
ATSL technical model manufacturer requires the use of 95 octane fuel. Below are the specific details of this vehicle: Dimensions: The Cadillac ATSL has a wheelbase of 2860 mm, with a length, width, and height of 4730 mm, 1824 mm, and 1426 mm respectively. The Cadillac ATSL is a four-door, five-seater sedan. Performance: The Cadillac ATSL is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine has a maximum power output of 205 kW, with peak power achieved at 5500 rpm, and a maximum torque of 400 Nm, with peak torque available between 2900 to 4600 rpm. The engine features direct fuel injection technology and utilizes an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block.

I've been driving my ATS-L for over three years and always use 95-octane gasoline. The owner's manual clearly requires 95-octane or higher because its 2.0T engine has a high compression ratio - using lower octane fuel can easily cause knocking. Once I had to temporarily fill up with 92-octane at a remote gas station, and the engine noticeably shook with sluggish throttle response, making the driving experience very uncomfortable. It returned to normal only after I switched back to 95. Even with rising fuel prices, I haven't compromised since the potential savings aren't worth one engine repair. As a reminder, fuel quality varies greatly by region, so try to choose major brands like Sinopec for refueling.

From an engineering perspective, the ATS-L requires 95-octane gasoline. Turbocharged engines operate with high cylinder temperatures and pressures, necessitating high-octane fuel to resist knocking. 92-octane fuel lacks sufficient anti-knock properties, causing the ECU to retard ignition timing to protect the engine, resulting in a 10%-15% power loss. Long-term use of lower-octane fuel can also lead to issues like spark plug carbon buildup, oxygen sensor failure, and even piston ring wear. I've seen several owners use 92-octane to save money, only to spend tens of thousands on engine overhauls after 2-3 years. For short-distance emergencies, you can mix half a tank of 92-octane, but remember to add fuel additives promptly and refill with 95-octane to clean the fuel system.

Let me tell you straight, the inside of the ATS-L fuel tank cap is clearly marked '95 octane or higher unleaded gasoline.' Don't believe those online claims that all turbocharged cars can use 92 octane - this car's engine warning light will come on in no time if you use 92. I learned this the hard way: during a road trip I mistakenly filled up with the wrong fuel, and the engine started chugging like it had asthma. It wasn't fixed until I had the fuel system cleaned at the dealership. The mechanic said an occasional mistake isn't catastrophic - just mix in 95 octane when you've burned through half a tank. But never make it a habit, or you might not even realize when the knock sensor gets damaged.


