Japanese Engine, German Car: The Perfect Diesel Combo?

The “Dieselgate” scandal marked a turning point, signaling the beginning of the end for the diesel era. The resulting reputational crisis prompted many manufacturers to accelerate their shift towards alternative powertrains. Despite declining popularity, diesel vehicles still maintain a loyal following, particularly in the European used car market.

But which diesel car is the most reliable?

Many experts have attempted to answer this question. Pedro Bastida, a mechanic at the Spanish vehicle inspection center ITV, argues that a car doesn’t always need the latest technology to be dependable. He points to vehicles from the past – specifically, the Opel Astra from a time when the German brand was not reliant on the Stellantis group.

While Opel vehicles don’t frequently rank highly in reliability surveys, some models are exceptions. These include those equipped with 1.7 CDTI diesel engines manufactured by Japanese automaker Isuzu. These engines offer not only fuel efficiency but also impressive performance.

270,000 km without any issues

In a post on his Instagram profile, the mechanic showcased a close-up of an Opel Astra, which Bastida claims features one of the most reliable engines ever built. The Spanish mechanic highlighted that the vehicle has already traveled 270,000 km without experiencing any technical problems. Maintenance, he noted, has been limited to regular oil changes.

Bastida emphasized that the car has been in his family since it was new, allowing him to confidently recommend it as the best diesel model on the used car market.