If filling up feels more painful than last year, you're not imagining it. Since the Middle East conflict began in late February 2026, oil prices have jumped and fuel prices across Europe have followed.
Why prices went up
Uncertainty about oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz pushed Brent crude to around $100 a barrel this autumn. In early October 2026, the average across the EU was about €2.01 per litre for petrol and €2.15 for diesel, according to EU weekly price data. In Italy, the excise tax on diesel went up again on 6 October.
Diesel drivers have been hit hardest: in most EU countries diesel prices have risen faster than petrol this year.
What you can control
You can't control the oil price. But how much fuel your car burns is, to a large extent, up to you. These are the levers that actually work:
- Tire pressure. Under-inflated tires make your engine work harder. It's the easiest fix there is. Read our guide.
- Driving style. Smooth acceleration, anticipating traffic and a steady speed make a measurable difference. See the 7 habits.
- Speed on the motorway. Fuel use climbs quickly above about 110 km/h because air resistance grows with speed.
- Weight and drag. Empty the boot and take off roof boxes you're not using.
- Where you fill up. Price apps and loyalty schemes can save several cents per litre.
Watch out for miracle gadgets
High prices bring a wave of "fuel saver" products promising 30–50% savings. Most have never been independently tested. Here's how to tell the difference.
Photo: Erik Mclean on Unsplash