Petrol Cars in an Electric Era
With electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids gaining momentum in Australia, it's easy to think the petrol-powered car is on its way out. But here’s the reality in 2025—petrol cars are still going strong. They remain a go-to choice for many Aussie drivers due to:
- Lower upfront costs
- Familiar infrastructure
- Proven reliability
- Wider availability of fuel in remote areas
While many brands are pouring resources into electrification, petrol-powered models are still being released, updated, and supported—especially in the budget and performance segments. In this guide, we’ll take you through:
- The latest petrol car updates for 2025
- Why petrol still makes sense for many Aussies
- Top petrol cars worth buying now
- Key specs, features, and pricing
- Petrol vs hybrid vs EV cost comparison
Let’s dive into what’s new and exciting in Australia’s petrol car market for 2025.
Why Australians Still Buy Petrol Cars in 2025
Despite an increase in EV options, the average Aussie still sees major value in petrol cars. Here’s why:
1. Affordability
Most petrol cars start cheaper than EVs or hybrids. For under $35,000, you can drive home a well-equipped hatch or sedan—whereas EVs in that price range are rare.
2. Fuel Access in Remote Areas
In rural Australia, where charging infrastructure is limited, petrol cars remain the most practical option.
3. Better Resale Market (Short Term)
Used petrol cars still dominate the second-hand market, ensuring quicker resale for owners.
4. Proven Longevity
Petrol engines are tried and tested. Many Australian buyers trust what they know—especially those needing a long-lasting daily commuter or family vehicle.
What’s New for Petrol Cars in 2025?
1. Refreshed Models with More Tech
Manufacturers are blending petrol engines with modern features to stay competitive. Think digital dashboards, wireless Apple CarPlay, ADAS tech, and hybrid-like fuel efficiency.
2. Improved Engine Efficiency
Brands like Toyota, Mazda, and Kia have tuned their petrol engines to meet stricter emissions targets without sacrificing power or reliability.
3. Smaller Displacement, More Turbo
Turbocharged 1.0L and 1.5L petrol engines are now mainstream, offering better torque and efficiency.
4. Lightweight Platforms
Car brands are using lighter materials to boost performance and reduce fuel consumption without switching to electric.
Best New Petrol Cars in Australia 2025 – Top Picks by Segment
Let’s break down the top petrol-powered vehicles in 2025 that are genuinely worth buying across various categories.
🔹 Hatchbacks
1. 2025 Toyota Corolla Hatch
- Price: From $29,000
- Engine: 2.0L naturally aspirated petrol
- Fuel Economy: 6.0L/100km
- Why It’s Worth It:
The Corolla continues to impress with excellent reliability, upgraded infotainment, and a sporty drive feel in the ZR trim.
2. 2025 Mazda 2 G15 Pure
- Price: From $23,720
- Engine: 1.5L petrol
- Fuel Economy: 5.0L/100km
- Standout Features:
Refined ride, strong safety features (Smart City Brake), low servicing costs.
🔹 Sedans
3. 2025 Toyota Camry Ascent Sport Petrol
- Price: From $36,500
- Engine: 2.5L petrol
- Fuel Economy: 6.8L/100km
- Why It’s Still Popular:
While hybrids dominate the Camry lineup, the petrol variant remains ideal for drivers who want simplicity with a long-proven drivetrain.
4. 2025 Kia Cerato Sport+ Sedan
- Price: From $32,190
- Engine: 2.0L petrol
- Fuel Economy: 7.4L/100km
- Best For:
Budget-conscious buyers wanting space, warranty, and solid tech.
🔹 SUVs
5. 2025 Mazda CX-5 Maxx Sport
- Price: From $37,510
- Engine: 2.5L petrol
- Fuel Economy: 7.4L/100km
- Highlights:
Strong value, great handling, classy interior. A non-hybrid alternative that still feels premium.
