Normal Petrol vs XP95: What is the difference between the two and why did the price increase suddenly?

Normal Petrol vs XP95: There are two main types of petrol available at petrol pumps in India. This includes normal (regular) petrol and premium (high-octane or branded) petrol. Premium petrol is often known by the names XP95, Power or Speed ​​etc. If we talk about normal and this type of petrol, then the main difference between these two is the octane rating.

The octane rating of normal petrol is usually around 91 RON. With E20 blend it now reaches around 95. Whereas, in premium petrol it ranges from 95 to 100 RON. The higher the octane number, the better the petrol burns in high pressure and temperature, which reduces the problem of engine knocking.

Why is premium petrol more expensive than normal?

Additional additives and detergents are also added to premium petrol, which keep the engine clean, reduce carbon deposits and provide better performance in the long run. These additives increase production costs. Therefore, premium petrol is costlier by Rs 10-60 per liter than normal.

However, premium fuel can damage the normal engine of the vehicle and also reduce performance. Putting premium petrol in normal cars or bikes does not provide much benefit, because their engine is tuned for 91 RON only.

Why did the price of premium petrol increase?

On March 20, 2026, oil marketing companies (IOCL, HPCL, BPCL) increased the prices of premium petrol (XP95, Power, Speed) by Rs 2 to Rs 2.35 per liter. This increase came into effect immediately, while the prices of normal petrol still remain stable. The biggest reason for this is that there is no blending of any kind in premium fuel. At the same time, normal petrol is being sold mixed with 20 percent ethanol.

Due to the high cost of production and refining of premium petrol, the companies are affected first, whereas the prices of normal petrol have not been increased to provide relief to the common consumers. Experts believe that if crude oil reaches $130 then even normal petrol and diesel can become expensive, but at present the government and OMCs have tried to save the general public from shock.