Comparing Fuel Types: Diesel vs Petrol RVs in Australia

Two RVs at a fuel station with diesel and petrol pumps, illustrating the differences in fuel types for Australian road trips.

When planning an RV journey across Australia’s vast and varied landscapes, choosing the right fuel type can make a bigger difference than many travellers realise. Whether you’re navigating the winding roads of Tasmania, cruising the long open stretches of the Nullarbor, or exploring the rugged ranges of the Kimberley, your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, power, and cost will shape both your itinerary and your budget.

In Australia, the two dominant fuel types for recreational vehicles are diesel and petrol. Each has its strengths, trade-offs, and ideal use cases — and selecting the right one depends on how far you’re travelling, what kind of terrain you’ll encounter, and the size and type of RV you’re driving. With rising fuel prices and growing interest in remote, off-grid travel, understanding the diesel vs petrol debate is more relevant than ever for Aussie road trippers.

This guide is designed for everyone from first-time buyers and holiday renters to full-time vanlifers and retired grey nomads doing the Big Lap. We’ll dive deep into the factors that matter most — fuel economy, performance, availability, maintenance, cost, environmental impact, and resale value — to help you decide which fuel type suits your road trip lifestyle best.

Let’s unpack the real-world pros and cons of diesel vs petrol RVs in Australia, and help you hit the road with confidence, clarity, and the right engine under your feet.

Overview of Fuel Types for RVs in Australia

Australia’s RV market is diverse, ranging from compact campervans and 4WD conversions to full-size motorhomes and off-road caravans. While electric and hybrid RVs are beginning to emerge, diesel and petrol remain the two dominant fuel types powering the vast majority of rigs across the country.

Diesel-Powered RVs

Diesel engines are commonly found in:

  • Large motorhomes and bus conversions

  • 4WD-based campers such as Troop Carriers, LandCruiser conversions, and off-road expedition vehicles

  • High-end rental motorhomes offered by companies like Apollo, Britz, and Maui

  • Light commercial van conversions such as Mercedes Sprinter, Fiat Ducato, Iveco Daily, and Ford Transit

Diesel engines are typically chosen for their torque, fuel economy, and durability — qualities that make them ideal for long-distance touring, towing, and tackling steep or unsealed roads. In fact, most new RVs manufactured or imported into Australia today run on diesel, making it the current industry standard.

Petrol-Powered RVs

Petrol engines are most often found in:

  • Older campervan models, particularly those based on Toyota Hiace or Mitsubishi Express

  • Some smaller Japanese imports or ex-rental vans

  • Entry-level van conversions or DIY builds

  • Classic RVs and retro vehicles from the 1980s and 1990s

While petrol engines tend to be cheaper to manufacture and repair, they usually consume more fuel over long distances and deliver less low-end torque — which can make a difference when climbing hills or towing. However, petrol-powered vehicles often feel smoother and quieter on sealed roads, making them a popular choice for short-term travellers and weekend campers.

Fuel Types at the Pump

Australian service stations generally offer:

  • Unleaded Petrol (ULP) – standard petrol, most commonly used

  • Premium Unleaded (PULP 95 or 98) – required by some newer or high-compression petrol engines

  • Diesel – available at nearly every service station

  • Biodiesel – limited availability; some diesel engines are compatible, but not all

For RV owners, the difference between ULP and diesel goes beyond the bowser. It affects running costs, range, engine performance, and long-term reliability. And in a country as remote and spread out as Australia, fuel type also plays a big role in trip planning and accessibility.

In the sections that follow, we’ll compare how diesel and petrol RVs stack up across the most important categories — starting with fuel economy and efficiency.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

When it comes to long-distance RV travel in Australia, fuel economy isn’t just about saving money — it’s about extending your range, reducing your refuelling stops, and making remote travel more viable. For travellers doing 10,000 km or more, the difference between a few litres per 100 km adds up quickly. That’s why comparing the fuel efficiency of diesel vs petrol RVs is essential.

