Second-hand market continues to favor diesel-powered automobiles
In the ever-evolving world of automobiles, a surprising trend is emerging in the used car market. Despite the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) and their higher prices, diesel cars continue to hold a significant appeal.
A woman named Stephanie, who drives approximately 25,000 kilometres a year, prefers diesel over unleaded and owns a car that boasts impressive fuel efficiency. She finds that with a full tank, there is no equivalence between diesel, electric, or gasoline for her driving needs.
The preference for diesel cars is not just limited to individuals like Stephanie. At a used car dealer, Anthony Abou Daher, a dealer at Alvergnas Auto, confirms that diesel is selling very well. He notes a strong demand for diesel vehicles, a trend that is reflected in the market dynamics.
Data shows that diesel vehicles, while considered polluting, could potentially benefit from a return in low emission zones (ZFE) following their ban in some city centers. However, no clear recent trend favouring diesel vehicles over unleaded gasoline vehicles has been observed.
In fact, diesel fuel prices in 2025 have been somewhat volatile but generally lower compared to a year ago, though still slightly higher than gasoline on average. This price difference is evident even in the Lyon region, where the price of diesel at a gas station is three cents cheaper than unleaded.
Interestingly, some buyers who had transitioned to electric vehicles are returning to diesel engines due to the limited range of some electric vehicles and their prices. A seller notes an increase in demand for diesel engines from these buyers.
Diesel cars, known for their better fuel economy, offer a practical solution for those seeking long-distance autonomy. A student in an apprenticeship expresses interest in a used diesel car for this very reason.
However, the market share of diesel vehicles remains limited compared to gasoline vehicles. This is partly because gasoline is more widely available and usually cheaper than diesel.
While EV sales have seen some fluctuations in 2025, with a slight overall increase in the first half of the year but a noted dip in Q2, the high prices of EVs continue to be a deterrent for many consumers. Despite the initial faster depreciation of EVs compared to petrol and diesel cars, used EV sales are growing, especially in Europe.
In conclusion, while diesel vehicles offer better fuel economy and are becoming a popular choice among some buyers, their market share remains limited. At the same time, electric vehicles command higher prices but face their own market volatility and depreciation issues. The current EV pricing and fuel cost landscape does not indicate a major preference shift towards diesel in used markets.
The industry has observed a persistent demand for diesel vehicles, as evidenced by the strong sales reports from dealerships such as Alvergnas Auto. This trend is also reflected in the preferences of some buyers who have switched back to diesel engines due to the limited range and high prices of electric vehicles.
In the midst of fluctuating electric vehicle (EV) sales and depreciation issues, the finance sector takes note that the current pricing landscape does not suggest a significant preference shift towards diesel in the used car market.
