Most Fuel-Efficient Petrol Cars You Can Still Buy in Australia – 2025 Guide

Introduction: Petrol Isn’t Dead Yet

Despite the push for electrification, petrol-powered vehicles remain a critical choice for many Australian buyers in 2025. Whether you're in a rural town with minimal charging infrastructure, a budget-conscious driver, or someone who simply prefers the convenience and familiarity of petrol cars, there's good news — fuel-efficient petrol cars still exist and thrive.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through:

• Why petrol cars still matter

• The top fuel-efficient petrol cars in Australia for 2025

• Detailed specs, real-world fuel consumption, and pricing

• Ownership tips to maximise efficiency

Let’s explore which ones deliver the best km-per-litre value.

Why Choose a Fuel-Efficient Petrol Car in 2025?

Even with hybrid and electric options expanding, petrol cars offer:

✅ Lower Purchase Price

Electric vehicles are still more expensive upfront. A petrol hatchback can be bought new for under $25K.

✅ Better Infrastructure

Petrol is available everywhere in Australia. EV charging, not so much — especially outside metro areas.

✅ Proven Reliability

Decades of engineering and refinement make petrol engines predictable, repairable, and low-maintenance.

✅ Simplicity

No plug-in worries, no hybrid complexity — just fill and go.

Top 10 Fuel-Efficient Petrol Cars in Australia (2025 Edition)

1. Suzuki Swift GL Plus

• Fuel Economy: 4.6L/100km

• Price (Driveaway): ~$24,000

• Transmission: CVT

• Why it stands out: Lightweight and peppy, the Swift combines fun with frugality. Despite being small, it has decent tech and a modern cabin.

2. Toyota Yaris Ascent Sport

• Fuel Economy: 4.9L/100km

• Price: ~$26,500

• Transmission: CVT

• Highlight: While slightly more expensive, the Yaris offers Toyota's bulletproof reliability and a more refined interior.

3. Kia Picanto GT-Line

• Fuel Economy: 5.0L/100km

• Price: ~$21,000

• Transmission: Auto

• Bonus: Zippy city car with great safety features. Very efficient in urban settings.

4. Mazda2 G15 Pure

• Fuel Economy: 5.3L/100km

• Price: ~$23,800

• Transmission: 6-speed auto

• Perks: Stylish, well-built, and nimble, the Mazda2 feels more premium than rivals at this price point.

5. Hyundai i20 N-Line

• Fuel Economy: 5.4L/100km

• Price: ~$28,990

• Transmission: 7-speed DCT

• Standout: Hot hatch feel with impressive fuel economy. Ideal for those who want performance without guzzling fuel.

6. Honda City VTi

• Fuel Economy: 5.4L/100km

• Price: ~$27,000

• Transmission: CVT

• Why consider: Compact sedan with ample space and a silky-smooth driving experience.

7. Skoda Fabia 81TSI

• Fuel Economy: 5.0L/100km

• Price: ~$32,000

• Transmission: 7-speed DSG

• Notes: European feel and tech with remarkable economy.

8. Mitsubishi Mirage ES

• Fuel Economy: 4.8L/100km

• Price: ~$19,500

• Transmission: CVT

• Best for: Tight budgets. One of the most affordable new cars on the market with ultra-low fuel consumption.

9. Peugeot 208 Allure

• Fuel Economy: 5.3L/100km

• Price: ~$32,000

• Transmission: 6-speed auto

• Luxury touch: High-quality interior, digital dash, and European flair.

10. Ford Fiesta ST-Line (final stock)

• Fuel Economy: 5.6L/100km

• Price: ~$33,000

• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch

• Why it’s great: Likely among the last of its kind. Punchy engine, responsive handling, and a farewell to a hot-hatch favourite.

Fuel Efficiency Tips for Petrol Car Owners

Even the most efficient petrol car won’t help if your driving habits work against it. Here’s how to optimise:

✅ Drive Smoothly

Avoid harsh acceleration and braking.

✅ Maintain Tyre Pressure

Check monthly. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance.

✅ Avoid Unnecessary Weight

Roof racks, toolboxes, and gear can drop your economy by 10% or more.

✅ Stick to Scheduled Maintenance

Clean air filters and regular oil changes keep engines running efficiently.

✅ Use Cruise Control on Highways

Maintains a constant speed, helping reduce fuel usage.

Is It Worth Buying a Petrol Car in 2025?

Absolutely — if you pick the right one.

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost than EVs and hybrids

• Widespread fuel availability

• Simpler mechanics = lower servicing bills

• No range anxiety

Cons:

• Rising fuel prices

• Less futureproof than EVs

• May depreciate faster in the long-term

• Higher CO₂ emissions vs. hybrids/EVs

How Petrol Cars Compare with Hybrids & EVs (2025 Snapshot)

Best Fuel-Efficient Petrol Cars by Category

🏙 Best for City Driving:

Suzuki Swift or Kia Picanto
Compact, agile, perfect for tight streets and parking.

🛣 Best for Highway Cruising:

Mazda2 G15 Pure
Comfortable at speed with solid insulation and mileage.

🧳 Best Boot Space:

Honda City or Peugeot 208
Small outside, roomy inside — perfect for practical use.

💲 Best Value for Money:

Mitsubishi Mirage ES
Can be driven away under $20K with minimal running costs.

⚙️ Best Tech Features:

Skoda Fabia
Class-leading infotainment and digital cockpit.

Future Outlook: Will Petrol Cars Still Be Around in 2030?

Australia is transitioning, but slowly. While EVs will become more dominant by 2030, petrol-powered cars (especially efficient small cars) will remain relevant, especially in:

• Regional & rural Australia

• Budget buyer segments

• Entry-level fleets & first-car buyers

Conclusion: A smart, fuel-efficient petrol car is still a worthy investment today, especially if you're not ready to plug in.

Final Thoughts

If your goal is to save money at the pump without spending big upfront on a hybrid or EV, these petrol cars are still very relevant. With fuel economy as low as 4.6L/100km, these models prove that petrol efficiency is far from dead.

Whether you prefer the fun drive of a hatch, the practicality of a small sedan, or a tech-packed Euro experience — 2025’s fuel-efficient petrol cars offer plenty of smart buying options.