Chase Elliott has demonstrated remarkable consistency in NASCAR’s Cup Series, achieving the top average finish among active drivers with at least 100 starts since the introduction of NextGen cars in 2022. His performance, highlighted by a combined average finish of 12.4, places him ahead of other notable contenders and cements his reputation as a leading competitor in stock car racing.
NASCAR’s Competitive Landscape Since 2022
In recent years, the NASCAR Cup Series has undergone significant changes, most notably the shift to NextGen cars beginning with the 2022 season. This technological transition required drivers to adapt quickly, with only a select few consistently producing top results across more than 100 events. The release of recent statistics spotlights five drivers who have managed to excel during this period, showcasing both their adaptability and skill.
Chase Elliott Leads with Impressive Consistency
Chase Elliott, representing Hendrick Motorsports, has stood out for his unwavering performance behind the wheel. After joining the Cup Series with a debut in the #25 Chevrolet and subsequently taking the reins of Jeff Gordon’s #24, Elliott took over the #9 car in 2018 and has remained the team’s lead driver since. From 2022 through the 2025 seasons, his average finishes have ranged from 12.5 in 2022, 13.1 in 2023, to an impressive 11.7 in 2024, and 12.6 in 2025. The culmination of these results gives Elliott the best average finish of 12.4 among his active peers. As the 2020 NASCAR champion, Elliott’s sustained excellence validates his position at the top and exemplifies the focus on Chase Elliott NASCAR average finish as a benchmark in the series.
Christopher Bell Rises in the Ranks
Christopher Bell began his Cup Series journey with Leavine Family Racing, showing steady growth after moving to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2021. Bell’s initial year at JGR saw modest outcomes, but from the 2022 season on, he has steadily improved his stats. The 31-year-old driver posted average finishes of 13.8 in 2022, 12.9 in 2023, 12.8 in 2024, and a notable 11.2 in 2025. These results combine for a 12.7 average finish, earning Bell second place among active drivers. His progress not only elevates his profile but also bolsters Joe Gibbs Racing’s competitive edge in the series.
William Byron Maintains Momentum for Hendrick Motorsports
William Byron, another standout at Hendrick Motorsports, debuted with the team in 2018 and has driven the #24 Chevrolet ever since. Although Byron faced challenges in his initial seasons, his performances strengthened with the arrival of the NextGen cars. Notably, in 2022 he earned two victories with an average finish of 15.6. His subsequent seasons included averages of 11 in 2023, 12.9 in 2024, and 14.5 in 2025, leading to a collective mark of 13.5. Byron’s upward trajectory demonstrates his adaptation to evolving equipment and the competitive demands of modern NASCAR.
Kyle Larson’s Consistent Excellence
Kyle Larson joined Hendrick Motorsports in 2021, quickly establishing himself as a force by clinching the Cup Series title and ten victories as a rookie. Larson’s performance in the following seasons sustained his position among the sport’s elite. His average finishes include 14.1 in 2022, 14.6 in 2023, a marked improvement to 12.9 in 2024, and 13.2 in 2025. With a four-year average of 13.7, Larson follows closely behind Byron and remains a pivotal figure at Hendrick, as evidenced by his 2025 championship triumph.
Denny Hamlin’s Veteran Tenure and Strong Finishes
Denny Hamlin, recognized for both his longevity and competitiveness, has remained a fixture at Joe Gibbs Racing since 2005, piloting the #11 Toyota since 2008. While Hamlin has yet to secure a Cup Series championship, he has come tantalizingly close on several occasions. In recent seasons, his finishes speak to experience and adaptability: 15.5 in 2022, an improved 12.4 in 2023, 13.9 in 2024, and 14 in 2025. This results in a four-year average of 13.9. Hamlin’s continued pursuit of the title, combined with his history of wins and near-misses, keeps him firmly in the discussion of the sport’s elite drivers.
Looking at the Drivers Behind the Numbers
The NextGen car era has redefined the standards of success in the NASCAR Cup Series. Drivers like Chase Elliott, Christopher Bell, William Byron, Kyle Larson, and Denny Hamlin show not only the ability to win but also to maintain high performance across changing conditions and competitive landscapes. With consistent finishes season after season, these athletes reinforce the importance of adaptability, making the Chase Elliott NASCAR average finish a significant metric. Their ongoing performances will likely influence team strategies and shape the competitive dynamics of future Cup Series seasons.
The highest average finish in the NASCAR Cup Series since 2022 (min 100 starts):
12.4 Chase Elliott
12.7 Christopher Bell
13.5 William Byron
13.7 Kyle Larson
13.9 Denny Hamlin
14.4 Ryan Blaney
14.6 Chris Buescher
14.8 Ross Chastain pic.twitter.com/pdHSVZUZ4w— Racing Territory (@RacingTerritory) January 4, 2026
