Should the Buick Envision 1.5T use 92 or 95 octane gasoline?

[SaraDella]

According to the official vehicle manual recommendation, the Buick Envision 1.5T should use 92 octane gasoline. In addition to checking the appropriate gasoline grade in the vehicle manual, you can also find it marked on the fuel tank cap of the Buick Envision 1.5T. Typically, 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 compression 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, as high compression ratios can also be adjusted to use lower octane gasoline. This is because, besides the compression ratio, other factors such as ignition timing, turbocharging technology, and Atkinson cycle technology also play a role. Generally, the higher the gasoline octane number, the higher the octane value 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 Buick Envision 1.5T 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 value can alter the fuel's ignition point, leading to delayed combustion in the engine. This results in reduced engine power and thermal efficiency, with the actual feedback being poorer performance. For vehicles recommended to use higher octane gasoline, using lower octane gasoline can cause engine knocking. Due to the significantly lower octane value, the gasoline's ignition point decreases, causing premature ignition during the compression stroke. If detonation occurs before the spark plug ignites, 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.

[LaAlice]

I've been driving the Buick Envision 1.5T for almost a year now, and I'll share my experience directly. The factory recommends using 95-octane gasoline for this 1.5-liter turbocharged engine because the turbocharger has a high compression ratio. 92-octane fuel has too low of an octane rating, which can easily cause engine knocking and unstable power output, making the ride feel a bit shaky. I tried using 92-octane fuel—it was cheaper, but the engine noise was louder during acceleration, fuel consumption fluctuated, and the overall feel wasn't smooth. Using 95-octane fuel long-term protects the engine much better, ensures cleaner combustion, reduces carbon buildup, and even saves on maintenance costs. A reminder to everyone: don’t skimp on fuel—just like people, cars need the right 'diet' to stay healthy. For long trips or during hot summer temperatures, 95-octane is a must to avoid breakdowns. Always check the fuel cap label—it’s crucial.

[HarmonyLynn]

From my perspective, it's a trade-off between saving money and choosing performance. The owner's manual of the Buick Envision 1.5T states that 92-octane fuel can be used, but 95-octane is more recommended, especially since the turbocharged design is sensitive to fuel quality. I've done the math: 92-octane is a few yuan cheaper per liter, saving dozens of yuan per tank, but 95-octane keeps the engine more stable, reducing long-term maintenance costs like spark plug or fuel injector issues. If you frequently drive on highways or carry heavy loads, 95-octane provides more consistent power output and may lower fuel consumption by 1-2%. I recommend beginners start with 95-octane to get familiar with the car's performance before adjusting. Don't forget to regularly check fuel quality, as there are significant differences between regional gas stations, which directly impacts driving safety.

[OBeckett]

For turbocharged cars like the Buick Envision 1.5T, I strongly recommend using 95-octane gasoline. Turbo engines have high compression ratios, and 92-octane fuel's lower knock resistance may cause engine-damaging detonation. 95-octane offers superior anti-knock performance, ensuring quicker power response and smoother acceleration. During daily urban driving (especially in traffic congestion), 92-octane may result in louder engine noise and weaker acceleration, compromising driving experience. Always verify with the official owner's manual rather than trusting anecdotal fuel-saving tips. Maintenance-wise, 95-octane reduces carbon deposit risks and extends engine lifespan. For safety considerations, consistent power delivery during high-speed driving is crucial.