Motorists across the United Kingdom are being encouraged to reconsider their regular refuelling stops, as new data reveals a significant disparity in supermarket petrol prices. Asda has emerged as the clear market leader, offering the most affordable fuel, while competitors like Tesco, Morrisons, and Sainsbury's lag behind with notably higher costs.
Asda Leads the Pack with Substantial Savings
The latest figures show Asda currently selling petrol at just 122.7 pence per litre, positioning it well ahead of its main supermarket rivals. Morrisons follows at 129.2p per litre, with Tesco close behind at 129.7p and Sainsbury's at 129.8p per litre. This price advantage represents a meaningful saving for drivers filling their tanks regularly.
Simon Williams, Head of Policy at the RAC, commented on the positive trend: "Seeing the price of petrol dip below 132p is a genuine boost for drivers, rewinding prices to levels we last saw four and a half years ago. With even cheaper prices available depending on where drivers fill up, this is a positive start to the year for household budgets."
Expert Advice for Maximising Fuel Efficiency
Ash Young from car retailer 1dot provided valuable insights for motorists looking to make the most of lower fuel prices: "Great news for drivers - announced today, petrol prices in the UK have dropped to their lowest level since summer 2021, with the average litre now averaging £1.32 according to the RAC, saving motorists almost £3 on a typical tank."
Young emphasised that driving conditions significantly impact fuel consumption, particularly during the current wet weather brought by Storm Chandra: "Rain increases rolling resistance and can make engines work harder, meaning fuel consumption can rise even when petrol is cheaper."
Practical Maintenance Tips for UK Drivers
To help drivers maintain efficiency during challenging weather conditions, experts recommend several practical measures:
- Regular tyre pressure checks: Maintain proper inflation every other week, as under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance significantly in wet conditions
- Enhanced visibility maintenance: Clean windows and mirrors every other day to reduce unnecessary braking and improve safety
- Smooth driving techniques: Avoid heavy braking and rapid acceleration, both of which substantially increase fuel consumption
- Judicious use of electrical systems: While wipers are essential in rain, limit use of power-hungry features like heated seats
- Weight reduction: Clear your car boot weekly, as extra weight forces the engine to work harder, especially during heavy rain
Young concluded: "A clean, well-looked-after vehicle can make those savings at the pump go even further - ensuring every drop of cheaper petrol works as hard as you do. With Storm Chandra still affecting the UK, and April showers just around the corner, these simple maintenance habits become particularly valuable."
The combination of strategic refuelling at the most affordable supermarkets and proper vehicle maintenance offers UK drivers the best opportunity to maximise their motoring budget during this period of fluctuating fuel prices and challenging weather conditions.
