Is diesel making a comeback? It may seem unlikely, but nearly a decade after the “dieselgate” scandal severely damaged the fuel’s reputation, used car buyers are beginning to reconsider diesel-powered vehicles.
The combination of fuel efficiency and relaxed long-distance cruising still holds strong appeal, especially among Telegraph readers.
According to data from used car valuation specialists Cap HPI, the value of nearly-new diesel cars experienced a slight uptick during the first month of 2025 defying the wider market trend and outperforming every other fuel type.
While used petrol, hybrid, and electric vehicles all saw a decline in value in January compared to the previous month, diesel cars recorded a 0.2 per cent increase. Though minor, this rise is notable given the overall trajectory of the market.
Furthermore, this follows a sustained period of diesel cars holding their value better than other fuel types throughout 2024.
As fewer new diesel cars enter the market, their availability in the used car sector is shrinking more rapidly than demand, leading to this upward pressure on prices.
Perhaps most strikingly, six out of the ten used cars that appreciated the most in value in January 2025 were diesel models. Here are the most in-demand vehicles:
1. BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer (2015-2021)
BMW introduced its first MPV at a time when the popularity of traditional people carriers was waning in favor of seven-seat SUVs. However, that doesn’t diminish the Gran Tourer’s appeal.
While it may not match the practicality of larger MPVs like the Ford Galaxy, it compensates with a more engaging driving experience and the premium interior quality expected from a BMW. In diesel form, the model is both powerful and fuel-efficient.
- Prices from: £6,500
- We found: 2017 218d SE, 65,000 miles, full service history, £9,995
- Watch out for: Diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockages, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler leaks, and timing chain rattles on high-mileage cars with inconsistent service histories.
2. Kia Ceed (2018-2022)
The latest Kia Ceed may not be flashy, but its understated reliability is precisely what makes it appealing.
Designed to seamlessly integrate into daily life, it handles family hatchback duties efficiently while keeping things straightforward especially for buyers who can still benefit from the remainder of Kia’s seven-year warranty.
Diesel versions are rare but worth finding, as the mild hybrid model can achieve close to 60mpg on average. Inside, the Ceed features a practical, no-nonsense design with logically arranged controls and ample space in both the rear seats and boot.
- Prices from: £5,500
- We found: 2019 Ceed 1.6 CRDi 2 Sportswagon, 51,000 miles, full service history, £8,900
- Watch out for: Ensuring a full service history to maintain the seven-year warranty.
3. Peugeot 308 (2013-2021)
For those considering a Peugeot 308, opting for a diesel model is a wise choice provided their driving habits align with it. The alternative petrol option, the 1.2-litre PureTech, features a “wet” timing belt that runs in the engine oil, a design known to cause reliability issues.
This makes the diesel version the more dependable of the two. Early models were equipped with a 1.6-litre engine, while later versions introduced a more efficient 1.5-litre unit.
The latter, in its most economical form, is capable of exceeding 60mpg on long journeys. Comfort is another strength of the 308, along with its well-crafted interior.
However, the hatchback variant has relatively tight rear seating, making the estate version a more practical overall choice.
- Prices from: £3,000
- We found: 2015 308 1.6 BlueHDI Allure, 93,000 miles, full service history, £4,800
- Watch out for: Clunking rear axles, creaking rear suspension, rattling front suspension, leaking air-conditioning systems, and sticky brake light switches.
4. BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (2014-2022)
The second BMW on this list shares a close connection with the first, as its name suggests. Essentially, the Gran Tourer is a stretched, seven-seat variant of the Active Tourer, which features five seats and a slightly sleeker design.
Despite its smaller footprint, the Active Tourer remains highly practical, with a rear bench that can slide and fold in multiple configurations, offering impressive versatility for families.
Being lighter than the Gran Tourer, it delivers a more agile driving experience, and its reduced weight also contributes to improved fuel efficiency.
For those who don’t require the additional two seats, the Active Tourer presents a compelling alternative.
- Prices from: £4,500
- We found: 2014 218d Sport, 72,000 miles, full service history, £6,795
- Watch out for: Diesel particulate filters clogging, EGR cooler leaks, and rattling timing chains in high-mileage cars with inconsistent service histories.
5. Renault Megane (2016-2021)
While the latest Renault Megane has gone fully electric, it’s the fourth-generation model that continues to attract used car buyers. With its sharp styling, it presents a striking alternative in the market.
Although Meganes don’t match the build quality of the equivalent Volkswagen Golf, they provide a comfortable ride and a decent driving experience. A key selling point is their strong value proposition offering a wealth of equipment at a competitive price.
Additionally, the most efficient 1.5-litre diesel engines are capable of returning close to 65mpg, adding to their appeal.
- Prices from: £5,000
- We found: 2016 Megane 1.5 dCi Dynamique S Nav, 79,000 miles, full service history, £6,633
- Watch out for: Clogged particulate filters, electrical issues, and delicate interior trim.
6. Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport (2017-2020)
The Insignia isn’t a car that often finds itself in high demand but at the moment, used buyers can’t seem to get enough of them.
And for good reason. With its sleek, low-slung profile, the Insignia delivers better fuel efficiency than a comparable SUV, and when viewed beyond its somewhat plain image, it’s actually quite an attractive vehicle.
Entry-level models provide an impressive amount of space for the price, while higher trims offer comfort and generous equipment levels.
Diesel versions stand out for their smooth performance and efficiency, with 1.6-litre models capable of exceeding 50mpg. Meanwhile, the 167bhp 2.0-litre variant is worth considering for those seeking stronger mid-range acceleration.
- Prices from: £4,500
- We found: 2017 Insignia 1.6 Turbo D SRi Nav Grand Sport, 45,000 miles, full service history, £8,650
- Watch out for: Timing chain rattles, stiff or noisy gearboxes, and worn interiors that may indicate ex-fleet usage.