Should the 2021 New Bora use 92 or 95 octane gasoline?
4 Answers
According to the official vehicle manual recommendations, the Bora-2021-1.5L series should use 92 octane gasoline, while other 2021 Bora models should use 95 octane gasoline. For the 2021 Bora, besides checking the suitable gasoline grade in the vehicle manual, you can also find it marked on the fuel tank cap. Generally, the gasoline grade can also be determined based on the engine's compression ratio. Vehicles with an engine compression ratio between 8.6-9.9 should use 92 octane gasoline, while those with a ratio between 10.0-11.5 should use 95 octane gasoline. However, with the application of new technologies, the compression ratio alone cannot determine the gasoline grade. High compression ratio engines can also be tuned to use lower octane gasoline because, apart from the compression ratio, other factors such as ignition timing, turbocharging technology, and Atkinson cycle technology also play a role. Generally, the higher the gasoline grade, the higher the octane number and the better the anti-knock performance. 92 octane gasoline contains 92% isooctane and 8% n-heptane, while 95 octane gasoline contains 95% isooctane and 5% n-heptane. If the 2021 Bora occasionally uses the wrong gasoline grade, simply switch back to the correct grade after consumption. However, long-term use of the wrong gasoline grade can have the following effects: For vehicles recommended to use lower octane gasoline, using higher octane gasoline will not cause damage, but the increase in octane number will alter the fuel's ignition point, leading to delayed combustion in the engine. This means both the engine's power output and thermal efficiency will decrease, resulting in poorer performance. For vehicles recommended to use higher octane gasoline, using lower octane gasoline can cause engine knocking. Due to the significantly lower octane number, the fuel's ignition point decreases, causing premature ignition during the compression stroke. If combustion occurs before the spark plug fires, resistance will arise during the upward stroke. This resistance makes the engine run very unstably. If the knocking is imperceptible, it only increases noise without obvious engine damage. However, noticeable knocking indicates severe engine conditions, affecting not only driving stability but also causing abnormal wear on pistons and cylinders, and in severe cases, cylinder scoring.
I've been driving the 2021 New Bora for almost two years, always filling it with 92-octane gasoline because it's cheaper. A full tank saves me over ten yuan, which suits my frugal lifestyle. The New Bora's engine design is reliable, and the manual states it supports 92-octane as the minimum requirement, so I never hesitate about other options. During daily city commutes, the power response remains stable with no engine knocking or unusual noise issues. It also performs well on occasional long trips, averaging around 7 liters per 100 kilometers. If you're on a budget, 92-octane is perfectly adequate—no need to spend extra. Just remember to regularly inspect the fuel system to prevent impurities from affecting performance. Over time, I've found the savings can be allocated elsewhere, like funding more road trips.
As an ordinary person who enjoys delving into car details, I've researched the fuel requirements of the 2021 New Bora. Its engine is a high-compression-ratio type, making it more suitable for 95-octane gasoline, which prevents knocking and protects internal components for extended longevity. Although 95-octane is slightly more expensive, it results in lower long-term maintenance costs. After switching to 95-octane, I noticed smoother power delivery and quicker acceleration response. If you frequently engage in aggressive driving or encounter mountainous terrain, 95-octane unleashes its advantages more effectively. However, the manual permits 92-octane as a minimum for emergencies—occasional use is acceptable. Personally, I recommend prioritizing 95-octane for daily use to enhance the overall driving experience. After refueling with premium gasoline, the engine runs quietly, indicating proper fuel compatibility.
When I bought my new 2021 Bora, I asked the 4S dealership which fuel to use, and they recommended 95 octane, so I've been using it ever since. With 95 octane gasoline, the engine runs quieter, and the acceleration is noticeably smoother. I tried 92 octane before, and it felt like the throttle response was a bit slower. There isn't much difference in fuel consumption, averaging around 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers. Since switching to 95 octane, the car's condition has remained stable, and the mechanic said it suits the Bora's configuration well. I always choose reputable gas stations to ensure fuel quality. From a comfort perspective, I think 95 octane is better.