Diesel RVs: Efficient and Long-Ranged

Diesel engines are typically more fuel-efficient than petrol engines — especially in heavier vehicles like motorhomes or towing setups. This is because diesel engines:

  • Operate at higher compression ratios, extracting more energy per litre of fuel

  • Produce more torque at lower RPMs, which means less effort to move large loads

  • Perform better on long, steady drives — the kind most common in RV travel

A typical diesel-powered motorhome might use between 10 to 14 litres per 100 km, depending on weight, wind resistance, and terrain. Smaller diesel vans may achieve even better numbers, often below 10 L/100 km on highways. This allows for longer ranges per tank and fewer stops in remote areas where fuel may be scarce.

Petrol RVs: Simpler but Thirstier

Petrol engines, while often cheaper to buy and maintain, tend to consume more fuel on average. This is particularly noticeable in:

  • Older campervans

  • High-roof conversions without aerodynamic shaping

  • Vehicles towing additional weight

Fuel consumption for petrol RVs often sits between 13 to 17 litres per 100 km, though some smaller vans may do better, especially newer models with efficient engines. However, as soon as you start climbing hills, towing a trailer, or driving into headwinds, petrol consumption increases faster than diesel.

Real-World Efficiency in Australian Conditions

Fuel efficiency also varies depending on the conditions you’re travelling through:

  • Flat highways (e.g. Nullarbor Plain) – both fuel types perform well, but diesel still holds a small edge

  • Mountain passes (e.g. Great Dividing Range, Tasmanian interior) – diesel performs better under load and on steep climbs

  • Off-road or gravel routes (e.g. Gibb River Road) – diesel engines maintain better torque for low-speed, high-drag conditions

  • Hot regions (e.g. Northern Territory in summer) – diesel engines remain stable; petrol may suffer reduced efficiency under load and heat

In most remote or rugged parts of Australia, diesel RVs are the preferred choice due to both fuel economy and the higher availability of diesel in small or regional towns.

Fuel Efficiency Summary

While every RV setup is different, the average traveller will find that diesel engines offer 15–30% better fuel economy than their petrol counterparts when hauling weight, driving long distances, or travelling in tough terrain. If you’re planning a serious road trip across multiple states, that advantage becomes a significant cost and convenience benefit.

Performance and Driving Experience

While fuel efficiency affects your wallet, performance shapes how your RV feels on the road. From acceleration and towing ability to hill-climbing and engine noise, the fuel type you choose plays a big role in your overall driving experience. Whether you’re navigating the winding roads of the Great Ocean Road or tackling a steep track into a national park, the way your RV handles can make or break your journey.

Diesel RVs: Built for Load, Torque, and Tough Terrain

Diesel engines are known for their low-end torque — the kind of pulling power you feel when taking off from a standstill or climbing a steep hill. That makes them ideal for:

  • Heavier motorhomes and 4WD campers

  • Towing trailers, boats, or a second vehicle

  • Off-road or unsealed driving

  • Mountain passes and steep descents

Because diesel engines produce more torque at lower revs, they don’t need to work as hard to move weight. This results in a smoother and more composed driving experience on long hauls, especially on country roads where consistent power matters more than quick acceleration.

Another bonus? Diesel engines tend to have better engine braking — a valuable feature for controlling speed on long downhill sections without overheating your brakes.

Petrol RVs: Smoother and Quieter, but Less Punch

Petrol engines generally deliver more horsepower at higher RPMs, which gives them better acceleration on flat terrain — especially in lightweight or medium-weight vans. They also tend to be:

  • Quieter at idle and cruising speeds

  • Less prone to vibration

  • Smoother in stop-start traffic

  • Easier to warm up and start in cold conditions

Petrol-powered RVs often feel more like driving a regular passenger vehicle. This makes them a comfortable choice for urban touring, coastal routes, or weekend getaways, where hills are minimal and off-road driving is unlikely.

However, when fully loaded or climbing hills, petrol engines need to rev higher to maintain power — which leads to increased noise, greater fuel use, and more strain over time. Drivers also report more gear changes on inclines compared to diesel’s more effortless climb.

