How Your Car Reacts to E20 vs E0 Petrol
Bottom line: Since the government replaced E10 with E20, most drivers now have only two choices – pure petrol (E0) or a 20% ethanol blend (E20). Your older car can run on both, but the fuel type will affect engine feel, mileage, and long‑term wear.
How Your Car Reacts to E20 vs E0 Petrol – What to Expect
Image: How Your Car Reacts to E20 vs E0 Petrol – What to Expect – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks (Fuel Compatibility)
Modern fuel systems are built to handle a range of ethanol blends. If your car was sold before 2011, check the owner’s manual – most models are rated for up to E20. Ethanol is more corrosive than pure gasoline, so manufacturers added ethanol‑resistant plastics and stainless‑steel components. Visually there’s no difference at the pump, but the nozzle often shows a green leaf for E20 and a black label for E0.
Performance & Mileage
Because ethanol contains less energy per litre, you’ll notice a slight dip in fuel economy when you switch to E20. On average, mileage drops 3‑5% – a 15‑km/l rating becomes about 14‑14.5 km/l. Acceleration feels a bit sharper on E20 thanks to ethanol’s higher octane (typically 95 vs 91 for E0). This can reduce engine knock in high‑compression engines, but the benefit is modest for everyday driving.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Engine | Mileage (E0) | Mileage (E20) | Price (per litre) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 L Petrol | 15 km/l | 14 km/l | $1.30 vs $1.35 |
|
Price & Rivals
In most cities E20 is priced a few cents cheaper than E0, but the savings are quickly offset by the lower mileage. If you drive under 10,000 km a year, the difference is negligible. However, if you chase every kilometre of fuel economy, sticking with E0 might save you money in the long run.
Other options, like premium‑grade fuels with 98 octane, can offer better performance but at a higher cost. For the average driver, the choice between E0 and E20 boils down to personal preference: lower price vs marginally better mileage.
FAQ
- Will E20 damage my older car? No, if the manufacturer lists E20 as compatible. Using E20 in a non‑compatible engine can cause corrosion over time.
- How much mileage will I lose with E20? Expect a 3‑5% drop compared to E0.
- Is it worth paying extra for E0? If you drive a lot, the better fuel economy may justify the higher price.
Got a story about switching fuels? Share it in the comments below!
Source: Read Official News
