What Type of Fuel Will Keep My VW Running Its Best?

The Difference Between Regular and Premium Gasoline, and Which Fuel Type is Ideal for Volkswagen Vehicles

Even though the price of gas has dropped considerably in the past couple years, trips to the pump are still painful for the average American driver. That goes double for drivers of luxury or high-performance vehicles that require premium fuel.

According to data shared by AAA in April 2023, the average price of regular gas in Utah is $3.79 per gallon compared to $4.20 per gallon for premium. For drivers who travel a lot or have long commutes, the pricing difference adds up significantly over time.

For vehicle owners who keep cost of ownership top of mind, fuel prices are a factor that can’t be ignored. As a driver of a Volkswagen vehicle, you may wonder what benefit premium gas has to offer. Is it better for the engine? Will it provide a boost in performance? Does it have engine cleaning properties?

Once we break down the difference between the two fuel grades and which is best for Volkswagen vehicles, we’ll provide some fuel economy info about Volkswagen SUV models as well as sedans.

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

The differentiating factor between regular gas and premium gas is the octane level. Regular gas has an octane level of 87 whereas premium grade fuel has an octane level of 91. Essentially, higher-octane fuels are more balanced and far more stabilized against engine knocking and spontaneous combustion. Some forms of premium gas come with anti-corrosives, detergents, and other additives that claim to reduce carbon buildup and promote overall engine health.

When Should Premium Gas Be Used?

The quick and simple answer is premium gas should only be used on cars that specifically require it. Vehicles featuring high-compression engines or turbochargers typically require high-octane fuel to deliver optimal performance. Not using premium gas for a vehicle that requires it may result in reduced fuel economy and a lagging feeling when trying to accelerate. Prolonged use of regular gas may result in engine knocking or other engine problems down the line.

That brings us to our next common question: can premium gas be used on a vehicle that takes regular fuel? Yes, it can, but it would be a huge waste of money. Using premium gas on a car that takes regular gas has no added benefit and no engine-cleaning properties. It also won’t improve your fuel economy.

If you’re the driver of a Volkswagen vehicle and are concerned about carbon build-up, switching over to premium gas won’t resolve that. Getting the vehicle regularly serviced at the right intervals is the best way to prevent engine issues.

Gas Mileage for Volkswagen SUV models, Sedans, and Hatchbacks

To provide an at-a-glance reference, the following breaks down estimated fuel economy for all 2023 Volkswagen vehicles. Keep in mind, fuel economy can be impacted by adverse weather, road conditions, passenger/cargo weight, tire condition, and other factors.

• Volkswagen Tiguan gas mileage – up to 23 city/30 highway
• Volkswagen Taos gas mileage – up to 28 city/36 highway
• Volkswagen Atlas gas mileage – up to 21 city/25 highway
• Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport gas mileage – up to 21 city/25 highway
• Volkswagen Jetta gas mileage – up to 31 city/41 highway
• Volkswagen Golf GTI gas mileage – up to 24 city/34 highway
• Volkswagen Golf R gas mileage – up to 23 city/30 highway
• Volkswagen Arteon gas mileage – up to 25 city/33 highway

Since Volkswagen vehicles are built to run on regular unleaded gas, it’s advised not to use premium gas, unless you’re driving one of the Turbocharged engines like the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan and 2020 Volkswagen Jetta. Turbocharged engines run best when fueled with high octane fuel, which is found in premium gas. It’s also worth noting Volkswagen carries one all-electric option with more EVs slated for release in 2024 and 2025.

The 2023 VW ID.4 Pro model gets up to 275 miles on a single charge. Using DC fast charging, the vehicle can get up to 80% of its battery replenished in 30-36 minutes. On a related note, the 2023 VW ID.4 now qualifies for the EV tax credit now that the vehicle is manufactured domestically. The ID.4 and subsequent ID models are part of the Volkswagen Group’s overall goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

How to Learn More About Volkswagen Vehicles

Those who are wanting to find out more about VW vehicles and how to keep them in optimal condition are encouraged to visit the “Getting your Car Ready For Summer in South Jordan” page. It breaks down the main services Volkswagen vehicles need for hot weather driving. For additional questions, contact your local Volkswagen dealership.

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