Introduction
If you’ve filled up your car recently, you’ve probably noticed petrol prices creeping higher. The latest surge is linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which have shaken global oil markets. While it might feel frustrating at the pump, understanding the reasons behind these price hikes can help you plan better.
In this article, I’ll break down why petrol prices are rising, what it means for drivers in the UK, and some practical tips to save money—or even sell your car using services like easycarbuyers.com, motorway.co.uk, or webuyanycar.com.
Why Are Prices Rising?
The main driver behind the recent jump in petrol costs is geopolitical. Rising tensions in the Middle East—particularly involving Israel and Iran—have pushed up the price of Brent crude oil, which is a key benchmark for petrol globally.
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In June 2025, Brent crude prices jumped by around $10 per barrel, briefly touching $78.
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Markets react quickly to any risk of disruption in the region, especially near the Strait of Hormuz, where a fifth of the world’s oil passes.
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Analysts warn that if tensions worsen, prices could spike even higher.
So, while the news might sound distant, these events have a direct effect on what you pay at the pump in the UK.
How This Affects Petrol Prices in the UK
You might be wondering, “Okay, oil prices are up—but how much does that actually cost me?”
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The average petrol price recently rose by about 2 pence per litre, bringing the average to around 134p.
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Diesel increased by nearly 3p per litre, sitting at about 141p.
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For a typical 55-litre tank, that’s an extra £1–£1.50 per fill-up compared with a few weeks ago.
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Supermarket petrol stations are still slightly cheaper than motorway forecourts, so it’s worth shopping around.
Even small increases can add up, especially if you drive frequently. Personally, I’ve noticed a weekly difference of a few pounds just by comparing local stations, which shows small habits can help offset price rises.
What This Means for UK Drivers
1. Budgets Get Squeezed
It’s no secret—higher petrol costs make running a car more expensive. For families or commuters who rely heavily on cars, this can have a noticeable impact on household budgets.
2. Inflation Concerns
Petrol prices feed directly into broader inflation, making everyday goods more expensive. Analysts estimate that every $10 rise in oil adds around 0.1–0.2 percentage points to inflation in the UK.
3. Forecourt Competition Matters
Some service stations raise prices faster than they fall—a tactic often called “rocket-and-feather” pricing. Shopping around and checking apps for cheaper local petrol can save a few pounds each week.
Practical Tips to Manage Rising Fuel Costs
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Shop Smart – Check supermarket petrol prices and apps to avoid paying over the odds.
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Drive Efficiently – Even small changes, like reducing unnecessary acceleration or idling, can lower fuel consumption.
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Consider Selling Less Efficient Cars – If your vehicle guzzles fuel, selling it could offset rising petrol costs. Platforms like easycarbuyers.com, motorway.co.uk, and webuyanycar.com make this process fast and straightforward.
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Plan Journeys – Combine errands and avoid rush hours to save fuel and time.
Looking Ahead
While wholesale oil prices have dropped slightly from their June peaks, pump prices may remain high for a while due to retailer margins and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. Keeping an eye on price trends and adapting your driving habits can make a real difference.
Personally, I’ve started tracking petrol prices weekly. Even a small awareness of changes helps me decide whether to fill up now or wait a day or two.
Final Thoughts
Rising petrol prices can feel frustrating, but understanding the reasons behind the hikes and taking proactive steps can soften the impact. Whether that’s shopping around, driving more efficiently, or considering selling a car that’s expensive to run, there are practical options available.
Staying informed is key—markets may fluctuate, but a little planning can help you save money at the pump. For those looking to sell a car quickly and easily, easycarbuyers.com, motorway.co.uk, and webuyanycar.com are reliable options.
Here’s the original written article from the RAC :https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/news/fuel-news/fuel-prices/
