Regular, plus, or premium? With three types of gasoline grades available at the pump, how do you know which is best for fueling your Toyota?

What’s the Difference?

Fuel types are given an octane rating that helps drivers judge the fuel’s volatility. At 87 octane, regular gas is easier to burn than 92-93 premium, while 89 plus (or “mid-grade”) falls in between. Premium fuel is generally reserved for high-performance luxury vehicles with engines designed specifically for a higher octane rating.

The Required Octane Rating Depends on the Vehicle

Most vehicles are designed to use regular 87 octane fuel. Their powertrains feature inbuilt adjustments geared toward that specific octane rating, which means that using regular gasoline is more efficient. Opting for a higher octane fuel doesn’t come with any advantages and doesn’t have an extra effect on the engine. Essentially, choosing premium fuel for a Toyota designed to run on regular won’t harm the car, but you’re just throwing money away.

The Bottom Line

Since there aren’t any advantages to using a higher octane fuel when it isn’t needed, be sure to stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations for fuel requirements. There has only been one noted instance in which a small turbocharged engine received better fuel economy with premium gas, but this outcome is extremely rare and didn’t involve a Toyota model.

At the end of the day, Toyota vehicles, unless otherwise stated in the owner’s manual, thrive on regular gasoline, so you can keep those extra pennies in your pocket.
Image via Flickr by dno1967b

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