Diesel, petrol or electric: which to choose in 2026?

The choice of powertrain has become one of the most complex questions for car buyers, whether new or used. Between increasing restrictions on diesel, the rise of electric and the proven reliability of petrol, how do you navigate?

Diesel: in decline but not dead

Diesel remains relevant for heavy drivers. If you cover more than 25,000 kilometres per year, mainly on motorways, diesel retains a consumption advantage. Recent diesel vehicles (Euro 6d) are significantly cleaner than their predecessors.

On the other hand, low emission zones (LEZ) are multiplying in Belgium. Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent are progressively restricting access for the oldest diesel vehicles. If you live in an urban area, check the restrictions before buying.

On the used market, diesels depreciate faster than before, which can represent a good deal for savvy buyers.

Petrol: the versatile choice

Petrol remains the simplest and most versatile choice. Modern petrol engines are reliable, cheaper to maintain than diesels, and are not affected by the same restrictions in urban areas.

For mixed journeys (city and road) of less than 20,000 kilometres per year, petrol is often the most rational choice. Insurance costs are generally lower than for an equivalent diesel.

Electric: the future, but at what price?

The used electric market is developing rapidly. The first mass-production models are arriving on the secondary market with increasingly accessible prices. The range of recent models exceeds 300 kilometres, which covers the vast majority of daily needs.

The advantages are real: very low running costs (electricity vs fuel), reduced maintenance (fewer wear parts), and tax advantages for professionals in Belgium.

The disadvantages: the purchase price remains high, even second-hand, and the charging network, although expanding, is not yet as dense as a petrol station network.

Hybrid: the compromise

Hybrid offers an interesting compromise: the ability to drive electric in the city and thermal on the motorway. Plug-in hybrids offer an electric range of 40 to 80 kilometres, sufficient for most daily journeys.

However, be careful with used plug-in hybrids: check the battery condition and actual range, which may have decreased over time.

Our advice

There is no universal answer. The best choice depends on your annual mileage, your place of residence (LEZ zone or not), your budget, and your driving habits. Take the time to calculate the total cost of ownership over 3 years (purchase + fuel/electricity + insurance + maintenance) before deciding.