Although used hybrid cars and used electric cars are becoming more popular, the vast majority of pre-owned cars come with petrol power. That also means petrol cars are the most popular used cars for sale to buy, giving you loads of choice. Modern petrol cars have very efficient engines, are affordable to buy and offer a smooth and refined driving experience. Our favourite sports cars and supercars are powered by petrol, too, as are the best hot hatches - enthusiasts tend to favour petrol cars it seems.
The main reason that people buy a petrol car is because they’re the most affordable cars on the market. Hybrid and electric technology is expensive, so the vast majority of cheap small cars and city cars are powered by petrol engines. After all, having a more fuel efficient car isn’t always great if you have to spend thousands more to buy it - while diesel fuel is pricier than petrol. Many modern petrol cars have engines that use less fuel than older models, anyway, plus they offer more power and driver appeal thanks to their engaging sound and ability to rev higher than diesel cars.
Our favourite city cars, such as the Hyundai i10 and Toyota Aygo X, are both petrol-only, and the same applies to many of our favourite small cars such as the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta. Those who need more space will like the SEAT Leon, which can be had with an ultra-efficient mild-hybrid 1.5 eTSI petrol engine, while the Mazda CX-30 SUV comes with a special petrol engine with diesel-like efficiency. If you’re after a sports car then Porsche has made its name with some of the most exciting petrol engines around, while super saloons such as the BMW M3 are brilliant fun family cars.
If you’re looking for a petrol car for sale it’s best to avoid larger, heavier models, such as used SUVs. These are best suited to diesel engines as the petrol versions are very thirsty and have to work harder, so you’ll spend lots on fuel, while they also cost a lot to tax due to high emissions. Petrol cars with manual gearboxes can be more fun to drive, but if you live in a town you’ll really want the relaxing feeling of an automatic car. If you’re buying a newer model see if you can find one with a mild-hybrid (MHEV) system, as it helps make the petrol engine more fuel efficient.
Keep me updated by email with the latest advice, news and offers from heycar.