Can you use regular gas in 2023 Acura RDX?
Yes, regular 87-octane gasoline can be used in a pinch, but the 2023 Acura RDX is designed to run best on premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher).
The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine in the 2023 RDX benefits from higher-octane fuel to maximize boost and timing. Acura’s official guidance, drawn from the owner’s manual, outlines octane recommendations and the trade-offs of using a lower-octane fuel. The article below breaks down the guidance and what it means for everyday driving.
Fuel requirements for the 2023 Acura RDX
What you need to know about octane and fueling for this model is summarized below.
- Premium gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI (often labeled as 91 octane) or higher is recommended to maximize performance and efficiency.
- Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) can be used if premium is not available, but expect reduced throttle response, slower acceleration, and potentially lower fuel economy.
- Fuel with octane lower than the recommended level may trigger engine-knock protection features, especially under boost or high-load conditions, potentially limiting performance.
Bottom line: whenever possible, fuel with premium octane to maintain the RDX’s designed performance and efficiency.
Why octane matters in turbocharged engines
Octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to pre-ignition. In turbocharged engines like the RDX, higher-octane fuels help prevent knocking when boost is up, allowing the engine to run as intended.
- Higher octane resists premature ignition under compression, preserving power and smooth operation.
- Turbocharged engines operate at higher cylinder pressures, making octane more influential on performance.
- Using lower octane can cause the engine to retard timing or reduce boost to protect itself, diminishing power and responsiveness.
In short, octane matters for turbocharged performance and long-term engine health.
What to do if you accidentally use regular gas
If you fill up with regular gasoline by mistake, you can continue driving without harm, but you should plan to refuel with premium at your next opportunity and avoid aggressive driving until you can refuel with higher-octane fuel.
- Drive normally but avoid hard acceleration or sustained high boost for the next few miles if possible.
- Refuel with premium (91 octane or higher) as soon as you can.
- Next time you refuel, check the octane label to ensure you’re buying a premium fuel; monitor engine performance for unusual knocking or reduced power and consult a dealer if symptoms persist.
Bottom line: using regular gas occasionally is permitted, but premium is recommended for optimal performance and efficiency; refuel with premium at the earliest opportunity.
Fuel availability and regional notes
Fuel labeling and octane ratings vary by market. In the United States, premium is commonly 91 octane (AKI) or higher, while some regions use different labeling. Always refer to the owner’s manual for your specific market and follow the recommended fuel type for the most consistent performance.
Summary: For the 2023 Acura RDX, premium gasoline is recommended to achieve the vehicle’s designed performance, with regular gas acceptable only when premium isn’t available; regular use can reduce power and efficiency. If you ever fill with regular gas, refuel with premium as soon as possible and drive conservatively until you can replenish with higher-octane fuel.
