Diesel cars are a popular choice among the populace. However, as a result of shifting government regulations, many new automobile purchasers have reconsidered purchasing a diesel vehicle. So, let’s get into the details and see if buying a new diesel car in India is still worthwhile in 2025!
Diesel cars are largely chosen to save gasoline expenditures in the long term. Basically, if you drive your car for more than 18,000-20,000 km in a year, you can greatly minimize the fuel expenses on diesel automobiles compared to the prices faced by petrol car owners. Moreover, the diesel cars give stronger lower end torque to deliver you a punchy performance. Despite their benefits, the future of diesel engines in India is questionable due to shifting standards.
Recently, Nitin Gadkari, Minister MoRTH, encouraged carmakers to start preparing for the forthcoming BS7 requirements. Till now, it is still unknown as to when the new BS7 regulations will roll out. But, this statement has tensed the new automobile customers who seek a new diesel car. India is now in phase two of the BS6 regulations. The transition from BS4 to BS6 was significant, as automakers had to cut emissions in half.
To be more specific, whereas petrol automobiles used to emit far less pollution than diesel cars, both ICE engines currently emit comparable amounts of pollution in India. So, given the government’s determination to ban BS4 tag automobiles, it is highly doubtful that BS6 cars will be banned anytime soon in India. However, while purchasing a new diesel automobile may be a green light, purchasing a used old diesel car will remain a red light because it may be prohibited at any time!
But is a diesel automobile really what you need? Automakers are currently promoting petrol automobiles with better gearbox options and features than diesels. For example, MG sells its Hector Sharp Pro diesel with a manual gearbox for Rs 27.51 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), while it offers the same variant in petrol with more features and a CVT gearbox for a lower price. It also does not offer an automatic gearbox on its diesel models. Moreover, diesel cars make more sense when you have more running compared to those having a limited run. Phase 2 of the BS 6 emission requirements has made the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) issue more widespread, increasing the cost of running and servicing a diesel engine.
