Are diesel or petrol cars better for the environment?

Diesel cars were initially welcomed for reducing carbon emissions. But they were found to produce higher levels of particulates – tiny bits of soot that enter the lungs and lead to asthma attacks. 

Some 10,000 Londoners a year are dying because of air pollution, and diesel cars are thought to be a big part of the problem. Because of that, parts of London are already banning diesel cars, and other cities look likely to follow suit. 

Will having a diesel or petrol car affect my car insurance? 

That’s not so clear cut. The cost of your premium depends on a number of factors, not just what type of car you have. When they’re totting up your bill, insurance providers will take into account: 

• your age
• where you live
• how long you’ve been driving
• how many miles you drive each year
• whether you’ve got any driving convictions
• whether you have a no-claims bonus (and if so, how many years’ worth)

When it comes to assessing your car, there’s also other factors that impact your car insurance, such as its age, value, security, and any modifications. Your insurance provider will also consider the cost of repair and replacement parts. Many newer diesel cars have fancy filters and emission-busting systems, which can make them costlier to repair than their petrol counterparts. This could lead to higher insurance premiums.