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    I am looking to upgrade my 2017 Toyota Camry Atara SL. After many hours of research, I found the 2021 Hyundai Tucson Highlander very attractive. Is $6000 more for a diesel engine worth it?

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    I am looking to upgrade my 2017 Toyota Camry Atara SL. After many hours of research, I found the 2021 Hyundai Tucson Highlander very attractive. Especially that it’s loaded with safety features, big infotainment screen, and glass roof. However, I can't decide between the diesel or petrol version. I spend around 40 minutes traveling to work and 40 minutes back from work. I also like to go for a long drive on the weekend with my family. Lately, I avoid going on a long drive, because of the high petrol price. Is $6000 more for a diesel engine worth it?

    Answered by CarsGuide
    19 May 2022
    David Morley

    The extra purchase price of a diesel engine over a petrol one is only the start of the cost comparison. Generally speaking, diesels will cost a bit more to service (it depends on the make and model) and that’s if you don’t have problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) or soot build-up in the engine’s intake system that needs to be manually cleaned out.

    You also need to consider your driving habits to decide whether a diesel is right for you. As a rule of thumb, if you don’t go for a decent drive at highway speeds for about an hour or so at least once or twice a month, then a diesel is not for you. Using a diesel engine exclusively for short trips at suburban speed can often see the DPF requiring more attention than it should, and that equals cost.

    Also, modern petrol engines have really closed the fuel-economy gap that the diesel once enjoyed. The fuel consumption difference between the diesel Tucson and the petrol version is likely to be about a litre per 100km (based on the official combined figure for each). That means that even at $2 per litre (and based on the $6000 difference in price you’ve quoted) you’d need to drive 300,000km before the diesel began to pay for itself in terms of fuel saved. I’m not sure there’s a full $6000 separating the two versions of the Tucson, but even so, you get the idea.

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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