When was the last time you really thought about the fuel you’re putting in your car? If your car takes petrol, you probably just go for whatever’s cheapest, and if it’s diesel, well, that’s an easy choice. But have you ever stopped to ask if you’re actually using the best fuel type for your car?
The truth is, what you put in your tank can make a big difference in how your Škoda performs, how efficient it is, and even how long your engine lasts. Different Škoda models have different fuel needs, and picking the right one could save you money, improve performance, and keep your car running smoothly for years.
In this guide, we’ll break down which Skoda fuel types are best for your model, help you understand what those RON numbers at the servo mean, and settle the debate on whether premium fuel is worth it. Let’s get into it!
Know the RON Numbers for your Škoda
Before we dive into which fuel is best for your Škoda, let’s talk about something you’ve probably seen at the pump but might not fully understand—RON numbers. RON stands for Research Octane Number, and it’s basically a measure of how resistant the fuel is to knocking (which is when the fuel burns unevenly in your engine).
In Australia, the most common options are:
- 91 RON – Regular Unleaded Petrol (RULP)
- 95 RON – Premium Unleaded Petrol (PULP)
- 98 RON – Premium Unleaded Petrol (PULP)
- E10 – Regular unleaded petrol mixed with up to 10% ethanol
- Diesel
The higher the RON number, the better the fuel can handle high compression in your engine without causing knocking.
Fuel Recommendations for Different Škoda Models
For all Škoda models, it’s important to consult your vehicle’s owner manual for the most accurate and up-to-date fuel recommendations. You can also find a label inside your vehicle’s fuel cap that specifies the required fuel type.
Below, we’ve provided a model-by-model guide to help you choose the best fuel for your Škoda, ensuring optimal performance and engine health.
Škoda Octavia Style
Use premium unleaded petrol (95 RON or higher) for the Škoda Octavia Style as per manufacturer recommendations.
Škoda Octavia Sportline
To maintain the performance of your Škoda Octavia Sportline, use premium unleaded petrol with at least 95 RON.
Škoda Octavia RS
The Škoda Octavia RS requires premium unleaded petrol (95 RON minimum) for optimal performance.
Škoda Octavia Wagon Style
Premium unleaded petrol (95 RON or higher) is recommended for the Škoda Octavia Wagon Style, as per manufacturer recommendations.
Škoda Octavia Wagon Sportline
For the Škoda Octavia Wagon Sportline, premium unleaded petrol with a minimum of 95 RON is required.
Škoda Octavia Wagon RS
Škoda advises using premium unleaded petrol (95 RON minimum) for the Škoda Octavia Wagon RS.
Škoda Superb Sportline
The Škoda Superb Sportline should be fueled with premium unleaded petrol (98 RON or higher) as per manufacturer guidelines.
Škoda Superb Wagon Sportline
For the Škoda Superb Wagon Sportline, use premium unleaded petrol with at least 98 RON.
Škoda Kodiaq Sportline
Škoda recommends premium unleaded petrol (95 RON minimum) for the Škoda Kodiaq Sportline.
Škoda Kodiaq Style
The Škoda Kodiaq Style requires premium unleaded petrol with a minimum of 95 RON.
Škoda Kodiaq RS
Use premium unleaded petrol (95 RON or higher) for the Škoda Kodiaq RS to maintain performance.
Škoda Fabia Select
The Škoda Fabia Select should be fueled with premium unleaded petrol (95 RON minimum).
Škoda Fabia Monte Carlo
Škoda advises using premium unleaded petrol (95 RON or higher) for the Škoda Fabia Monte Carlo.
Škoda Karoq Select
The Škoda Karoq Select requires premium unleaded petrol (minimum 95 RON) as recommended by Škoda.
Škoda Karoq Sportline
Use premium unleaded petrol (95 RON or higher) for the Škoda Karoq Sportline.
Škoda Karoq Sportline 4×4
Premium unleaded petrol with at least 95 RON is recommended for the Škoda Karoq Sportline 4×4.
Škoda Scala
The Škoda Scala requires premium unleaded petrol with a minimum of 95 RON.
Škoda Enyaq Coupé
The Škoda Enyaq Coupé is fully electric and does not require petrol or diesel.
Premium vs Regular Petrol: Is It Worth It?
Cost Factor
For most people, cost is a major factor. Premium petrol typically costs more than regular, so if your car doesn’t specifically require it, you might be tempted to skip the higher price tag. In some cases, particularly for cars designed to run on regular fuel, this is a smart move. You won’t see a major benefit from using premium fuel if it’s not required, and the savings can add up over time.
Performance Factor
But what about performance? Premium fuel has a higher octane rating, which means it can handle higher compression without causing engine knocking. For high-performance or turbocharged engines, premium petrol can improve acceleration and overall engine smoothness. That’s why most Škoda models with advanced engines recommend it. However, if you’re driving a standard vehicle and it doesn’t require premium, the performance gains from switching to a higher-octane fuel are often negligible.
Longevity Factor
Then there’s the question of longevity. Some people believe that using premium fuel can help your engine last longer or keep it running cleaner, but the evidence is mixed. While higher octane can prevent premature combustion, which is good for the engine, there’s limited proof that regularly using premium petrol significantly extends the lifespan of a car unless it specifically calls for it.
So, does premium petrol make sense? If your Škoda’s engine is designed for it, absolutely. But if your vehicle runs fine on regular unleaded, you’re probably better off saving some money and sticking to what the manufacturer recommends.
Maintain Your Škoda’s Engine Health
Choosing the right fuel is one part of keeping your Škoda running smoothly, but regular maintenance is just as important to ensure long-term engine health. Whether your Škoda requires premium unleaded or runs fine on regular petrol, staying on top of scheduled services is key to getting the most out of your vehicle.
At Škoda Perth City, our certified Škoda technicians are here to help you with all your maintenance needs. From oil changes to more comprehensive checks, a car service will keep your engine in peak condition, prevent potential issues, and improve your vehicle’s lifespan.
Schedule your Škoda service in Perth today to ensure your car runs smoothly for years to come!
