Should we still buy a diesel car in 2025?

Last updated of 9 February 2025 by Maxime de Printerl

With the acceleration of ecological transition and new restrictions on diesel, many pilots wonder if the purchase of a diesel car in 2025 is still a good idea. Previously essential for large rollers, Diesel loses ground in front of alternatives such as electric and hybrid. But is it really obsolete? We examine the advantages and disadvantages to help you make the right choice.

The advantages of diesel in 2025: still activities for some drivers

1. Live consumption than gasoline

Diesel engines remain the champions of autonomy. They consume an average of 15-20 % less fuel than their petrol equivalent. If you drive a lot, especially on the highway, a diesel can always be more profitable for use.

2. A robust and lasting engine

Diesel engines are designed to last. With good maintenance, they often exceed 300,000 km without important problems. This is a criterion not to be overlooked if you plan to keep your car for several years.

3. Ideal for long journeys

Thanks to their high couple, diesel engines are more comfortable for long journeys and mountain roads. In addition, they require less pump passages, which is appreciable for large travelers.

The disadvantages of diesel in 2025: increasingly heavy constraints

1. More serious traffic restrictions

The low -emission areas (ZFE) are generalized in France and Europe. In many large cities, diesel cars, in particular those before 2015, are prohibited or highly taxed. An important criterion if you live or work in the city.

2. A higher maintenance cost

With the addition of technologies to reduce pollution (particles filter, adblue, etc.), diesel engines have become more complex and expensive to maintain. Repairs are often more expensive than for a petrol car.

3

In recent years, the demand for car diesel has decreased abruptly, which has an impact on their price in the resale. A diesel sedan that was worth a lot of 5 years ago can see its evaluation collapse in the face of the ascent of hybrids and electric.

Diesel, petrol or electric: what is the best alternative in 2025?

If you guide mainly in the city and perform less than 15,000 km per year, a petrol or hybrid car is undoubtedly more suitable. Electric, on the other hand, is ideal for daily travel and benefits from interesting aids for the purchase.

On the other hand, if you perform more than 20,000 km per year, in particular on the highway, Diesel maintains an advantage in terms of consumption and autonomy. But be careful to check access to Zfe and any local restrictions before buying.

Some key figures on diesel in 2025

• Only in 2024 7.3 % of the new cars recorded in France They were diesel, against over 70 % in 2012.
• The average diesel price in January 2025 is approximately € 1.71/literbarely cheaper of petrol SP95-E10 (1.78 €/liter).
• By 2035, the new thermal cars (petrol and diesel) will be prohibited for sale in Europe, which could still accelerate the fall of the diesel.

So, should we still buy a diesel car in 2025?

Diesel is not yet dead, but its future is increasingly uncertain. If you drive a lot on long distances and live outside the main cities, it can still be an interesting choice. On the other hand, if often circulates in an urban environment or looking for a car with a good resale, it may be better to contact petrol, hybrid or electric.

In any case, before purchasing, taking into account the use, local restrictions and market development to make an informed choice!