Petrol prices in UK reach highest level since Iran war began

Business & Finance
26 May 2026 • 8:58 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Petrol prices in UK reach highest level since Iran war began

  • UK petrol prices have reached their highest level since the Iran conflict began, with the average litre costing 159.43p, a 26.6p increase since late February.
  • A 55-litre tank of petrol for an average family car now costs £87.69, an increase of £14.63 since 28 February, while diesel stands at 184.96p.
  • Motoring groups highlight that despite recent falls in wholesale petrol prices, retailers are quick to raise pump prices but slow to lower them.
  • The AA advises drivers to utilise price tracking apps to locate cheaper fuel stations, noting significant price variations across the country.
  • The Iran conflict is impacting 80% of UK firms through increased energy bills, shipping disruption, and rising raw material costs, with economic repercussions expected for many months.

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