Manual vs Automatic Considerations

Both diesel and petrol RVs come in manual and automatic transmissions, but fuel type can influence the driving feel:

  • Diesel manuals offer excellent control on hills and descents, particularly off-road

  • Petrol automatics provide smoother gear changes and are better for city or highway driving

  • Newer automatic diesel RVs combine torque with ease-of-use, making them a popular choice for retirees and long-distance travellers

If you’re hiring or buying an RV for the first time, always test drive both fuel types in similar terrain before deciding.

Maintenance and Longevity

When choosing between diesel and petrol for your RV, you’re not just picking a fuel type — you’re also committing to an engine type that will behave differently over time. Maintenance needs, repair costs, and engine lifespan all vary significantly between the two. While one might be cheaper to service, the other might last longer under the tough demands of long-haul travel across Australia.

Diesel Engines: Built to Last, but Costlier to Fix

Diesel engines are often regarded as more durable and longer-lasting than their petrol counterparts. They are built with stronger components and higher compression tolerances, which allows them to handle heavy loads, long distances, and frequent use without as much wear and tear. For full-time travellers or anyone clocking tens of thousands of kilometres a year, diesel engines are generally considered the better long-term option.

However, that durability comes at a price. Diesel maintenance tends to be:

  • More expensive per service

  • Subject to higher parts costs, especially for fuel injectors, glow plugs, and turbos

  • Dependent on quality fuel – dirty diesel or water contamination can cause major issues

  • Complex – some newer diesel RVs include emission systems like DPFs and AdBlue that require specialised knowledge

In the long run, a diesel engine can easily last 400,000 km or more with proper servicing. But if neglected, a single major failure (such as a high-pressure fuel pump or turbocharger) can cost thousands.

Petrol Engines: Lower Service Costs, But Shorter Lifespan

Petrol engines are simpler in design and cheaper to service and repair. Oil changes, spark plug replacements, and basic diagnostics are usually more affordable and quicker to complete at your local mechanic. This makes petrol RVs a strong option for:

  • Part-time travellers who only use their RV seasonally

  • Budget-conscious owners who prefer DIY maintenance

  • Older second-hand vehicles where low-cost upkeep is key

However, petrol engines don’t last as long under sustained heavy use. Components wear faster under high heat and strain, and issues like overheating, carbon build-up, or valve wear can appear earlier. Most petrol RV engines in Australia will last between 200,000 and 300,000 km before needing major repairs or replacement — still decent, but generally less than diesel.

Reliability and Availability of Mechanics

In most parts of Australia, both petrol and diesel mechanics are readily available, especially in towns and along major tourist routes. However, in very remote areas, you may find more diesel-qualified mechanics, simply because diesel engines dominate in agriculture, transport, and remote service vehicles.

Petrol engines, while easier to fix, may face parts availability issues in the Outback — especially if you’re driving an older or imported model with specific requirements.

Longevity Summary

  • Choose diesel if you plan to keep your RV for many years, clock up big mileage, or travel remote routes

  • Choose petrol if you want low maintenance costs and don’t expect to drive extreme distances or tow heavy loads

Regular servicing is key to both — but if you neglect maintenance, diesel engines tend to handle abuse a bit better before failure.

Fuel Availability Across Australia

When planning long-haul RV trips across the vast Australian landscape, fuel availability becomes more than just a convenience — it’s a necessity. Unlike city travel where service stations are on every corner, remote and regional routes require careful fuel planning. Your RV’s fuel type will influence your route flexibility, risk tolerance, and even your overnight choices.

Diesel: Widely Available, Especially in Remote Australia

Diesel is the most commonly available fuel across Australia, especially once you get beyond the metropolitan fringe. This widespread availability is thanks to the fact that:

  • Most commercial vehicles, trucks, farm machinery, and remote service fleets use diesel

  • Many Outback and inland towns are geared around diesel storage and distribution

  • Diesel can be stored longer and handles heat better, making it suitable for harsh conditions

Whether you’re travelling across the Stuart Highway, the Gibb River Road, or the Oodnadatta Track, diesel will be available at most roadhouses, even in the Northern Territory, Western Queensland, or the far reaches of South Australia.

