The requirement
| ⛽ | 91 octane minimum per Polaris — we run and require 93 octane in our rental fleet |
| 🔧 | The ProStar 2.0 is a high-compression (11.1:1), high-revving engine — exactly the type that needs high octane |
| 🚫 | No E85, no regular 87. Up to 10% ethanol (E10) in premium is fine |
| 🧾 | 2015–2019 Ecotec 2.4L models: premium also recommended for full performance |
What happens if you use regular?
Low octane fuel ignites too early under high compression — that's engine knock. The ECU protects itself by retarding ignition timing, which means less power, worse mpg and long-term risk of piston damage if you keep doing it. One accidental tank of 89 won't destroy the engine — just drive gently and fill with 93 as soon as possible. A habit of regular gas will.
Tank, mpg & range
| 🛢️ | Tank: 9.77 gallons (37 L) |
| 📊 | Real-world economy: 23–33 mpg, ~28 average |
| 🛣️ | Range: roughly 250–280 miles per tank — see the Key West guide for fuel strategy on long rides |
| 💵 | Fill-up cost at Miami premium prices: usually $38–45 |
Renting? Here's our fuel policy
Every Slingshot goes out with a known fuel level and comes back the same — refuel with 93 octane before returning. Any Shell, Chevron or Mobil V-Power/Supreme+ pump works. Full specs on the engine are in our specs guide.
Slingshot Gas — FAQ
What kind of gas does a Polaris Slingshot take?
Premium unleaded — 91 octane minimum per Polaris, and 93 octane is what we recommend and run in our Miami rental fleet. Never regular 87 and never E85.
What happens if I put regular gas in a Slingshot?
The high-compression engine will knock, and the ECU will pull ignition timing — you lose power and mpg. One tank won't ruin it if you drive gently and refill with premium, but repeated regular gas risks engine damage.
How big is the Slingshot gas tank?
9.77 gallons (37 liters), good for roughly 250–280 miles at the typical 23–33 mpg owners see.
Can a Slingshot use E85 or ethanol fuel?
No E85. Standard pump premium with up to 10% ethanol (E10) is approved; higher ethanol blends are not.
What octane do rental Slingshots in Miami need at return?
93 octane — return the Slingshot at the same fuel level it went out with, filled with premium. Any major-brand 93 pump is fine.