Overview

• About 1.6 million motorists have brought claims against 14 manufacturers, with five lead defendants chosen to set a precedent for the rest.
• Lady Justice Cockerill will oversee an approximately 11‑week hearing, with a liability ruling expected next summer and a separate compensation phase planned for autumn 2026.
• Claimants say software in cars made from 2009–2020 lowered nitrogen oxide readings during lab tests while real‑world emissions were higher.
• Mercedes‑Benz, Ford, Renault, Nissan and Stellantis’ Peugeot‑Citroën deny wrongdoing and assert their vehicles complied with applicable rules.
• Leigh Day leads the case with support from 21 law firms, arguing potential multi‑billion‑pound exposure, following Volkswagen’s prior £193 million UK settlement with 91,000 motorists.