In the bustling world of automotive technology, diesel engines remain a crucial part of the conversation, and the “Top Diesel Cars 2024” list by Motorvibez offers an in-depth look at this year’s standout models. From the family-friendly Volkswagen Golf to the luxurious Mercedes C-Class, this review delves into the performance, efficiency, and features that make these vehicles top choices for diesel aficionados. Whether you’re seeking economy, performance, or a bit of both, this guide highlights the best diesel cars that promise to meet various driving needs and preferences.
#1 Volkswagen Golf (67mpg)
The latest generation of the Volkswagen Golf continues to set the standard in its class, combining comfort, advanced technology, and practicality into one sleek package. You can choose between a 113hp or 148hp 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, both of which are impressively fuel-efficient, offering 67mpg and 63mpg respectively. Despite a somewhat fiddly infotainment system, the Golf remains a top pick and a highly desirable five-door hatchback.
A Sensible and Spacious Family Car
The Volkswagen Golf Estate stands out as a particularly practical choice for families. Its rivals include the Ford Focus Estate, Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer, and the Peugeot 308 SW, with a more upscale competitor being the Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake. What sets the Golf Estate apart is its high-quality interior, crafted from soft-touch materials that give it a premium feel and durability. It’s also designed with practicality in mind, comfortably accommodating four passengers and offering extensive cargo space enhanced by numerous storage solutions throughout the cabin.
Driving Experience and Performance
While the Golf Estate may not target the thrill of driving as its primary selling point (leave that to the Focus Estate), it excels in delivering a safe and predictable ride. This makes it a reliable choice for families, ensuring confidence behind the wheel. The automatic gearbox is noted for being one of the best in its category, adding to the car’s smooth handling.
Engine Options to Suit Every Driver
The Golf Estate offers a diverse range of engine options to suit various needs and preferences. For those prioritizing fuel economy, the 1.6-litre diesel is a perfect choice. If performance is what you’re after, the powerful 305hp Golf R Estate might catch your eye. However, the 2.0-litre mid-range diesel strikes a balance between efficiency and power, making it an excellent all-rounder.
#2 Mercedes C 220 d
The Mercedes C-Class is a standout in the evolution of compact executive saloons and certainly makes its mark as one of the top diesel cars 2024. It’s not just the sharp looks that catch your eye; the interior is a blend of class and cutting-edge technology that could easily make you overlook models with heftier price tags.
Once you hit the road, the comfort level of the C-Class becomes apparent, distinguishing it as a leader in its category. Under the hood, you have choices like the 197bhp C 220 d and the more powerful C 300 d with 261bhp. However, the C 220 d tends to be the go-to for most buyers, not least because it shares the same refined nine-speed automatic gearbox as its higher-spec sibling, ensuring smooth and efficient driving at any speed.
Fuel efficiency is another strong point for the C 220 d. Official figures suggest it can achieve up to 61.4mpg, but real-world tests hint that even higher efficiency is possible on longer journeys. This level of fuel economy not only sets a high bar for luxury four-door saloons but also positions the C-Class as a serious contender against many hybrids, reinforcing its status among the top diesel cars of 2024.
#3 Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI
The Skoda Octavia clinched the title of Family Car of the Year at the 2021 Auto Express New Car Awards. Renowned for its efficient engines, spacious cabin, advanced technology, and exceptional value, the Octavia stands out as one of the best diesel cars 2024 available.
Efficient and Powerful Engine Options The Octavia’s diesel lineup includes:
- A 114bhp engine capable of up to 68.9mpg, offering superb fuel efficiency.
- A more robust 148bhp model with a DSG automatic gearbox that achieves a commendable 64.2mpg. Performance is sprightly, with acceleration from 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds for the 114bhp version and 8.7 seconds for the 148bhp model, making it both quick and economical.
Spacious and Comfortable Interior
Inside, the Octavia shines with ample room for passengers, featuring generous legroom and headroom. The boot capacity is impressive at 600 litres with seats up and expands to 1,555 litres when the rear seats are folded, providing substantial cargo space.
Cutting-Edge Infotainment System
Top-tier models like the SE L First Edition are equipped with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system known for its responsiveness and user-friendly interface. The system includes logically laid out menus, enhancing the driving and user experience.
#4 BMW 3 Series (61mpg)
The BMW 3 Series continues to set the standard for the best diesel engine cars 2024 on the market. The lineup offers a range of powertrains designed to meet various driving needs and preferences. Starting with the base model’s 150bhp diesel engine, which combines solid performance with excellent fuel efficiency of 61.4 mpg, this car is perfect for those who prioritize economy without sacrificing drivability. For those seeking more vigor, the top-tier 330d boasts a robust 335bhp while still managing a commendable 46 mpg, blending thrilling performance with unexpected fuel efficiency.
Luxury and Tech at Your Fingertips
Beyond its engines, the 3 Series seduces with its high-end cabin, where luxury meets cutting-edge technology. The interior is dominated by a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, giving the space a modern and sophisticated vibe. The 3 Series is not just about looks; its technology suite enhances both the driving experience and everyday usability.
A Drive for Every Enthusiast
Whether you opt for the efficient base model, the dynamic M340i with its 382 horsepower turbocharged inline-six, or the eco-friendly 330e plug-in hybrid offering 23 miles of electric range, the 3 Series promises a tailored driving experience. It maintains its crown in the sport-luxury segment by delivering a perfect balance of comfort and agility, making it a perennial favorite and a 2024 Editors’ Choice award winner.
#5 BMW 320d
BMW’s latest iteration of the 3 Series marks a triumphant return to the brand’s core strengths—agility, performance, and cutting-edge technology. The 320d stands out within the lineup, boasting a compelling blend of power and efficiency that makes it a prime candidate among the best diesel engine cars on the market today.
