When you reach for the petrol pump, most of us prefer to opt for the cheaper fuel. However, fuel is a little bit like the food that we eat; quality fuel is better for the vehicle and helps to clean the engine. So, is premium fuel really better than cheaper fuel? Is the difference between the two as significant as, say the difference between processed chicken nuggets and an organic, fresh chicken breast? We give you the lowdown on super fuel.
What Is Premium Fuel?
The significant difference between super fuel and regular fuel is the octane number, which is used to measure engine performance. A higher research octane number (RON) leads to reduced fuel consumption and increased engine protection and performance. Standard unleaded fuel’s RON is about 95, while premium brand super fuels have an RON of 98-102. So, theoretically, the numbers do stack up in favour of super fuels. However, at 10p a litre more, is it worth it?
Increased Efficiency
Higher octane numbers mean that your car will get more power per drop – some super fuels have other qualities thrown in, such as additional lubrication, which means that your engine will run more efficiently. This means that, while super fuel is undoubtedly more expensive, it will last longer, too and could even reduce wear and tear on your engine.
Cleaner Engine
To return to the “you are what you eat” analogy, it makes sense that if you give your engine cheap fuel, there will be a build-up of “junk”. One of the most beneficial qualities of premium or super fuels is that manufacturers claim they clean the engine. Petrol works via combustions and lower quality (i.e. cheaper) fuels can ignite early, which can clog up the engine and cause damage. Fuel with a higher RON is supposed to ignite later, which reduces wear and tear and damage caused by early ignition. In addition, many super fuels have additives which are meant to clean the engine. While this is undoubtedly beneficial to the engine, it is unclear whether you will benefit from using super fuel all the time; theoretically, filling up with super fuel occasionally will give your engine a good clean and be cheaper, too.
So, Is It Worth It?
There is no definitive answer to whether super fuel is worth the extra money. Some drivers see an increased MPG when they use super fuel; others don’t notice a difference. The best way for you to decide is to record your MPG with regular unleaded petrol and switch to super fuel for a few weeks; if you see a marked increase in your MPG, then you know it works for your vehicle! If you don’t notice improved efficiency, then it may be worth sticking to your regular fuel and “cleaning” the engine with super fuel once a month or so.
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