A new RAC survey has found electric and hybrid vehicles are not only becoming cheaper to own and run – in some cases they are the most affordable new car to buy in their category.
The 2025 Car Running Costs survey tested a selection of popular cars across nine categories, considering costs such as fuel, electricity, licencing and servicing.
The average weekly cost of owning and operating a vehicle in WA is now $341.32 a week, which is more than $30 cheaper than 2024.
The survey’s cheapest car was the BYD Dolphin Essential at $224 a week, while the Subaru Outback came in as the cheapest large SUV at $353.
RAC Manager Vehicles and Fuels Alex Forrest said interest rates on car loans and fuel have become more affordable in recent months, and there are now many cheaper options in the new-car market.
“Many buyers focus on purchase price and fuel economy, but this survey is about looking past those and delving deeper into how much vehicles are costing, overall,” Mr Forrest said.
“Electric and hybrid vehicle choices in the market are increasing, and their affordability is continuing to improve too, which is good news for those interested in an electrified car at a more appealing price.”
“For example, the GWM Haval H6 Hybrid was the cheapest in the medium SUV range overall. Even though it costs more to buy, it worked out to be cheaper to own and run than the non-hybrid Mazda CX-5 and Nissan X-Trail.”
Electric and hybrid vehicles worked out as the cheapest in more than half of the categories, with the BYD Dolphin taking out the small passenger category and the BYD Shark 6 winning the 4WD ute category.
“A hybrid on average may be an extra $2,000 to $3,000 compared to a petrol only car, but those upfront costs can be recouped in just a few years,” Mr Forrest said.
Mr Forrest said it’s also important to consider a vehicle’s safety rating, before buying.
“Most new vehicles are packed with safety features, but not all, so it’s important to check the ANCAP rating to ensure you choose the safest vehicle for you and your family,” Mr Forrest said.
| Category | Vehicle | Overall Operating Cost ($ per week) | ANCAP Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | MG MG3 Hybrid+ Excite Hatchback Auto | $232.29 | 4 |
| Small passenger | BYD Dolphin Essential Hatchback Elec Auto | $224.31 | 5 |
| Small SUV | Chery Tiggo 4 Urban HEV Wagon Auto | $237.70 | 5 |
| Medium passenger | Toyota Camry Ascent Hybrid Sedan CVT | $293.40 | 5 |
| Medium SUV | GWM Haval H6 Lux Hybrid Wagon Auto | $292.16 | 5 |
| Large SUV | Subaru Outback AWD Wagon CVT | $353.23 | 5 |
| People Mover | Hyundai Staria US4.V3 Wagon V6 Auto | $387.78 | 5 |
| 2WD Ute | Mazda BT-50 XS C/Chas Diesel Turbo Auto | $341.32 | 5 |
| 4WD Ute | BYD Shark 6 Dual Motor Premium Dual Cab Utility Turbo CVT | $377.59 | 5 |
* Calculations based on conventional finance covering 100% of the cost
ENDS
Media contact: Laura Gardiner, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
