Choosing gasoline for modern cars is not just a matter of following the manual, especially when it comes to turbocharged engines and new transmission technologies. In Russia, gas stations typically offer three types of fuel: AI-92, AI-95, and AI-100. It might seem sufficient to simply use what the manufacturer recommends, but the reality is much more complex.
Modern engines are increasingly equipped with turbos and operate on CVTs or automated transmissions, which requires careful attention to fuel quality. For example, Chinese car manufacturers often allow the use of AI-92, which may sound unusual for Russian drivers, as global brands typically recommend AI-95.
Why is this?
The answer lies in engine design: Chinese models have a lower compression ratio, so AI-92 is theoretically suitable. However, a turbo running under high pressure at high RPMs can cause knocking — a dangerous phenomenon that can quickly damage the engine. Modern diagnostic systems signal this with a «Check Engine» warning, but timely reading of fault codes requires attention. Chinese manufacturers have conducted extensive testing, and with high-quality AI-92, knocking does not occur. However, Russian fuel often does not meet international standards, and in such conditions, using AI-92 can be risky.
Conclusion
If you want to keep your engine in good condition and avoid problems, it’s better not to treat the allowance for AI-92 as a direct recommendation. In Russian conditions, it is more reasonable to choose AI-95 or AI-100 — they provide extra protection for the turbo engine against knocking and extend the vehicle’s lifespan, especially when the quality of fuel at gas stations is uncertain.
