Most people nowadays are rightly concerned about climate catastrophe and air pollution. Yet few of us could manage without our cars, so it's important to make the right choice.
Engine emissions may contribute to poor air quality and respiratory problems – but why has diesel borne the brunt of the blame? In fact, today's diesel engines are the cleanest ever manufactured and the Land Rover Ingenium diesel engine is amongst the very best.
What's the truth about diesel vs petrol emissions?
On average, diesel engines produce less CO2 than petrol engines, but more NOx.
However, today's diesel engines convert NOx back to nitrogen and oxygen. All Land Rover diesel vehicles such as the new Land Rover Discovery Sport diesel option, have filters that remove 99% of all particulates from exhaust fumes. They also meet the latest EU6 emission standards, are exempt from London's T-Charge and are welcome in Ultra-Low Emission Zones.
What is Land Rover doing to improve the sustainability of its vehicles?
Land Rover has invested £1billion into developing smaller diesel engines producing lower emissions, with impressive results.
Since 2004 they've reduced the CO2 emissions from their European fleet vehicles by 32% and cut NOx emissions by 90%.
Why should I choose diesel vs petrol?
In the past, diesel vehicles were often considered to be slower, noisier and more expensive to run than petrol. However, over the years there have been technological and engineering advances, and now there is scarcely any difference between the two.
Before committing to either kind of engine, think about where, how and how far you drive. Diesels are more efficient on longer journeys at higher speeds. They need to reach high temperatures for their filter to burn off particulates in the exhaust, and it's harder to achieve this on short journeys.
So if you mostly drive in city traffic, where you're constantly stopping and starting, a diesel engine may not suit you. But if you drive 12,000 miles a year or more, a diesel engine can be more cost-effective.
If you do much towing, the low-speed torque of a diesel engine makes it more suitable as it lets you change gear earlier and provides strong acceleration. Petrol engines need to reach higher speeds to achieve the same torque as diesel.
Is a diesel engine right for your needs?
Choose diesel if:
Chose petrol if:
|You mainly drive long journeys and rarely drive in urban environments||You're a city-dweller and mainly do short journeys in urban areas|
|You regularly commute by motorway||You rarely drive on motorways and don't rack up much mileage|
|You use your vehicle to tow heavy loads, including some off-road driving|
So – are diesels dead? As Mark Twain said when told that a newspaper had printed his obituary, "Reports of my death are greatly exaggerated." We believe diesels have a place in today's more ecologically aware society and will be around for many years to come.
But don’t just take our word for it. Visit Dick Lovett Land Rover in Melksham near Bath to experience the power, quality and exceptional green credentials of the Ingenium engine for yourself. Book a test drive (with a clear conscience) in a Land Rover or Range Rover diesel today.