BMW has recently announced a cut-back on their diesel models, does this spell the end of the oil burner?
In a rather shocking turn of events, BMW has announced they are dropping certain diesel engine choices from their portfolio. This comes after the Bavarian brand blamed insufficient demand in the UK.
According to AUTOCAR, diesel choices from the 1-series, 2-series Coupé and 5-series have been reduced. Whilst the 4-series and X2 range has ditched them all together. The complete list of removals are the 118d, 120d xDrive, 220d Coupé, 420d, 430d, M440d, 520d xDrive, 530d xDrive plus all variants of the X2 18d and 20d.
BMW said in a statement supplied to Autocar: “BMW continually monitors consumer demand across models to ensure we have a product offering that is relevant and reflective of our customer’s needs.
“Changes to our line-up reflect evolving market demands, and by removing lower-volume variants, we ensure BMW offers variety for our customers whilst improving their order experience.”
According to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), sales of new diesels fell by 14.6% in February 2023 compared to the same month in the previous year.
Arguably, this is mainly down to the ‘dieselgate’ scandal from 2015, which has been firmly etched into buyers minds. Since then, we have seen demand for them drop through new car sales. In 2022, diesels comprised just 5.1% of all new car sales compared to the 47% they had in 2016.
It has to be said, we are noticing less new diesel vehicles on the road, especially in the last couple of years. With the market share for petrols, hybrids and electric cars growing, is diesel dead?
Finally 😛
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