how much does it cost to run a car each year australia

Running a car in Australia isn’t just petrol and vibes; for 15,000 km a year, expect around $6k–$9k for a small hatch, $9k–$14k for a mid SUV/ute, and $6.5k–$12k for an EV.

Fuel for petrol cars is typically $1.8k–$2.2k (6.5–9.0 L/100 km at about $1.90/L), while electricity for EVs is roughly $500–$1,000 if you mostly charge at home. Rego and CTP usually land around $700–$1,200 depending on state, with insurance $800–$1,600. Servicing and tyres? Call it $500–$1,400 unless you drive like Bathurst is your driveway. The big invisible cost is depreciation—new cars can drop $3k–$6k per year; used cars less, but it’s a lucky-dip. Add tolls, parking and the occasional “sorry, officer” fine, and you’ve got your yearly motoring budget. Want to save? Buy lightly used, drive smoothly, keep tyres pumped, and charge at home if you’re electric.