In more remote regions, it’s not uncommon to find stations that sell diesel only — or have petrol but run out due to delivery delays. For this reason alone, many serious overlanders, Big Lap travellers, and 4WD RVers choose diesel-powered rigs.

Petrol: Easily Available in Cities and Coastlines, Less So Remotely

Petrol is readily available in all cities, towns, and along the eastern seaboard, where population density is higher and travel infrastructure is stronger. You’ll have no problem filling up with ULP (unleaded petrol) in:

  • Major coastal cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide)

  • Popular tourist corridors (Great Ocean Road, Pacific Highway, Bruce Highway)

  • Regional hubs and inland towns close to highways

However, in Outback regions — particularly beyond Alice Springs, Mount Isa, or Coober Pedy — petrol availability becomes more inconsistent. Some fuel stops may only stock Premium Unleaded (95 or 98), which is significantly more expensive. Others may be completely out of petrol due to low demand or delayed fuel deliveries.

If you’re driving a petrol-powered RV into remote Australia, you’ll need to plan fuel stops more carefully and consider carrying extra jerry cans if your tank is small.

Tips for Managing Fuel Availability

  • Use apps like FuelMap, PetrolSpy, or GasBuddy Australia to check fuel types and prices in advance

  • Never assume fuel will be available “at the next town” — always top up when you can, especially in remote zones

  • Be aware of weekend or holiday closures in smaller towns, where independent stations may not operate 24/7

  • Carry fuel filters or water separators for diesel RVs when travelling off-grid — fuel quality can vary in the bush

  • Confirm fuel compatibility before entering long unsealed routes — some 4WD-only tracks require high-range diesel for safety

Final Verdict on Fuel Access

If your road trip takes you deep into the Outback or off the bitumen, diesel is the safer and more practical choice. For those sticking to popular tourist routes, east coast highways, or doing short-term urban getaways, petrol remains a viable and convenient option — just be mindful of where your fuel stops are.

Fuel Price Comparison and Ongoing Costs

Beyond availability and efficiency, the cost of fuel is one of the most important factors affecting your overall travel budget. For many RV travellers — especially those doing extended laps around Australia — the difference in fuel price and consumption between diesel and petrol can result in hundreds or even thousands of dollars in savings or extra costs per trip.

Let’s explore how diesel and petrol compare when it comes to real-world fuel prices, ongoing operational expenses, and the total cost of ownership.

Current Price Trends in Australia

As of 2025, average fuel prices across Australia are roughly:

  • Unleaded Petrol (ULP 91): $1.90 – $2.10 per litre

  • Premium Unleaded (PULP 95/98): $2.15 – $2.50 per litre

  • Diesel: $2.00 – $2.40 per litre

Diesel prices are often higher per litre than unleaded petrol, particularly in urban areas. However, in regional towns and remote areas where diesel is more common, the price gap often narrows — and in some cases, diesel can even be cheaper than premium petrol.

Prices also fluctuate by region and season. You’ll typically pay:

  • More in remote roadhouses and isolated service stations

  • Less at independent fuel retailers and in competitive suburban areas

  • A premium for premium unleaded, which may be required by certain petrol RV engines

Cost Per Kilometre: Diesel Wins in the Long Run

While diesel fuel may cost slightly more per litre, diesel engines typically use less fuel per kilometre, especially in heavier RVs or during long-distance travel. For example:

  • A diesel RV averaging 12L/100 km at $2.20/L = $0.264 per km

  • A petrol RV averaging 16L/100 km at $2.00/L = $0.32 per km

On a 10,000 km trip, that difference equates to:

  • Diesel: $2,640

  • Petrol: $3,200

That’s a difference of $560, just in fuel — and the longer your trip, the more that gap grows.

