Petrol cars are familiar, easy to refuel and often cheaper to buy upfront. But in 2027, the decision takes more thought than it once did.
Fuel prices remain unpredictable, EVs are becoming more affordable and tax changes are giving some buyers more reason to compare their options. In this guide, we’ll look at where petrol still works well, where it falls short and what matters most before you buy.
Is it worth buying a new petrol car now?
For many buyers, it still comes down to how the car will actually be used.
Petrol is no longer the automatic choice it once was. Electric and hybrid options are more common, while fuel bills, depreciation and resale value all shape the longer-term picture.
That doesn’t make a petrol car a bad buy. It simply means the purchase price is only one part of the decision.
What’s changing for petrol car buyers?
Fuel price volatility remains one of the biggest considerations for petrol buyers. Australian retail prices rose during periods of escalating Middle East conflict in 2026 as international refined fuel benchmarks increased. It was a clear reminder of how quickly global events reach the bowser.
EVs are also becoming more competitive on price, while tax settings add another factor for some buyers. The Government has announced changes to the Electric Car Discount from 1 April 2027, with draft legislation still under consultation.
Together, these changes make the choice less about fuel type alone and more about how a car fits your budget, driving habits and everyday needs.
Why petrol is still a practical choice
For plenty of drivers, petrol still fits those needs well.
Quick, widely available refuelling keeps long trips and regional driving straightforward. Petrol also suits renters, apartment residents and drivers without convenient home charging.
Convenience isn’t the only advantage. There’s plenty of choice on the second-hand market too. If you’re buying used, comparing the best used cars for your needs and budget often tells you more than choosing on fuel type alone.
Where petrol falls short
The trade-off becomes clearer when you look beyond the purchase price.
Fuel price spikes remain a risk, while EVs generally have lower energy and servicing expenses, particularly with affordable home charging. Resale is another consideration, as shifts in buyer demand add uncertainty to petrol car values over time.
Understanding how car depreciation affects resale value helps you look beyond today’s asking price and get a clearer picture of long-term ownership.
Petrol vs hybrid vs EV: What really affects ownership cost?
That wider picture includes much more than the price on the windscreen. Over five years, compare:
- Purchase price
- Fuel or charging
- Servicing and insurance
- Depreciation
- Annual kilometres
Your driving pattern then puts those numbers into context. Petrol often works well for low-kilometre drivers, especially when the upfront price is lower. High-kilometre drivers with affordable home charging get more value from an EV’s lower running costs. Hybrids offer another practical option for drivers who want to use less fuel without relying on regular charging.
Who should still consider a petrol car?
Petrol is worth considering if:
- You regularly travel long distances
- You drive through regional or remote areas
- You don’t have convenient home charging
- You want to keep upfront spending down
- You cover relatively few kilometres each year
The right choice comes back to how and where you drive. That matters more than trying to predict which fuel type will dominate the market in years to come.
Thinking about switching? Sell your current car with AutoFlip
Thinking about changing cars or moving to another fuel type? Start by finding out what your current vehicle is worth and whether the timing works in your favour. Our guide to the best time to sell your car is a useful next step.
With AutoFlip, you can list your car for free and connect with our network of 1,250+ licensed dealers. We’ll manage the offers and coordination, helping you move on from your current car with less hassle.
