How much have fuel prices gone up?
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) says the average price of petrol rose by 8.2p a litre between August and September, to 169.5p, the highest since August 2022. Diesel rose by 10.7p to 192.5p, the highest since July 2022. Across the 12 months to September, motor fuel prices were up 29.8%.
Prices have kept climbing since the ONS took its September readings. The government's weekly survey of pump prices for the week of 19 October puts unleaded petrol at 174.57p a litre and diesel at 199.33p, both down 0.71p on the week before.
Different price trackers use different samples, so figures vary by about a penny. Our weekly fuel price update also lists the cheapest retailers.
What does a tank of fuel cost now?
| Tank size | Petrol at 174.57p | Diesel at 199.33p |
|---|---|---|
| 40 litres (small car) | £69.83 | £79.73 |
| 55 litres (family car) | £96.01 | £109.63 |
| 70 litres (large car or SUV) | £122.20 | £139.53 |
To see what your own journeys cost, enter your distance and mpg in our fuel cost calculator.
What could the Budget change?
Fuel duty is 52.95p a litre, including a 5p cut, with VAT added on top. Update, 28 October 2026: the Budget extended the cut to 30 June 2027. Duty is due to rise to 60.59p a litre from 1 July 2027. Read what the Budget means for drivers.
How to cut your fuel bill
- Keep tyres at the right pressure. Under-inflated tyres raise fuel use. See our tyre pressure guide.
- Take roof boxes and racks off when you are not using them.
- Drive smoothly and avoid hard acceleration. Fuel use rises at higher speeds.
- Compare prices before you fill up. Supermarkets are usually cheaper than motorway services.
Questions drivers ask
Why did inflation go up in September 2026?
Mainly fuel. The ONS says motor fuel prices rose 29.8% in the year to September 2026, pushing CPI inflation up from 3.1% to 3.5%.
What is the average price of petrol in the UK?
The government's weekly figures for 19 October 2026 put unleaded petrol at 174.57p a litre and diesel at 199.33p a litre.
Will fuel duty go up in January 2027?
No. The Budget on 28 October 2026 extended the 5p cut to 30 June 2027. Duty is due to rise to 60.59p a litre from 1 July 2027.
Sources
- ONS: Consumer price inflation, UK, September 2026 (21 October 2026)
- DESNZ: Weekly road fuel prices (week of 19 October 2026)
- HMRC: Amended fuel duty rates for 2026 to 2027
Facts checked against the sources above on 23 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
