How much more does diesel cost today?
On 25 Oct, the average UK price at forecourts that publish live prices is:
| Fuel | Average price |
|---|---|
| Unleaded petrol (E10) | 173.6p |
| Diesel | 199.6p |
| Difference | 26.0p a litre |
On a 50-litre fill-up, that's about £12.98 more for diesel.
It isn't the tax
Petrol and diesel are taxed the same way at the pump:
- Fuel duty: the same rate for both, currently 52.95p a litre. This includes a temporary 5p cut that the government has extended to the end of 2026; check GOV.UK for any changes announced in the Budget.
- VAT: 20% on the total price, including the duty.
Because the duty is a fixed amount per litre, the gap between the two fuels comes almost entirely from the wholesale cost of the fuel itself – what retailers pay before tax.
Why diesel costs more wholesale
Global demand. Diesel powers most lorries, ships, trains, construction and farm machinery, and the closely related gas oil is used for heating and power. That makes demand for diesel higher and steadier worldwide than demand for petrol.
The UK imports much of its diesel. UK refineries produce relatively more petrol than diesel, so the country relies on imports to meet diesel demand, which adds shipping costs and leaves prices more exposed to international markets.
Tighter supply since 2022. Russia was a major exporter of diesel to Europe. Sanctions after the invasion of Ukraine cut that supply, and Europe has had to buy diesel from further away.
Refining costs. Diesel has to meet strict low-sulphur standards, and refinery margins for diesel have often been higher than for petrol.
Does diesel still make sense?
Diesel cars usually go further on each litre, which can offset the higher price for drivers who cover high motorway mileages. For mostly short, urban trips, a petrol, hybrid or electric car often works out cheaper overall, and some Clean Air Zones charge older diesel vehicles.
How do I find the cheapest diesel near me?
Search your postcode or town on Motor Snappy to see live diesel prices at nearby forecourts, with the cheapest highlighted, plus how your county compares on the England fuel league table.