Supermarket vs branded fuel: is cheap petrol worse?
Supermarket fuel is often cheaper than the big brands. A common worry is that it's lower quality. It isn't.
All UK fuel meets the same standard
Every litre of petrol sold in the UK must meet British Standard BS EN 228, and every litre of diesel BS EN 590. It doesn't matter whose name is on the canopy: the base fuel meets the same specification, and often comes from the same refineries and terminals.
So what's different?
Fuel companies add their own additive packs, such as detergents that help keep engines clean. Branded and supermarket fuels both contain additives; brands may use more, especially in their premium grades. For everyday driving in a modern car, standard supermarket fuel is fine.
Is premium fuel worth it?
Premium petrol (super unleaded, E5) has a higher octane rating. Some high-performance engines need it, and their handbooks will say so. For most cars, the benefit is small compared with the extra cost per litre. If your car is happy on E10, there's usually no need to pay more.
Compare the prices
See today's averages at Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons and Costco on our supermarket fuel prices page, or brand pages for Shell, BP and Esso.
Questions
Is supermarket fuel bad for your car?
No. All petrol sold in the UK meets BS EN 228 and all diesel meets BS EN 590, whoever sells it. Supermarket fuel is fine for everyday driving.
Is Shell or BP fuel better than Tesco or Asda?
The base fuel meets the same British Standards. Brands add their own additives, especially in premium grades, which some drivers prefer, but standard supermarket fuel is perfectly suitable for most cars.