Should I get a petrol or diesel engine for driving long distances?

What is the best petrol engine concerning resale value and longevity? I'm looking to get something used, about the size of the Skoda Yeti. I'll be driving long distances and a diesel seems the best option but I am concerned a diesel will have dropped in value to a greater extent when I want to sell it in three years time. I feel that the small turbo boost engines will not last long and will have lots of wear and tear by 100,000 miles.

Asked on 11 May 2017 by Louise Nielsen

Answered by Honest John

Every diesel has a turbo and these days far more petrol engines are turbocharged than not turbocharged. The problem with diesels is all the emissions equipment they have to carry, which is high maintenance and limited life. And to work out the real fuel costs you have to add the cost of AdBlue. The best 1.0 petrol turbo is Suzuki's in the Baleno and Swift. Best 1.2 is Peugeot/Citroen's 1.2 Puretech 130. Best 1.4 is VAG's 1.4 TSI 150, soon to be replaced by 1.5 TSI 130 and 150. Best petrols for fuel economy are (non turbo) Toyota hybrids.

Tags: adblue fuel economy dpf life buying a used car buying and selling high mileage diesel cars resale value turbo engines consumer advice petrol cars diesel car maintenance petrol or hybrid diesel backlash

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

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Related models

Skoda Yeti (2009 - 2017)

Unique styling. Solid build. Excellent petrol engines including frugal yet peppy 1.2 TSI. Good space in the back. Frugal 1.6 TDI Greenline can return 60mpg+.

Suzuki Baleno (2016 - 2019)

Punchy and efficient petrol engines especially the 1.0-litre Boosterjet, excellent value for money – even the top trim is well priced, more spacious and practical than the Suzuki Swift.