6. 2025 Hyundai Tucson 2.0L Petrol
- Price: From $39,150
- Engine: 2.0L petrol
- Fuel Economy: 8.1L/100km
- Ideal For:
Family buyers not ready to go hybrid or electric but wanting loads of space and modern tech.
🔹 Utes & 4x4
7. 2025 Toyota HiLux Workmate 2.7L Petrol
- Price: From $31,690
- Engine: 2.7L petrol
- Fuel Economy: 11.1L/100km
- Use Case:
Tradies or rural owners looking for affordability and reliability, where diesel isn’t necessary.
8. 2025 Nissan Navara SL 2WD Petrol
- Price: From $36,000 est.
- Engine: 2.5L petrol
- Notable:
Fewer emissions than its diesel sibling, great for light-duty commercial use.
🔹 Performance & Sports Cars
9. 2025 Subaru WRX
- Price: From $50,990
- Engine: 2.4L turbo petrol
- Fuel Economy: 9.9L/100km
- Why It’s a Petrol Icon:
True rally DNA. Despite EVs on the rise, this petrol beast delivers pure driving excitement.
10. 2025 Ford Mustang GT (Petrol V8)
- Price: From $72,000+
- Engine: 5.0L V8 petrol
- Fuel Economy: 12.7L/100km
- For Enthusiasts Only:
One of the last V8 muscle cars in Australia—loud, fast, and unapologetically petrol.
Petrol vs Hybrid vs Electric – 2025 Cost Comparison in Australia
| Type | Starting Price | Fuel/Charge Cost (avg) | Service Cost | Range Anxiety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | $20K – $40K | $1.80–2.20/L | Low – Med | No |
| Hybrid | $30K – $50K | $1.30–1.60/L | Med | Low |
| Electric | $45K – $80K+ | $0.25–0.35/kWh | Low | Yes (Remote AU) |
Verdict:
If you're in a metro area and have access to charging, EVs are tempting. But for the rest of Australia—especially rural, tradie, or budget drivers—petrol still reigns supreme.
Tips to Choose the Best Petrol Car in 2025
- Define Your Use Case
City commuter? Weekend 4WD? Daily family hauler? Match your car’s engine size and efficiency to your usage. - Check Fuel Economy Over Performance (Unless You’re a Petrolhead)
Many modern petrol cars balance torque and mileage well. Opt for turbocharged 3- or 4-cylinder engines for best results. - Review Ownership Costs
Look at servicing intervals, insurance, and rego costs alongside the purchase price. - Don’t Overpay for Unused Features
Skip top-spec trims if you don’t need leather seats or a sunroof. Mid-spec often has the best value.
Petrol Cars with Best Fuel Economy in 2025 Australia
- Suzuki Swift GL Plus – 4.8L/100km
- Mazda 2 – 5.0L/100km
- Hyundai i30 – 6.1L/100km
- Toyota Corolla Sedan – 6.0L/100km
- Honda Civic VTi-LX – 6.3L/100km
These prove that you don’t need a hybrid to save at the bowser.
Are Petrol Cars Still a Good Buy in 2025?
Absolutely. Petrol cars in 2025 may no longer dominate headlines, but they still dominate Australian roads. From small hatches to powerful utes, there’s a petrol option for nearly every need and budget.
When is Petrol NOT Ideal?
- If your state offers significant EV incentives
- If you do mostly short trips with available home charging
- If you're buying a car primarily for environmental reasons
But for everyone else, petrol still makes perfect sense in 2025.
Final Thoughts: Best Petrol Cars Still Worth Buying in 2025
Whether you're chasing budget value, driving simplicity, or just aren’t ready for EV tech, these petrol-powered cars are more than just hangers-on—they’re still the smart choice for many Australians.
Top Picks Summary:
- Best Hatch: Mazda 2
- Best Sedan: Toyota Camry
- Best SUV: Mazda CX-5
- Best Ute: Toyota HiLux Petrol
- Best Sports Car: Subaru WRX
Petrol might be aging, but it’s aging gracefully—and with a little turbo boost.
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