Economy
Diesel vs Petrol Vans — Which Is Right for Your Business?
Diesel vans offer better fuel economy and towing capacity, while petrol vans suit urban routes with lower purchase and maintenance costs.
The diesel vs petrol decision for a commercial van depends on your typical use. Diesel advantages — 20-30% better fuel economy, higher torque for towing and carrying heavy loads, and better long-distance cruising range. Petrol advantages — lower purchase price (typically £1,000-2,000 less), lower maintenance costs (no DPF, no AdBlue, simpler emissions system), smoother and quieter operation, and better suited to short urban journeys where the DPF on a diesel would struggle. For high-mileage motorway drivers, diesel is still the more economical choice. For urban delivery work with shorter journeys, petrol works out cheaper overall when purchase price, fuel, and maintenance are all considered.
Key takeaways
- Diesel vans offer better fuel economy and torque for towing and heavy loads
- Petrol vans cost less to buy and maintain, and suit short urban journeys better
- High-mileage motorway drivers still benefit from diesel; urban drivers should consider petrol
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