27 March 2019 · New & Used Vehicles
Not sure whether to buy a petrol, diesel or hybrid car?
The days when you filled up your car and the litres column turned faster than the dollars column on the petrol pump are, unfortunately, long gone. Global factors such as the cost of crude oil and refined products have all contributed to fuel prices heading north. While at home, government and regulatory levies, as well as the emissions trading scheme, have played a part.
But there are ways you can reduce the impact of fuel costs on your budget.
Hybrid cars
These combine electric motors and conventional engines, which means less fuel consumption than a conventional petrol vehicle and lower ongoing costs. Because of the way their engines function, hybrids are best suited to city driving.
Toyota introduced the first hybrid car in Australia, the Prius, in 2001, so has had time to work with the technology.
Since then, other hybrids have been launched into the market. View our full hybrid range here.
Hybrids are slightly more expensive to purchase up front, but fuel costs will be less over the life of the vehicle.
Emissions of hybrid cars are lower than those of conventional vehicles, which can be an important factor for some car buyers.
Diesel cars
Despite diesel's reputation as a dirty fuel, modern fuel-injected turbo diesel engines are very efficient, and last longer. While diesel vehicles may cost slightly more than a similar petrol-fuelled car, they become economical if you are making regular long trips.
As a general guide, if you drive 30,000km a year or more, over long distances, the higher cost of a diesel vehicle may be worth it.
Like petrol, diesel is available everywhere, so it's a safe choice.
Diesel engines shine when it comes to towing or carrying heavy loads and driving long distances. We have a large range of diesel vehicles, view our range here.
Electric cars
Electric vehicles are not yet widely available in Australia, and those that are available are relatively expensive.
Running costs are obviously much cheaper than fuel-powered cars. But a lack of charging infrastructure means that only people with reasonably short commutes, and somewhere to recharge, could realistically take up this option for now. Hybrid is a great alternative to a fully electric vehicle. View our hybrid range here.
E10 or premium fuel?
At most service stations you'll find E10, regular unleaded petrol (ULP), and premium ULP available. E10 is a blend of 90 per cent unleaded petrol and 10 per cent ethanol which, unlike oil, is a renewable fuel, made from plant-based waste products.
It will generally be the cheapest option at the pump, but check your car's manual to find out if it's recommended for your vehicle. Some later model cars, for example, should be run only on premium unleaded petrol.
While premium ULP is more expensive, it burns more efficiently and because the car runs better, you should get better mileage.
Top Fuel-Saving Tips
- Plan ahead - don't make five small trips. Combine them into a more efficient single outing
- Unnecessary weight costs fuel and increases wear and tear, so empty the boot
- Never use fuel that's a lower grade than your car needs - it can cause mechanical damage
- Buy a car that suits your driving habits - city driving is harder on diesels, and long freeway trips reduce the advantages of a hybrid
- Buy a new car with the latest technology, keep it well-maintained and replace it in 3-5 years