Should I Be Using Premium Fuel? The Real Answer for UK Drivers
Pull up at any UK petrol station and you’ll notice a choice: standard unleaded/diesel, or “premium” versions with words like Ultimate, Momentum, or V-Power plastered on the pump. They promise better performance, improved efficiency, and a cleaner engine — but are they really worth the extra 10–15p per litre? Or is premium fuel just an expensive marketing trick?
The answer depends on your car, your driving habits, and what you expect from your fuel. In this guide, we’ll cut through the myths and give you the facts.
⛽ What Is Premium Fuel, Really?
In the UK, regular unleaded petrol is 95 RON (Research Octane Number). Premium unleaded is usually 97–99 RON. The higher the octane, the more resistant the fuel is to knock — premature combustion in the engine. High-performance engines with turbochargers or high compression ratios are designed to run on higher-octane fuel to unlock full power and protect engine components.
For diesel, the story is slightly different. Premium diesel usually contains additional detergents and additives to keep injectors clean and reduce emissions, but it doesn’t change the cetane rating (the diesel equivalent of octane) as much.
? Does Premium Fuel Improve Performance?
Everyday Cars
If your car is designed for 95 RON, using higher-octane fuel won’t suddenly turn it into a sports car. The ECU (engine control unit) won’t advance timing beyond what the car was designed for. You might notice slightly smoother running or a marginal MPG improvement, but for most everyday UK drivers, the difference is minimal.
Performance Cars
If your owner’s manual recommends 98/99 RON, you should absolutely use it. High-performance engines rely on higher octane to avoid knock and unlock maximum horsepower. Skimping with 95 RON can cause reduced performance and, in some cases, long-term damage.
Diesel Drivers
Premium diesel fuels often help with smoother running and reduced injector deposits, particularly useful for modern common-rail diesels and those prone to DPF (diesel particulate filter) clogging. But again, the difference is subtle for most drivers.
? The Cost Factor
Premium fuel in the UK typically costs 10–15p per litre more than standard. For a 50-litre tank, that’s £5–£7 extra per fill-up. Over a year, that could add £150–£200 to the average driver’s fuel bill.
For families and commuters on a budget, that money may be better spent on regular servicing, quality tyres, or preventative maintenance — areas that make a much bigger difference to safety and efficiency.
? Additives & Engine Cleanliness
One genuine benefit of premium fuels is the higher level of detergents and additives. These can reduce carbon build-up on intake valves, injectors, and combustion chambers. Over time, this may help keep engines cleaner, maintain efficiency, and lower emissions.
However, modern standard fuels in the UK already contain detergent additives as required by law. So while premium fuels may offer an incremental improvement, it’s not the miracle clean-up some adverts suggest.
? Also read: Driving With Confidence – Diagnostics Made Simple
⚠️ When Premium Fuel Is Worth It
Your car’s handbook specifies 97 RON or higher.
You drive a high-performance, turbocharged, or luxury vehicle.
You want to maximise power output and responsiveness.
You own a modern diesel prone to injector or DPF issues and want to reduce build-up.
In these cases, premium isn’t optional — it’s required to protect your engine and deliver the performance it was designed for.
❌ When It’s Unnecessary
Your car is designed for 95 RON and is naturally aspirated.
You’re driving a typical hatchback, saloon, or family SUV.
You’re on a budget and looking for the best value.
In these cases, stick with regular fuel, and invest the savings in proper maintenance instead.
? Also read: Love Your Car — Servicing Tips for Longevity
? Efficiency & Environmental Considerations
Some tests suggest premium fuels can improve fuel economy by 2–4%. But in real-world UK driving, the benefit is often too small to offset the extra cost. Environmentally, reducing carbon deposits can help emissions slightly, but again, the difference is marginal compared to simply keeping your car serviced and your tyres inflated.
For most drivers, eco-driving habits and regular maintenance will save far more fuel (and emissions) than upgrading to premium at the pump.
?? Final Thoughts
Premium fuel has its place — but it isn’t a magic potion. If your car needs it, use it. If it doesn’t, you’re better off saving your money for quality servicing and repairs.
At Brede Garage, we help drivers across East Sussex cut through the myths and focus on what really matters: preventative maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs that keep you safe, efficient, and road-ready.
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