Premium vs Regular Petrol: Which Does Your Car Need?
Should you pay for 95/98 premium or stick with 91? A Cranbourne West specialist explains what your car actually needs.
What the octane number means
The number (91, 95, 98) is the fuel’s octane rating — its resistance to pre-ignition (“knock”), not a measure of “quality” or power on its own. Many European and turbocharged engines are designed for 95 or 98 and will pull timing (reducing power and economy) on lower octane.
Your fuel-filler flap or handbook states the minimum octane — that’s the one to follow.
When premium is worth it — and when it isn’t
If your car specifies 95/98, use it — running lower octane long-term can hurt performance and, on some engines, cause damage. If your car is designed for 91, premium usually gives little or no benefit, so you’re mostly paying extra for nothing.
E10 is fine in most modern cars (check compatibility), but it has slightly less energy than 91. Not sure what yours needs? We’ll tell you.
Not sure which is right for your car?
Every car and situation is different — the best choice depends on your exact vehicle, how you use it and its condition. We give you straight, no-pressure advice based on what’s actually best for you, not what makes us the most.
Talk it through with a Cranbourne West specialist. Book online in 60 seconds or call 03 8782 0711.
Premium vs Regular Petrol: Which Does Your Car Need? — FAQ
Only if your car specifies 95/98 — then yes. If it’s designed for 91, premium usually gives little benefit.
Not ideal long-term — the engine pulls timing, losing power/economy, and some engines can be harmed. Use the specified minimum.
Most modern cars yes (check compatibility) — it has slightly less energy than 91.
On the fuel-filler flap or in the handbook — or ask us.
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