Delhi Fuel Ban to Retire 15 Legendary Cars by Nov 2025
Delhi Fuel Ban: Delhi, the capital of India, is a city where fast-paced roads and high-spirited people create a unique rhythm. Here, a car is not just a vehicle but a symbol of memories, emotions, and identity. Whether it’s the thrill of holding the keys to your first car or tales of family road trips, every car holds a special place in its owner’s heart. However, lakhs of car owners in Delhi are now facing a tough decision. The vehicles that have been part of their lives for years may soon become history. The reason: a stringent new rule by the Delhi government, which will ban the sale of fuel to diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years from 1 November 2025.
While restrictions on old vehicles were already in place across the National Capital Region (NCR), enforcement at fuel stations remained inconsistent. Now, the government has announced a stricter implementation deadline. As a result, several popular and memorable vehicles will disappear from Delhi’s roads.
In this report, we take a look at 15 iconic cars whose journey in Delhi is coming to an end. We also explore the reasons behind this rule, its implications, and the possible options available for vehicle owners.
Why This Rule? The Growing Pollution Crisis in Delhi
Air pollution in Delhi has become a severe public health concern. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Delhi ranks among the most polluted cities in the world. The Air Quality Index (AQI) here frequently hits ‘hazardous’ levels, impacting both human health and the environment. Old vehicles, particularly diesel ones, contribute significantly to emissions. As per directives from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT), diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years are already banned in Delhi-NCR. From 1 November 2025, fuel pumps will be prohibited from supplying petrol or diesel to these vehicles, even if they are still legally registered.
This move marks a significant step toward improving air quality in the city, but it also brings emotional and financial challenges for many car owners. Let’s take a look at 15 popular cars affected by this rule.
Top 15 Cars That Will No Longer Run in Delhi
1. Toyota Fortuner (First Generation)
Launched: 2009
The Toyota Fortuner revolutionised India’s SUV segment with its 3.0-litre diesel engine, bold road presence, and off-road capabilities. Now, having crossed the 10-year mark, it will no longer be allowed to refuel in Delhi.
2. Mitsubishi Pajero SFX
Discontinued: 2012-13
Once the pride of SUV lovers, the Pajero SFX with its rugged design and 2.8-litre diesel engine was a favourite for off-road adventures. It now falls under the diesel vehicle ban.
3. Honda Accord V6
Launched: Early 2000s
A symbol of luxury, the Honda Accord V6 came with a powerful 3.0-litre petrol engine. Having crossed the 15-year mark, it will no longer be road-legal in Delhi.
4. Skoda Superb (Second Generation)
Launched: 2009-2016
Known for its limousine-like ride, the early diesel models (2.0 TDI) of the Skoda Superb now exceed the 10-year threshold.
5. Skoda Laura
Discontinued: 2013
Favoured for its 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TDI engines, the Skoda Laura was a top choice among enthusiasts. But now, it’s headed for a fuel station ban in Delhi.
6. Volkswagen Cross Polo
Launched: Early 2010s
With SUV-inspired styling in a compact form, the diesel variants of the Cross Polo are now nearing or past the 10-year limit.
7. Ford Fiesta
Discontinued: 2010s
Praised for its excellent driving dynamics, the 1.4-litre diesel Ford Fiesta is now on the banned list.
8. Maruti SX4
Discontinued: 2014
Launched with the tagline “Men Are Back”, the Maruti SX4 was once a popular sedan. Both its petrol and diesel variants are now outdated and fall under the fuel restriction rule.
9. Tata Safari Dicor
Discontinued: 2014
Renowned for its muscular build and 2.2-litre diesel engine, the Tata Safari Dicor is now being forced off the roads of Delhi.
10. Hyundai Santa Fe
Launched: 2010s
A premium SUV offering from Hyundai, the Santa Fe’s diesel engine variants have surpassed the 10-year limit.
