Stabilization of fuel prices in August 2026
As of August 19, 2026, the automotive fuel market in Ukraine shows signs of stabilization. According to monitoring data from leading gas station networks, prices for gasoline and diesel fuel have remained at the previous day's level, showing no significant spikes. For the average driver, the cost of filling a full 50-liter tank of A-95 gasoline in popular networks ranges from 3,945 to 4,170 hryvnias. This price fixation occurs against the backdrop of general volatility in the energy sector; however, consumers can currently count on predictable expenses.
The situation with the premium fuel segment looks somewhat different. The average cost of high-octane gasoline fluctuates between 85.90 and 86.40 hryvnias per liter. This means that filling a car with a small tank (40 liters) will cost the owner a minimum of 3,436 hryvnias, for a medium tank (50 liters) the sum will be from 4,295 hryvnias, and for a large volume (60 liters) — from 5,154 hryvnias. These figures form the current economic reality for car owners planning their travel expenses.
Quality problem: mini-refineries and surrogate fuel
Despite price stability, market experts are sounding the alarm regarding the quality of fuel offered at gas stations. Dmytro Leushkin, founder and general director of the Prime Group of companies, noted in a comment to RBK-Ukraine that the Ukrainian market is oversaturated with offers from various producers. A significant number of mini-oil refineries (mini-OR) operate in the country, producing both diesel fuel and gasoline.
According to the expert, it is in the gasoline segment that the largest amount of surrogate products is observed. The situation with diesel fuel is assessed as more favorable, however, the risk of encountering low-quality fuel remains. Leushkin emphasizes that the presence of numerous small producers complicates quality control and creates conditions for fuel that does not meet standards to appear on the market.
How to distinguish quality fuel from a fake
In conditions where the market includes both large network players and small independent gas stations, drivers are forced to assess risks independently. Experts recommend relying on time-tested brands and networks that value their reputation. Dmytro Leushkin advises using those gas stations that the consumer has trusted for years. Drivers, as a rule, know their local area and the reputation of specific gas stations well.
The "word of mouth" plays an important role: reviews from other drivers and recommendations from staff often become the most reliable indicator of quality. New gas stations rarely become popular instantly, as consumers need time to check the reliability of the supplier. Furthermore, specialists warn that relying solely on quality certificates placed on the gas station territory is not worth it, as these documents may not be updated for a long time and may not reflect the current situation.
Independent check of fuel density
For those who want to be 100% sure of the fuel quality, there is a method for independent verification. Experts suggest purchasing a special device — a hydrometer, which allows measuring the density of the fuel. Density is one of the key indicators, and a deviation from standard values may indicate the presence of impurities or non-compliance with the declared fuel class. Conducting such measurements allows drivers to filter out gas stations offering low-quality products and maintain the technical condition of their vehicles.
