Hit the road in the supremely sporty BMW i4 Gran Coupe. Click here to browse our inventory.

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

Gas pumps in a row

 

You should always use premium gasoline in your BMW vehicle, but you might still have questions about the difference between premium and regular gas! In practice, the two types of gasoline are distinguished by their octane ratings. Read on to compare premium vs. regular gas on all the points that matter most and learn more about why BMW vehicles perform best with premium.

What is Premium Gasoline? 

Like standard gasoline, premium gasoline is produced from crude oil. However, it goes through an additional process of refinement that results in an octane level of 90 or higher. Gasoline with a higher octane level is slightly more difficult to ignite; that is, it only ignites when it’s supposed to! It also burns more cleanly, which helps to keep your engine cleaner. Using premium gasoline may even reduce pollution in San Marcos and San Diego.

What is Regular Unleaded Gasoline? 

Regular gasoline—more specifically, regular unleaded gasoline—is the most common type of fuel for motor vehicles. Although it burns more cleanly than older types of gasoline that contain lead, it falls short of the standard set by premium. Regular gasoline generally has an octane rating of 87.

The Difference Between Premium and Regular Gas

As we noted from the outset, the main difference between premium and regular gasoline concerns their octane levels! With a higher octane rating, the risk of engine knocking—or improper combustion—is much lower. This difference helps to protect high-compression engines and turbochargers from excess wear and tear; even though you technically can use regular gasoline in your BMW, doing so will put your investment at risk. Here’s what else you should know:

  • Although premium gasoline may cost anywhere from 20 to 40 cents more than regular gasoline, it’s much more suitable for the high-performance engines that you find in BMW cars and SUVs.
  • Using premium gasoline in a vehicle that does not require it will not result in any significant performance or longevity benefits. 
  • Using regular gasoline may not harm your vehicle right away—so don’t worry if you’ve accidentally selected the wrong fuel! However, it definitely puts you at risk in the long term. Take action if you notice any engine knocking when you’re out and about in Escondido or Poway.

Contact the BMW of Escondido Service Center Today

If you have any more questions about the differences between premium and regular gas, all you have to do is let us know! While you’re here, get the answers to other common service and maintenance questions with our team.

More from BMW of Escondido

  • 2022 BMW X5 Hybrid Reviews

    If you’re on the hunt for a hybrid that still has plenty of luxury, we suggest you take a look at the 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e. This is the same midsize luxury SUV you’ve come to rely on for your San Marcos adventures, but in plug-in hybrid format! What do the critics have to say about…

  • 2022 BMW 7 Series Configurations and Price

      As BMW’s flagship sedan, the 2022 BMW 7 Series configurations stand out from the competition with ultra-luxurious style and cutting-edge technology. But if you’re shopping for a brand new BMW 7 Series, how much will it cost? Take a look at the BMW 7 Series price list below: BMW 7 Series 740i Sedan: $86,800…

  • 2022 BMW 5 Series Price

      The BMW 5 Series configurations have gained fans throughout San Marcos and San Diego for their elegance, power, and luxury – but just how much does a new model cost? The 2022 BMW 5 Series price list starts at $54,200 MSRP, and you can choose between eight unique BMW 5 Series trims for the 2022 model…

Get Directions

1557 Auto Park Way, Escondido, CA, 92029
BMW of Escondido 33.1162419, -117.109332.