1. Fuel Quality Standards in Austria – February 2026
In 2026, fuel in Austria is considered a model of purity and efficiency in the European Union. All stations, from large corporations to local automatic pumps, are subject to strict supervision by the Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology.
✅ Certification and Standards 2026
Every liter of fuel must meet strict technical parameters compliant with the standards:
- EN 228: Guarantees gasoline stability and optimal combustion in modern turbo engines.
- EN 590: Ensures a high cetane number for diesel, which is crucial during winter ascents in the Alps.
Thanks to regular laboratory controls, the risk of fuel contamination with water or solid particles is practically zero in Austria.
2. Types of Fuel Available at Austrian Stations
Markings in 2026 are harmonized with the EU system, making it easier for foreign drivers to refuel:
Super 95 (E10)
Standard unleaded gasoline. Contains up to 10% bioethanol. Most modern cars from Poland are fully compatible.
Super Plus 98 (E5)
Premium fuel with higher knock resistance. Contains fewer biocomponents, recommended for classic and sports cars.
Diesel (B7)
High-purity diesel fuel. In winter (from mid-November), stations offer an arctic version, resistant to freezing down to -25°C.
LPG / Autogas
Gas is mainly available at OMV and Shell stations. Requires an ACME type connector.
3. Premium Fuels: Does OMV MaxxMotion Make Sense?
In 2026, premium fuels (OMV MaxxMotion, Shell V-Power) are readily chosen by drivers planning long mountain routes. They contain special additive packages (detergents and friction modifiers) that keep injectors clean.
Experts' verdict: Refueling with premium fuel before ascending steep climbs (e.g., the Grossglockner High Alpine Road) allows for smoother engine operation under heavy load and genuinely reduces particle emissions in diesels with DPF filters.
4. Fuel Prices in Austria – Report 2026
Austria in 2026 uses a "dynamic pricing" system, but highway stations remain the most expensive place to refuel.
5. How to Avoid Technical Problems?
Despite high quality, it's worth sticking to proven brands that dominate the market in 2026 and offer the best service facilities:
- OMV: Austrian national giant, best winter fuels.
- JET / Avanti: Often unmanned stations, offering the lowest prices in the region.
- BP / Shell: International standard, excellent gastronomic facilities.
6. Traveling through Austria – Remember your e-vignette!
In 2026, Austria exclusively uses digital systems. A missing valid vignette is immediately detected by cameras on the roads, resulting in a fine of 120 EUR or more.
Buy an official e-vignette online – valid immediately, no 18-day waiting period!