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As of April, car owners across the UK will need to brace themselves for a significant increase in road tax, with nearly 60 models from various manufacturers facing a hefty charge of £5,690 for the first year. This change is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to address vehicle emissions and promote a greener future, but it may leave many drivers feeling the pinch in their wallets.
Significant Increase in Vehicle Excise Duty
The rise in Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) comes as part of adjustments made for the 2026 financial year. The first-year charge has surged by £200 from the previous £5,490, now impacting popular brands such as Audi, BMW, and Ford. This leap follows a substantial hike that took effect in April 2025, where the tax for petrol and diesel vehicles escalated dramatically from £2,745 to £5,490.
The financial strain falls primarily on owners of high-emission vehicles—those producing over 255 grams of CO2 per kilometre—who will find themselves subject to the maximum charge. The first-year VED now ranges from a modest £10 for zero-emission cars to the eye-watering £5,690 for the most polluting models.
What This Means for Average Drivers
While the changes may seem daunting, it’s important to understand that the average petrol vehicle, with emissions around 143g/km, will incur a first-year charge of approximately £560. Diesel vehicles, slightly higher at around 164g/km, will see an initial fee of £1,360.
Moreover, this year marks a notable shift as electric vehicles will also be subject to VED for the first time, with a pay-per-mile scheme set to launch in April 2028. For those who have already registered their vehicles, the road tax will rise from £195 to £200 annually after the first year.
The full list of models facing the new £5,690 tax includes high-performance vehicles like the Audi RS6 and the Lamborghini Huracan, alongside a range of luxury and sports cars. Here’s just a glimpse of some affected models:
– Audi RS6 4.0 TFSI V8
– McLaren GT 4.0T V8
– Chevrolet Corvette Stingray 6.2 V8
– Porsche 911 3.7T 992 Turbo
– Rolls-Royce Ghost 6.75 V12
This drastic increase has raised concerns among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, highlighting the growing financial burden of car ownership in an increasingly eco-conscious society.
Public Reaction and Future Implications
The announcement has sparked a mix of frustration and resignation among drivers, many of whom feel squeezed by rising costs at a time when living expenses are already high. The tax hike may push some vehicle owners to reconsider their options, perhaps opting for electric or hybrid vehicles to mitigate these charges.
As the government continues to navigate the balance between encouraging environmentally friendly practices and addressing the economic realities faced by citizens, the impact of this tax change will be closely monitored.
Why it Matters
The implications of the new road tax structure extend beyond mere numbers; they reflect a broader societal shift towards environmental responsibility. While the intention is to encourage the adoption of greener vehicles, the immediate financial burden on drivers could lead to pushback against such policies. As the landscape of vehicle ownership evolves, it’s crucial for policymakers to consider the real-world effects on everyday citizens, ensuring that the transition towards sustainability is both equitable and feasible.
