We recently discovered a report on the Maruti Grand Vitara, which indicates that the manufacturer recommends using premium-grade petrol for the hybrid version of this SUV. Interestingly, this recommendation extends beyond just the Grand Vitara; Toyota has also advised the use of 95 Octane or RON 95 fuel for its cars in India, specifically the Hyryder and the Innova Hycross. Multiple reports and tests done with us in the past record that with premium fuel, the fuel economy is far more consistent, the engine refinement parameters increase and it generally runs smoother.
Toyota has updated the owner’s manual for both the Hyryder SUV and the Hycross MPV, stating that vehicles manufactured after March 2025 should utilize RON 95 or 95 Octane fuel.
At this point, it remains unclear if this update applies specifically to hybrid or non-hybrid vehicles, as Toyota hasn’t made a distinction for the Innova Hycross. This implies that both the hybrid and non-hybrid versions may need to use 95 Octane fuel.
Meanwhile the non-hybrid model, featuring the K15C series engine, can operate on 91 Octane fuel without issues such as the Grand Vitara and Hyryder.
The Toyota Innova Hycross isn’t the only model affected— the Maruti Suzuki Invicto MPV, a badge-engineered version of the Hycross produced after March 2025, will also be subject to this update. The underlying reason for Toyota’s recommendation is that low-octane fuel (below 95 Octane) may harm the vehicle’s catalytic converter. Talks of premium fuel not having high level of Ethanol also increases fuel economy as the blend of fuel and ethanol does lower fuel economy by a good margin. However, it cannot be put to test because this is incomparison to BS4 vehicles. Post BS6, all fuel economy of cars have remain stable and lowered, not increased by a big margin as expected.
While the cars can still run on regular 91 Octane, doing so could shorten the lifespan of the catalytic converter and potentially lead to costly repairs down the line. For example, replacing a catalytic converter in a Toyota Hyryder could easily set you back over ₹80,000.
95 Octane petrol is a premium grade with a higher octane rating, offering enhanced performance and better engine protection compared to standard options. It is specifically formulated for high-performance engines, turbocharged vehicles, and luxury cars that require or recommend higher octane fuels.
If you notice that your vehicle is stalling frequently, losing power, or consuming more fuel than usual, it’s a good idea to have it checked at an authorized service center. These symptoms could indicate a problem with the catalytic converter as well.
A catalytic converter plays a vital role in controlling exhaust emissions in internal combustion engine vehicles. With emission regulations tightening every year, it’s likely that manufacturers will have to make further modifications to their engines to meet these standards, which will inevitably be reflected in the pricing of the vehicles.
