UK petrol and diesel prices: the picture on 2 August 2026

Petrol and diesel prices remain a significant outgoing for most UK drivers, with official UK fuel price data for 2 August 2026 showing the average cost of standard E10 unleaded petrol at 160.7p a litre across 7,813 forecourts nationwide, which works out at roughly £7.31 a gallon.

Drivers paying for premium E5 unleaded were spending more, at an average of 178.1p a litre (around £8.10 a gallon). Diesel (B7) was the most expensive of the three common grades, averaging 180.0p a litre, or about £8.18 a gallon. That puts diesel 19.3p a litre higher than standard unleaded, a gap that adds up quickly when filling a larger tank.

For a family car with a 50-litre petrol tank, a full fill at the national average would cost around £80.35 using standard E10, rising to £89.05 for premium E5. Diesel drivers filling a similar-sized tank would pay roughly £90. If your car covers high mileage, keeping an eye on local prices before you fill up can make a real difference over the course of a year.

One area where drivers can reduce overall motoring costs is making sure their car is running efficiently. A well-serviced engine uses fuel more effectively, so skipping routine maintenance can quietly push your fuel bills higher. If you are overdue for a service, MOT or repair, Garage.co.uk lets you find a trusted independent garage near you and book directly, with no fees or commission involved.

Every fuel price figure in this article is the official reading for 2 August 2026.