Question of the week: What will Euro 7 mean for diesel car owners?
Fri, 15 May 2026
Dear Honest John,
"Will the upcoming 2027 Euro 7 emission regulations have an adverse effect on drivers of diesel cars and what are they likely to be?
- SR
Dear SR,
If you already own and drive a diesel car, the introduction of Euro 7 emissions standards will have almost no effect on you.
The Euro 7 standard, just as with the previous iterations, tightens the emissions limits for new vehicles only and so does not affect those already on the road.
Where the impact is likely to be felt is on those who plan to buy a diesel car once Euro 7 comes into effect.
While there is already a trend towards hybrid petrols and EVs from manufacturers, the number of diesel options available from manufacturers is likely to continue to diminish as the challenge of meeting the stricter regulations becomes more difficult and expensive. This could also result in the diesel cars that are available to buy becoming more expensive.
One potential effect on current diesel owners is a change in the regulations regarding the London ULEZ and Clean Air Zones.
While there have been no plans announced for a change in the current emissions limits, it is possible that in the future diesel cars that do not meet the Euro 7 standard will be required to pay, which would mean that Euro 6 diesels that were previously able to enter zones free of charge will have to pay.
