Key highlights
- Toyota has updated its owner’s manual, recommending RON95 or higher fuel for the Innova Hycross and Hyryder Hybrid models.
- The change applies to vehicles manufactured from March 2025 onwards, ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity.
- Using lower octane fuel could lead to catalytic converter damage, making RON95 the preferred choice for hybrid variants.
Toyota has officially updated its fuel recommendations, advising owners of the Innova Hycross and Urban Cruiser Hyryder Hybrid to use RON95 or higher octane fuel for optimal engine performance and longevity. The change applies to vehicles manufactured from March 2025 onwards, as per the updated owner’s manual.
Why the shift to RON95?
Toyota’s decision to recommend RON95 fuel stems from concerns over catalytic converter damage when using lower octane fuel. The strong hybrid versions of the Hyryder and Maruti Grand Vitara require higher octane petrol to ensure clean combustion and prevent premature wear.
For the Innova Hycross, Toyota has not separately mentioned hybrid and gasoline engines, suggesting that both powertrains may benefit from RON95 fuel.
Potential risks of using lower octane fuel
While Toyota’s hybrids can technically run on RON91 fuel, doing so increases the risk of early component failure. The catalytic converter, a crucial emissions control device, could suffer accelerated degradation, leading to expensive repairs.
Market impact and customer advisory
Toyota’s updated fuel recommendation aligns with global trends, where hybrid and turbocharged engines increasingly require higher octane fuel for efficiency and durability. Owners are advised to switch to RON95 petrol, which is widely available at most fuel stations.
Our thoughts
Toyota’s RON95 fuel recommendation makes sense. The catalytic converter protection and improved combustion ensure better efficiency, and the updated manual provides clarity. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want a hybrid that runs smoother and lasts longer? Here’s hoping Toyota keeps refining its fuel strategies—it’s shaping up to be a benchmark in hybrid reliability!
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