Choosing between petrol and diesel isn’t just about price at the pump or engine performance. Make no mistake, those are two significant factors, however, in South Africa’s colder winter months – especially in the highveld or interior regions – your choice of fuel type can affect how your car handles and even how often you visit the mechanic. 

If you’re wondering what these other factors could possibly be that we’re hanging them on the same line as the cost per litre, or possibly you just want the final say on which fuel takes the lead, then by all means… use this list. 

Here is a closer look at the pros and cons of petrol and diesel vehicles, particularly in colder climates. 

The Effect Of Cold Weather On Both Engine 

Before we tuck into the promised list, let’s recap what the effect of cold weather is on diesel and petrol engines. In the first case, diesel engines rely on compression to ignite fuel, while petrol engines use spark plugs. In cold temperatures, diesel fuel can thicken and take longer to ignite, which can make starting the engine slower or more difficult. Petrol, on the other hand, is less affected by temperature drops and typically starts more easily in the cold. 

But it’s not just about starting the engine. Cold weather also affects fuel economy, emissions, and engine performance. 

Petrol: Pros And Cons In Winter 

✅ The Pros	❌ The Cons
Petrol engines usually fire up more easily in low temperatures.	Petrol engines use more fuel and are therefore less fuel-efficient than diesel, especially on long-distance trips.
Petrol cars are generally quieter, which can be more comfortable on chilly early-morning drives.	More frequent re-fuelling means that you might find yourself at the petrol station more often in winter.
Petrol burns cleaner at startup compared to diesel in icy conditions, so there are lower emissions when cold.

Diesel: Pros And Cons In Winter 

✅ The Pros	❌ The Cons
These vehicles typically go further per tank, which is a real help with rising fuel costs.	Diesel engines need more time to warm up in cold weather.
More torque – great for heavier loads or towing, which might come in handy if you’re heading to the mountains.	Higher emissions at startup because cold diesel engines produce more smoke and particulates until fully warmed up.
	Older diesel vehicles may need additives or pre-heaters to prevent gelling, so you’re likely in for cold-weather maintenance.

So, Where Does That Leave You? 

Reading through these pros and cons will certainly trigger a pull in one direction or the other. That’s because these lists differ wildly in their priorities, and as we all have unique concerns, it’s easy to find our preferences straight away. 

For example, urban drivers who don’t face extreme cold and don’t plan long drives into places like the Drakensberg during the winter months, but do leave their homes early and like to set off quietly either might favour a petrol engine. If a quieter engine doesn’t matter then really, either option will work with proper maintenance.  

But now, let’s say that you regularly drive in sub-zero temperatures, then while petrol may be the more hassle-free choice, diesel still wins for fuel economy and long-haul driving. You would just need to pay attention to the vehicle’s cold-weather care. 

The key takeaway? Know your driving needs, your climate, and the car’s condition. With this context, you can scan these pros and cons and easily come to the conclusion that makes the most sense for you. 

Feeling Informed? 

We trust that this information will help you come to the right decision for you. Just remember that no matter what fuel you use, you should always keep your battery in good condition, replace old glow plugs or spark plugs, and follow a regular winter maintenance routine. And then there’s the winter car prep, which doesn’t have to be complicated. All it takes is a quick weekend check, which can make all the difference to your comfort, safety, and confidence on the road.  

If you’re looking for more practical advice, budget-friendly ideas, and planning tools, like a free Vehicle Valuation Report, then please take a few minutes to explore AA Inform.