot for luggage

• Price: From $365 per week on Splend Flexi Own plans, with express ownership available on selected Pre-Owned vehicles

Hyundai Tucson (Petrol)

A popular mid-size SUV with everyday comfort and practicality.

• Fuel consumption: 8.1L per 100 km

• Estimated weekly fuel cost: ~$150*

• Boot space: 539 litres

• Key features: Rear-view camera, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, wireless phone charging, modern infotainment system

• Price: From $360 per week on Splend Flexi Own plans, with express ownership available on selected Pre-Owned vehicles

*Fuel cost note: Estimated weekly fuel costs are indicative only and based on average Uber driving patterns and fuel prices. Actual costs will vary depending on driving hours, routes, and fuel prices.

Choosing what works best for you

There is no single “best” car for Uber driving. The right choice depends on:

• How many hours you drive

• Where you drive

• What trip types you want to access

• Whether you are planning short-term or long-term

For most full-time Uber drivers in 2026, hybrid vehicles offer the best balance of fuel savings, comfort, and flexibility.

About Splend

We enable people to make money by driving for on-demand apps such as Uber.

Splend makes car ownership easier, more affordable and more accessible for rideshare drivers by building everything they need to earn more, pay less and stress less into one affordable weekly payment. It’s smooth driving, with no surprises and the lowest total ownership cost you’ll find – which is how car ownership for rideshare drivers should be.

For more information about Splend, make an appointment and drop by to your local Splend Hub, email us, or say hello on 1800 775 363.

Frequently asked questions 

• Is a hybrid car cheaper to run than petrol for Uber? Yes. For most city and suburban driving, hybrid cars usually use less fuel and cost less to run each week. 

• Do hybrid cars need charging? No. Hybrid vehicles charge themselves while driving. 

• Which hybrid vehicles are best for larger trips? Large hybrid SUVs, such as the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, are commonly chosen for passengers and luggage. 

• Are EVs better than hybrids? EVs can be cheaper to run, but hybrids are easier if you don’t want to charge yet. 

• Which option is right for me? If you want lower fuel costs, flexibility, and no charging, a hybrid is often the best place to start.