Running Cost Comparison Across 5 Popular Models

When considering a new vehicle, running costs are a key factor for Irish drivers searching on DoneDeal. To provide a comprehensive perspective, we’re comparing five different vehicle types to include a diesel SUV, a petrol hatchback, a mild hybrid, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, and a fully electric vehicle. We’ll look at costs for driving 1,000 km based on fuel consumption, annual motor tax, and main dealer servicing costs to give you a better understanding of the figures. Remember our figures are calculated at the time of writing and may vary slightly.

1. Diesel SUV (Hyundai Tucson)

The Hyundai Tucson Diesel is a popular choice here in Ireland for those seeking a versatile family SUV with decent space.

• Fuel Consumption: 5.5L/100km. At an average diesel price of €1.70 per litre, driving 1,000 km would cost approximately €93.50.

• Annual Motor Tax: €280, based on CO2 emissions.

• Servicing Costs: Annual servicing at a main dealer typically costs around €300 for a diesel engine.

Total Running Cost per 1,000 km: €93.50 in fuel + €23.33 (monthly motor tax) + €25 (monthly servicing) = €141.83.

2. Petrol Hatchback – Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost

The Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost is a compact hatchback known for its nimble handling and efficient engine.

• Fuel Consumption: 6.0L/100km. With petrol priced at €1.65 per litre, 1,000 km costs €99.

• Annual Motor Tax: €190, given its lower emissions.

• Servicing Costs: Approximately €250 annually for a petrol model.

Total Running Cost per 1,000 km: €99 in fuel + €15.83 (monthly motor tax) + €20.83 (monthly servicing) = €135.66.

3. Mild Hybrid – Toyota Corolla Hybrid

A mild hybrid offers a balance between petrol efficiency and electric assistance, as seen in the extremely popular Toyota Corolla Hybrid.

• Fuel Consumption: 4.5L/100km. With petrol at €1.65 per litre, driving 1,000 km costs €74.25.

• Annual Motor Tax: €180, due to reduced CO2 emissions.

• Servicing Costs: Hybrid systems require slightly higher maintenance, averaging €300 per year.

Total Running Cost per 1,000 km: €74.25 in fuel + €15 (monthly motor tax) + €25 (monthly servicing) = €114.25.

4. PHEV – Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Plug-in hybrids like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offer electric driving for short trips and petrol for longer journeys.

• Fuel Consumption: 2.0L/100km for electric driving; 7.5L/100km on petrol. Assuming a 50/50 electric-petrol split, 1,000 km costs €50 for electricity and €61.88 for petrol, totalling €111.88.

• Annual Motor Tax: €140, based on emissions.

• Servicing Costs: PHEV servicing averages €350 annually.

Total Running Cost per 1,000 km: €111.88 in fuel/electricity + €11.67 (monthly motor tax) + €29.17 (monthly servicing) = €152.72.

5. Electric – Hyundai Kona Electric

The award winning Hyundai Kona Electric is a compact SUV offering low running costs and zero tailpipe emissions. It’s very popular with Irish drivers including Taxi usage.

• Electricity Consumption: 15 kWh/100 km. At an average rate of €0.25 per kWh, 1,000 km costs €37.50.

• Annual Motor Tax: €120, as an EV.

• Servicing Costs: EVs typically have fewer components requiring maintenance, averaging €150 annually.

Total Running Cost per 1,000 km: €37.50 in electricity + €10 (monthly motor tax) + €12.50 (monthly servicing) = €60.

DoneDeal Thoughts

When it comes to running costs, electric vehicles clearly lead the pack with significantly lower fuel and maintenance expenses. However, PHEVs offer a compelling middle ground for those who aren’t ready to go fully electric, while mild hybrids provide a fuel-efficient option with lower servicing costs. Diesel and petrol vehicles still have their advantages, particularly for long-distance driving and towing, but the cost gap is closing rapidly as electricity rates remain lower than fuel prices here in Ireland. It’s all about what best suits your needs! We wish you happy hunting on www.donedeal.ie