
Why Premium Fuel Isn’t Required for Most Volkswagen SUV Models and Sedans
Drivers across the country still feel the sting of high gas prices, especially those living in the heart of Texas. According to AAA, the average cost per gallon was approximately $3.56 at the end of June 2023. Although the situation with gas prices has improved since the $4 per gallon days, many drivers are searching for tips and tricks to regain control over the situation.
Some of the most common questions include:
- Which Volkswagen vehicles offer the best fuel economy for drivers on a budget?
- Are there any best practices I can implement to extend my gas mileage?
- Is it true that premium fuel will increase my mileage and is better for my engine?
- What is the real difference between regular fuel and premium?
At the end of the day, the average driver wants to decrease their fuel expenses as much as possible. This especially applies to drivers who have luxury and high-performance vehicles, which are notorious for poor fuel economy.
To ensure that drivers get the most out of their vehicles, we’re tackling the most common questions about fuel and gas mileage. We will also dispel some common myths about premium gasoline vs. regular.
The Truth Behind the Regular vs. Premium Gas Debate
Labeling something as “premium” is a great way to make consumers think a product is superior to its regular counterpart. So, it stands to reason that premium gasoline is better than regular, right? Well, not quite. The main difference are the octane levels; regular is 87 while premium is 91.
Over the years, premium gas has amassed a reputation as being better for car engines and promoting improved fuel economy. However, those two claims are nothing more than rumors. The truth is that premium gas has no effect on how a car operates that is designed to run on regular unleaded. It won’t hurt it, nor will it help it. Essentially, premium is a waste of money when used in cars that don’t require it.
By comparison, a car that is designed to run on premium must not deviate from it. Using regular gas for vehicles that need premium fuel can lead to problems, such as engine knocking and poor engine health. High-performance engines require the balanced composition fuel that only premium gas provides.
Volkswagen Vehicles and Fuel
Volkswagen vehicles are designed with cost of ownership in mind, which means most models are engineered to run optimally on regular unleaded gasoline. The VW lineup offers excellent fuel economy across various models, including Volkswagen SUV models. The following breaks down 2023 Volkswagen models and their estimated fuel economy:
- Volkswagen Golf R gas mileage – up to 23 city/30 highway
- Volkswagen Golf GTI gas mileage – up to 24 city/34 highway
- Volkswagen Tiguan gas mileage – up to 23 city/30 highway
- Volkswagen Atlas gas mileage – up to 21 city/25 highway
- Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport gas mileage – up to 21 city/25 highway
- Volkswagen Jetta gas mileage – up to 31 city/41 highway
- Volkswagen Jetta GLI gas mileage – up to 26 city/36 highway
- Volkswagen Arteon gas mileage – up to 25 city/33 highway
- Volkswagen Taos gas mileage – up to 28 city/36 highway
While these vehicles run perfectly fine on regular unleaded gasoline, there are some Volkswagen models, such as the 2020 Jetta and 2021 Tiguan, that require premium fuel for their turbocharged engines to function optimally. Always be mindful of what type of gas your VW takes to ensure prolonged engine performance.
Exploring an Electric Option – The Volkswagen ID.4
Drivers seeking to avoid the gasoline dilemma altogether should check out the 2023 VW ID.4, which is an all-electric SUV. The Pro model delivers up to 275 miles on a single charge and comes with three free years of unlimited 30-minute DC fast-charging sessions via Electrify America charging stations. That means drivers won’t have to worry about paying for fuel or charging costs until 2026.
Where to Find Out More About Fuel-Efficient Volkswagen Vehicles
Those who are interested in the VW ID.4, the new Jetta, or another fuel-efficient vehicle from Volkswagen should visit their local VW dealership. The friendly staff can walk you through all the finer points of VW vehicle ownership, how to reduce fuel costs, and the cost of ownership advantages that only Volkswagen can offer.
For more information about how VW plans to improve vehicle sustainability, check out the “How Will Volkswagen ID Models Become More Sustainable?” blog. It comprehensively breaks down how VW plans to implement eco-friendly changes and decrease their reliance on gasoline.

