Premium vs. Regular Gas: What’s the Difference?

What is the difference between premium and regular gas? It’s an important thing to know so you can pick the correct fuel type for your make and model next time you’re at the pump in Greensboro. Carolina Kia of High Point has the details in this premium vs. regular gas comparison below. You can contact us anytime or visit us in High Point with questions.

What is Premium Gasoline?

Before we get into the difference between premium and regular gas, let’s start with where the two are similar. Both premium and regular gas are derived from crude oil, and are combustible.

One primary difference between premium and regular gas is their octane levels — the amount of pressure the fuel can take inside the fuel combustion engine without detonating. Premium gasoline has a higher octane level of 90 or above, meaning it has a lower chance of pre-ignition than regular gasoline. That said, premium gasoline costs between 20 to 40 cents more than regular gasoline. It is most beneficial for engines with high compression ratios.

What is Regular Unleaded Gasoline?

The most common type of gas is regular gasoline. As the name suggests, it does not contain lead and is, therefore, better for the environment and your health. Regular unleaded gasoline has an octane rating of 87. It burns faster than premium gas and is best for engines with low compression ratios.

The Difference Between Premium and Regular Gas: What You Should Know

When comparing premium vs. regular gas, you’ll want to keep the following in mind:

• Typically, vehicles with turbocharged engines will require premium gasoline.
• Using premium gas in a vehicle that doesn’t require it will not boost its performance or lifespan.
• Using regular gas in a vehicle that requires premium gas shouldn’t cause any damage to it. However, you should switch to premium gasoline if you start to hear knocking.

Contact Us for More Information

If you still have questions about the difference between premium and regular gas or a different topic, feel free to reach out to our service experts. You can also check out our service and parts tips for more information. And, if it’s time for maintenance, you can schedule an appointment with Carolina Kia of High Point online. Our service center is conveniently located near Kernersville and Thomasville.