Should you choose Petrol or Diesel for your new car? First things first, you should probably opt for whatever fuel your vehicle takes, but that's another story. All joking aside, it's a long running debate and here are a few of the factors worth considering:
The 'Science Bit'
Conventional Diesel and Petrol are both produced from mineral oil, using different refining methods. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, Diesel contains roughly 15% more energy than Petrol (by volume) and this, combined with a more efficient combustion process, ensures higher fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions.
The Price Point
Diesel vehicles do, as a general rule, tend to cost more to purchase initially whether buying new or used. For example; the Mitsubishi ASX crossover vehicles "List Price" (before any of our special offers etc.) £16,750 for a Petrol ASX, the same vehicle in Diesel would be £18,750. Having said that, Diesel vehicles do tend to depreciate in value slower so they'll likely hold their value.
Fuel Savings
Diesel is currently still more expensive to buy than Petrol but vehicles that run on the former tend to be more fuel efficient. Recent developments in Petrol engines are narrowing the gap though- the Mitsubishi Mirage is not made in a Diesel version as it can already achieve 68mpg from its 3 cylinder, 1.2 litre Petrol engine.
Generally speaking, if you are a low mileage motorist (say 7,000 miles a year) and keep your car for 3 years or less, it is unlikely you'll see the fuel savings. In fact, the AA recommend that, if you're planning on using your vehicle for mainly town or stop/start driving, it would be wise to avoid buying a Diesel vehicle with a Diesel Particulate Filter (which most Diesels manufactured after 2009 have). This is because, while filters in the exhaust reduce soot emissions by 80%, the collected particles have to be burnt off and this process needs to be completed during sustained periods of driving at speed.
Day to Day Running
Car insurance can be more expensive for Diesel than Petrol vehicles as Diesels have higher average accident repair costs and are more costly, in general, to replace in the event of a write-off, so this is well-worth looking into before making a purchase.
Road tax wise, the cost of this is based solely on the CO2 emissions created by a vehicle so Diesel vehicles usually win out on this point. You can easily establish road tax costs before buying a vehicle online if you have the registration: https://www.taxdisc.direct.gov.uk and select 'Vehicle Look Up'.
Another factor to consider would be servicing- Petrol vehicles usually have to be serviced more frequently than Diesels but the cost is often less when sticking to the manufacturers schedule as Diesel filters can be costly. However, if your vehicle is out of warranty and you no longer have to operate within the schedule for servicing, this price difference may be avoidable, our 'All Makes' Value Service, for example, is £99.99 whether Diesel or Petrol.
Overall
The above are all elements worth considering when you are looking into purchasing a new vehicle but the differences will vary depending on the vehicle itself and, of course, each individuals preference. If you're looking into buying a new Mitsubishi, or any make or model of used vehicle, come and speak to one of our Sales Advisors who can help guide you through the decision.
Have something to add? Join the debate! Facebook or Tweet us, we'd love to hear what you have to say on the matter.
