As UK diesel prices continue to soar amidst turmoil in the middle east, the idea of choosing a more expensive, premium fuel, might feel nonsensical.
But while regular diesel will save you money at the pump, will it end up costing you more in the long run? Keep reading to find out the key differences between premium and regular diesel, if you should consider using it, and why it might make your car more economical to run.
What is Premium Diesel?
Premium diesel is an enhanced formulation of standard diesel fuel that contains additional detergent additives, lubricity agents, and cetane improvers. Sold under brand names like Shell V-Power Diesel, BP Ultimate Diesel, and Esso Synergy Supreme+ Diesel, it's designed to burn more cleanly and efficiently than the standard diesel you'd pump as the cheapest option at the forecourt.
Where regular diesel must meet a minimum EN 590 standard set by European regulation, premium diesel goes beyond those requirements. Fuel retailers add their own proprietary additive packages to differentiate their products, though the base diesel itself often comes from the same refineries.
It’s worth noting that unlike petrol — which, in the UK, has a different ethanol content between premium and regular and thus isn’t suitable for all petrol engines — all standard diesel vehicles will accept all types of diesel sold at UK fuel stations.