Consumer Reports Finds No Performance Gain From Premium Gas in Most SUVs

Consumer Reports evaluated whether paying extra for premium gasoline improves vehicle performance or fuel economy. The organization tested two sport utility vehicles that suggest but do not require high octane fuel. Their findings indicate that drivers of these models gain no measurable advantage from purchasing the more expensive option.

The cost difference at the pump is immediate and variable. Drivers in the Las Vegas area report paying 50 to 70 cents more per gallon for premium fuel, with some stations charging a full dollar more compared to regular unleaded. This price gap reflects the additional processing required to raise the octane rating, a change primarily designed for high performance engines and smaller engines that generate significant power.

Many luxury car brands require premium fuel, and some state that using regular gas may void the warranty. This requirement is valid if the owner's manual specifies premium as a must. However, the majority of vehicles currently on the road operate on regular gasoline. To determine if the higher cost is justified for cars that only recommend premium, Consumer Reports designed a controlled test at its facility.

Testers used an inline fuel consumption meter to compare the acceleration and fuel economy of two SUVs. They ran the vehicles using both 87 octane regular gas and 93 octane premium gas. The SUVs involved in the study were selected specifically because their manufacturers recommend, but do not require, the higher octane fuel.

The data showed no difference in performance between the two fuel types. The cars accelerated at the same rate and achieved identical fuel economy figures. Testers also reported that the vehicles felt and sounded the same during operation regardless of the gas used. In nearly every tested situation, the regular fuel functioned without issues, matching the premium fuel in every metric.

For drivers of vehicles that do not mandate premium gas, the cheaper regular option provides the same experience. Consumer Reports suggests taking the lower price at the pump, as the car will run just the same and the owner saves money. The organization notes that the only fuel type with a proven long-term engine benefit is Top Tier gas.

Top Tier gas is a higher standard offered at stations including Chevron, Costco, Exxon, Mobil, and Shell. This fuel contains detergents that prevent carbon buildup inside the engine, a process that can extend the life of the engine. Drivers looking for a long-term benefit should look for this specific label rather than just the octane number on the pump.