What type of fuel should be used for the Volvo XC60?
2 Answers
The Volvo XC60 should use 95-octane gasoline, as recommended in the vehicle's official owner's manual. In addition to checking the appropriate fuel grade in the owner's manual, you can also find this information on the fuel tank cap, which will be clearly marked. Typically, the fuel grade can also be determined based on the engine's compression ratio. Vehicles with a compression ratio between 8.6-9.9 should use 92-octane gasoline, while those with a compression ratio between 10.0-11.5 should use 95-octane gasoline. If the compression ratio is higher, 98-octane gasoline is recommended. However, with the application of new technologies, the compression ratio alone cannot determine the appropriate fuel grade. A high compression ratio can also be adjusted to use lower-octane gasoline, as other factors such as ignition timing, turbocharging technology, and Atkinson cycle technology also play a role. Generally, the higher the gasoline octane rating, the higher the octane number and the better the anti-knock performance. 92-octane gasoline contains 92% isooctane and 8% n-heptane, while 95-octane gasoline contains 95% isooctane and 5% n-heptane. If you occasionally use the wrong fuel grade for the Volvo XC60, simply switch back to the correct grade after refueling. However, prolonged use of the wrong fuel grade can have the following effects: Using a higher-octane fuel in a vehicle designed for lower-octane fuel will not cause damage, but the increased octane number can alter the fuel's ignition point, leading to delayed combustion in the engine. This reduces the engine's power output and thermal efficiency, resulting in poorer performance. Using a lower-octane fuel in a vehicle designed for higher-octane fuel can cause engine knocking. The significantly lower octane number lowers the fuel's ignition point, causing premature ignition during the compression stroke. If combustion occurs before the spark plug fires, resistance is generated during the upward stroke. This resistance makes the engine run very unevenly. Mild knocking may only increase noise without obvious engine damage, but noticeable knocking indicates severe engine conditions. The vibrations not only affect driving stability but can also cause abnormal wear on the pistons and cylinders, potentially leading to cylinder scoring in severe cases.
I've been driving a Volvo XC60, and based on my experience, using 95-octane gasoline is the most reliable. The engine in this car is turbocharged, and using lower-grade 92-octane fuel can easily cause knocking, making the engine unstable as if it's fighting. Long-term use may damage pistons or valves. Since I often drive with my family, safety comes first, so I insist on using 95-octane fuel, which improves combustion efficiency and reduces engine carbon deposits. The car runs smoother, and the fuel consumption is reasonable. The Volvo manual and fuel filler cap also indicate 95 or 98-octane unleaded gasoline. Although 98-octane is better, 95-octane offers a better cost-performance ratio for daily use. Spending a bit more on fuel can save on repair costs and extend the car's lifespan.