Hidden and Ongoing Costs

It’s important to consider other fuel-related costs that accumulate over time:

  • Diesel particulate filters (DPF) need cleaning or replacement if not properly maintained

  • AdBlue additive is required in many modern diesel RVs for emissions compliance (costs about $20–30 per 1,000 km)

  • Petrol engines may require higher-octane fuel (PULP), which significantly increases cost per fill-up

  • Fuel system services for either fuel type — injectors (diesel) vs spark plugs (petrol) — will vary in frequency and price

If you’re planning long-term travel or purchasing a new RV, these lifecycle costs should be factored into your decision.

Refuelling Frequency

Diesel RVs also tend to have larger fuel tanks and greater range, meaning fewer stops for refuelling. This is a key benefit in rural Australia where fuel stops may be 200–300 km apart.

Budgeting Tip for Travellers

Regardless of your fuel type, always:

  • Track fuel usage and average cost per km using trip log apps

  • Take advantage of fuel discount programs like EG Rewards, RACV Fuel, or supermarket-linked offers

  • Consider carrying extra jerry cans in remote regions to reduce reliance on overpriced roadhouse fuel

Upfront Cost and Resale Value

When evaluating whether a diesel or petrol RV is right for your travels, it’s essential to look beyond just running costs. The initial purchase price and eventual resale value can impact your total cost of ownership just as much — especially if you plan to upgrade, downsize, or resell your vehicle after a few years on the road.

Upfront Costs: Petrol Often Wins on Entry Price

Petrol RVs are generally cheaper to purchase or rent upfront, particularly in the following categories:

  • Used vehicles: Petrol vans and campers often sell for several thousand dollars less than their diesel equivalents of similar age and condition

  • Budget campervans: Older Hiace conversions or ex-rentals with petrol engines dominate the entry-level RV market

  • Short-term rentals: Petrol-powered campervans are often cheaper per day, especially for compact or weekend use

The lower upfront cost makes petrol RVs attractive for:

  • Travellers on a strict budget

  • First-time RV buyers testing the waters

  • Renters planning short coastal road trips

Diesel-powered RVs, by contrast, come with a higher initial cost. This is due to:

  • More complex engine construction

  • Higher demand among long-distance travellers

  • Inclusion of heavier-duty components for towing or off-roading

  • Frequent pairing with premium vehicle platforms (e.g., Mercedes Sprinter, Iveco Daily)

A new diesel motorhome may cost $5,000 to $15,000 more than its petrol counterpart, depending on brand, build, and layout.

Resale Value: Diesel Holds Its Ground

While diesel RVs cost more upfront, they also hold their value better in the resale market. Reasons include:

  • Greater demand among full-time travellers, grey nomads, and overlanders

  • Longer engine lifespan, often appealing to second-hand buyers

  • Better reputation for long-haul and remote reliability

  • Higher towing capacity, which is a major resale driver in regional Australia

This means that after five or ten years, a diesel RV is more likely to fetch a higher price — particularly if it has been well-maintained and has service records to show.

Petrol RVs, on the other hand, depreciate faster, especially if they:

  • Have high kilometres

  • Lack modern fuel efficiency features

  • Require premium unleaded or have non-standard parts

  • Are perceived as less capable for “serious travel”

That said, well-kept petrol vans still find buyers in the urban or budget travel market — just at a lower resale bracket.

New vs Used Market Considerations

In the used RV market, diesel models are often in higher demand, especially those built on commercial-grade platforms. This demand can push prices up even for vehicles that are 10–15 years old.

In the new RV market, diesel remains the preferred option for manufacturers targeting touring and adventure audiences. As a result, you’ll find more variety, more features, and stronger warranty support for diesel rigs.

In summary:

  • Choose petrol if you’re looking for a lower upfront investment, especially for short-term or seasonal travel

  • Choose diesel if you value strong resale potential and long-term financial return over years of ownership

Environmental Impact and Emissions

With the growing focus on sustainability, eco-conscious travellers are increasingly asking: which RV fuel type is better for the environment — diesel or petrol? While neither traditional option is as clean as electric, understanding their respective environmental footprints can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your values and the way you travel.

