Is it still worth buying a diesel car for travelling in 2026? Experience and current analysis

Are you thinking about a diesel for long journeys in 2026? After 60,000 km on motorways and multiple real refuelling stops, I summarise whether you will keep saving or whether it is worth changing plan.

The reality in one sentence: diesel remains the most cost-efficient option per long journey if you are looking for range and stable consumption, but its advantage depends on the age of the car, the service stations and urban restrictions.

Practical experience

We have used a mid-size diesel on three routes of 800–1,200 km and on accumulated journeys totalling 60,000 km: stable real consumption, less frequent refuelling and worse surprises in maintenance of engines with DPF if urban use is frequent.

What you need to know

• Real consumption on the motorway: diesels usually offer 5.5–7.5 L/100 km on journeys at sustained speed; petrol sits above that under similar conditions.
• Energy cost: depends largely on the price per litre and the driving mix; over long distances diesel is usually cheaper per 100 km, but an electric car can beat it with inexpensive home charging.
• Regulation: Low Emission Zones (ZBE) already affect pre-Euro 6 diesels; well-maintained Euro 6d diesels keep access in most cities, but regulatory pressure is increasing.
• Maintenance: the DPF, AdBlue and exhaust treatment systems are components to keep an eye on: mixed and urban use shortens their service life and can raise repair costs.

Practical decision: when a diesel is worth it for travelling

– Recommended purchase if you make frequent long journeys (30,000 km/year) and prioritise range, fewer stops and economy on the motorway.

– Do not buy a diesel if your use is mostly urban or in ZBE areas: DPF problems and restrictions can make it expensive and impractical.

Technical points to check before buying

• Check that it is at least Euro 6d and review the maintenance history of the DPF and the AdBlue system.
• Ask about real motorway consumption and about range between refuelling stops (a modern diesel usually offers +20–30% more range than its petrol equivalent).
• Factor in maintenance costs at 100,000 km: a diesel can save on fuel but may cost more in cleaning/DPF work if urban use is frequent.

What will happen in the coming months

The diesel’s advantage on long journeys will remain in 2026 for many drivers, but improved fast-charging infrastructure and incentives for plug-in hybrids and electric cars are starting to close the gap. If your plan is to keep the car for 5–7 years and you cover many kilometres on the motorway, the diesel remains a valid option; if you will change within a shorter period or live in an area with restrictions, consider a plug-in hybrid or an electric car with good range.

Final recommendation, driver to driver

If your life is on the road: buy a modern, well-documented Euro 6d diesel. If you alternate between city and road driving or expect to sell soon, explore plug-in hybrids or electric cars with sufficient real-world range. And when in doubt, calculate the total cost per 100 km — energy + tolls + maintenance — before deciding.