Should the 1.5T Kuga use 92 or 95 octane gasoline?
4 Answers
The 1.5T Kuga should use 95 octane gasoline. 95 octane gasoline consists of 95% isooctane and 5% n-heptane. When an engine has a high compression ratio, high-octane gasoline should be used. If low-octane gasoline is used in a high-compression engine, it can cause abnormal combustion, leading to knocking, increased fuel consumption, and reduced driving performance. The Changan Ford Kuga has body dimensions of 4524mm in length, 1838mm in width, and 1695mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2690mm, making it a compact SUV. The Kuga is equipped with two engines: a 1.6T EcoBoost and a 2.0T EcoBoost turbocharged engine.
As an owner of the Ford Kuga 1.5T for two to three years, I strictly follow Ford's official manual recommendation to use 95-octane gasoline. This turbocharged engine has a relatively high compression ratio, and the higher octane rating of 95 helps reduce pre-ignition knock issues, preventing engine damage. While 92-octane is cheaper, long-term use may lead to sluggish acceleration, increased fuel consumption, or even powertrain warning lights—especially noticeable in hot weather or under full load. To maintain my car's health, I always opt for 95-octane and regularly check fuel quality. Saving on potential repair costs far outweighs saving a few bucks at the pump.
I'm the type who likes to calculate costs. The Ford Kuga 1.5T can save 10%-20% on fuel costs by using 92 octane, but it's really not as worthwhile as using 95 octane. The manufacturer optimized the injection and ignition systems for 95 octane during design. Using higher-octane gasoline makes the engine run smoother, and fuel consumption might be slightly lower than with 92 octane. Overall, the fuel expenses are about the same. It's fine to occasionally mix in 92 octane for short trips, but for long highway drives, 95 octane is more reliable—it protects the turbo from carbon buildup and reduces the hassle of frequent maintenance. Mechanics say that frequent engine knocking causes the ECU to adjust more often, which actually increases fuel consumption and isn't worth it.
When I first bought the Ford Kuga 1.5T, I was puzzled about gasoline selection. After consulting customer service, they replied that 95-octane is mandatory. Simply put, higher octane gasoline has better anti-knock properties, ensuring smoother engine operation and stable power output. While using 92-octane might work, small-displacement turbocharged engines are prone to knocking (a rattling sound) during uphill climbs or sudden acceleration, which may cause long-term damage to pistons or cylinder heads. I've never dared to try 92-octane—I always make sure to fill up with 95-octane for peace of mind and safety, especially to avoid the risk of breaking down midway.
