Muhammad Amanullah — September 12, 2026
Drivers in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area are once again facing the possibility of higher gas prices, with experts forecasting a significant increase on Saturday.
Drivers who need to fill their tanks have been advised to consider doing so on Friday, as the price is expected to rise by several cents per litre the following day.
7-Cent Increase Expected Saturday
Roger McKnight, chief petroleum analyst at En-Pro International, said gas prices could increase by approximately 7 cents per litre at most stations on Saturday.
According to the forecast, the average price on Friday is expected to be 179.9 cents per litre, which is also being described as the lowest price recorded so far this month.
However, the price could rise to 186.9 cents per litre on Saturday.
Brief Relief for Drivers
The expected Saturday increase comes just one day after drivers received some relief from a significant decline in gas prices.
Gas prices fell by approximately 8 cents per litre on Friday, giving consumers some relief after several weeks of elevated prices.
However, the decline is not expected to last long, with another increase forecast for Saturday.
Why Did Prices Change So Quickly?
One of the key reasons behind the recent decline is the seasonal change in fuel production.
The industry is transitioning from the fuel blend used during the summer months to the blend prepared for winter.
According to experts, producing the winter fuel blend is relatively less expensive, which can contribute to lower prices toward the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.
However, such declines are generally not permanent, and prices can begin rising again as market conditions change.
Why Are Gas Prices Rising Again?
According to Roger McKnight, fluctuations in the gasoline market, refinery changes and shifts in demand can have a direct impact on prices.
Changes in refinery operations and fuel production to meet seasonal requirements can quickly affect prices at the pump.
An increase in demand can also lead to higher costs for consumers.
Travel patterns during the fall and changes in vehicle use across different areas could contribute to further fluctuations in gas prices in the coming days.
August’s Highest Price
The forecast Saturday price of 186.9 cents per litre would bring gas prices in Toronto and the GTA close to levels seen earlier this week.
It would also be higher than the highest price recorded in August.
During August, the highest gas price reached 182.9 cents per litre, while the lowest was 162.9 cents per litre.
The significant gap between the highest and lowest prices during August highlights the volatility in the gasoline market.
Price Fluctuations Also Seen in July
During July, the highest gas price reached 183.9 cents per litre, while the lowest was 163.9 cents per litre.
The figures show that consumers also experienced considerable fluctuations in gasoline prices during July, with prices falling on some days before rising again shortly afterward.
June Gas Prices
In June, the highest gas price was recorded at 177.9 cents per litre, while the lowest stood at 157.9 cents per litre.
At 186.9 cents per litre, the forecast Saturday price would therefore be approximately 9 cents higher than June’s highest recorded level.
Drivers Advised to Fill Up on Friday
With a significant increase expected on Saturday, Friday could be a better opportunity for drivers who need to fill their vehicle’s tank.
The expected Friday price is 179.9 cents per litre, compared with a forecast of 186.9 cents per litre on Saturday.
For drivers filling larger fuel tanks, buying gas one day earlier could therefore result in some savings.
More Price Volatility Possible
Experts expect gasoline prices to remain volatile in the coming days.
Seasonal changes, refinery operations, market demand and other factors could continue to influence prices at the pump.
If prices reach 186.9 cents per litre on Saturday, it would mark another significant increase after the recent fluctuations seen over the past several months.
The situation is particularly important for consumers because travel and daily commuting expenses during the autumn months can already put additional pressure on household budgets.
For drivers in Toronto and the GTA, choosing when to fill up based on expected price movements could make a difference, as the cost per litre can change by several cents within just 24 hours.
