Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid or Electric: Which Used Car is Right for You?
Choosing your next used car can feel overwhelming, especially with so many fuel types now available. At Summit Garage, we help drivers find the best match for their lifestyle, budget and driving habits. Whether you’re considering a reliable petrol model, a long-distance diesel, a modern hybrid, or a fully electric car, this guide will help you decide which is right for you.
Petrol Cars: Reliable and Great for Everyday Driving
Best for:
- Short trips
- Town and city driving
- Lower upfront costs
Petrol cars remain one of the most popular choices for UK drivers. They’re generally quieter, smoother, and cheaper to buy compared to diesels or hybrids. Maintenance costs also tend to be lower, making petrol a solid choice for everyday commuting and school runs.
If you mostly drive locally and don’t cover high annual mileage, a petrol used car could be the most cost-effective option.
Diesel Cars: Built for Long Journeys and Motorway Miles
Best for:
- High-mileage drivers
- Motorway use
- Towing and larger vehicles
Diesel engines deliver excellent fuel efficiency and torque, making them ideal for long-distance driving. If you regularly travel up and down motorways or tow a caravan or trailer, a diesel used car may serve you well.
However, if most of your driving is short stop-start trips, petrol or hybrid might be better. Modern diesels are fitted with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs), which need long drives to stay healthy.
Hybrid Cars: The Perfect Middle Ground
Best for:
- Mixed driving
- Eco-conscious drivers
- Those not ready for full electric
Hybrids combine a petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor, offering better fuel economy and reduced emissions. They’re ideal if you want to lower running costs without committing to fully electric.
You’ll particularly benefit from a hybrid if:
- You do a mix of town and longer drives
- You want a smoother, quieter ride
- You want lower fuel bills
Hybrid technology has come a long way, and many used hybrid models offer excellent reliability.
Electric Cars: Zero Emissions and Future-Proof Driving
Best for:
- Town and city driving
- Drivers with home charging
- Those wanting the lowest running costs
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular on the used market, offering quiet, clean and highly efficient motoring. With zero tailpipe emissions and very low running costs, EVs are a great choice for environmentally conscious drivers.
Consider going electric if:
- You have access to off-street or workplace charging
- Most of your journeys are under 150 miles
- You want the lowest maintenance costs
Battery technology has significantly improved in recent years, meaning many used EVs still offer impressive range.
So… Which Used Car Is Right for You?
At Summit Garage, we recommend choosing based on your driving habits:
| Your Driving Style | Best Fuel Type |
|---|---|
| Mostly short, local trips | Petrol or Electric |
| Frequent long-distance driving | Diesel |
| Mixed use (town + motorway) | Hybrid |
| Want the cheapest running costs | Electric |
| Want the lowest purchase / maintenance cost | Petrol |
Find Your Next Used Car at Summit Garage
Whether you’re looking for a great value petrol car, a long-lasting diesel, an economical hybrid, or your first electric vehicle, Summit Garage has a wide range of quality used cars to choose from.
Our friendly team is here to offer expert advice and help you take the next step with confidence.
👉 Browse our latest used stock
👉 Visit us in store for a test drive