15 Best Used Diesel Cars in the UK

Diesel cars have faced criticism lately, but they’re still a smart choice for drivers who do a lot of miles. Despite their older versions being more polluting, modern diesel engines are just as clean as petrol ones. Plus, they offer lower fuel consumption, which makes them a popular choice for motorway driving and among company car drivers. Even with the negative talk, the best diesel cars are still in demand.

If you have a soft spot for these vehicles, too, we’ve listed some of the best used diesel cars. And to make your purchase stress-free, Carplus offers expert assistance and great terms to help you secure the deal.

1. BMW 3 Series (320d)

TheBMW 3 Seriesis a top pick for the best used diesel car. The 181hp 320d offers more power than other diesels (316d and 318d) while still being fuel-efficient.

Aside from the rear-wheel diesel car, the 3 Series has a smart all-wheel-drive system that efficiently distributes torque between the front and rear wheels.

The most economical option is the 320d in EfficientDynamics form, with an official economy figure of 72.4mpg. The normal 320 used diesel cars achieve 60.1mpg. In terms of emissions, the model emits 124g/km (102g/km in ED form).

2. Audi A4 (2.0 TDI)

For those considering a used diesel car, theAudi A4, with its 2.0 TDI diesel engine, is worth a look. It offers good performance and fuel efficiency. The variant averages 50mpg in NEDC tests and is cost-effective to run, with tax costs under £30. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the 2.0-litre Ultra for its eco-friendly emissions — less than 100g/km of CO2.

The A4, like many diesel cars, excels on the motorway and provides a comfortable ride with low levels of road and wind noise. Certain A4s have firm suspension, but optional adaptive dampers can help.

3. Volkswagen Golf (2.0 TDI)

TheVolkswagen Golf, especially the 2.0 TDI, is highly regarded as one of the best diesel cars. It offers strong performance, even in the entry-level model, and provides relaxed driving even at low revs.

The Golf’s diesel cars include the 113hp 2.0 TDI 115, 148hp 2.0 TDI 150, and the sporty 2.0 TDI 200 GTD. The GTD variant offers brisk acceleration, although not as quick as a hot hatch. The 115 achieves over 65mpg in real-world testing.

Thanks to VW’s build quality, it remains a solid choice for daily transportation for many years.

4. Ford Focus (1.5 TDCi)

TheFord Focuswith a 1.5 TDCi engine is very efficient — it easily achieves over 50mpg even in city traffic. It can also handle long journeys with a range of around 60 miles on just a light.

The Focus admittedly lacks some of the revvy nature of its petrol counterpart. But the diesel engine shows its talent in motorway overtaking. Its 120hp and 300nm of torque from low revs offer a smooth and relatively quiet ride reminiscent of a petrol engine. The model is perfect at agile handling, so owners of these used diesel cars will feel confident at the wheel.

5. Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C220d)

TheMercedes-Benz C-Class C220dis one of the best used diesel cars, and here’s why. It has a powerful 2.0-litre engine that delivers 200hp, which makes it quick off the mark with a 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds. It has slightly less power than the petrol. Still, you can expect it to feel punchier thanks to its low-end torque, which is handy for overtaking on the motorway. Plus, it’s as quick as the BMW 320d.

In terms of smoothness, these diesel cars are comparable to others in the market. When it comes to fuel economy, the C220d beats both the A4 and 3 Series equivalents, and its road tax is reasonable for small cars at £190.

6. Vauxhall Insignia (2.0 CDTi)

TheVauxhall Insignia (2.0 CDTi)offers a solid build, refined driving, and reasonable running costs. This diesel car is powered by a 167hp 2.0 CDTi engine, which delivers notable acceleration and flexibility. Although it can be noisy on startup, it runs smoothly afterwards.

The fastest option, the 192hp 2.0 CDTi Bi-Turbo, was discontinued in 2015. But in recent years, the 2.0 CDTi model with ecoFLEX technology has been good value for money. It achieves 114g/km and a fuel economy of 65.7mpg.

One of the best features in this used diesel car is the high-quality cabin.

7. Volvo S60 (D4)

TheVolvo S60 (D4)is a top choice for used diesel cars if you’re looking for a reliable long-distance cruiser. The twin-turbo D4 engine packs a punch with 181hp and 400nm of torque. While the D2 and D3 models are on sale for cheaper, their performance doesn’t quite match up to the D4’s.

The D4 engine offers ample power for everyday driving. The top speed is 143mph, and the 0-60 time is 7.1 seconds, whether you opt for the 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, if you need your diesel cars to tow, the D4 AWD model can handle weights of up to 1,900kgs.

8. Jaguar XE (2.0D)

The Jaguar XEnails all the expected brand qualities for the best used diesel car: it’s fun to drive, looks great, rides comfortably, and is fairly efficient.

The three latest diesel engines are a 161hp version, a punchy 178hp variant, and a robust 237hp option with four-wheel drive. The automatic gearbox is better for a relaxed driving experience.

