Hello Mabs

I’m in the market for a new car and I’m torn between a petrol and a diesel engine. What are the pros and cons of each engine?

Mabs Answers

Great question, especially if you are car shopping in South Africa where fuel prices and running costs matter. Petrol cars are usually cheaper to buy and smoother to drive in city traffic. They are perfect if you mostly drive short distances or use your car for school runs and shopping trips.

Diesel cars, on the other hand, offer better fuel economy on longer trips and have more pulling power, which helps if you plan to tow or often drive on the open road.
However, diesel engines can cost more to maintain, and diesel is sometimes pricier at the pump.

So, think about how and where you drive. If your lifestyle includes long road trips or
country driving, diesel could be worth it. For everyday city life, petrol might be a better option.