Quick Take – What’s Going On?
- Toyota is recommending RON95 petrol for hybrid models built from March 2025 onwards.
- Applies to cars like the Innova HyCross, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, and Maruti Invicto.
- It’s all about protecting hybrid tech and ensuring better long-term performance.
- Non-hybrids can still run on RON91, but hybrid owners should take note!
The Backstory – Why This Fuel Shift Matters
If you’re driving or planning to buy a Toyota hybrid, here’s something new for your checklist. Starting March 2025, Toyota wants you to fill your tank with RON95 fuel instead of the usual RON91 petrol that most of us use. This isn’t just a random update—it’s about making sure your hybrid engine runs smoother, cleaner, and lasts longer.
So what changed? Toyota has updated the owner’s manuals of popular models like the Innova HyCross and Urban Cruiser Hyryder, clearly stating the use of RON95 petrol for hybrid variants. Even the Maruti Invicto, which is built on the same platform as the HyCross, falls under this new recommendation.
What Exactly is RON95 and Why Should You Care?
Let’s simplify this. RON stands for Research Octane Number—a fancy term for how well fuel resists knocking or pre-ignition inside your engine. The higher the number, the better the performance for engines designed to work under more pressure—like hybrid systems.
Toyota’s hybrid engines are finely tuned to squeeze the best out of every drop of petrol. But they need the right fuel to do that. Using lower-grade fuel like RON91 in these hybrids could mess with combustion, stress out the engine, and wear down key parts faster—especially high-value components like the catalytic converter.
In short: RON95 isn’t just better—it’s the safer, smarter fuel for your hybrid.
Which Cars Are Affected?
Here’s the list of cars that now fall under Toyota’s RON95 recommendation from March 2025:
- Toyota Innova HyCross (petrol & hybrid – no distinction made)
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder (hybrid only)
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara (hybrid only)
- Maruti Suzuki Invicto (hybrid only)
Interestingly, Toyota hasn’t separated the recommendation for the HyCross petrol vs hybrid variants, so it looks like they’re playing it safe and advising RON95 across the board for that model.
What Happens if You Keep Using RON91?
Good question. Technically, your hybrid won’t immediately break down if you use RON91. It’ll still start and drive. But over time, you might notice:
- Rougher engine noise or knocking
- A drop in fuel efficiency
- Weird hesitations in power delivery
- Expensive wear and tear on critical engine parts
Toyota’s message is clear: You can use RON91, but you probably shouldn’t—especially if you plan to keep your hybrid long-term.
Think of it like this: feeding your hybrid low-grade fuel is like giving an athlete junk food before a marathon. They’ll still run, but not at their best—and recovery will be painful.
Will It Cost More to Run a Hybrid Now?
Yes—but not by much, and here’s why it could still be worth it.
RON95 fuel generally costs ₹4–₹8 more per litre than RON91, depending on where you live. For a full tank, that’s maybe ₹200–₹400 extra. But what do you get in return?
- Smoother performance
- Better fuel economy in the long run
- Protection for engine components that would otherwise cost thousands to replace
- Peace of mind knowing you’re doing what’s best for your car
If you’re already saving money on fuel thanks to your hybrid’s better mileage, then paying a little extra for the right kind of petrol just makes sense.
Final Thoughts – A Small Shift, A Big Step Toward Smarter Hybrid Ownership
Toyota’s move to recommend RON95 isn’t just about premium fuel—it’s about future-proofing your hybrid driving experience. Whether it’s for performance, protection, or peace of mind, this fuel switch helps make sure your car keeps doing what it does best: delivering smooth, efficient, and reliable drives every day.
So, if you’re driving a Toyota hybrid—or planning to get one—this is your cue to start asking for RON95 at the pump. A small change today could save you a lot tomorrow.