Stellantis has begun reintroducing diesel versions of at least seven car and passenger van models across Europe, a strategic reversal from its previously aggressive electric vehicle plans. The move, which started in late 2025, affects models including the Peugeot 308, DS No. 4 hatchback, Opel Astra, Opel Combo van, Peugeot Rifter, and Citroën Berlingo passenger van, according to a review of dealer listings and company statements.
Diesel Isn’t Dead in Europe, Even If It’s Diminished
The automaker confirmed it has decided to keep diesel engines in its product portfolio and, in some cases, expand its available powertrain offerings rather than phase them out further. The shift comes as electric vehicle sales across Europe have fallen well short of expectations. Diesel vehicles accounted for 7.7 percent of new car sales across Europe in 2025, while fully electric vehicles made up 19.5 percent, according to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association. A decade ago, diesel represented at least half of new car sales in the region, a stark contrast to where things stand now. Many competitors have since phased out diesel options entirely, and Stellantis itself had significantly reduced its own diesel lineup in recent years before this reversal.
A Costly EV Retreat
Stellantis reported 22.2 billion euros in charges last week as it scales back its electric vehicle ambitions, and the company’s shares fell to their lowest point since the 2021 merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA that created the group. The automaker had previously targeted fully electric vehicles to account for all European sales and half of U.S. sales by 2030, but demand in both markets hasn’t come close to meeting those projections. In Europe specifically, Stellantis sales declined 3.9 percent in 2025 after already dropping 7.3 percent in 2024.
A Broader Pattern of Combustion Comebacks
The company continues to produce diesel-powered models including the DS7 SUV and Alfa Romeo’s Tonale, Stelvio, and Giulia. In the United States, Stellantis has similarly reintroduced combustion-engine models such as the Jeep Cherokee and the Hemi V8, and added a gasoline-hybrid Fiat 500 alongside its electric version, suggesting this diesel move in Europe is part of a broader global pattern rather than an isolated regional decision.
Stellantis has not announced further revisions to its long-term product strategy beyond these changes.