CAR FUEL TYPES EXPLAINED

Petrol: The Friendly All-Rounder

• What it is: The classic. Combusts petrol to power the engine.
• Best for: Everyday driving, short trips, people who just want to “get in and go”.
• Pros:
  • Cheaper upfront cost than diesel or electric.
  • Lower repair bills (most of the time).
  • Quieter than diesel.
• Cons:
  • Fuel efficiency isn’t amazing.
  • You’ll be visiting the petrol station more often than you’d like.
• CarWiz says: Solid choice for city dwellers or first-time car buyers. You’re not saving the world—but at least you’re not breaking the bank.

Diesel: The Long-Distance Hustler

• What it is: Uses compression ignition (not spark) to burn diesel fuel. Translation: better for high mileage.
• Best for: Long road trips, heavy-duty work, high-mileage drivers (think 20,000 km+ per year).
• Pros:
  • Fuel efficiency = better for long distances.
  • Lower CO₂ emissions than petrol.
  • More torque = better for towing or load-hauling.
• Cons:
  • Higher upfront cost.
  • Maintenance is pricier.
  • Not loved by emission laws (and could be phased out faster).
• CarWiz says: If you drive like you’re paid to do it, diesel may still be king. But city slickers? Hard pass.

Hybrid: The Best of Both Worlds... Kinda

• What it is: A petrol engine backed by a battery-powered electric motor. It switches between the two to save fuel.
• Best for: People who want a lower carbon footprint but still enjoy petrol station snacks.
• Pros:
  • Better fuel economy than pure petrol or diesel.
  • Fewer emissions.
  • Regenerative braking feels like science fiction.
• Cons:
  • Not as eco-friendly as full electric.
  • Battery repairs can cost a kidney.
  • Not ideal for long highway trips (uses more petrol at speed).
• CarWiz says: Great if you’re dipping your toes into the EV lifestyle without fully committing.

Electric: The Silent Assassin

• What it is: 100% electric. No petrol, no diesel, no tailpipe.
• Best for: City drivers, tech-lovers, and people who charge their phones to 100%.
• Pros:
  • Zero emissions at the tailpipe.
  • Quiet, smooth ride.
  • Way cheaper to “fuel” (electricity > petrol).
  • Often cheaper to maintain (fewer moving parts).
• Cons:
  • Expensive upfront (though dropping fast).
  • Range anxiety is real.
  • Charging infrastructure in SA isn’t quite there yet.
• CarWiz says: If you mostly drive short distances, have a place to charge, and want to feel smug—this is your ride.

🛠️ TL;DR — What Should You Pick?

Your Lifestyle | Best Option
You do a lot of long-distance travel - Diesel
You want to help the planet a bit - Hybrid / Electric
You have access to home charging - Electric
You don't want too many surprises on repair bills - Petrol

💡 CarWiz Tip:

Your ideal fuel type depends on how (and where) you drive—not just what’s trending. Always ask yourself:

• How many km do I drive each week?
• Do I want lower fuel costs or lower maintenance?
• Do I have charging access at home/work?

Better yet, let dealers compete to offer you deals on the car type that fits you best. You just sit back and choose the winner.
[Same car. Better price. No awkward back-and-forth.]