Despite the steady growth of electric and hybrid vehicles, petrol cars continue to dominate Australia’s roads. Their affordability, ease of refuelling, and wide service network make them the go-to choice for millions of drivers. From compact hatchbacks ideal for city commutes to family-friendly SUVs built for long road trips, petrol cars still offer unmatched versatility.
This guide explores the best petrol cars in Australia for 2025, breaking them down by body type, price range, and ownership value. Whether you’re looking for your first car, a fuel-efficient city runabout, or a reliable long-distance cruiser, you’ll find a suitable pick here.
Why Australians Still Choose Petrol Cars
Accessibility and Affordability
Petrol cars are typically more affordable than EVs or hybrids in upfront costs. With a wide range of choices starting under $20,000 for compact hatchbacks, they remain accessible to first-time buyers and families.
Infrastructure Advantage
Australia’s EV charging infrastructure is expanding, but petrol stations remain far more convenient and widespread, particularly in regional and rural areas.
Reliability and Maintenance
Petrol engines are tried and tested. Mechanics across the country are well-versed in servicing them, which keeps maintenance costs predictable.
Fuel Efficiency Improvements
Modern petrol cars are far more fuel-efficient than older generations. Many models now achieve under 6L/100km, making them suitable even for budget-conscious households.
Best Petrol Hatchbacks in Australia
Toyota Corolla Hatchback
The Toyota Corolla has been an Australian favourite for decades, and the 2025 petrol hatch continues that legacy. It combines reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency, averaging around 5.9L/100km. The Corolla is also known for strong resale value and low running costs, making it a long-term winner.
Hyundai i30
Hyundai’s i30 has established itself as one of the best value hatchbacks in Australia. With a refined petrol engine, smart interior tech, and affordable servicing, it appeals to younger drivers and families alike.
Mazda3 Hatch
The Mazda3 offers sporty handling and premium styling without the premium price tag. Its SkyActiv-G petrol engine balances power and efficiency, while the interior rivals entry-level luxury cars.
Best Petrol Sedans in Australia
Toyota Camry Petrol
While the hybrid variant garners attention, the standard petrol Toyota Camry is still a favourite among Aussies who want a dependable family sedan. It’s roomy, comfortable, and offers Toyota’s well-known reliability.
Mazda6
Mazda’s flagship sedan provides elegant design with a punchy petrol engine. It’s perfect for those seeking sophistication at a reasonable price point.
Kia Cerato Sedan
The Kia Cerato combines practicality with Kia’s seven-year warranty. Its petrol engines are efficient and deliver great value, making it an appealing budget sedan.
Best Petrol SUVs in Australia
Toyota RAV4 Petrol
One of Australia’s best-selling SUVs, the petrol RAV4 offers a balance of performance and fuel economy. Its practicality, spaciousness, and Toyota reliability make it a top choice for families.
Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 continues to dominate the mid-size SUV segment. With refined petrol engines, stylish interiors, and fun-to-drive handling, it’s ideal for those who want more than just practicality.
Kia Sportage
Kia’s Sportage petrol variant blends striking design with strong warranty coverage and efficient engines, making it a standout in the crowded SUV market.
Best Budget Petrol Cars
Suzuki Swift
Compact, fun, and highly efficient, the Suzuki Swift is a budget-friendly petrol hatchback that doesn’t compromise on style. It’s especially popular with younger buyers and city commuters.
Kia Picanto
One of the cheapest new petrol cars available in Australia, the Picanto offers surprisingly good equipment for the price. Perfect for first-time drivers.
MG3
The MG3 has quickly gained popularity thanks to its low entry price and decent equipment levels. It’s one of the most affordable ways into new-car ownership.
Performance Petrol Cars
Ford Mustang
For enthusiasts, the petrol-powered Ford Mustang remains an icon. With a roaring V8 under the bonnet, it offers old-school driving thrills that no EV can replicate.
Subaru WRX
The Subaru WRX, now modernised but still petrol-powered, is a legend in Australia’s performance car scene. It combines rally heritage with everyday usability.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Golf GTI is the ultimate hot hatch, blending practicality with performance. Its turbo-petrol engine is efficient yet exhilarating, appealing to enthusiasts who need daily drivability.
Long-Term Ownership and Running Costs
Petrol cars generally cost less upfront, but how do they fare over the years?
- Servicing Costs: Annual servicing is predictable and often cheaper than hybrids or EVs.
- Fuel Economy: Compact cars like the Corolla or Swift sip fuel, while large SUVs and performance models consume more.
- Resale Value: Popular petrol cars like the Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and RAV4 hold value well.
- Warranty Coverage: Brands like Kia (7 years) and Hyundai (5 years) provide long-term peace of mind.
Petrol vs Hybrid vs Electric
While EVs and hybrids are trending, petrol cars still have strong arguments in their favour:
- Upfront Cost: Petrol cars are cheaper to buy.
- Refuelling Speed: Filling up at a servo takes minutes versus charging an EV.
- Resale and Demand: Petrol cars still dominate used-car markets, meaning easier resale.
- Choice: The sheer variety of petrol cars available in every segment gives buyers flexibility.
Buying Tips for Petrol Cars in Australia
- Fuel Efficiency: Look for models rated under 7L/100km for everyday savings.
- Warranty Coverage: Prioritise brands with longer warranties for better ownership value.
- Resale Considerations: Toyota and Mazda consistently hold strong resale value.
- Usage Needs: Small hatchbacks for city living, sedans for balance, SUVs for family space, and performance cars for enthusiasts.
Future of Petrol Cars in Australia
While government policies and EV adoption will eventually reshape the landscape, petrol cars are here to stay for at least the next decade. With new engine technologies improving emissions and efficiency, they remain highly relevant for buyers in 2025.
Car makers are also investing in mild-hybrid petrol engines, combining fuel savings with traditional petrol convenience. This hybridisation of petrol power ensures a smoother transition toward electrification.
Conclusion
Petrol cars remain the backbone of Australia’s automotive market. From affordable hatchbacks like the Suzuki Swift to family SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and performance icons like the Ford Mustang, there’s a petrol car for every driver and budget.
For buyers seeking reliability, affordability, and efficiency, petrol cars continue to be a smart choice in 2025. Whether you’re in the city, suburbs, or rural Australia, a petrol vehicle offers proven dependability and unmatched convenience.
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