The Resilient Diesel: Why Used Diesel Cars Are Still in Demand Across Europe
The European used car market is experiencing a surprising trend in 2024. While the share of diesel models continues to decline, the pace of this decline has slowed significantly. According to data from NGC-Data, the market saw a 2.93% upswing, yet diesel car transactions fell by just 3.83%.This mirrors the new car market, where diesel is losing ground—not due to lack of demand, but because of dwindling supply.
Diesel’s Dominance in Key Markets
Despite the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), diesel remains a powerhouse in Europe’s largest car markets. In france, 2,575,077 diesel cars were sold in 2024, accounting for 47.7% of used car sales. germany, though, takes the lead with diesel making up 53% of its used car market. These figures highlight the enduring appeal of diesel in regions where it has long been a preferred choice.
Why Diesel Still Matters
Analysts point to two key factors driving this continued interest in used diesel cars. First, there’s a noticeable lack of enthusiasm for new EVs, which are often seen as expensive or impractical for certain drivers. Second, the supply of new diesel cars has been drastically reduced—or even eliminated—by some brands. This scarcity has a ripple effect, limiting the availability of second-hand diesel models and pushing up their prices.Rising Prices for Popular Models
The reduced supply has led to a surge in prices for certain diesel models. Notable examples include the Citroën Berlingo, C4 Picasso, VW Tiguan, BMW 5 Series, Audi A3, and Mercedes C-Class.These vehicles, once widely available, are now becoming prized commodities in the used car market.
A Look at the Numbers
To better understand the diesel market’s dynamics, here’s a breakdown of key statistics:
| Metric | France | Germany |
|—————————|——————|——————|
| Diesel Cars Sold (2024) | 2,575,077 | N/A |
| Share of Used Car Sales | 47.7% | 53% |
| Market Growth (2024) | +2.93% | +2.93% |
The Future of Diesel
While diesel’s decline may have slowed,its future remains uncertain. The reduction in new diesel models and the growing push towards EVs suggest that diesel’s share of the market will continue to shrink. However, for now, it remains a vital part of Europe’s automotive landscape, particularly in the used car sector.
For those considering a diesel purchase, it’s worth noting that not all diesel cars are created equal. Newer models that comply with Euro6 emissions standards are less likely to face restrictions in low-emission zones, making them a smarter choice for urban drivers.
As the market evolves, one thing is clear: diesel’s story in Europe is far from over. Whether it’s the reliability, affordability, or sheer availability of used models, diesel continues to hold its ground in a rapidly changing automotive world.
Headline:
“The Unyielding Diesel: A Deep Dive with Expert Dr. Eva Simons on the Persisting Demand for Used Diesel Cars in Europe”
Introduction:
Join Senior Editor, Alex johnson from World Today News, as we delve into the intriguing resurgence of diesel cars in the European used market. Despite the shift towards electric vehicles, there’s a counter-trend that’s keeping diesel cars alive. To break down this unexpected phenomenon, Alex sits down with renowned automotive expert and economist, Dr. eva Simons, to explore the reasons behind the enduring diesel demand and its future prospects.
The Resurgent Trend: A Slowdown in Diesel’s Decline
Alex Johnson (AJ): According to data from NGC-Data, the used car market decline of diesel sales has slowed considerably. Can you help us understand why this is happening, Dr. Simons?
Dr.Eva Simons (ES): Certainly, Alex. the slowdown can be attributed to two main factors. First, there’s a lack of enthusiasm for new electric vehicles among certain drivers due to perceived high costs or practical limitations. And secondly, the reduced supply of new diesel cars has affected the availability of second-hand models, driving up their prices and making them more desirable.
Diesel’s Dominance in Key Markets
AJ: Despite the shift towards EVs, diesel cars still reign supreme in some of Europe’s largest markets. Can you share some insights into the regional preference for diesel?
ES: Indeed, Alex. In France, diesel cars accounted for nearly 48% of used car sales in 2024, and in Germany, the figure reaches over 53%.The enduring appeal of diesel lies in its past dominance,low operating costs for high-mileage drivers,and the practical range it offers,which still outperforms many EVs.
Factors Driving Diesel’s Continued Popularity
AJ: You mentioned earlier that there are two key factors driving the continued interest in used diesel cars. Can you expand on those, and perhaps discuss some popular diesel models that commanding higher prices today?
ES: Sure. The first factor is the hesitancy among certain drivers to embrace EVs due to affordability and practicality concerns. The second factor is the scarcity of new diesel models, which has pushed up the prices of popular second-hand models like the Citroën Berlingo, VW Tiguan, BMW 5 Series, Audi A3, and Mercedes C-Class. These vehicles, which were once readily available, are now becoming hot commodities in the used car market.
A beiinek into Diesel Market Dynamics
AJ: Let’s look at some key statistics to illustrate the diesel market’s dynamics. Can you walk us through these figures and share your thoughts on the future of diesel cars?
ES: Of course, Alex. In France, over 2.5 million diesel cars were sold in 2024, accounting for nearly 48% of used car sales. In Germany, diesel held a commanding 53% share of the used car market. Based on these numbers and other market trends, I believe diesel’s share will continue to shrink but it will remain a vital part of Europe’s automotive landscape for years to come, notably in the used car sector.
The Future of Diesel
AJ: While diesel’s decline may have slowed, it’s clear that the shift towards EVs will continue. How do you see diesel evolving in this changing landscape,Dr. Simons?
ES: The future of diesel is uncertain, Alex, but not entirely bleak. As newer models that comply with Euro6 emissions standards become more prevalent in the used market,we may see urban drivers favoring these lower-emission diesel options. Ultimately, diesel’s story in Europe is far from over, particularly in the used car sector.
