Petrol & trip cost calculator
How much will the drive to Durban, the December trip home or your daily commute cost in fuel? Split it fairly between passengers too.
How fuel cost is calculated
Fuel cost = distance (km) × fuel use (litres per 100 km) ÷ 100 × fuel price (R per litre). For a return trip the distance is doubled, and the total can be divided between passengers.
Worked example: Johannesburg to Durban and back
- 570 km each way is 1 140 km return.
- At 7.5 litres per 100 km, you need 1 140 × 7.5 ÷ 100 = 85.5 litres.
- At R22.00 a litre, the trip costs R1 881 in fuel, or R1.65 per km.
- Split between three people, that's R627 each.
How to find your car's fuel consumption
Fill up, reset your trip meter, drive normally, then fill up again. Divide the litres you added by the kilometres driven and multiply by 100. As a rough guide, small hatchbacks use about 5.5–6.5 L/100 km, sedans 7–8, and bakkies and SUVs 9–12.
Fuel prices in South Africa
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy adjusts petrol and diesel prices on the first Wednesday of each month, and inland prices are higher than coastal ones. Enter the price at your nearest station for the most accurate result.
Tips to spend less on fuel
Keep tyres at the right pressure, drive at 100–110 km/h instead of 120, remove roof racks you aren't using, and use fuel rewards programmes linked to your bank card.
Frequently asked questions
How do I work out fuel cost per kilometre?
Multiply your fuel use (litres per 100 km) by the fuel price and divide by 100. At 7.5 L/100 km and R22.00 a litre, that's R1.65 per km.
How much does a daily commute cost in petrol?
Enter your one-way distance, choose "Return", and set trips per month to the number of days you drive (about 22 for a five-day week). The calculator shows your monthly and yearly fuel cost.
What does a car really cost each month?
Fuel is only part of it. Add your instalment, insurance and maintenance. See the car finance calculator for the instalment, and the budget planner to fit it all into your budget.