What are the differences between Euro 5 and China 6 vehicle standards?
4 Answers
The differences between Euro 5 and China 6 vehicle standards are: 1. Different carbon monoxide emission standards: Euro 5 requires carbon monoxide emissions below 1.0g per kilometer; China 6 requires carbon monoxide emissions below 0.7g per kilometer. 2. Different maximum particulate emission standards: Euro 5 allows maximum particulate emissions of 0.005g per kilometer; China 6 allows maximum particulate emissions of 0.003g per kilometer. The Euro 5 standard was officially implemented in Europe in 2009 as the fifth-generation emission standard. China 6 refers to the National Sixth Stage Motor Vehicle Pollutant Emission Standard, which is an upgraded version of China 5. Compared to China 5, the emission standards for pollutants are nearly 50% stricter, with the same requirements applying to diesel vehicles.
As someone who frequently studies automotive emission standards, I believe the main differences between Euro 5 and China 6 lie in the testing methods and emission limits. Euro 5 is an older European standard that uses the NEDC test cycle, which is more idealized and has looser restrictions on pollutants like NOx (nitrogen oxides) and PM (particulate matter). China 6, on the other hand, is China's new standard that introduces the WLTP test, which is closer to real-world driving conditions and imposes much stricter requirements. For example, the NOx emission limit is reduced to less than half of Euro 5's, and it also includes the new RDE (Real Driving Emissions) test. This means China 6 vehicles must be equipped with additional devices like gasoline particulate filters (GPF), and the technological upgrades enhance air purification effectiveness. However, the downside is increased costs for automakers, which may lead to slightly higher vehicle prices. In the long run, though, there are more opportunities for fuel consumption optimization and cost savings. I've seen many discussions on forums where car owners mention that China 6 vehicles have more complex certification processes but contribute more to haze reduction, especially in urban areas. Choosing a China 6 vehicle is a more environmentally friendly option.
For us drivers, emission standards are a major concern when buying a car. Euro 5 vehicles used to be quite common, with relatively lenient limits—for example, allowing NOx emissions of up to 180 mg per kilometer, and actual pollution levels were often higher. China 6 is now the mainstream standard, with stricter regulations: NOx emissions must stay below 90 mg per kilometer, and real-world driving tests are mandatory to prevent cheating. A key difference is that China 6 vehicles come with a Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF), which requires periodic ash cleaning during maintenance—a bit of a hassle, but it significantly improves air quality. I heard from a friend that buying a China 6 car can qualify you for local subsidies and even insurance discounts. On the other hand, Euro 5 vehicles might face driving restrictions or relocation bans in the future, leading to faster depreciation. If you're looking for long-term peace of mind, China 6 is the way to go—despite the higher price, it scores better on environmental metrics and offers greater driving confidence. By the way, some China 6b-phase standards are close to Europe's Euro 6d, with even more rigorous testing, something Euro 5 simply can't match.
In my opinion, China 6 outperforms Euro 5 in environmental protection. China 6 has significantly reduced PM2.5 and NOx emissions, with measured values close to zero, whereas these pollutants were prone to exceed standards during the Euro 5 era. Additionally, China 6 replaces the old NEDC with the WLTP test, making real driving data more accurate. The benefit is a noticeable improvement in air quality, especially with reduced smog in major cities. When choosing a car, China 6-compliant vehicles are equipped with more advanced technologies, such as upgraded EGR systems—don’t forget to check the filters during maintenance. Although the cost is slightly higher, the long-term reduction in pollution makes it well worth it.
