Petrol vs Diesel Car: Which is Better in 2025

Difference Between Petrol and Diesel Cars

The following table highlights the key differences between a petrol and a diesel car.

Petrol and diesel cars each have their advantages depending on your driving needs and budget. Petrol cars are generally more affordable, quieter to run, and cheaper to maintain, making them ideal for city driving and occasional use. However, they offer lower fuel efficiency and a shorter engine life compared to diesel vehicles. 

Diesel vehicles, on the other hand, provide better mileage, stronger pulling power, and higher resale value, making them suitable for long-distance or heavy usage. They are more expensive upfront and have higher maintenance costs, but their long-term efficiency often justifies the investment.

Example: To better understand petrol vs diesel cars, take the Tata Nexon available in both variants as a practical example.

Price Difference:

The Tata Nexon Petrol (Smart O) is priced at ₹8.15 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), while the Diesel variant (Smart Plus) costs ₹9.99 lakh. Diesel cars demand a higher initial investment, which may vary across manufacturers and models.

Performance:

• Petrol (Smart O): 118 bhp @ 5500 rpm, 170 Nm @ 1750–4000 rpm
   
• Diesel (Smart Plus): 113 bhp @ 3750 rpm, 260 Nm @ 1500–2750 rpm

The petrol variant offers better initial acceleration due to higher power output. At the same time, the diesel model delivers stronger torque, making it ideal for pulling power and highway cruising, highlighting a key difference between diesel engine and petrol engine performance.

Fuel Economy:

• Petrol: 17.44 kmpl (ARAI)
   
• Diesel: 23.23 kmpl (ARAI)

The petrol engine offers quicker acceleration, while the diesel engine provides stronger torque for better pulling power. In the diesel vs petrol engine debate, it’s performance vs efficiency.

Pros and Cons of Petrol Cars

Petrol cars are easy to drive and cost less initially, but they also have some downsides. Let’s look at their pros and cons:

Pros and Cons of Diesel Cars

Diesel cars give better mileage and are suitable for long drives but can cost more to buy and maintain. Let’s look at their pros and cons:

Petrol and Diesel Fuel Price Comparison

Fuel price plays a significant role when deciding between petrol and diesel cars. Diesel is usually cheaper than petrol in most parts of India, which can lead to cost savings over time—especially for those who drive long distances. However, the price gap between the two fuels has narrowed recently. Here's a quick comparison of the current fuel prices in major cities:

Note: Prices are indicative and may vary daily based on local taxes and fuel rates.

Petrol vs Diesel Car Running Cost

When choosing between a petrol and diesel car, understanding the long-term running cost can help you make a smarter decision. Diesel cars generally offer better mileage and lower fuel costs per kilometre, but they come with higher purchase and maintenance costs. Petrol cars, on the other hand, are more affordable upfront and have lower maintenance expenses, but their mileage is slightly lower, and petrol is usually more expensive. 

Let’s break down the cost difference using an example:

Assumptions for Calculation

Annual Fuel Cost Calculation

Petrol Car:

• Fuel needed per year = 15,000 km ÷ 17.44 km/l = approx. 860 litres
   
• Annual fuel cost = 860 litres × ₹96.72 = ₹83,179.20

Diesel Car:

• Fuel needed per year = 15,000 km ÷ 23.23 km/l = approx. 646 litres
   
• Annual fuel cost = 646 litres × ₹89.62 = ₹57,906.52

5-Year Running Cost Comparison

Popular Petrol and Diesel Cars

Both petrol and diesel cars are still in high demand in 2025 despite the emergence of the EV segment, offering various choices for different driving needs. Whether you're looking for a city-friendly petrol hatchback or a diesel SUV for long trips, the market has something for everyone. In the ongoing petrol vs diesel car comparison, buyers focus more on fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and usage patterns before choosing.

Here's a look at some of the top petrol and diesel cars dominating Indian roads:

When Should You Choose a Petrol Car?

If you’re trying to decide between a petrol and diesel car, your driving habits and budget play a big role. Petrol cars are ideal for specific users, especially those who don’t clock too many kilometres each month. 

Here’s when going for a petrol car makes more sense:

• Low Daily Running: Petrol is more economical if your average driving is less than 50 km a day or under 1,500 km a month.
   
• Lower Initial Budget: Petrol cars are usually cheaper than diesel variants, making them great for budget-conscious buyers.
   
• Less Maintenance Hassle: Petrol engines generally require less upkeep and are more affordable to service.
   
• Smooth & Quiet Drive: Petrol engines are quieter and offer a smoother drive, ideal for city traffic.
   
• Short-Term Ownership: If you plan to sell the car within 5 years, the cost savings from diesel may not be worth it.
   
• Eco-Conscious in Cities: Petrol engines produce fewer particulates, making them slightly better for urban air quality.

When Should You Choose a Diesel Car?

A diesel car could be better if your driving needs involve long distances or heavy usage. While they may cost more upfront, diesel vehicles offer better fuel economy and torque, making them a smart pick for the right kind of driver. 

Here’s when choosing a diesel car makes sense:

• High Daily Running: If you drive more than 50–70 km daily or over 2,000 km a month, diesel’s mileage advantage pays off.
   
• Long-Term Ownership: Diesel cars are more cost-effective over time, especially if you plan to keep the car for 5–7 years or more.
   
• Better Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines consume less per kilometre, helping you save more in the long run.
   
• Stronger Pulling Power: Diesel engines deliver more torque, making them ideal for highway driving, hilly terrain, or heavy loads.
   
• Higher Resale Value: Diesel cars often retain value better, especially in areas where diesel is still in demand.
   
• Ideal for Commercial Use: Taxis, fleet owners, and frequent travellers prefer diesel cars because of their lower running costs and durability.

Frequently Asked Question

Explore More:

CNG car Vs Petrol Car

What Happens If You Put Diesel in a Petrol Car?

CNG vs petrol vs diesel: Which car is better for purchase?