Although the share of diesel cars among new vehicles in Europe is declining, five engines stand out as the most common choice for buyers on the Croatian used car market, particularly for vehicles imported from Germany.
Diesel engines no longer dominate the European new car market, but their story on Croatian roads is still very much alive. According to data from Auto Klub, among the used vehicles arriving in Croatia from Germany, five diesel engines stand out for their popularity. Buyers appreciate them for their low fuel consumption, high torque, and reliability on long journeys, despite increasingly complex exhaust aftertreatment systems.
Undoubtedly one of the most common engines in imported used cars is Volkswagen's 2.0 TDI. Its widespread use across the group's models-from the VW Golf and Passat, through the Škoda Octavia and Superb, to the Audi A3 and Q5-makes it almost unavoidable on the market. Newer variants, identified by the EA288 code, deliver between approximately 115 and 204 horsepower, depending on the specific version.
Its main strengths are efficiency, good performance, and wide availability of parts. However, potential buyers should pay attention to the complex exhaust system. Components such as the DPF filter, EGR valve, and SCR system with AdBlue can be a source of expensive repairs if the previous owner did not maintain the car properly.
The Mercedes-Benz OM654 represents the modern generation of diesel engines, and its capabilities are impressive. In its most powerful versions, this four-cylinder, two-liter engine offers as much as 265 horsepower, with torque of 550 Nm. It has been installed in a wide range of models, from the compact A-Class and the GLA and GLB crossovers, to the business-class E-Class and large SUVs.
Its advantages are strong performance, high torque, and smooth operation, but the price of this technological advancement is high technical complexity. Therefore, when buying a used Mercedes, it is crucial to check the complete service history and the condition of the exhaust aftertreatment system. Older models with the OM651 engine can also be found on the market, while more luxurious versions hide the six-cylinder OM656.
Renault's 1.5 dCi, internally designated K9K, is a true veteran of European roads. It was introduced back in 2001 and has undergone numerous technical upgrades over more than two decades. Early versions offered around 65 horsepower, while later models reached 115 horsepower, with torque up to 260 Nm.
This engine was used in vehicles from Renault, Dacia, and Nissan, as well as in some models from other manufacturers. Its main advantage is exceptionally low fuel consumption, making it particularly appealing for smaller cars and compacts. For older examples, however, it is advisable to check the condition of the turbocharger and injection system, and to insist on a proper service history.
When buying a used imported BMW, there is a high chance the buyer will encounter the four-cylinder diesel designated B47. This two-liter engine is offered in various versions, with power ranging from approximately 115 to 231 horsepower, and torque, depending on the version, can reach as much as 500 Nm.
The B47 is valued for its favorable balance between performance and fuel consumption, and it was used in many BMW models. When purchasing a used example, special attention should be paid to the condition of the timing chain, which can be a critical point, as well as the entire exhaust system.
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine is also very common on the used car market. It can be found in various models from Stellantis brands such as Peugeot, Citroën, DS, and Opel. In newer versions, it offers around 130 horsepower and torque of about 300 Nm.
Its advantages are low fuel consumption and good flexibility, making it a pleasant companion on the open road. As with other modern diesels, when buying a used car with this engine, it is especially important to check the condition of the timing system and the regularity of servicing.
Although diesel engines are increasingly disappearing from the new car lineup, they remain very popular in the used car market. They are most useful for drivers who cover many kilometers and often drive on highways or open roads. For short city trips, a modern diesel engine can be less suitable due to the complicated exhaust aftertreatment system and the DPF filter, which may not regenerate properly.
Therefore, when buying, it is not enough to pay attention only to the price, age, and mileage. It is equally important to check the service history, the condition of the DPF, turbocharger, EGR, SCR system, and other expensive parts. Diesel engines may no longer be the mainstay of the new car market, but among used vehicles from Germany, they remain highly sought after, especially when it comes to these reliable and economical engines.
