What kind of gas does a Honda Clarity take?
The Clarity lineup includes three powertrains with different fueling requirements: the Fuel Cell version runs on hydrogen, the Plug-In Hybrid uses gasoline (and electricity), and the Electric version runs on electricity from the grid.
The question matters because each variant uses a distinct energy source, and availability has shifted in recent years. This article explains how each Clarity variant is fueled, how refueling or charging works, and what buyers today should know given changes in the model lineup.
Variants and fueling requirements
Here is a concise breakdown of the three Clarity variants and how they are fueled.
- Clarity Fuel Cell (FCEV) — powered by hydrogen; refueled at hydrogen fueling stations; does not use gasoline.
- Clarity Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) — uses gasoline in combination with electricity; can drive on electric power for a limited range and can be charged via plug-in.
- Clarity Electric — fully battery-electric; charged from the electric grid; does not use hydrogen or gasoline.
In short, the gas you would put in depends on the variant: FCEV uses hydrogen, PHEV uses gasoline (plus electricity), and Electric uses only electricity.
Current status and availability
As of 2024–2025, Honda has largely phased out the Clarity lineup for new-car sales in North America and many markets. Production of Clarity variants ended in the U.S. around the 2020–2021 period, and new-cluster sales have not resumed. Today, Clarity vehicles exist mainly in the used market or in limited programs where hydrogen infrastructure or grid charging is available. Prospective buyers should verify the specific variant and fueling requirements with the seller or a dealer before purchase.
How to identify your Clarity variant
To determine which Clarity you own or are considering, check the vehicle badge on the trunk or sides, look for the appropriate fueling port: a charging port indicates Electric or PHEV, a hydrogen port indicates Fuel Cell, and a traditional gasoline fuel door indicates PHEV. The VIN and the window sticker will also reveal the exact powertrain variant.
Summary
The Honda Clarity’s answer to “what kind of gas” it takes depends on the specific model: Fuel Cell uses hydrogen, Plug-In Hybrid uses gasoline (and electricity), and Electric uses electricity only. The lineup’s consumer-facing presence has diminished in many markets, so buyers today should verify variant and fueling options and consider the availability of fueling or charging infrastructure when evaluating a used Clarity.
What kind of gas does a Honda hybrid take?
regular unleaded gasoline
Honda engines are certified and designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline. Gasoline is allowed, by regulation, to contain a variety of additives.
What happens if I put 91 instead of 87?
Engine computers can usually adjust their timing to account for the increased octane levels, so if you put premium gas in a regular car, you probably won't notice anything. However, some engines are not designed to burn higher-octane fuel, and you may see a reduction in performance and fuel economy.
Can you put 87 gas in a hybrid?
Since these engines operate on an 87-octane fuel rating, putting in higher-grade gasoline will not improve fuel economy estimates, nor provide additional power. Your Owner's Manual will specify which gas to use. MYTH #2 - The hybrid battery only charges when the vehicle is plugged in. False!
Should I use 87 or 89 gas?
Your car will run just fine. All modern cars can run 87,89,91,93. It's suggested that for maximum power that you use 93. If you're not at a track day event and just daily commuting 87 will serve you well. All modern cars are equipped with knock sensors to prevent engine damage from running lower octane fuel.
