Is Auto LPG Worth It in 2026? A Real Savings Calculation

We perform a simple calculation to see the savings per 100 kilometres. Assuming an average consumption of 7 litres/100 km for a petrol car, the cost of a full tank of 95 petrol, at the average price of 8.67 lei/L, would be approximately 60.69 lei per 100 km.

For LPG, we need to account for a 15-20% higher consumption. We take an average of 18% more, which means a consumption of 8.26 litres/100 km. At the current average price of auto LPG of 4.54 lei/L, the cost to travel 100 km is approximately 37.50 lei. Thus, the saving for every 100 kilometres driven is around 23.19 lei, a significant difference in a driver's monthly budget.

It is a well-known fact that cars running on LPG have a slightly higher consumption than those running on petrol. This increase is generally between 15% and 20%. For example, if your car consumes 7 litres of petrol per 100 km, on LPG the consumption will be closer to 8.05 - 8.4 litres per 100 km, due to the lower energy density of autogas.

Even with this increased consumption, the price difference per litre of 4.13 lei/L, in favour of LPG, more than compensates. Thus, the final cost per kilometre remains considerably lower, as we calculated earlier, at 37.50 lei per 100 km compared to 60.69 lei per 100 km with petrol, at current prices.

The cost of a car LPG installation varies depending on the vehicle type, engine complexity, and system manufacturer, but an average investment is generally between 3,000 and 4,500 lei. For illustration, we will use an indicative value of 3,500 lei for a new installation. This amount typically includes fitting and initial type approval.

Using the saving of 23.19 lei per 100 km calculated previously, we can estimate the payback period. To recover the 3,500 lei investment, you will need to drive approximately 15,092 kilometres (3,500 lei / 23.19 lei/100km * 100). For a driver who covers an average of 15,000–20,000 km per year, the payback is achieved in less than a year, sometimes even in 6–9 months, quickly turning an upfront expense into a real long-term saving.

Of course, there are certain disadvantages to consider as well. One of the most common is the reduction of boot space, as the LPG tank is most often placed in the spare wheel well or in another area of the boot. Additionally, cars equipped with an LPG system are frequently banned from certain underground car parks, an important restriction in large cities.

Beyond these aspects, using LPG also involves system-specific inspections, which add an extra cost to the annual maintenance of the vehicle. Nevertheless, given the savings of 4.13 lei/L, these costs and inconveniences are often outweighed by the financial benefits, especially for drivers who cover long distances.

The autogas distribution network in Romania is extensive and continuously growing. According to PretCarburant.ro data, we monitor over 1390 stations nationwide where you can refuel with autogas. This large number ensures good geographical coverage, minimising the risk of running out of fuel on the road.

To find the best prices, our platform provides you with an interactive map where you can view prices updated in real time. Although the average price of autogas is 4.54 lei/L, we have observed significant variations, from a minimum of 4.23 lei/L to a maximum of 4.70 lei/L. By using our map, you can identify the stations with the most competitive offers in your area and save even more.

In general, a correctly installed and tuned LPG system does not significantly affect engine performance or reliability. You may notice a slight power reduction of approximately 5-10%, but this is often imperceptible under normal driving conditions. Modern sequential LPG injection technologies are far more advanced and optimise combustion, protecting engine components.

To maintain reliability, it is crucial that the system is fitted by qualified specialists and that you follow the service schedule recommended by the LPG system manufacturer. These periodic services ensure optimal operation and prevent potential issues, contributing to a long engine lifespan, similar to running on petrol.

Most petrol-powered vehicles, especially those manufactured after the year 2000, are compatible with the installation of a GPL system. Whether you have a multi-point injection or direct injection engine, there are adapted technical solutions available. It is essential to consult a specialist who can assess the specific compatibility of your model and recommend the most suitable installation.

After fitting the GPL system, homologation with the Romanian Auto Registry (RAR) is mandatory. The homologation process involves a thorough technical inspection to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. Once the vehicle receives the homologation certificate, the details are recorded in the registration certificate, and you may legally drive on public roads with the new fuel system.

The fuel market is, by its nature, volatile, and prices can fluctuate depending on economic and geopolitical factors. However, what we have consistently observed, including in our own data, is that the significant price difference between petrol and LPG remains relatively stable. For example, today we have a difference of 4.13 lei/L, a difference that, historically, has remained large enough to justify the investment in LPG.

Even under conditions of generalised pump-price increases, LPG tends to remain the most economical fuel. We constantly monitor prices at all 1390 stations across the country and observe that, although minimum and maximum prices change (from 8.27 lei/L to 9.25 lei/L for petrol and from 4.23 lei/L to 4.70 lei/L for LPG), the economic advantage of autogas persists. This trend indicates that the savings achieved with LPG are a long-term constant, making it a viable solution in 2026 and beyond.