Petrol: Cleaner Combustion, But Higher CO₂ Output

Petrol engines generally burn cleaner at the tailpipe, meaning they emit fewer of certain regulated pollutants, including:

  • Nitrogen oxides (NOx)

  • Particulate matter (PM)

  • Sulphur dioxide (SO₂)

This makes petrol RVs marginally better when it comes to urban air quality and lower localised smog levels. However, petrol engines tend to produce more carbon dioxide (CO₂) per litre burned than diesel engines — making them less efficient in terms of greenhouse gas emissions over long distances.

In essence, if you’re doing mostly short trips around cities or towns, a petrol RV might produce less local pollution. But if you’re clocking up thousands of kilometres, your total carbon footprint could be higher due to reduced fuel efficiency.

Diesel: Lower CO₂, But Higher Toxic Emissions

Diesel engines are more efficient than petrol, meaning they generate fewer CO₂ emissions per kilometre. For long-distance touring across Australia, this means:

  • Better greenhouse gas performance per litre

  • Longer range with less fuel burned

  • Lower total emissions for extended travel

However, older diesel engines have a significantly worse profile for harmful pollutants like:

  • NOx (a contributor to respiratory illness and smog)

  • PM2.5 (tiny particles linked to heart and lung disease)

To address this, most modern diesel RVs now include Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and AdBlue systems, which reduce emissions of harmful gases and soot. These technologies make Euro 5 and Euro 6-compliant diesel engines much cleaner than their predecessors — though they require proper maintenance and specific fuel quality to function effectively.

Environmental Regulations and Fuel Type

In Australia, emissions regulations for passenger and light commercial vehicles have been tightening, but older diesel RVs are still common on the second-hand market — many without DPF or emission-reducing tech. Be aware:

  • Victoria and New South Wales are stricter on smoky diesel vehicles

  • Newer diesel RVs must meet emission compliance rules (especially post-2016 builds)

  • Fuel additives and clean-burning systems make a big difference to overall environmental impact

Off-Grid Travel and Idling

For RVers who spend a lot of time off-grid, it’s worth noting that:

  • Diesel engines tend to idle more efficiently, especially when used with auxiliary systems like diesel heaters or generators

  • Petrol engines, when left running for charging or heating, are less efficient and burn more fuel per hour

That said, both fuel types are carbon-based and contribute to emissions — so using solar panels, lithium battery banks, or shore power when available is always the greener choice.

  • Petrol: Cleaner tailpipe emissions in city settings, but higher CO₂ over long distances

  • Diesel: Lower CO₂ per kilometre, but dirtier unless fitted with modern emission controls

If environmental impact is a priority, consider the age and emission compliance of your RV — not just the fuel type.

Which Fuel Type Is Right for Your RV Lifestyle?

After comparing diesel vs petrol RVs across performance, cost, availability, maintenance, and environmental impact, it ultimately comes down to this: what kind of Australian RV lifestyle are you chasing? Your choice of fuel should reflect your travel patterns, destinations, budget, and level of mechanical involvement.

Here’s how to match the right fuel type with the right kind of traveller.

Choose Diesel If You:

  • Plan to travel long distances regularly (Big Lap, interstate trips, NT and WA adventures)

  • Intend to visit remote or off-grid areas, especially where fuel availability is limited

  • Drive a heavier motorhome or 4WD camper that needs strong low-end torque

  • Want better fuel economy per kilometre, especially when towing or carrying weight

  • Expect to resell the vehicle at a good value in 5–10 years

  • Are comfortable with (or can afford) higher maintenance costs and more complex servicing

  • Use onboard diesel heaters or generators for off-grid living

Diesel RVs are ideal for full-timers, grey nomads, and serious overlanders who value reliability, long range, and rugged performance. They’re also better suited to Australia’s more isolated regions like the Red Centre, Kimberley, or Cape York.

