Unleaded plus gasoline, often referred to as mid-grade fuel, sits between unleaded and premium gasoline in terms of octane rating. Octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to knocking, which can damage an engine. Higher octane gasoline is less prone to knocking.
Benefits of Unleaded Plus:
Reduced Knocking: Unleaded plus has a higher octane rating than unleaded, reducing the likelihood of knocking, especially in vehicles with higher compression ratios.
Smoother Engine Operation: Unleaded plus can result in smoother engine operation and acceleration, improving overall driving experience.
Potential Fuel Economy Improvement: While not guaranteed, some vehicles may experience increased fuel economy when using unleaded plus.
Considerations:
Engine Type: Unleaded plus is particularly beneficial for vehicles with higher compression ratios, as they require higher octane ratings to prevent knocking. Vehicle Manufacturer Recommendation: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended octane rating. Using a higher octane gasoline than recommended will not provide additional benefits and may waste money. Cost: Unleaded plus is generally more expensive than regular unleaded gasoline.
Summary:
Unleaded plus gasoline offers a balance between unleaded and premium, providing reduced knocking, improved engine operation, and potential fuel economy benefits. However, it’s crucial to consider vehicle manufacturer recommendations, engine type, and cost when selecting the appropriate gasoline.
Octane Rating: Unleaded plus gasoline has a higher octane rating (89-90) than regular unleaded gasoline (87), making it more resistant to knocking. Engine Performance: Unleaded plus can improve engine performance, particularly in vehicles with higher compression ratios, as it reduces the risk of knocking and ensures smoother operation. Fuel Economy: The impact of unleaded plus on fuel economy is not always consistent. Some vehicles may experience improved fuel efficiency when using unleaded plus, while others may not show any significant difference. Cost: Unleaded plus is typically more expensive than regular unleaded gasoline.
Octane Rating: Premium gasoline has a higher octane rating (91-93) than unleaded plus (89-90), providing even greater resistance to knocking. Engine Performance: Premium gasoline is designed for high-performance vehicles and engines with very high compression ratios. It offers optimal engine protection and performance, reducing the risk of knocking and ensuring maximum power output. Fuel Economy: The impact of premium gasoline on fuel economy is similar to that of unleaded plus. Some vehicles may experience improved fuel efficiency, while others may not see any significant change. Cost: Premium gasoline is the most expensive of the three unleaded gasoline grades.
Is Unleaded Plus the Same as Premium?
No, unleaded plus is not the same as premium gasoline. Unleaded plus has an octane rating of 89-90, while premium gasoline has an octane rating of 91-93. Unleaded plus is typically recommended for vehicles with higher compression ratios, while premium gasoline is recommended for high-performance vehicles.
Characteristic
Unleaded Plus
Octane Rating
89-90
Benefits
Reduced knocking, smoother engine operation, potential for improved fuel economy
Unleaded plus is typically recommended for vehicles with higher compression ratios, can help prevent knocking and improve engine performance, but may not provide additional benefits for all vehicles.
