What is the difference between China 6 and China 5?
3 Answers
China 6 adopts the fuel-neutral principle, meaning that regardless of the type of fuel used, the emission limits are the same. In contrast, during the previous "China 5" phase, diesel and gasoline vehicles had different emission standards. Compared to China 5, the China 6 standard reduces nitrogen oxides by 77% and particulate matter by 67%. Other relevant information: China 5 standard: The China 5 standard refers to the National Fifth Stage Motor Vehicle Pollutant Emission Standard, also known as "China 5 Standard." The emission control level of China 5 is equivalent to the European Union's fifth-stage emission standard currently in effect. The EU has been implementing this standard since 2009, which imposes stricter limits on nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter from motor vehicles. From China 1 to China 4, each upgrade in the standard reduces single-vehicle pollution by 30% to 50%.
The main difference between China VI and China V lies in stricter emission standards. As someone who frequently follows environmental topics, I notice China VI imposes tighter limits on pollutants like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, reducing them by several dozen percentage points compared to China V. This means driving China VI vehicles emits less exhaust in urban areas, contributing to cleaner air and reduced smog issues. In daily driving, China VI vehicles also incorporate more sensors for real-time emission monitoring, which adds a bit of complexity but enhances intelligence. From an environmental perspective, promoting China VI is beneficial as government enforcement helps protect public health. When purchasing new cars, I prioritize the China VI label because it ensures better future resale value, whereas China V models may face restrictions in the used car market. Although China VI vehicles initially came with higher price tags, long-term fuel efficiency has also been optimized. Overall, these differences promote greener transportation, and I recommend everyone opt for the newer standard.
Having driven cars for over a decade, I personally experienced that the difference between China VI and China V lies in the emission control system. China VI requires much lower nitrogen oxide emissions, so automakers added particulate filters, making startups quieter. For car owners, China VI vehicles may cost two to three thousand yuan more, but maintenance costs are similar; in terms of performance, I didn't notice much difference when driving. In actual driving, China VI vehicles better adapt to environmental restriction zones, making it easier to enter urban areas in big cities. During second-hand transactions, China V license plates are restricted in some areas, making transfers a bit troublesome. My personal habit is to regularly check the vehicle to avoid emission-related fines. Don't worry about technical details—you'll get used to it. China VI is just cleaner.
