So the choice is a diesel that kicks out nasty NO2, particulates, etc or a petrol that burns fuel like a bonfire 😕

Basically yes. Driving is bad for the environment.. who knew?

Re the ecoboost petrol, from what I can tell it is hard to get good MPG out of them. You may think you are being economical but you’re doing something slightly wrong that costs you fuel.

My Dad manages 52 at most on mixed A/M roads in his 1.4 TSI Golf. Although not slow he’s not fast either and is very smooth.