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Should we buy a petrol even though it produces more CO2 than a diesel?

We're going to sell both our small hatchbacks and instead buy one car. We don't want to buy an electric or hybrid car. Do we buy a petrol car, which produces CO2 - adding to the climate problem, or a diesel? Regards.

Asked on 8 March 2021 by stephen callard

Answered by Andrew Brady
Petrol cars are generally considered cleaner than diesels. While a diesel might emit slightly less CO2, it'll produce more harmful particulates which can have a negative effect on local air quality. Car manufacturers are required to fit diesel particulate filters to reduce this, but these can become blocked leading to reliability issues. Unless you cover a lot of motorway miles, we'd recommend a petrol model.

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