Why diesel is declining in Europe
For decades, diesel was the pragmatic choice for European motorists: efficient, durable and cheap to run on long journeys. That has changed dramatically. This guide explains the decline and where diesel still matters.
From default to decline
Diesel once accounted for around half of all new cars in many European markets. Its share has since fallen steeply, pushed down by the 2015 emissions scandal, tighter air-quality rules in cities, and the rise of hybrids and electric cars.
Our diesel share by country page shows how much of each country’s new cars still run on diesel.
Where diesel still holds on
Diesel remains more common in countries where cars are kept longer, where average journeys are longer, and where the second-hand market dominates. In several southern and eastern European countries, diesel still makes up a large share of the fleet, even as new sales fall.
See the data
Frequently asked questions
- Is diesel being banned in Europe?
- There is no single EU-wide ban, but many cities restrict older diesel cars through low-emission zones, and new-car CO2 rules are pushing manufacturers towards electric models.
- Which country buys the most diesel cars?
- Diesel shares are highest in parts of southern and eastern Europe. See the live diesel ranking for the current leader.