Car cost per mile (also known as pence per mile or PPM) is one of the best ways to understand how much it really costs to run a car in the UK. It combines fuel, depreciation and maintenance into a single figure.
Average Car Cost Per Mile (UK)
30p to 70p per mile
Lower-cost and efficient cars tend to be at the lower end, while larger or premium vehicles are typically higher.
Example Cost Per Mile Breakdown
| Cost Type |
Per Mile |
| Fuel |
15p – 30p |
| Depreciation |
10p – 25p |
| Maintenance |
5p – 15p |
| Total |
30p – 70p |
How to Calculate Car Cost Per Mile
To calculate cost per mile, divide your total annual running costs by your annual mileage.
For example:
£5,000 annual cost ÷ 10,000 miles = 50p per mile
Calculate Your Own Cost Per Mile
Use Car Running Costs Calculator
Compare Cost Per Mile Across Cars
Compare Car Running Costs
Also Looking for Vans?
View Van Cost Per Mile
Car Cost Per Mile FAQs
What is the average car cost per mile in the UK?
Typically between 30p and 70p per mile depending on the car and usage.
How do you calculate cost per mile?
Divide total annual running costs by total miles driven.
What affects cost per mile?
Fuel efficiency, depreciation, mileage and maintenance all affect the result.