Fuel Cost Calculator
Work out the fuel cost of a trip or a month of driving, and split it between the people in the car.
Trip details
Worked example
These are the calculator's starting values, so the results above match this example until you change an input.
A 300 km trip there and back (600 km) in a car that uses 7.5 litres per 100 km needs 45 litres of fuel.
At R 23,50 a litre that is R 1 057,50, or R 352,50 each when three people share the cost.
Finding your fuel consumption
Your car’s trip computer usually shows average consumption in litres per 100 km. To measure it yourself, fill the tank, reset the trip meter, drive normally, then fill up again: divide the litres needed by the kilometres driven and multiply by 100. Typical figures:
| Vehicle | Typical consumption |
|---|---|
| Small hatchback | 5.5 – 7 L/100 km |
| Sedan or small SUV | 7 – 9 L/100 km |
| Bakkie or large SUV (diesel) | 8 – 11 L/100 km |
| Hybrid | 4 – 5.5 L/100 km |
Fuel prices in South Africa
Petrol and diesel prices are regulated and change on the first Wednesday of each month, based on international oil prices, the rand exchange rate and taxes and levies. Inland prices are higher than coastal prices because of transport costs. Enter the current price at your local station for the most accurate result.
Ways to use less fuel
- Keep tyres at the recommended pressure.
- Drive smoothly and keep to the speed limit: fuel use rises sharply above about 100 km/h.
- Remove roof racks and unnecessary weight when you are not using them.
- Combine short trips; a cold engine uses more fuel.
Fuel cost = distance × trips × consumption ÷ 100 × price per litre. Typical consumption figures are rough ranges for comparison. Fuel prices are set monthly by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. This page is general educational information.
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Open calculator →Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate fuel cost for a trip?
Multiply the distance by your car’s consumption in litres per 100 km, divide by 100 and multiply by the price per litre. 600 km at 7.5 L/100 km and R 23.50 a litre is R 1 057.50.
How much fuel does a car use per 100 km?
Most small and medium cars use about 5.5 to 9 litres per 100 km; bakkies and large SUVs use more.
When does the petrol price change?
On the first Wednesday of every month, with the adjustment usually announced a few days before.