What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Mazda 3 - which fuel is best?

I am buying a new Mazda 3 and the dealer recommends that I use normal 95 RON petrol rather than the higher octane petrol such as Shell V-Power, which I believe is 98 RRON. Would you recommend that I continue to use V-Power?
If you alternate between a 95 RON and 98 RON petrol does this cause problems for the engine and the knock sensor? I tend to only do a six mile town commute each day.

Asked on 28 January 2014 by Bathmark

Answered by Honest John
Yes. Cars are calibrated on the best fuels available and do not perform to the standard on inferior fuels. Do not switch from one to the other. Always use Shell V-Power 99Ron and only that. Other Super grade petrols in an emergency of you cannot get V-Power.
Similar questions
I own a Volvo 960 and the lambda warning light keeps coming on. My local garage reset the system, but the light came back after 100 miles. Any idea what's causing this?
Premium diesel is about 70p more per gallon and one of the additives used to formulate it is detergent. Would it be a good idea to add washing up liquid to standard diesel?
Having followed your advice, I this week purchased a 2010 Mazda MX-5 2.0 Sport Tech RC six-speed, which I am very happy with. The manual states to run it on premium unleaded - is there a particular fuel...
Related models
Great to drive, superb range of engines, stylish good looks.