What are the differences between the National V and National VI standards for the Camry?
3 Answers
The differences between the National V and National VI emission standards are as follows: Different emission standards: The National VI emission standard is more than 30% stricter than National V. Excluding the influence of driving conditions and testing, gasoline vehicles' carbon monoxide emissions are reduced by 50%, total hydrocarbon and non-methane hydrocarbon emissions are reduced by 50%, and nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced by 42%. Different implementation times: The National V standard was implemented nationwide on January 1, 2017. The National VI standard was implemented on July 1, 2019. Different principles: Under the National V standard, diesel and gasoline vehicles had different emission standards, but National VI adopts a fuel-neutral principle, meaning the emission limits are the same regardless of the fuel type. Different issuing authorities: The National V standard was issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection, while the National VI standard was jointly issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine. Different letter representations: National V is represented by "V," while National VI is represented by "VI." Different monitoring requirements for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs): Compared to National V, National VI has enhanced monitoring requirements for PHEVs, including energy storage systems, thermal management systems, regenerative braking, drive motors, generators, and other regulatory aspects. The National V standard limits are as follows: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 1,000 milligrams of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Non-methane hydrocarbon emissions must not exceed 68 milligrams per kilometer. Nitrogen oxide emissions must not exceed 60 milligrams per kilometer. PM (particulate matter) emissions must not exceed 4.5 milligrams per kilometer. National VI has two sub-standards: National VIa and National VIb. Their limits are as follows: National VIa standard limits: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 700 milligrams of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Non-methane hydrocarbon emissions must not exceed 68 milligrams per kilometer. Nitrogen oxide emissions must not exceed 60 milligrams per kilometer. PM emissions must not exceed 4.5 milligrams per kilometer. National VIb standard limits: Gasoline vehicles must not emit more than 500 milligrams of carbon monoxide per kilometer driven. Non-methane hydrocarbon emissions must not exceed 35 milligrams per kilometer. Nitrogen oxide emissions must not exceed 35 milligrams per kilometer. PM emissions must not exceed 3 milligrams per kilometer. Affected by the National VI emission policy, although National V vehicles can still be used normally without restrictions on driving or license plate usage, their resale value will be significantly impacted. For car owners, if they purchase a truck for freight transport with a loan, the vehicle's depreciation after repaying the loan is equivalent to the net profit earned during that period. A higher residual value means more profit for the owner. Therefore, from this perspective, National VI vehicles, which have a longer lifespan and more road rights, offer greater advantages.
As a frequent visitor to auto repair shops, I think the main difference between the National V and National VI Camry lies in the emission technology. The National VI version is equipped with a GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter) to reduce exhaust pollution, which is much more complex than the National V. This may lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run, such as more frequent issues with GPF cleaning. There isn't much change in power, but the engine tuning is more refined to reduce the risk of exceeding emission standards, and the difference in fuel consumption is negligible. When buying used, be cautious—National V models may face driving restrictions in some cities, affecting long-term usability. It's advisable to choose National VI to comply with future standards and avoid hassle. These technical upgrades are designed to meet environmental regulations, and you can hardly feel them while driving, but overall, the car becomes a bit more reliable.
A person with ten years of driving experience shares this: The actual difference between China V and China VI emission standards for the Camry in daily driving is minimal, but the emission standards have been upgraded. China VI vehicles have stricter exhaust treatment, like adding an extra filtration system. Road noise and vibrations are almost the same, but annual inspections might be stricter later on, requiring better OBD monitoring. Fuel consumption increases slightly by about 0.5 liters, and while it may save some money on fuel in the long run, the difference isn’t significant. When buying a new car, China VI models are slightly more expensive, but their resale value is higher due to policy support. The key is to consider local traffic restrictions—in first-tier cities, opting for China VI avoids future driving ban hassles. For daily driving, both versions are great, but choosing China VI offers more peace of mind with lower maintenance concerns.
