
Polo can use 92 octane gasoline. Below are the differences between 92 and 95 octane: 1. Different compositions: It can be confirmed that there is no difference in the quality of 92 and 95 octane gasoline; their quality is the same. Analyzing their main components, 92 octane gasoline consists of 92% isooctane and 8% n-heptane, while 95 octane consists of 95% isooctane and 5% n-heptane. The reason 95 octane gasoline is slightly more expensive is due to the higher proportion of isooctane. Isooctane also has another function, which is anti-knock. This means that the higher the proportion of isooctane, the better the anti-knock performance. 2. Different prices: A tank of 95 octane gasoline is slightly more expensive than 92 octane. 3. Different power outputs: 95 octane gasoline, with its higher octane rating, is suitable for engines with higher compression ratios. This is because as the engine speed increases, the ignition timing in the cylinder advances. When the speed reaches a critical point, the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder may ignite prematurely before the spark plug fires, a phenomenon known as knocking. Increasing the octane rating of gasoline can effectively improve anti-knock performance.

I've been driving this Polo for over five years and always used 92-octane gasoline. The manual states that 92-octane or higher can be used, and I haven't noticed any issues in practice. 92-octane is significantly cheaper – based on current fuel prices, filling up a full tank saves me over thirty yuan. Although some say 95-octane makes the engine quieter, I don't feel much difference in terms of power or fuel consumption. Since the manufacturer designed the car to run on 92-octane, there's no need to spend extra. The money saved on fuel could cover several car washes. I recommend using 92-octane from reputable gas stations, as fuel quality is more important. If engine knocking or unusual noises occur, then considering switching to 95-octane would be timely.

I think the choice of gasoline octane rating depends on the engine model. For Polo's low-power naturally aspirated engine, 92 octane is completely sufficient, while the high-power version or turbocharged models are better off using 95 octane. 92 octane has lower anti-knock properties but saves money, whereas 95 octane can reduce the probability of knocking and protect the engine. From my own experience, 95 octane provides slightly faster throttle response on highways, but this difference isn't necessary for city commuting. Avoid mixing different octane ratings when refueling; sticking to one type of gasoline long-term is better for the engine. Overall, following the recommended octane rating labeled on the fuel cap is the safest approach. My older Polo model's label specifies 92 octane, so I've always used that.

From a maintenance cost perspective, 92-octane is definitely the preferred choice for the Polo. With current fuel prices being so high, there's a price difference of over 0.5 yuan per liter between 92 and 95, adding up to dozens of yuan per tank. The Polo's compression ratio is around 10.5:1, which isn't particularly high, making 92-octane completely within the engine's tolerance range. The gas station near my home even offers additional discounts on 92-octane during promotions, making it even more economical. Unless you frequently drive on mountain roads or under high-load conditions, there's really no need to upgrade. Don't be fooled by gas stations into using higher octane fuel; the manufacturer's recommendation of 92-octane is based on solid evidence. After driving 80,000 kilometers using only 92-octane, my engine is still in excellent condition.


