Yes, but don't forget, I was talking about a 2003 there. Before piezo injectors and actually efficient automatic transmissions. Newer cars, even with all the nasty emissions equipment ruining them, get better mileage.

Diesel and gasoline are priced the same where I come from, with diesel often being cheaper.

That Honda Civic would cost a bit more to run on a daily basis than a larger and heavier diesel wagon that can carry tons of cargo. Maybe about equivalent to a SUV like a 2018+ BMW X5 or similar in terms of fuel economy. Obviously much cheaper to maintain, but that was my point: For the first few owners, the overly complicated hunks of plastic are a much better balance of power, economy and refinement. 300-400k km is where they usually start breaking down bad if maintained to manufacturer spec (i.e oil changes rarely, transmission fluid change never)