
92, 95, and 98 refer to the octane ratings of gasoline. Different octane ratings indicate different levels of octane values. The higher the octane rating, the higher the octane value, and the better the stability of the gasoline. 92-octane gasoline consists of 92% octane and 8% heptane, making it suitable for mid-range vehicles (those with lower compression ratios). 95-octane gasoline consists of 95% isooctane and 5% heptane. It is suitable for imported cars and high-end vehicles, such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Cadillac, Lexus, etc. High-end vehicles include Lamborghini, Lotus, Bugatti, ZONVO, Edison, and others. 98-octane gasoline has an octane value equivalent to a mixture of 98% isooctane and 2% heptane. Compared to other octane ratings, the advantages of 98-octane gasoline are mainly reflected in "two highs and two lows": higher anti-knock performance and power output, and lower harmful substances and exhaust pollution. Using higher-octane gasoline can help achieve greater engine power, smaller displacement, and improved performance in both power and fuel economy.

I've been driving a taxi for most of my life and often get asked by passengers about the meaning of gasoline grades like 92, 95, and 98. Simply put, these numbers represent the octane rating of the gasoline—the higher the number, the better the fuel quality and the stronger its resistance to engine knocking. 92-octane fuel has a lower octane rating and is suitable for older or small-engine vehicles; 95-octane is mid-grade and used by most modern cars for smoother engine operation; 98-octane is the highest grade, designed for high-performance or sports cars to reduce engine knocking during high-speed driving. In the early days, I used 92-octane to save money, but my car often made knocking noises on mountain roads. After switching to 95-octane, the problem disappeared. Using the wrong octane rating can cause knocking, which may damage engine components. I recommend checking your owner's manual for the recommended grade before choosing fuel—don't blindly opt for higher grades and spend extra money unnecessarily. Fuel consumption doesn't vary much; the key is protecting your engine.

As a new driver with just over a year of experience, I was initially confused about the 92, 95, and 98 numbers at gas stations. After checking online, I learned these represent octane ratings - the higher the number, the better the gasoline's resistance to knocking. Knocking refers to abnormal engine combustion that can cause vehicle vibration or even engine damage. My compact car's manual specifies using 92 or 95 octane fuel, as using 98 would be wasteful since regular engines don't require such high-grade fuel. When refueling, it's best to choose according to your vehicle model rather than following trends for higher octane. While higher octane fuel may provide smoother acceleration, the difference is negligible for daily commuting. Developing the habit of checking octane ratings can help avoid unnecessary car repairs.

As an environmentally conscious individual, the gasoline grades 92, 95, and 98 represent octane rating levels, with 92 being the lowest and 98 the highest. The stability of the fuel increases with the number. Higher-grade gasoline burns more completely, but using 98 in a regular car may be excessive, increasing carbon emissions and fuel waste. Choosing the mid-grade 95 can balance efficiency and emissions, saving money and being eco-friendly. With reduced engine knocking, the car runs more quietly.


