UK petrol and diesel prices today reflect rising costs
By Anthony Sharkey, Chief Operating Officer, New Reg Limited · 9 Aug 2026
UK petrol prices average £1.617 per litre while diesel averages £1.820 per litre, affecting drivers' budgets significantly.
The average price of E10 unleaded petrol in the UK is 161.7p a litre, which means drivers are now paying around £7.35 a gallon. For those using premium E5 unleaded, the cost rises to an average of 179.0p a litre, or approximately £8.14 a gallon. Diesel prices have now reached an average of 182.0p per litre, making it about 20.3p a litre more expensive than standard unleaded. These figures come from official UK fuel price data and are current across 7,815 forecourts nationwide.
For drivers, these rising petrol and diesel costs translate to increased expenses at the pump, which can significantly impact your monthly budget. If you're not already keeping an eye on your fuel consumption, now may be a good time to start, as every penny counts. Finding ways to drive more efficiently can help manage these growing costs, such as maintaining proper tyre pressure and keeping your vehicle well-serviced.
It is also worthwhile to consider your fuel options. Opting for unleaded petrol over diesel may be a way to save a few pence per litre, especially for those driving petrol vehicles. Furthermore, understanding how frequently you refuel and planning your journeys more efficiently can help mitigate the effects of these rising prices.
The current fuel pricing trend will particularly affect those who rely heavily on their vehicles, including commuters and delivery drivers. With the cost of fuel projected to fluctuate further, it is essential to stay informed about market changes and plan those trips accordingly. Exploring options to sell and replace older vehicles that may use more fuel could also be worth considering, especially with efficient models becoming more affordable.
Sources
This story cites UK Fuel Price Data.