Lyla Lindsey
Owning a car in Australia can be expensive, with running and maintenance costs being a significant part of the overall expense. However, with the right choice of vehicle and some smart strategies, it is possible to minimise these costs and make car ownership more affordable. This introduction will discuss the various factors that contribute to the cost of car ownership in Australia and provide an overview of the cheapest cars to maintain and run in the country. By considering factors such as fuel efficiency, service and maintenance costs, and registration costs, motorists can make informed decisions about their vehicle choices to keep costs low. Additionally, this introduction will explore the impact of different car types, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and used cars, on overall expenses. Finally, we will look at specific models known for their low maintenance and running costs, including the Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, Suzuki Baleno GL, and several other budget-friendly options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheapest car to maintain in Australia | Suzuki Baleno GL light hatchback |
| Cheapest car to run in Australia | Suzuki Baleno GL |
| Second cheapest car to run in Australia | Suzuki Swift GL |
| Third cheapest car to run in Australia | Toyota Yaris Ascent |
| Most expensive car to run in Australia | Toyota LandCruiser |
| Cheapest car to maintain and run in Australia | Toyota Corolla |
| Cheapest car to run and maintain in Australia | Mazda 3 |
| Cheapest car with good fuel economy and cheap servicing | Mazda 2 |
| Cheapest car with low maintenance cost | Kia Picanto |
| Cheapest car with low maintenance cost and good fuel economy | Honda Jazz |
| Cheapest car with affordable servicing | Ford |
| Cheapest car with affordable parts and servicing | Kia Cerato |
| Cheapest new cars to service in Australia | Honda |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel-efficient cars
Fuel is one of the most expensive long-term costs of owning a car in Australia, with fuel costs contributing to the rising cost of living in the country. In 2022, Australians spent 27% of their yearly car running costs on fuel. Electric vehicles promise to remove the need for traditional fuel, but Australia needs to invest more in its electric vehicle infrastructure.
When considering both purchase price and maintenance costs, the Kia Picanto is frequently cited as one of the most affordable cars in Australia. The Toyota Corolla is another excellent choice for those seeking a durable vehicle, as it is known for its longevity and reliability. It also has minimal annual maintenance costs as it doesn't require large or unique parts, making it cheaper for suppliers, mechanics, and motorists. The Mazda 3 is another one of the cheapest cars to run and maintain in Australia, with strong fuel efficiency and a standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that is inexpensive to maintain.
Some of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in Australia include the Toyota Yaris, which consumes 4.9 L/100 km and has an average range of 816 km, and the Mazda 2, which consumes 5.4 L/100 km and has an average range of 814 km. The Suzuki Swift is compact, inexpensive, and a popular choice for learner drivers. The Toyota Corolla Hybrid has a fuel economy as low as 4.0 L/100 km, and the Toyota Camry Hybrid has a fuel economy of 4.7 L/100 km and an average driving range of 1,063 km. The Audi Q5 is the most fuel-efficient diesel SUV model in Australia, consuming 4.8 L/100 km with an average range of 1,458 km.
To improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency, you can drive steadily, avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, keep your tyres properly inflated, and use the recommended grade of motor oil.
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Cheapest cars to service
Servicing a car in Australia can be expensive, but some manufacturers offer prepaid packages or capped-price service plans to help you save money. Honda, for example, offers a capped-price service guarantee for cars purchased on or after 1 July 2021, with the first five service visits costing just $199 each. This includes engine oil and oil filter replacements, testing and inspecting all components, brake fluid, tyre rotation, and air filter replacement. Toyota also offers capped-price servicing across its entire range, with most of the first five services priced under $299 each.
If you're looking for a car that is generally cheap to service and maintain, there are several options available in Australia. The Toyota Corolla is a reliable, fuel-efficient, and inexpensive option for servicing and maintenance. Its parts are readily available and affordable due to Toyota's extensive presence in Australia. Similarly, the Mazda 3 is renowned for its solid build quality and longevity, with routine maintenance that is relatively inexpensive compared to competitors.
Other budget-friendly options include the Suzuki Baleno GL light hatchback, which topped the 2020 RACV's Driving Your Dollars survey as the cheapest car to run in Australia. The Mitsubishi Mirage and the Kia Rio are also mentioned as affordable options. Additionally, the Kia Cerato is a robust and reliable vehicle, and Kia's commitment to affordable parts and servicing makes it a budget-friendly choice.
When considering both purchase price and maintenance costs, the Kia Picanto is frequently cited as one of the most affordable cars in Australia. The Mitsubishi ASX is also a popular choice for road trips and is considered one of the least expensive cars for long-distance travel.
It's important to note that car ownership costs can vary, and it's always a good idea to research and understand a car's ongoing costs before purchasing.
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Reliability and low upkeep costs
When it comes to reliability and low upkeep costs, several car models stand out in Australia. Here are some options to consider:
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is renowned for its reliability and has been a trusted choice for Australian drivers for generations. It offers a smooth and fuel-efficient driving experience. The Corolla's efficient engine and durable components result in fewer repairs and lower overall running costs. Additionally, Toyota's extensive presence in Australia makes parts readily available and affordable.
Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 is known for its solid build quality and longevity. It strikes a perfect balance in size, neither too large nor too small. As a compact car, it boasts strong fuel efficiency and consumes less petrol than larger SUV or 4x4 types. Routine maintenance for the Mazda 3 is generally straightforward and inexpensive compared to its competitors, and the car maintains its resale value well.
Suzuki Baleno GL
The Suzuki Baleno GL light hatchback is one of the cheapest cars to run in Australia. It has a low initial purchase price and topped the annual 2020 RACV's Driving Your Dollars survey. The Baleno GL costs significantly less per month than its counterpart, the Suzuki Swift GL. However, it is worth noting that the price of the Baleno GL can vary between states.
Kia Cerato
The Kia Cerato is a reliable option with a robust build, ensuring fewer trips to the mechanic. Kia is committed to providing affordable parts and servicing, making it a budget-friendly choice. Additionally, many used Ceratos still carry the impressive 7-year warranty offered by Kia.
Honda Jazz
The Honda Jazz is a budget-friendly light car option. Honda offers some of the cheapest new cars to service in Australia with its capped-price service guarantee. If you purchased a Honda after July 1, 2021, your first five service visits will cost a low, fixed price. This includes essential services such as engine oil and oil filter replacements, tyre rotation, and brake fluid checks.
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Affordable parts
When it comes to affordable car parts in Australia, several vehicles stand out. Firstly, the Toyota Corolla is renowned for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for Australians. The Corolla's efficient engine and durable components result in fewer repairs and lower overall running costs. Additionally, Toyota's extensive presence in the country ensures that parts are readily available and reasonably priced.
Another option is the Mazda 3, which offers a strong combination of build quality and longevity. Routine maintenance for the Mazda 3 is generally straightforward and more affordable compared to its competitors. The Mazda 3 also maintains its resale value well, further adding to its cost-effectiveness over time.
For those seeking a more compact option, the Suzuki Swift is worth considering. The Swift is known for its low fuel consumption and maintenance costs. Suzuki cars, such as the Swift, tend to be more affordable in Queensland, where they are sold through an independent distributor.
If you're in the market for a larger vehicle, the Mitsubishi ASX is a popular choice for road trips and long-distance travel in Australia. While it may not be as compact as some of the other options, it provides spaciousness and comfort for those needing an SUV.
Lastly, for those loyal to Ford, the Ford Focus is a fun and cost-effective option. Ford's widespread presence in Australia means that servicing and parts are typically economical and easily accessible.
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Low running costs
Owning a car in Australia can be made affordable with the right choice of vehicle and some smart strategies. While the initial purchase price of some cars may be higher, they can have lower running costs. For instance, electric vehicles (EVs) can help you take advantage of Australia's EV incentives. Some manufacturers also offer free or low-cost standard service plans.
When it comes to low running costs, the Suzuki Baleno GL light hatchback is a top choice. It has been named the cheapest car to run in Australia, costing just $8486.47 a year or $163.20 per week. The Suzuki Alto hatchback is another Suzuki that is one of Australia's cheapest cars.
The Toyota Corolla is also synonymous with reliability and inexpensive maintenance, making it a favourite among Australians. Its efficient engine and durable components translate to fewer repairs and lower overall running costs. The parts are also affordable and readily available due to Toyota's extensive presence in the country.
The Mazda 3 is another popular choice for its strong fuel efficiency and inexpensive maintenance. It has a standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and is renowned for its solid build quality and longevity.
Other cars that are mentioned for their low maintenance costs include the Mitsubishi Mirage, Suzuki Swift, Kia Rio, Volkswagen Polo, Hyundai i20, Mazda 2, Honda Jazz, and the Kia Cerato.
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Frequently asked questions
The cheapest car to maintain in Australia is the Suzuki Baleno GL light hatchback. It costs just $18,990 to buy and $163.20 per week to run, making it the cheapest car to run in Australia.
Other cheap cars to maintain in Australia include the Toyota Corolla, the Mazda 3, the Kia Picanto, the Mitsubishi ASX, the Suzuki Alto, the Suzuki Swift, the Mazda 2, the Honda Jazz, and the Kia Cerato.
Yes, here are some tips to keep car maintenance costs low:
- Choose a car with affordable parts and servicing.
- Stick to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule.
- Learn basic maintenance tasks like oil changes and air filter replacements.
- Choose a reputable mechanic and shop wisely.
- Keep your car clean and drive responsibly.
Electric vehicles (EVs) can have lower running costs than petrol or diesel cars, especially if you take advantage of Australia's EV incentives. However, the initial purchase price of an EV may be higher.
SUVs are often preferred for long-distance travel in Australia due to their spaciousness and comfort. The Mitsubishi ASX is a popular and inexpensive choice for road trips.
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