Should You Buy a Diesel Car in 2024? Pros, Cons, and Alternatives Explained

The Future of Diesel: Is it Still a Viable Option for Indian Car Buyers?

In the wake of Dieselgate and evolving emissions standards, the diesel market in India is facing monumental shifts. However, despite global trends and stringent regulations, diesel remains a key powertrain choice in India, especially in the SUV segment, with some brands reaping significant benefits by sticking with it.

A Look Back: Diesel's Peak in India

In the early 2010s, diesel enjoyed immense popularity among Indian car buyers, especially when the price gap between diesel and petrol spurred consumer preference. The diesel engine's punchy mid-range torque, combined with its fuel efficiency, won over millions. At its peak in 2012, diesel accounted for over 50% of the Indian market. However, this trend began to change when BS6 emission norms were introduced in 2020, prompting some automakers to abandon diesel offerings.

The Diesel Exodus

Several automakers, including Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, and Volkswagen, pulled back from diesel. Some did so due to technical challenges in meeting stricter emission norms, while others saw it as a strategic exit. However, this exit coincided with rising demand for SUVs - a segment where diesel engines’ torque and fuel efficiency have traditionally been preferred.

Why Diesel Still Matters for SUVs

Diesel engines offer a specific driving feel for SUV enthusiasts, with low-end torque ideal for larger vehicles. The torque and fuel efficiency provided by diesel engines make them particularly suited for long-distance drives, allowing for extended range between refueling.

Regulations and Challenges: India’s Diesel Dilemma

While diesel engines have become significantly cleaner with BS6.2 emission standards, misconceptions persist about their impact on air quality. India’s regulatory environment, particularly in the NCR region, has imposed restrictions that don’t always align with the latest advancements in diesel technology. This includes a 10-year cap on diesel vehicles, despite BS6 diesel engines proving to be much cleaner than their predecessors.

Diesel vs. Petrol vs. Hybrid: What’s the Best Choice?

For city drivers or those with low-mileage needs, hybrid or petrol engines may be better choices, given the complications diesel engines face in urban, low-speed environments. Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) in newer diesel engines require periodic high-speed runs to prevent clogging, which regular city traffic doesn’t support well. However, for highway driving, diesel engines continue to shine with excellent fuel efficiency and range, making them the best choice for frequent long-distance travelers.

Looking Ahead: Will Diesel Survive in India?

Manufacturers like Mahindra and Tata, which have kept faith in diesel, are likely to continue offering diesel options as long as regulations allow. While European automakers are pivoting toward electric and hybrid powertrains, Indian automakers appear poised to be among diesel’s last men standing. With India’s infrastructure still evolving, the inherent advantages of diesel for heavy-duty and long-distance applications mean it could maintain a market presence for years to come.

Conclusion: Should Your Next Car Be Diesel?

The answer depends on your driving needs. For urban dwellers with low daily mileage, hybrid and electric options may be more practical. But if you’re a fan of SUVs, drive long distances, or simply prefer the feel of diesel’s torque on highways, diesel might still be your best bet. And if you do opt for diesel, remember to take it for regular long drives to keep the engine in optimal condition.

So, while diesel may be under scrutiny globally, it still has a role in India’s automotive landscape, especially for those who value range, fuel efficiency, and the robust feel that diesel engines bring.