Fuel Credit Card Comparison: Side-by-Side Analysis 2026

Published: January 15, 2026 | Last Updated: 1 February 2026

Compare Fuel Credit Cards: Find Your Perfect Match

Choosing the right fuel credit card can save you ₹8,000–₹14,400 annually on fuel expenses. This comprehensive comparison helps you compare fuel credit cards side-by-side, understand key differences, and select the card that maximizes savings for your specific fuel spending pattern.

We've analyzed 10+ fuel credit cards from major banks (RBL, SBI, HDFC, IDFC, ICICI, Axis) and fuel brands (Indian Oil, BPCL, HPCL) to bring you an unbiased comparison based on actual value-back, fees, restrictions, and lifestyle benefits.

Side-by-Side Fuel Credit Card Comparison Table

Card NameFuel BrandMax Value-BackAnnual FeeFee WaiverMonthly CapBest For
RBL XTRAIOCL8.5%₹1,500₹2.75L spend₹12,000Heavy commuters
SBI OctaneBPCL7.25%₹1,499₹2L spend₹10,000Travelers + lifestyle
IDFC Power+HPCL6.5%₹499₹1.5L spend₹8,000Families + utilities
Standard CharteredAny5%₹750₹90K spendUnlimitedBrand-agnostic
HDFC IOCLIOCL5%₹500₹50K spend₹10,000Budget users

Detailed Comparison: Key Features

Value-Back Comparison

  • Highest: RBL XTRA (8.5%) – Best for IOCL users spending ₹10,000+/month. Annual savings: ₹9,900+.
  • Premium: SBI Octane (7.25%) – Best for BPCL users who value lifestyle perks. Annual savings: ₹10,000+.
  • Balanced: IDFC Power+ (6.5%) – Best for HPCL users managing multiple expenses. Annual savings: ₹9,240+.
  • Flexible: Standard Chartered (5%) – Works at all fuel brands. Annual savings: ₹6,000+.
  • Budget: HDFC IOCL (5%) – Lowest fees with good rewards. Annual savings: ₹5,000+.

Annual Fee Comparison

Fees range from ₹199 (ICICI Coral) to ₹1,500 (RBL XTRA). However, higher fees often mean higher value-back. Calculate ROI: (Annual Savings - Annual Fee) to find the best value.

Fuel Brand Compatibility

  • IOCL Cards: RBL XTRA, HDFC IOCL – Maximum rewards only at Indian Oil stations
  • BPCL Cards: SBI Octane – Maximum rewards only at Bharat Petroleum pumps
  • HPCL Cards: IDFC Power+ – Maximum rewards only at HPCL stations
  • Brand-Agnostic: Standard Chartered – Works at all fuel brands with 5% value-back

How to Choose: Quick Decision Guide

Choose RBL XTRA if:

  • You spend ₹10,000+/month on IOCL fuel
  • You can meet ₹2.75L annual spend for fee waiver
  • You want maximum fuel rewards (8.5% value-back)

Choose SBI Octane if:

  • You prefer BPCL fuel stations
  • You value lounge access and lifestyle benefits
  • You combine fuel with dining/entertainment spending

Choose IDFC Power+ if:

  • You use HPCL stations
  • You manage fuel + utilities + groceries expenses
  • You want never-expiring reward points

Choose Standard Chartered if:

  • You use multiple fuel brands
  • You want flexibility without brand lock-in
  • You travel across states frequently

Frequently Asked Questions: Fuel Credit Card Comparison

Which fuel credit card offers the highest value-back?

RBL XTRA Credit Card offers 8.5% value-back at IOCL stations, the highest in India. For ₹10,000/month fuel spend, annual savings exceed ₹9,900 after accounting for fees. SBI Octane (7.25%) and IDFC Power+ (6.5%) are also excellent options depending on fuel brand preference.

Can I use IOCL card at BPCL stations?

Yes, you can use IOCL cards at BPCL stations, but you'll earn minimal or zero rewards. Co-branded cards are optimized for their partner fuel brand. For maximum value, use IOCL cards at Indian Oil stations, BPCL cards at Bharat Petroleum pumps, and HPCL cards at HPCL stations.

What is monthly spending cap on fuel credit cards?

Most fuel credit cards limit eligible fuel rewards to ₹5,000–₹12,000 per month. RBL XTRA caps at ₹12,000/month, SBI Octane at ₹10,000/month, and IDFC Power+ at ₹8,000/month. Spending beyond the cap earns zero rewards. Standard Chartered Super Value offers unlimited fuel rewards at 5% value-back.

Conclusion: Make an Informed Decision

Comparing fuel credit cards requires analyzing value-back, fees, brand compatibility, and lifestyle benefits. Use this comparison to identify cards that match your fuel spending pattern and maximize annual savings. For detailed analysis on individual cards, read our complete fuel credit cards guide. To learn best practices for using credit cards responsibly and maximizing rewards, check out our comprehensive credit card usage guide.