Car
5 min read

🚗 Petrol or Diesel: Which Vehicle is Best for an Australian Road Trip? 🏕️

Published on
Contributors
Marion Gonzalez
Co-Founder Rooride - Backpacker
Join 4,000+ Backpackers on Rooride
Discover the N°1 Carpooling App in Australia
Share this article !

Australia, with its breathtaking landscapes and endless roads, is a dream destination for adventurers. Every year, thousands of backpackers and Working Holiday Visa (WHV) holders buy a vehicle to explore this vast country. But before hitting the road, there's one crucial question: Should you choose a petrol or diesel vehicle?

This comprehensive guide will help you make the right choice by comparing costs, maintenance, environmental impact, and suitability for different travel styles.

⛽ Petrol vs. Diesel: Which One Saves You More Money?

1️⃣ Fuel Efficiency & Range

Diesel engines are known for being more fuel-efficient, allowing you to drive longer distances on a single tank. This is a major advantage when traveling across Australia, where gas stations can be hundreds of kilometers apart.

  • Petrol 🏙️: Higher fuel consumption, especially on highways and with heavy loads
  • Diesel 🏜️: Up to 30% better fuel economy, ideal for long-distance travel

🚀 Verdict: If you plan to travel over 10,000 km, a diesel vehicle will save you more in the long run.

2️⃣ Fuel Prices in Australia

Fuel prices vary by state, but diesel is generally more expensive per liter than petrol. However, due to better fuel efficiency, you might still spend less overall.

💰 Average fuel prices (2024) in Australia:

  • Petrol: Around $1.90 AUD/L
  • Diesel: Around $2.10 AUD/L

🚀 Verdict: Petrol might be a better choice for shorter trips or city-based travel.

3️⃣ Upfront Cost & Resale Value

Diesel vehicles tend to cost more upfront but also hold their resale value better, making them a smarter investment for long-term travelers.

✔️ Purchase Price (Average):

  • Petrol: Cheaper (e.g., Toyota Hiace petrol ~5,000 AUD)
  • Diesel: More expensive but longer-lasting (e.g., Toyota Hiace diesel ~7,000 AUD)

✔️ Resale Value:

  • A well-maintained diesel vehicle can be resold at a similar price, especially in peak travel season
  • A petrol vehicle depreciates faster

🚀 Verdict: If you plan to sell your vehicle after your road trip, a diesel model might be the better investment.

🔧 Maintenance & Reliability: Which One Lasts Longer?

1️⃣ Frequency of Maintenance

🔹 Diesel engines require less frequent servicing, a major plus for backpackers constantly on the road.

🔹 Petrol engines are simpler and cheaper to repair, but need more regular oil changes.

🔧 Maintenance Intervals:

  • Petrol: Oil change every 5,000 - 10,000 km
  • Diesel: Oil change every 10,000 - 15,000 km

🚀 Verdict: Diesel is more reliable for long-distance travel, but repairs can be costly if something goes wrong.

2️⃣ Availability of Parts & Repairs

  • Petrol: Easier to repair, mechanics available everywhere
  • Diesel: Some parts are harder to find and more expensive, especially in remote areas

🚀 Verdict: If you plan to drive into remote areas, choose a vehicle with widely available parts, such as a Toyota Hiace or Mitsubishi Delica.

🌱 Environmental Impact: Which One is Greener?

Diesel engines were traditionally seen as more fuel-efficient and lower in CO2 emissions compared to petrol engines. However, they produce more nitrogen oxides and fine particles, which contribute to air pollution in cities.

🚫 Australian Regulations:

  • Some states are restricting older diesel vehicles
  • Cities like Sydney and Melbourne are pushing for lower-emission vehicles

🚀 Verdict: If you’re eco-conscious, go for a modern petrol vehicle or even a hybrid if your budget allows.

🛣️ What Kind of Trip Are You Planning?

Your travel style will determine which engine type suits you best.

1️⃣ Long Road Trips & Outback Adventures 🏜️

Best Choice: Diesel

  • More fuel-efficient on long distances
  • Better range, fewer stops for fuel
  • More torque, ideal for campervans and towing

2️⃣ Short Trips & City Driving 🏙️

Best Choice: Petrol

  • Cheaper upfront
  • Easier to repair in case of breakdowns
  • Smoother acceleration, great for city traffic

🏆 Final Verdict: Petrol or Diesel for Australia?

🚀 Our Recommendation:

  • For long-term van life & Outback travel 🏕️ → Diesel
  • For short road trips & city driving 🏙️ → Petrol
  • If you’re on a tight budget & want easy resale 💰 → Petrol
  • If you want the most cost-effective option over time ⏳ → Diesel

🚙 Ready for Your Australian Adventure?

No matter which engine type you choose, the key is optimizing your budget and comfort for the journey! To make your trip even smarter, use Rooride for carpooling and save money while meeting fellow travelers! 🌏

🔗 Download Rooride now and start sharing rides:
👉 rooride.app

Marion Gonzalez
Marion Gonzalez, co-founder of Rooride, is a backpacker who faced transport challenges in Australia. To solve this, she created Rooride, a carpooling platform for travelers. It offers an affordable and easy way for backpackers to get around while encouraging cultural exchange.

Our latest articles

Car
Backpacker

Vehicle Registration in Australia: The Ultimate Guide

Navigate Australia's complex vehicle registration system with our comprehensive guide for backpackers. Learn about buying, selling, and traveling between states with your registered vehicle.
Valentin Potié
March 15, 2025
Backpacker

What is the longest shift you can work in australia ?

When working or hiring workers in Australia, it’s essential to understand the legal limits on shift lengths and working hours.
Valentin Potié
February 21, 2025
Car

Which SUV model should you buy in Australia? WORKING HOLIDAY GUIDE

Here is our selection of the top 5 SUVs loved by backpackers for exploring Australia and embarking on an adventure without worries.
Marion Gonzalez
February 20, 2025

Join the Ultimate Backpacker Community in Australia!

Looking for travel buddies or a ride to your next adventure? 🌍🚗
Join our Rooride Facebook group—the #1 community for backpackers in Australia!
✅ Connect with fellow travelers
✅ Get insider tips and recommendations
Don't miss out on the best way to explore Australia while meeting amazing people. Click the button below and join now!

Our Road Trips

Roadtrip
Backpacker

Best Scenic Drives Around Brisbane: A Road Trip Lover’s Guide

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is not only known for its vibrant city life but also for the stunning scenic drives that surround it.
Jules Duvaux
February 12, 2025
Roadtrip

Drive from Brisbane to Melbourne: The Ultimate Guide for an Unforgettable Journey

Driving from Brisbane to Melbourne is an incredible adventure through Australia, offering a variety of breathtaking landscapes, from stunning beaches to vast inland plains.
Jules Duvaux
February 6, 2025
Roadtrip
Backpacker

Road Trip Cairns - Brisbane: Complete Guide

Whether you have 7, 10, or 14 days, here is a detailed guide with distances, must-visit spots, fuel costs, and accommodation recommendations.Distance and Duration
Jules Duvaux
February 6, 2025