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Does the 2019 Honda CR-V require premium gas?

In brief, no: the 2019 CR-V’s turbocharged 1.5-liter engine runs on regular 87-octane gasoline, and premium fuel is not required for normal driving. Higher-octane fuel may be used, but it is not mandated for this model year.


Fuel guidance and engine details


The 2019 CR-V uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission. Honda specifies regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 as the minimum grade for this engine. The vehicle is designed to operate with typical gasoline blends used in the United States, and premium fuel is not required to achieve the car’s stated performance or efficiency targets.


Key takeaways from Honda’s fuel guidance:



  • Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is suitable for the 1.5L turbo engine.

  • Premium gasoline is not required for normal operation or typical daily driving.

  • Follow the vehicle’s ethanol compatibility guidelines as outlined in the owner’s manual.


In short, for most drivers, sticking with regular gasoline will keep the CR-V running as intended, without the need for premium fuel.


Should you ever use premium?


Premium fuel is not necessary for the 2019 CR-V and is unlikely to yield a noticeable improvement in daily performance or fuel economy for typical driving scenarios. Some drivers may choose to try higher-octane fuel in rare circumstances—such as under aggressive driving conditions or when the engine administrator detects knocking—but Honda’s official guidance indicates that regular 87-octane fuel is appropriate for everyday use.


Common beliefs about premium gas and turbo engines:



  • Premium gas is often marketed as providing more power or better performance, but the CR-V’s 1.5L turbo does not require it for normal operation.

  • If you experience knocking or pinging on regular gasoline, consult your dealer or technician rather than assuming premium will fix the issue; there may be another underlying maintenance or fueling concern.


Ultimately, unless you notice knocking, or you operate the vehicle under unusual high-load conditions in which your dealer recommends a higher octane, regular fuel remains the practical choice.


Summary


The 2019 Honda CR-V does not require premium gas. Regular 87-octane gasoline is suitable for the 1.5-liter turbo engine, and premium fuel is optional rather than mandatory. For most owners, there’s no compelling fuel-cost reason to fill with higher-octane gasoline. Always consult the owner’s manual for your specific trim’s guidelines and regional recommendations.

Can I put 87 gas in my Honda CR-V?


Recommended Fuel for Honda Vehicles
Most Honda models are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87. This fuel type contains no more than 10% ethanol, also known as E10.



What happens if I put premium gas in my Honda?


It's unlikely that your car will be harmed if you use premium gas in a car that requires regular gas. But it's a near-certainty that you won't see an increase in performance and a fact that you'll pay more for premium.



What type of gas does a 2019 Honda CRV take?


Honda engines are certified and designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline.



Which CRV to stay away from?


Quick Summary: Honda CR-V Years to Avoid

Model YearKey Issues
2002–2006AC compressor failures, rear differential noise (AWD)
2010–2011Excessive oil consumption
2012–2013Vibration at idle due to engine mounts and AC load
2015–2016CVT shudder or hesitation under acceleration


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.