Premium Fuel is a "Rip Off"

A test of premium fuels by What Car? has revealed that they aren't giving motorists the benefits claimed.

So-called 'superfuels' have a higher octane rating than regular fuel, and as such cost more per litre at the pumps.

The fuel companies claim that the added cost is outweighed by the efficiency and performance benefits they bring - with one company claiming its high octane fuel offers up to 25 percent more mileage.

However, the What Car? test found that although most of these fuels do improve fuel economy, the advantage is always less than the manufacturer's claim and the price premium.

Tesco claims improved economy of 'up to 25 percent' for its 99 RON 'Momentum' petrol, compared to its regular 95 RON unleaded. However, the study found only a two percent efficiency improvement, yet the fuel costs 3.7 percent more per litre.

It's the same with diesel superfuel, with the study finding that BP Ultimate diesel gave a 1.4 percent improvement in miles per gallon. BP claims 'up to three percent' compared to its regular diesel, and charges 3.6 percent more per litre.

What Car? says its testing method was “rigorous,” carried out on various roads over hundreds of miles, and by a former senior research engineer for the AA.

Responding to the results, fuel companies maintain that high octane fuels provide justifiable benefits.