Choose Petrol If You:

  • Are travelling short-term or seasonally (weekends, school holidays, 1–3 month trips)

  • Stick to urban areas, coastal routes, or well-serviced regions

  • Want a lower upfront purchase or rental cost

  • Drive a lightweight campervan or compact RV that doesn’t require high torque

  • Prefer simpler engine maintenance and more accessible repair options

  • Are on a tight budget and don’t expect to travel more than 5,000–10,000 km per year

  • Will be staying mostly in holiday parks or powered sites

Petrol RVs are perfect for couples, solo adventurers, or families looking for flexible, affordable travel along Australia’s scenic routes — like the Great Ocean Road, Pacific Coast, or Tasmania’s touring circuit.

Don’t Forget to Factor in:

  • Driving habits (long highway hauls vs stop-start city trips)

  • Fuel availability on your planned route

  • Towing needs, especially if bringing a trailer or boat

  • Climate and terrain (diesel prefers hot, dry, high-load conditions)

  • Your mechanical knowledge — diesel engines reward diligence, petrol engines forgive neglect

In the end, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But by understanding the trade-offs and aligning your fuel choice with your travel lifestyle, you’ll get better performance, fewer surprises, and more enjoyable road trips around Australia.

Conclusion: Making the Right Fuel Choice for Your Aussie RV Adventure

Choosing between a diesel and petrol RV in Australia isn’t about which fuel is “better” overall — it’s about what’s better for you. Your travel style, destination goals, vehicle needs, and budget all play a critical role in determining the right option.

If your dream is to traverse the Red Centre, cruise through the Kimberley, or tow a caravan through rugged bush tracks, diesel is likely your best bet. It offers superior fuel economy, longer driving range, stronger torque, and better fuel availability in remote parts of the country. While the upfront cost and servicing may be higher, diesel pays off for long-haul adventurers and serious road warriors who rack up the kilometres.

On the flip side, if you’re planning scenic weekend getaways along the Great Ocean Road, exploring Tasmania, or sticking to the well-serviced east coast, petrol may be the more practical choice. It’s more affordable upfront, easier to maintain in cities, and perfectly suitable for lighter vans and casual holiday travel.

There’s no wrong answer — only the right match for your journey.

So before you set off across Australia’s endless horizons, take the time to consider where you’ll go, how often you’ll travel, what type of RV fits your lifestyle, and how much you’re willing to invest long-term. The open road is waiting — just fuel up with what fits you best.

FAQs about ydney's RV travel guide

Which is cheaper to run in Australia: a diesel RV or a petrol RV?

In most real-world Australian road trip scenarios, diesel RVs tend to be cheaper to run per kilometre. While diesel fuel can be slightly more expensive per litre than unleaded petrol, diesel engines are typically 15–30% more fuel efficient. This means a diesel RV consumes less fuel to cover the same distance, especially under heavy loads or on long drives through the Outback, highways, or regional roads.

Over a 10,000 km trip, this fuel economy difference could save travellers hundreds of dollars. Diesel RVs also have longer ranges per tank, which reduces the number of refuelling stops in remote areas. However, petrol RVs may be more affordable for short trips or light vehicles, especially when the driving is mostly urban or coastal. If you’re hiring an RV for a weekend getaway, petrol could be more cost-effective upfront. But for serious long-haul adventurers, diesel wins over time.

Diesel is generally the preferred choice for remote and Outback travel in Australia. This is because diesel fuel is more widely available in regional towns, roadhouses, and service stations across remote parts of the country — from the Red Centre to Cape York and the Kimberley. Many remote service stations even stock only diesel due to its use in agricultural machinery, trucks, and 4WD fleets.

Diesel engines are also better suited to rough terrain and unsealed roads. They produce more low-end torque, which helps with hill climbing, towing, and slow off-road driving. Additionally, diesel RVs often have larger fuel tanks and longer range, giving drivers more flexibility when distances between fuel stops can exceed 300 km. If you’re planning to explore less-travelled routes, national parks, or desert crossings, a diesel RV provides a safer, more reliable option.

