What are the differences between China 5 and China 6 vehicle models?

[OMichael]

The differences between China 5 and China 6 emission standards are as follows: Different emission standards: The China 6 emission standard is more than 30% stricter than China 5. Excluding the influence of driving conditions and testing, gasoline vehicles' carbon monoxide emissions are reduced by 50%, total hydrocarbons and non-methane hydrocarbons emissions are reduced by 50%, and nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced by 42%. Different implementation times: The China 5 standard was implemented nationwide on January 1, 2017. The China 6 standard was implemented on July 1, 2019. Different principles: During the China 5 phase, diesel and gasoline vehicles had different emission standards, but China 6 adopts a fuel-neutral principle, meaning the emission limits are the same regardless of the fuel type. Different issuing departments: The China 5 standard was issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection. The China 6 standard was issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine. Different letter representations: China 5 is represented by 'V,' and China 6 is represented by 'VI.' Different monitoring requirements for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles: Compared to China 5, China 6 has improved monitoring requirements for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, including energy storage systems, thermal management systems, brake regeneration, drive motors, generators, and other regulations. China 5 standard limits are as follows: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 1,000 mg of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 68 mg of non-methane hydrocarbons per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 60 mg of nitrogen oxides per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 4.5 mg of PM fine particles per kilometer driven. China 6 has two standards: China 6a and China 6b, as follows: China 6a standard limits: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 700 mg of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 68 mg of non-methane hydrocarbons per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 60 mg of nitrogen oxides per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 4.5 mg of PM fine particles per kilometer driven. China 6b standard limits: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 500 mg of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 35 mg of non-methane hydrocarbons per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 35 mg of nitrogen oxides per kilometer driven. Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 3 mg of PM fine particles per kilometer driven. Affected by the China 6 emission policy, although China 5 vehicles are not currently restricted in normal use, their resale value will be significantly impacted. For truck owners who purchase vehicles on loan for freight transport, after repaying the loan, the vehicle's depreciation equals the net profit earned during that period. A higher residual value means more profit for the owner. Therefore, from this perspective, China 6 vehicles, with longer service life and more road rights, have greater advantages.

[StBrayden]

I recently helped a friend choose a car, and the biggest difference between China V and China VI lies in their environmental standards. China VI is an upgraded version with stricter emission limits—for instance, nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions are 30% to 50% lower than China V, which helps keep the air cleaner. The higher technical requirements mean engines need optimization, and onboard detection systems are more sensitive, enabling real-time pollution monitoring, though driving performance remains largely unchanged. I’ve noticed that China VI cars start more smoothly, with significantly less exhaust odor. In the long run, buying a China VI car is more cost-effective—they face fewer urban driving restrictions and have higher resale value. While China V cars are cheaper, they’re gradually being phased out and may soon be barred from highways. My advice is to prioritize China VI for new cars—they’re both eco-friendly and hassle-free. Don’t opt for China V just to save money. Routine maintenance is straightforward, but be sure to use higher-standard fuel to avoid issues and prolong your car’s lifespan.

[LeJameson]

I've been paying attention to environmental issues, and the difference between China 5 and China 6 lies in emission reduction effects. The China 6 standard mandates vehicles to further reduce pollutants like carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons, with testing conditions more closely resembling real-world driving, which can help reduce urban smog. Technically, it introduces RDE (Real Driving Emissions) testing, meaning vehicles must meet emission standards during actual road driving, unlike China 5 which only required lab compliance. I've noticed that China 6 vehicles emit almost no visible smoke from their exhaust and produce less noise when driving. The price impact isn't significant – new cars are slightly more expensive but worth the investment. From an environmental perspective, China 6 vehicles help reduce the burden on our planet. I recommend prioritizing China 6 vehicles in regions where governments have implemented the new regulations. Additionally, fuel quality has improved. Using higher-grade fuel makes vehicles more efficient, saving fuel and reducing carbon emissions. When choosing a car, don't just consider the price – think about the quality of life for future generations. The difference is substantial.