New Diesel Cars That Use the Least Fuel

Fuel prices are rising and are expected to remain high over the coming weeks, with diesel set to see the largest increase.

Diesel remains Portugal’s most widely used fuel, yet the range of new models fitted with diesel engines has continued to shrink year after year. This has been the case since the Dieselgate scandal in 2015.

New diesel cars available in Portugal

New city cars and superminis are no longer available with this type of engine. The choice now begins with compact family cars.

The table below brings together the new diesel models on sale in the Portuguese market with the lowest official fuel-consumption figures, based on the combined WLTP cycle. Get to know them:

As you may have noticed, the selection of new models with diesel engines is now, for all practical purposes, a German stronghold. The cheapest or least powerful model is not always the one that uses the least fuel.

Diesel models with the lowest consumption

There are no diesel SUVs among the models with the lowest diesel consumption either: the list includes only four- and five-door saloons and estates. Their lower aerodynamic drag and lighter weight compared with equivalent SUVs account for their lower consumption figures.

If a diesel-engined car suits your needs but the prices of new vehicles are beyond your budget, the used-car market is the alternative. Explore the available selection:

Returning to new diesel models, BMW, the Volkswagen Group and Mercedes-Benz dominate this table, although Stellantis is also represented - through a German brand, Opel. As well as the Astra, the Peugeot 308 is available with the same engine and very similar fuel-consumption figures.

Stellantis has recently announced that it will strengthen its commitment to diesel, extending its range to further models from its brands because demand remains in the market. Find out more details: