Earlier this month, several media reports said the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) had urged the government to introduce mandatory chloride limits in fuel standards after high levels of chloride and moisture were found in E20 petrol. SIAM later withdrew the communication, saying some of the figures mentioned in it needed further verification.
The government has been trying to address growing concerns around E20 with support from the industry. Oil marketing companies (OMCs) have rejected claims of widespread E20 fuel contamination after conducting tests across the country. Brands such as Toyota, Maruti Suzuki and Hero MotoCorp have also publicly backed the E20 programme.
However, separate communications between industry executives investigated by Reuters show that earlier, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Mahindra had privately raised concerns about contamination in E20. The data compiled by these carmakers was the most extensive fuel testing since E20 was officially rolled out nationwide last year. Their emails reveal that the carmakers were concerned about contaminants such as chloride and moisture in the fuel, which they said were affecting vehicles, even as they publicly supported the government’s E20 rollout.
Data flags high chloride contamination, moisture content
The data reviewed by Reuters shows that the three automobile manufacturers had carried out detailed testing by collecting more than 250 fuel samples from petrol pumps across 21 states and Union Territories over a year. The tests found high chloride levels in many samples from 18 states, along with high moisture content. Interestingly, the emails reviewed by Reuters did not raise any concerns about the authenticity of the data.
State
Number of samples
Chloride (ppm)
Uttar Pradesh
36
1.2-175
Maharashtra
31
10-357
Delhi/NCR
28
1.4-420
Tamil Nadu
27
1.3-24.0
Kerala
24
1.0-2.2
Punjab
20
1.9-110
Karnataka
15
1- 2.2
Rajasthan
14
6.0-570
Madhya Pradesh
11
4.1-550
Source: SIAM via Reuters.
The data showed chloride levels of 6 to 570 parts per million (ppm) in Rajasthan, 1.4 to 420ppm in New Delhi and 10 to 357ppm in Maharashtra. The government’s permissible limit is 3ppm.
High chloride levels in the fuel can corrode vehicle components, while high moisture content can cause a vehicle to stop working immediately after refuelling, SIAM had stated earlier. In group emails exchanged between Maruti, Tata, Mahindra and SIAM, a senior Maruti executive raised concerns about the high chloride readings and said the matter had even been privately discussed with the Ministry of Petroleum on July 26.
Moisture levels found 333 percent above limit
Additionally, the same data showed moisture levels of up to 13,000ppm in Andhra Pradesh and 12,500ppm in Uttar Pradesh, against the government’s permissible limit of 3,000ppm. The exact cause of the contamination is not known. However, SIAM said in its now-withdrawn letter that it had seen an increase in chloride levels since E20 was introduced and asked the government to direct OMCs to identify the root cause.
When asked about the private emails, SIAM told Reuters that the data was meant only for internal circulation, discussion and validation, and had been collected by a very small number of automakers. SIAM added that the communication was withdrawn because the testing basis and sample size were not enough to support firm conclusions and that it had been sent accidentally. The organisation stated further that it plans to conduct a proper scientific study.
As for the high moisture levels, SIAM’s letter said the cause could be poor maintenance of underground storage tanks and pipelines at petrol pumps.
Carmakers raise concerns over vehicle failures
In a July 26 email, a senior Maruti official said that current fuel injectors can tolerate a maximum chloride level of 1ppm, and keeping it below 1ppm in E20 would be in accordance with international standards and discussions with the petroleum ministry. Same is in line with discussion held with the petroleum ministry, he stated.
Meanwhile, a senior Mahindra official wrote that organic chloride was responsible for the rapid vehicle failures in recent times and could damage engines just within 200km. The executive said that most cases reported immediately after refuelling were due to organic chloride and added that Mahindra had “strong evidences” from fuel samples collected at retail outlets. Mahindra later said the conclusions drawn from its executive’s emails were “completely baseless and incorrect”. The company said the industry data was limited and preliminary and that it did not see any issues with E20.
What does the government say?
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas did not respond to requests for comment made by Reuters. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Friday that OMCs had started “rigorous testing” at retail outlets to check for contamination two weeks before SIAM’s letter was received. According to Puri, only four cases of contamination had been found. OMCs, as mentioned earlier, said that their extensive testing had found no reason for alarm over fuel contamination.
Mercedes-Benz India has revealed an AI-powered device that enables quicker vehicle inspection upon entry to its service centre. Dubbed the XENTRY Scanner, the service debuted at the brand’s newly established centre by Landmark Cars in Jogeshwari, Mumbai.
Mercedes’ first AI-powered car scanning system arrives at its largest workshop in Mumbai.
Uses a 360-degree camera system to identify damage on a car’s exterior.
Service Select debuts as a new scheme for older Mercedes vehicles.
Currently, the scanner is the only one of its kind in India at this service centre, which spans around 58,000 sq. ft., making it the brand’s largest in Mumbai. This facility consists of 16 preventive maintenance and general repair bays, 9 body and paint bays and 9 supporting bays, supported by a dedicated 6,000 sq. ft. spare-parts area.
How does Mercedes’ XENTRY Car Scanner work?
The brand calls it an MRI scanner for its cars
Mercedes-Benz’s XENTRY car scanner.
As the car enters the workshop, it is made to pass through the XENTRY scanner. The scanner utilises a 360-degree high-resolution camera system comprising 13 cameras and a LiDAR sensor. Images of the car are captured and analysed across four categories: body, underbody, windshield and tyres. The system captures 150 images within 3 to 5 seconds and then transmits the data to the Mercedes-Benz cloud.
Artificial intelligence then comes into play, identifying every kind of damage on the car’s exterior, even the ones that aren’t visible to the naked eye. It also provides in-depth tyre information, including their health, tread depth and braking performance. To maintain privacy, the system does not capture images of the driver. The findings are added directly to the job card of the particular car without manual entry, enabling better co-ordinated workshop processes. Mercedes says the process is entirely paperless, reducing walking distances, waiting times and paperwork that traditionally accompanied service reception.
Speaking about the thinking behind such initiatives, Mr Santosh Iyer, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “Productivity has to be the core. Reason being, from a real estate perspective, you need to turn cars around faster, while initiatives like the car scanner are more of a productivity enhancement. But on the customer side too, they expect the car to be turned around quickly, which is a pure mobility requirement for the customer.”
Through AI, external wear and tear is automatically detected by the XENTRY car scanner.
Next, a service advisor receives all the information on a tablet and informs the customer of a detailed list of vehicle wear and tear. It is then up to the customer to approve servicing of the concerned parts on the spot. The brand claims that a digital record of service status eliminates the need for manual inspections by the customer.
Interestingly, Landmark’s own internal research points to a shift in service revenue coming from EV adoption growth. “Landmark did a study of the service cost of EV versus ICE. Over the last six months, they’ve seen that the cost is the same in terms of maintenance. But this isn’t coming from maintenance; it’s coming from the body shop. More of the latter is done on EVs compared to ICE cars, said Mr Iyer.
At around 58,000 sq ft, the Landmark Cars workshop in Jogeshwari is the brand’s largest in Mumbai.
India now adds to the list of countries to offer Mercedes’ XENTRY scanner. Previously, the tech was available in international markets like Germany, Italy, Korea, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Turkey. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz plans to expand to more than 20 ‘world-class’ luxury outlets in 2026 in India, supported by an investment of more than Rs 450 crore by franchise partners over the next two years.
Mercedes Service Select: A service plan for older Mercedes vehicles
While Mercedes-Benz provides a standard 3-year warranty on new cars, it has also introduced a new service scheme for older vehicles. Called ‘Service Select’, Mercedes cars 7 years or older are eligible for this service. The scheme enables up to 25 percent savings for periodic service and brake care, a 2-year warranty on spare parts, benefits of its ‘Mobilio Lite’ service facility, and residual value protection of the vehicle.
Ducati India has launched the Monster and Monster+ V2 in India. Like we’d reported a few days ago, the updated Monster gets a brand-new 890cc engine that’s shared with the Multistrada V2, Panigale V2, and Streetfighter V2. The new Monsters start at Rs 13.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India), Rs 15,000 more than the outgoing models.
Gets a new 890cc V2 engine that delivers similar power
Both variants are mechanically identical
Ducati Protect Periodic Maintenance Contract available as an extra
Available in Monster and Monster+ guises
Both are mechanically identical, cosmetically different
Ducati has revealed the prices for both the Monster and the Monster+. Both get three colours: Ducati Red, Iceberg White, Sport Livery. The Monster in Ducati Red colour starts at Rs 13.99 lakh with the other two colours costing Rs 14.23 lakh. The Monster+ is mechanically identical to the Monster, but with the addition of a headlight cowl and a passenger seat cover. The Monster+ starts at Rs 14.34 lakh for Ducati Red and Rs 14.45 lakh for Iceberg White and Sport Livery.
New 890cc V-twin engine, shared with Multistrada V2 and Panigale V2
Power and torque figures are similar despite the smaller size
The Monster V2 gets a new 890cc V-twin engine, a brand-new monocoque chassis replacing the aluminium frame on the previous model, more muscular tank design that’s in line with the Monster’s design legacy but the capacity itself remains unchanged at 14-litres. Not only is the overall weight reduced by 5kg, thanks to IVT (Intake Variable Timing), the new 890cc engine makes the same 111hp as the previous Monster’s 937cc engine but peak power is delivered at 9,000rpm (250rpm earlier than before). Torque, on the other hand, sees a 2Nm reduction coming in at 91.1Nm and peak torque is now delivered at 7,250rpm (vs 6,500rpm earlier). However, 80 percent of this torque is now available between 4,000 and 9,000rpm.
The maintenance schedule has also become more relaxed, thanks again to IVT, with valve clearance check intervals now necessary only at 45,000km. Ducati expects the Monster to be serviced once a year, or once every 15,000km, whichever is earlier. The standard warranty is two years with unlimited mileage.
Other areas on the Monster V2 also see updates. The seat height is lower at 815mm and it’s narrower than before. For riders wanting to make it more accessible, there’s a lower 795mm seat accessory and an even lower seat with a 775mm seat height, which requires a lower suspension kit. Speaking of, the suspension is handled by the Showa 43mm USD fork and the rear monoshock suspension which are touted to balance comfort and sportiness. Brakes are from Brembo with front 320mm dual-disc brakes and a rear 245mm disc brake. The ride package is completed with the Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires with the front having a 120/70R17 and the rear 180/55R17.
Standard rider aids consist of ride and power modes, traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, and cornering ABS. Other electronic features include a 5-inch TFT instrument cluster, full LED lighting, a bi-directional quickshifter, dynamic and self cancelling indicators. The new Monsters are also ready for a number of Ducati accessories like TPMS, cruise control, turn-by-turn navigation, and heated grips etc., The Monster V2 is now available for booking on Ducati India’s website.
Double-digit fuel economy figures – I haven’t seen those on my daily commute in years! Part of the reason is that I’ve been driving mostly EVs lately, and they don’t use any fuel. And the other is that there are so few diesels, and those that remain have taken quite a hit on the economy front with all those emissions upgrades and various weight increases. So imagine my surprise when this large, heavy, super-luxurious limousine showed me upwards of 12kpl on my traffic-heavy 9km commute.
Smooth 2.0-litre diesel delivers exceptional economy even in this large and heavy limousine.
The fuel economy is but one of many bright blips on a limo that wastes no time showing you why it’s India’s favourite luxury car. And that’s despite its on-road price knocking on the door of a crore. It looks tremendous, more so in this Verde Silver paint, a shade I’m glad Mercedes added to its otherwise monochrome palette. It’s big but not ungainly, and its 18-inch wheels are a triumph of design – looking elegant and bigger than they actually are.