Leaner and Meaner
Thanks to a significant weight reduction of 55kg, the new 3 Series has reclaimed its position as a leader in handling and fuel economy. The 320d impresses with its performance, equipped with a 187bhp engine that not only delivers on power but also excels in efficiency, achieving over 60mpg in the more rigorous WLTP tests. These figures aren’t just theoretical; they reflect what drivers can expect in everyday conditions, making the 320d a practical choice for those seeking both dynamism and economy.
Tech-Savvy and Eco-Friendly
Adding to its appeal, the 3 Series now incorporates mild-hybrid technology, enhancing fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. This innovative approach ensures that the 320d squeezes every drop of value from the tank while reducing emissions—a win-win for environmentally conscious drivers who aren’t willing to compromise on driving pleasure.
A Class Above
While the previous generation of the 3 Series was already a strong contender in the compact executive saloon category, competitors like the Mercedes C-Class offered more refinement, and the Jaguar XE was often considered more enjoyable to drive. However, with its latest updates, the 3 Series not only matches but exceeds its rivals, ensuring its place at the pinnacle of its class. Moreover, for those needing additional space, the 3 Series is also available in an estate version, offering flexibility without forgoing any of its salient features.
#6 Audi A3 Saloon (61mpg)
Audi’s A3 Saloon, with its sleek aerodynamics and stylish design, stands out as a more streamlined sibling to the A3 Sportback. While it might trade a bit of practicality for its good looks compared to more conventional hatchbacks or estates, the A3 Saloon delivers where it counts for those who prefer a touch of sportiness in their daily drive.
Stylish Efficiency
The A3 Saloon edges out its five-door Sportback counterpart by a mere mile per gallon in fuel efficiency tests, achieving an impressive 61 mpg thanks to its aerodynamic build. This small enhancement underscores Audi’s commitment to blending performance with efficiency. Despite a few years on the market, the A3 still turns heads, aided by a 2024 facelift that ensures it remains at the forefront of style and sophistication.
Interior Elegance Meets Sporty Ambience
Step inside the A3 Saloon and you’re greeted by an interior that could belong in Audi’s top-tier sports cars. The dashboard’s sweeping lines and hexagonal air vents could be mistaken for features straight out of a Lamborghini. Although not every surface feels supercar-luxurious, the overall quality is undeniably premium.
The latest iteration of the A3 introduces significantly more tech and a sportier seating arrangement. Lower seating positions and Alcantara-trimmed sports seats in the S Line models enhance the driving experience, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional support.
Space and Practicality
While the A3 Saloon showcases a roomy front, the rear seats tell a different story. Tall passengers might find the headroom limited, though there’s ample space to stretch their legs. The dark headlining typical in S Line models can make the rear feel a bit enclosed, but this can be mitigated with an optional panoramic glass roof, inviting brightness into the cabin.
Despite its larger dimensions on paper, the Saloon’s boot is a mixed bag. Its design offers less practicality than the Sportback’s, presenting challenges with loading and unloading larger items due to its shallower configuration and more limited opening.
#7 Vauxhall Astra 1.5 Turbo D (130)
The Vauxhall Astra has long been a staple among British family cars, and with its latest iteration, there’s a lot to get excited about. Under the new stewardship of Stellantis, the Mk8 Astra debuts with a host of updates that it shares with the likes of the Peugeot 308, heralding a new era for this beloved model.
A Fresh Look and Advanced Interior
Gone are the days of the button-heavy dashboards. The new Astra sports a sleek, more angular aesthetic that aligns it with contemporary design trends. Inside, the transition to widescreen displays signifies a significant tech upgrade, streamlining interactions with the car’s systems and enhancing the overall user experience.
Under the Hood
The latest model moves away from the previous generation’s 1.5-litre three-cylinder diesel engine. Now, it houses a four-cylinder unit, also seen in its cousin, the Peugeot 308. This change isn’t just about keeping up with the Joneses; it offers tangible benefits. The new engine is quieter at idle and provides a smoother ride, with its 128bhp being more than adequate for family duties and daily commutes.
Economy and Emissions
Fuel efficiency remains a strong point for the new Astra, with an impressive promise of up to 64.2mpg. This makes it an attractive option for high-mileage drivers who spend a lot of time on motorways. Additionally, its low CO2 emissions of 114g/km make it a cleaner choice, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Opting for the automatic gearbox does increase emissions slightly, but the rise is minimal at just 4g/km.
#8 Mercedes Benz S 350
When discussing the pinnacle of diesel engine cars 2024, the Mercedes S-Class undeniably ranks at the top, especially in its diesel variant. This luxury car combines an imposing road presence with an interior that envelopes you in comfort, making it a top choice for those who prioritize both performance and plushness.
Power and Efficiency
The heart of the S-Class’s appeal in the diesel domain is its 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine. This powertrain offers a smooth yet potent driving experience, with acceleration from 0-62 mph in just 6.4 seconds—a remarkable achievement for a vehicle of its size. Despite its heft, when driven conservatively, it returns an impressive 42.8 mpg, making it a standout in the realm of diesel engine cars.
Unparalleled Comfort
Weight is a factor in the ride quality of the S-Class, but it’s the sophisticated technology that truly sets it apart. The car features a system that ‘reads’ the road ahead to adjust the air suspension for upcoming irregularities, ensuring a ride quality that rivals even the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Cutting-edge Technology
The Mercedes S-Class is also a beacon of modern automotive technology, boasting dual 12-inch display screens, mobile data connectivity, optional night vision, and reclining rear seats. It also claims an industry first: the absence of a single filament lightbulb in the entire vehicle, which underscores its innovative edge
