With hi octane petrol now only slightly more expensive than regular petrol, many drivers in Pakistan are rethinking what they put in their tanks.
At PSO stations in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Gujranwala, hi octane petrol costs Rs279.9 per litre, while regular petrol sells for Rs264.7. That means the difference is just Rs15 per litre. For many, it’s a small price to pay for potentially better performance.
Car owners are sharing their experiences online. Abdul Hannan, who drives a Corolla Altis 1.8, said his fuel efficiency and driving experience improved significantly after switching to hi octane fuel in 2021. “Before, my car gave 9-10 km per litre and the ride was rough. Now I get 13-14 km per litre, and the drive is smoother. When hi octane fuel isn’t available, I notice the car struggles,” he said.
Abdulrehman Lodhi, an automotive enthusiast, has been using hi octane for over five years. He says the small extra cost is worth it. “The car covers more kilometres and runs better. Paying a little more is nothing compared to the benefits,” he explained.
What hi octane really does
Hi octane fuel has a higher resistance to knocking, helping engines run smoother and protecting them from damage. It’s particularly useful for high-performance, turbocharged, or sports cars. It can also help keep engine parts cleaner, including the throttle body and catalytic converter.
Not every car will see a huge difference. Vehicles built for regular petrol may not gain extra mileage, and using hi octane won’t harm the engine, it just may not feel worth the extra cost.
The government recently cut high-speed diesel by Rs14 per litre due to changes in international markets, but petrol prices remain unchanged. Petrol primarily fuels private cars, two-wheelers, and small vehicles, so the cost directly affects middle- and lower-income households.
With the gap between hi octane and regular petrol now small, more drivers may be tempted to try it, hoping for smoother rides and better mileage without spending much more.
