Should the Volkswagen Talagon use 95 or 98 octane gasoline?
2 Answers
The Volkswagen Talagon is recommended to use 95 octane gasoline, as specified in the vehicle's official user manual. In addition to checking the appropriate gasoline grade in the user manual, you can also find this information on the fuel tank cap, which is usually labeled. Typically, the gasoline grade can also be determined based on the engine's compression ratio. Vehicles with a compression ratio between 8.6-9.9 should use 92 octane gasoline, those with a compression ratio between 10.0-11.5 should use 95 octane gasoline, and if the compression ratio is higher, 98 octane gasoline is recommended. However, with the application of new technologies, the compression ratio alone cannot determine the required gasoline grade. High compression ratio engines can also be tuned to use lower octane gasoline, as factors like ignition timing, turbocharging technology, and Atkinson cycle technology also play a role. Generally, the higher the gasoline octane number, the higher the octane rating 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 Talagon 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 a higher octane grade will not cause damage, but the increased octane rating may alter the fuel's ignition point, leading to delayed combustion in the engine. This reduces the engine's power output and thermal efficiency, resulting in poorer performance. For vehicles recommended to use higher octane gasoline, using a lower octane grade can cause engine knocking. The significantly lower octane rating lowers the fuel's ignition point, causing premature ignition during the compression stroke. If combustion occurs before the spark plug fires, resistance is generated during the upward stroke. This resistance makes the engine run very unevenly. Mild knocking may only increase noise without obvious engine damage, but severe knocking indicates serious engine conditions. The vibrations not only affect driving stability but can also cause abnormal wear on pistons and cylinders, potentially leading to cylinder scoring in severe cases.
After driving the Volkswagen Talagon for two years, I initially preferred using 98-octane gasoline, thinking it was more premium and would deliver better performance. However, over time, I realized that 95-octane is perfectly sufficient. The manufacturer's manual specifies 95-octane, and the power output remains smooth with similar acceleration feel. Whether for city commuting or highway driving, I noticed no significant difference—in fact, it saved me quite a bit of money. With 95-octane being a few cents cheaper per liter, each full tank saves around 20 yuan, adding up to hundreds of yuan a year that can be spent elsewhere. Occasionally using 98-octane helps clean the fuel system due to its better detergent properties, but it’s unnecessary to use it every time. Just stick to reputable gas stations to avoid poor-quality fuel from lesser-known brands. In short, practicality comes first—no need to overcomplicate things.
