Dealers face an increasing lack of diesel car options, as brands continue to drop these models from their new car lineups.
According to new research from CarGurus 57 new diesel models remain available from the country’s 30 most popular car manufacturers1, down from 167 five years ago.
This 66% decline highlights how manufacturers are adapting their diesel lineups to align with evolving market trends and customer demand.
Since a peak in 2015, when 202 models were available, new diesel model availability has dropped significantly, with year-over-year declines continuing into 2025.
Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) also shows diesel car registrations in 20252 continued to decline, shifting from a high of nearly 1.3 million in 2015 to just 123,104 almost a decade later in 2024 — figures that reinforce changing consumer preferences.
Mercedes-Benz leads the pack of automakers that were analysed, with 16 diesel models now available across its new model lineup.
The brand’s offerings grew by three models year-over-year, largely due to a growing number of diesel plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) in its range.
Citroën has also introduced refreshed diesel engines, signaling its ongoing investment in cleaner diesel technology.
Chris Knapman, CarGurus UK editorial director, said: “Our latest research once again highlights the rapid decline in the choice of new diesel cars available to U.K. drivers.
“However, while diesel is clearly no longer the default choice it once was, there remains strong demand in specific segments, particularly among high-mileage drivers and those needing towing capability or long-range efficiency.”
“For these buyers, the used car market continues to offer a broad range of diesel models, including many that meet ULEZ requirements. For new car buyers, while the choice of diesel models has narrowed significantly, brands like Mercedes are pairing diesel with plug-in hybrid technology for added efficiency and ULEZ compliance.”