Yes, diesel RVs generally offer a longer engine lifespan than their petrol counterparts — especially when maintained properly. Diesel engines are built with more robust components and operate at lower RPMs, meaning they endure less wear over time. It’s not uncommon for diesel engines to last over 400,000 km, while many petrol engines start requiring major repairs around the 250,000 to 300,000 km mark.

This makes diesel RVs particularly appealing for long-distance travellers, full-time vanlifers, and anyone planning to keep their vehicle for many years. However, longevity also depends on regular servicing, proper fuel quality, and driving style. A poorly maintained diesel RV can develop expensive issues, particularly with its turbo, injectors, or diesel particulate filter (DPF). If reliability and resale value over time are important, diesel has the upper hand — but only when the owner is committed to upkeep.

In general, yes — petrol RVs are simpler and cheaper to service in most parts of Australia. Petrol engines have fewer complex components compared to diesel engines, which means they require less specialised knowledge and equipment for maintenance. Most mechanics, even in smaller towns, can handle routine petrol servicing like oil changes, spark plug replacement, and air filter cleaning.

Parts for petrol engines are often more readily available and less expensive, especially for older or Japanese-manufactured vans like the Toyota Hiace. Labour costs for petrol RV repairs also tend to be lower, making them a better option for travellers on a budget or those who plan shorter trips.

That said, diesel RVs are well-supported in regional and remote areas where diesel vehicles are more common. If your travel involves the coast or capital cities, petrol servicing will be quick and easy. For inland or long-haul adventures, diesel support is just as accessible — but at a slightly higher cost.

While it’s possible to take a petrol RV on unsealed roads or gravel routes, diesel-powered vehicles are generally the better fit for serious off-road or Outback adventures. Petrol engines don’t offer the same low-end torque as diesel, which is essential for climbing hills, crawling over rocks, or towing trailers through soft sand or mud.

Petrol engines also need to rev higher to generate power, which can increase fuel consumption and put more stress on the engine in rugged conditions. Additionally, fuel availability becomes a key issue — some remote areas only sell diesel, and carrying enough petrol for extended trips may require extra jerry cans or planning.

If you’re sticking to graded gravel roads near tourist areas or national parks, a well-equipped petrol RV can be fine. But for the Gibb River Road, Simpson Desert, or Gunbarrel Highway, a diesel 4WD RV or motorhome is a far safer and more reliable option.

Diesel is generally considered safer than petrol in terms of storage and flammability, particularly in high temperatures or remote travel scenarios. Diesel has a much higher flash point (about 62°C) compared to petrol (around -40°C), meaning it is far less likely to ignite under normal conditions. This makes diesel a preferred choice for long-range tanks, jerry cans, or built-in storage systems.

If you’re carrying extra fuel on the outside of your RV or in your trailer, diesel poses a lower explosion risk in the event of an accident or fuel leak. That’s one reason why diesel is used in mining vehicles, military operations, and remote-area transport across Australia.

Petrol, while perfectly safe when handled properly, requires more caution during refuelling and storage. It evaporates more quickly, emits more fumes, and is highly flammable. For casual travellers sticking to the highways, this isn’t usually an issue — but for serious Outback explorers, diesel provides a safety advantage.

Diesel RVs tend to hold their resale value better in the Australian second-hand market. This is largely due to their longer engine lifespan, lower fuel consumption over long distances, and higher demand among experienced travellers who prioritise durability and range. Diesel-powered motorhomes and vans are especially sought after by grey nomads, full-time RVers, and those doing the Big Lap.

Even older diesel rigs — particularly those built on commercial platforms like the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit — can command strong resale prices if well maintained. On the other hand, petrol RVs tend to depreciate faster, especially if they have high kilometres or lack modern engine technology.

However, petrol RVs are easier to sell at the budget end of the market, especially to younger travellers, backpackers, and short-term tourists looking for affordability. If you plan to upgrade in the future and want the best return, diesel is the smarter investment — assuming you’ve kept up with servicing and compliance.

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