Is there a difference between French and UK pump fuels which can affect fuel economy?

I was interested to read your comments about the KIA Sorento. Two years ago I took delivery of a new KX3 2.2D and the following day started a journey to the south of France. While it was running on UK diesel I averaged 38mpg, but on French diesel it dropped to 32mpg, yet returned to 38mpg when back in the UK. I have just returned from a similar journey, covering 2500 miles, and again, like you, I averaged 40 on UK diesel and 36 on French. Although fuel in France is cheaper per litre, it must be lower Cetane, and I wondered if you have any information on this? I am very impressed with the Sorento, both performance, and load carrying capability and, although it is quite large, it is also very manoeuvrable in tight spots.

Asked on 17 August 2013 by SP, Hazel Grove

Answered by Honest John

The reasons are twofold. I was in the latest version of the Sorento, which is now slightly more efficient. And in the UK I was driving at the UK limit of 70mph, while in France I was driving at the French limit of 130kmh, which is 81mph. The fuel was mostly the same, because I filled up at Folkestone on the way out. That said, I am currently finding that Shell V-Power Nitro+ is giving me 9 per cent more mpg at a cost of 5.7 per cent more than Shell Fuelsave.

Tags: fuel economy mpg premium fuels driving abroad

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Kia Sorento (2010 - 2015)

Strong diesels including impressive 2.2-litre. Comes with seven seats. New six-speed automatic. More premium feel than previous Sorento. Great value for money.