Fuel Cost Calculator
Calculate your fuel costs for a trip based on distance, fuel consumption and current Australian petrol prices.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for general information purposes only. Results are based on standard formulas and may not reflect your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average fuel consumption in Australia?
How can I reduce fuel costs?
What is Fuel Cost?
A fuel cost calculator estimates how much you'll spend on petrol or diesel for a trip based on the distance, your vehicle's fuel consumption, and the current fuel price.
How this calculator works
Enter the distance in kilometres, your vehicle's fuel consumption (litres per 100km — found on the fuel consumption label or in your car's manual), and the current fuel price per litre. The calculator multiplies these to find total litres needed and total cost. Quick presets include common Australian road trips (Sydney to Melbourne 880km, Sydney to Brisbane 920km) and vehicle types (small car 6L/100km, SUV 10L/100km). The annual cost estimate assumes 300km per week, which is the average Australian driving distance.
Typical Fuel Consumption
Small petrol car (Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3): 5-7L/100km. Medium SUV (Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson): 7-9L/100km. Large 4WD (Toyota LandCruiser): 10-14L/100km. Hybrids (Toyota Camry Hybrid): 4-5L/100km. Diesel utes (Ranger, Hilux): 7-9L/100km. Older cars typically 1-2L/100km worse than newer equivalents.
Australian Fuel Prices 2025-26
Unleaded 91: $1.70-$1.90/L average. Premium 95/98: $1.85-$2.15/L. Diesel: $1.80-$2.00/L. Prices follow a weekly cycle in capital cities: lowest typically Tuesdays/Wednesdays, peak weekends. Use FuelCheck (NSW), 7-Eleven app price-lock (most states), Petrol Spy app to find cheapest within 5-10km of your location. Premium fuel typically only required for cars specified for it in the manual.
Saving on Fuel Costs
(1) Drive efficiently: smooth acceleration, avoid braking, maintain consistent speed. (2) Tire pressure: under-inflation costs ~5% fuel. (3) Roof racks/boxes when not in use: -5% to -25% fuel economy. (4) Aircon vs windows: aircon costs ~3-8% fuel at city speeds, windows down at highway speeds cost more (aerodynamic drag). (5) Service vehicle regularly: dirty air filter alone costs ~10%.
Trip Cost Examples
Sydney to Melbourne (880km, 7L/100km, $1.85): ~$114. Brisbane to Cairns (1,700km): ~$220. Perth to Adelaide (2,700km): ~$350. Daily commute 30km each way × 5 days × 48 weeks = 14,400km/yr ≈ $1,860 annual fuel cost for typical commuter car.
All calculations are performed in your browser — your data never leaves your device. Results are for general guidance only and should not be considered professional financial advice.
Built and maintained by Konstantin Iakovlev. Data sourced from the ATO and official Australian government sources.