Diesel vs Petrol vs Hybrid: Which Is Best for You?

Choosing between diesel, petrol and hybrid is one of the biggest decisions when buying a used car. There is no single best option. The right choice depends on how far you drive, where you drive and what you want to spend.

Petrol: simple and great for shorter trips

Petrol cars are usually cheaper to buy than an equivalent diesel or hybrid, and they suit drivers who mainly do town driving, school runs and shorter journeys. They are simple to own and do not need long runs to stay healthy. On long motorway trips they generally use more fuel than a diesel.

Diesel: built for high mileage and long journeys

Diesel cars shine on long motorway runs, with strong fuel economy and plenty of pulling power, which also makes them good for towing. Most modern diesels have a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) that needs regular longer drives to clean itself. If most of your journeys are short, a diesel may not be the best fit.

Hybrid: efficient in stop-start traffic

A self-charging hybrid combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and charges itself as you drive. It is at its best in town and in traffic, and most are automatic, making them relaxing to drive. A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) can cover short distances on electric power alone, which works well if you can charge at home. Hybrids usually cost more to buy, and a plug-in hybrid that is never charged loses much of its advantage.

Which one suits you?

• Mostly short, local trips: petrol or hybrid.
• Lots of motorway miles or towing: diesel.
• Busy town and city driving: hybrid.
• Tightest budget to buy: usually petrol.

Driving in London? Check ULEZ

If you drive in London, check the car meets the Ultra Low Emission Zone standards. As a general guide, petrol cars need to meet Euro 4 and diesel cars need to meet Euro 6. Always confirm a specific car using the official TfL vehicle checker before you buy.

Still not sure?

Our team at Hillside Wheeler is happy to talk through how you drive and recommend the right fuel type for you. Contact us or book a test drive to try the options for yourself.