Is there 93-octane gasoline?

[MacMax]

There is 93-octane gasoline, which is equivalent to the current 92-octane gasoline. The 92-octane gasoline meets the China V standard, comparable to the previous 93-octane under the China IV standard. Standard gasoline is composed of isooctane and n-heptane. The gasoline octane number indicates the value of the octane rating. For example, 92-octane gasoline means it has the same anti-knock properties as a standard gasoline containing 92% isooctane and 8% n-heptane. The choice of gasoline grade should match the vehicle's engine, particularly the engine's compression ratio. Higher compression ratios require gasoline with higher octane numbers. It is not advisable to use a lower-octane gasoline in a high-compression engine, as this can lead to abnormal combustion, fuel wastage, and damage to the vehicle's performance.

[MaximusMarie]

When I first started driving, I was also quite confused about gasoline grades. I remember that the most common gasoline grades in China are 92, 95, and 98, which are the standard grades. What about 93? It did exist in the past, like in the 1990s when some old gas stations labeled their fuel as 90 or 93. But now, with the upgrade of national standards, 92 has become the minimum grade, and 93 is basically unseen in mainstream gas stations. If you see a station offering 93, it’s likely a small private station or in a special region. I suggest not filling up randomly—check your car’s engine compatibility first. Using the wrong grade might not cause immediate issues, but over time it can lead to carbon buildup and other problems. It’s best to consult your manual or ask local car owners, as different models have different requirements.

[VanAyla]

The gasoline octane rating refers to the anti-knock index, where a higher number like 93 indicates better knock resistance, protecting the engine from detonation. In the Chinese market, the new standard typically offers 92, 95, and 98 octane fuels, while the older 93 rating is rarely seen. I suppose you might have heard about Regular 87 or Premium 93 in the U.S., where the classifications are more detailed. Don’t overthink the octane number—unless you frequently drive at high speeds, 92 is sufficient for daily use. If the car manual doesn’t specify, using 95 is the safest choice to avoid potential engine knocking issues later on.

[StBrayden]

Having worked at gas stations for many years, when it comes to the 93-octane gasoline, honestly, it's no longer officially sold in China. Nowadays, it mostly starts from 92. If you're asking about this, perhaps you're looking for cheaper fuel or are a new car owner? Don't worry, using 92 is fine; major brands are reliable. For older cars or imported American models, you might occasionally find 93-octane in some cities, but it's hard to come by when you change regions. Keep it simple when refueling—just follow what the car manual says to avoid engine troubles.