Higher octane allows engines to have higher compression ratios (for a more energetic explosion), more advanced ignition timing or forced-air induction like turbochargers or superchargers. ... It's the fuel's ability to be compressed more without pre-igniting that results in more power when used in the appropriate engine.

Is it better to use higher octane fuel?

In a consumer notice, the Federal Trade Commission, notes: “In most cases, using a higher-octane gasoline than your owner's manual recommends offers absolutely no benefit. It won't make your car perform better, go faster, get better mileage or run cleaner.”

Why does higher octane gas cost more?

Higher octane fuel costs more because the fuel components that boost octane are generally more expensive to produce.