Fuel efficiency for this diesel car varies — from 55.4mpg (161hp) to 47.9mpg (237hp with four-wheel drive). Emissions range from 106g/km to 137g/km. Service intervals are set at two years or 21,000 miles, which is good for diesel cars.

9. Peugeot 308 (1.6 BlueHDi)

ThePeugeot 308in the diesel version has its emphasis on fuel economy for a long journey. Plus, its competitive starting price and decent features outshine its rivals — a serious contender in the used diesel car category.

Peugeot offers the BlueHDi engine in Active and Allure trims. Both have minimal road noise and high-quality interiors comparable to the Audi A3’s diesel car.

The engine, especially when it’s in the Active trim, is reported to get around 91.1mpg on average, according to NEDC tests. Even in Allure trim, it still manages 88.3mpg. With emissions as low as 88g/km, it’s a prime choice for company cars.

10. Land Rover Discovery Sport (2.0 TD4)

TheLand Rover Discovery Sport (2.0 TD4)is a perfect diesel car for families, which offers plenty of room for five passengers and ample boot space.

The preferred choice among diesel options is the 178hp TD4, as it strikes a good balance between power and fuel consumption. The four-wheel-drive TD4 achieves 43.5mpg, while the 178hp version returns around 42.8mpg. The top-tier 237hp SD4 engine is faster but less efficient, with a fuel economy of 39.2mpg.

The HSE trim gets the model closer to the best used diesel cars, with added features like leather upholstery, panoramic roof, and premium sound system.

11. Škoda Octavia (2.0 TDI)

TheŠkoda Octavia (2.0 TDI)doesn’t have the most polished ride quality. But its spacious interior and affordable price on the used car market make it a fantastic choice among the best diesel cars. The Elegance model, in particular, is the top pick.

The 148hp version reaches 0-60 in 8.6 seconds with strong low-end pulling power. The cheaper TDI 116 variant, with still enough low-end torque, suits most drivers just fine.

What sets the 2.0 TDI apart from other diesel cars is the smooth ride. The engine is highly flexible and quieter compared to the 1.6 TDI.

12. Toyota RAV4 (2.2 D-4D)

TheToyota RAV4 (2.2 D-4D)comes with a 148bhp 2.2-litre diesel, which offers decent power and torque. The model returns up to 50.4 and emits 149g/km of CO2. It’s a bit thirstier than the 2.0 diesel car but equipped with four-wheel drive for added capability.

The RAV4 accelerates from 0-60 in 9.3 seconds with 400nm of torque. It can reach a top speed of 124mph and excels off-road. The ride might feel firm in city driving compared to other used diesel cars, but it softens up at higher speeds.

The back seats offer ample legroom, slightly at the expense of boot space. Also, the car is known for being dependable and shouldn’t break the bank to service.

13. Renault Megane (1.5 dCi)

TheRenault Megane (1.5 dCi)is competent with the best used diesel cars across the board. It has comfort, good driving dynamics, sleek design, and solid performance while having low running costs.

With 110ps and 260nm of torque, the 1.5-litre dCi engine is the most efficient in the range. CO2 emissions are at 96g/km, and combined fuel consumption is at 76.4mpg. It doesn’t deliver a thrilling acceleration like some other diesel cars. But it responds smoothly from 1,800rpm and is exceptionally fuel-efficient.

The six-speed gearbox ensures smooth shifts, while the suspension setup offers responsive steering.

14. Hyundai Tucson (1.7 CRDi)

TheHyundai Tucson (1.7 CRDi)offers a good balance of power and frugality — around 46mpg in fast-moving traffic with an official NEDC economy figure of 61.7mpg. That’s comparable with the best diesel cars.

Bear in mind that this diesel car sounds a bit noisy when cold or at low speeds. However, it performs well on motorways. The 134bhp versions offers adequate performance and emissions. Although, the 113bhp 1.7 diesel is the most efficient and emits 119g/km of CO2.

The Tucson’s smart looks, well-equipped interior, and strong resale values against the original cost contribute to its popularity among used diesel cars.

15. Mazda6 (2.2 SKYACTIV-D)

TheMazda6 (2.2 SKYACTIV-D)is a strong contender in the used diesel car market, especially in the company car sector.

The Skyactiv technology was introduced in 2011, which effectively increased fuel efficiency while maintaining driving pleasure. The 2.2-litre Skyactiv-D engines, with 150ps, emit 117g/km of CO2, which makes it a fleet-friendly option. Official figures for these diesel cars suggest an average of 65mpg, but real-world expectations are closer to 52mpg.

This engine is refined with minimal noise and provides strong performance. And it’s easy to drive long distances.

Conclusion

Many people have a soft spot for diesel cars, and since you’re here, chances are you do too.

Have you found something you like among these used diesel cars? With how convenient, economical, and versatile these vehicles are, it’s very likely you have. But if you’re seeking even more choice, don’t worry — there are plenty of other examples in the car market beside our list of the best used diesel cars.

No matter which selection you end up choosing from, remember to bring it back to Carplus for the best deal!