The Real Cost of a Car per Kilometer in 2025

Owning a car represents one of the largest expense items for households. But do you really know the cost of your vehicle per kilometer driven?

Components of Total Cost

1. Fuel (25-35% of total cost)

Fuel represents the most visible part of your automotive expenses. In 2025, with an average price of €1.65/L:

• Gasoline: €1.65/L
• Diesel: €1.52/L
• Average consumption: 7.5L/100km

Practical calculation: For 15,000 km/year with consumption of 7.5L/100km, you'll spend about €1,856 on fuel.

2. Insurance (15-20% of total cost)

Car insurance is mandatory and varies according to:

• Driver's age
• Vehicle type
• Geographic area
• Chosen coverage

Average cost: €600/year for comprehensive insurance.

3. Maintenance and Repairs (20-25% of total cost)

An often neglected but crucial item:

• Oil changes: €80-120 every 15,000 km
• Annual services: €200-400
• Tires: €400-800 every 3-5 years
• Unexpected repairs: €300-500/year

4. Depreciation (30-40% of total cost)

Depreciation is the highest but least visible cost:

• Year 1: -20 to 25%
• Year 2: -15 to 20%
• Year 3 and beyond: -10 to 15% per year

Complete Calculation: Concrete Example

Let's take the example of a 2020 Peugeot 308:

How to Reduce These Costs?

1. Optimize Consumption

• Adopt smooth driving
• Maintain constant speed
• Regularly check tire pressure

2. Choose the Right Insurance

• Compare offers annually
• Adapt coverage to needs
• Negotiate with your insurer

3. Preventive Maintenance

• Respect maintenance schedule
• Use quality parts
• Learn basic maintenance

Tools to Calculate Your Costs

Use our car cost calculator to get a personalized estimate of your expenses.

Sources and References

• AA - Motoring costs 2025
• RAC - Vehicle running costs
• UK Government Transport Statistics

This article is regularly updated to reflect price and regulation changes.