11. Toyota Innova (First Generation)
Launched: 2005-2012
A mainstay of the Indian MPV segment, the Innova’s 2.5-litre diesel engine made it a top choice for families. Its earlier models now exceed the 10-year rule.
12. Honda City (Third Generation)
Launched: 2003-2008
One of the most popular sedans of its time, the third-gen Honda City with a 1.5-litre petrol engine is now beyond the 15-year mark.
13. Chevrolet Cruze
Launched: 2009-2013
Known for its stylish design and 2.0-litre diesel engine, the Chevrolet Cruze’s older models are no longer allowed to refuel in Delhi.
14. Maruti Swift Dzire (First Generation)
Launched: 2008-2012
A compact and affordable sedan, the first-gen Dzire’s diesel versions now fall under the fuel ban criteria.
15. Hyundai Accent
Discontinued: 2010s
Once a popular budget sedan, both petrol and diesel variants of the Accent have surpassed the 15- and 10-year limits respectively.
Impact of the Rule: What It Means for Car Owners
Emotional Impact
For many, cars are more than machines — they represent dreams, hard work, and countless memories. Iconic vehicles like the Fortuner, Innova, or Safari have been companions on countless journeys. Parting with them is an emotional blow.
Financial Impact
- Cost of Scrappage: Scrapping an old vehicle involves time and money. While incentives exist under the scrappage policy, they often fall short of the cost of a new car.
- Cost of New Purchase: Buying a new vehicle isn’t financially feasible for everyone, especially middle-class families.
- Re-registration in Other States: Shifting a car’s registration to another state is an option, but it involves additional taxes, paperwork, and costs.
Environmental Impact
The rule is expected to significantly improve Delhi’s air quality. Older vehicles emit more pollutants, and removing them could bring down the AQI levels. However, other sources of pollution like crop burning and industrial emissions must also be addressed simultaneously.
What Options Do Car Owners Have?
- Scrappage Policy: Owners can scrap their old vehicles and receive monetary incentives.
- Out-of-State Registration: Re-registering vehicles in states outside Delhi-NCR remains a possible route.
- Electric Conversion: Converting vehicles to electric power is an option, though it is costly and complex.
- Buying a New Car: A more long-term solution, though financially demanding for many.
Expert Opinions
Environmental experts believe the new rule will aid in curbing air pollution, but insist it must be complemented with broader initiatives. Automotive experts recommend simplifying scrappage procedures and expanding electric vehicle infrastructure to support the transition.
Conclusion
The ‘No Fuel’ rule coming into effect from 1 November 2025 will mark the end of an era for many iconic vehicles in Delhi. Cars like the Toyota Fortuner, Tata Safari, Honda City, and Maruti SX4 will vanish from city roads. While the rule is essential for environmental reasons, it presents both emotional and economic hurdles for car owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Delhi’s ‘No Fuel’ rule starting 1 November 2025?
From 1 November 2025, petrol pumps in Delhi will stop supplying fuel to diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years, regardless of their registration status.
Which types of vehicles will be affected by this fuel ban?
All diesel vehicles more than 10 years old and petrol vehicles more than 15 years old will be affected, including models like Toyota Fortuner (1st Gen), Honda City (3rd Gen), and Tata Safari Dicor.
Can old vehicles still be used if registered in another state?
Yes, if re-registered in a state where such bans are not in place, these vehicles can still be used. However, they won’t be allowed to refuel or operate within Delhi.
What are the main options available for affected vehicle owners?
Owners can choose to scrap their vehicle, re-register it in another state, convert it to electric (if feasible), or purchase a new vehicle.
Will scrapping an old vehicle provide any financial benefit?
Yes, under the scrappage policy, owners may receive monetary incentives, road tax rebates, or discounts on new vehicle purchases, though these often don’t cover full replacement costs.
How will this rule help improve Delhi’s air quality?
Older vehicles emit significantly more pollutants. Banning their fuel supply will reduce vehicular emissions, contributing to better AQI levels and overall public health improvement.
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