OWN THE ROAD WITH AUTOTRADER, EPISODE 23: IS PREMIUM GAS WORTH IT?

EV Channels Review

This episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road' tackles the common question of whether premium gasoline is worth the extra cost. Hosts Dan and Jodi effectively debunk the myth that using premium fuel in a car not requiring it provides any performance or efficiency benefits, highlighting significant cost savings by sticking to the manufacturer's recommendation. They clearly differentiate between 'premium required' and 'premium recommended' vehicles, explaining the potential risks of using the wrong fuel in performance or luxury cars, including engine knock and long-term damage, while emphasizing that modern engines are designed to run optimally on the specified octane. The discussion extends to debunking the notion that turbocharged engines or Subaru's boxer engines inherently need premium fuel. The hosts also address a viewer question about reliable compact cars, ultimately recommending the Honda Civic hatchback for its practicality, reliability, and cost of ownership, while acknowledging the Mazda 3's fun-to-drive nature and the Subaru Crosstrek's all-wheel-drive capability for off-road adventures. The episode strongly advises viewers to consult their owner's manual for accurate fuel requirements.