Back seats enjoyed mostly by bags for now.
Sadly, I don’t have a chauffeur, so I can’t experience the best seats the E-Class has to offer; that privilege goes to my bags every day.
Firm pedal resistance, along with turbo and gearbox lag, can make for abrupt starts from a standstill.
However, the big limo is surprisingly nice from behind the wheel too. I took little time to adjust to its large dimensions, and the steering is quick and responsive, so it wasn’t long before I was pointing its long nose into lanes only just about wide enough for it. My one grouse is the accelerator pedal, which doesn’t feel consistently weighted, and when combined with some reasonable turbo and gearbox lag, can make for an un-Merc-like lurch if you’re not careful.
‘Superscreen’ dashboard collects dust easily and catches a lot of reflections that distract the driver.
A big talking point of this new E-Class was the decision to replace the wood and leather dashboard with a giant panel of screens. I’m glad they’ve retained some rich-feeling open-pore wood on the dash, doors and seats though. The central screen is hugely impressive – bright, crisp and full of detail. But having a glass surface for a dashboard invites dust and reflections, which became a pain when driving in the afternoon sunlight. But that’s a problem for your chauffeur, and if you have an E-Class, chances are you have one in your employ too.
Despite the screens, a generous use of open-pore wood anchors the interior in old-world luxury.
The E 220d is the last diesel standing in its segment, and it’s all the better for it. Once the most vilified fuel in the country, the uncertainty around petrol these days might even turn people back to the black pump. And the smooth, refined, efficient E is a shining example of how good that can be.
The central government has acknowledged that it has not formally assessed how many vehicles in India are compatible with E20 petrol, despite mandating E20 fuel nationwide and continuing to prepare for higher ethanol blends. The government, however, said laboratory studies and field trials have established the fuel’s safety under prescribed standards.
In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi said the Ministry of Heavy Industries had not assessed the percentage of vehicles in the country that are compatible with E20 fuel.
Government cites laboratory and field trials to support E20 rollout
Mileage drop for E10-calibrated vehicles pegged at 3-5 percent
No verified evidence of widespread E20-related engine failures, says Centre
However, the government’s latest response also raises questions over the rollout timeline. While the Centre formally announced nationwide availability of E20 petrol in mid 2025—five years ahead of its original 2030 target—it now says E19-E20 blends have been in widespread use for more than two-and-a-half years, while E15 and higher ethanol blends have been in active distribution for over three-and-a-half years, covering more than 20 crore two-wheelers and 3 crore petrol passenger vehicles. The response does not explain this apparent discrepancy.
Government reiterates mileage and reliability claims
Addressing concerns around fuel economy, the government said vehicles originally calibrated for E10 petrol could see a 3-5 percent reduction in mileage when running on E20, although actual fuel efficiency depends on driving conditions, driving style and vehicle maintenance.
The government also reiterated that there is no verified evidence of widespread engine failures or vehicle breakdowns linked to ethanol blending.
Government cites laboratory and field testing
According to the government, the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme was implemented through a phased process involving NITI Aayog, oil marketing companies, automobile manufacturers, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and the Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP).
The government said testing covered engine durability, drivability, startability, corrosion resistance, material compatibility, emissions and fuel efficiency. Based on these studies, it said legacy vehicles do not show any significant change in performance or abnormal component wear when operated on E20 petrol.
Government preparing for higher ethanol blends
The government said India’s ethanol production capacity has been planned to meet current E20 requirements while also supporting future petrol demand, higher ethanol blends, flex-fuel vehicles and other biofuel applications, subject to future government approvals. It added that ethanol production continues to follow a diversified feedstock strategy, with only surplus foodgrains being diverted after meeting food security and public distribution requirements.
Not long after the success of the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protests, a new social media-led campaign calling itself the E20 Janta Party has cropped up. It demands that Indian vehicle owners be given the option to purchase ethanol-free petrol alongside E20 fuel, as well as the resignation of Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, who is a major proponent of the government’s ethanol blending policy.
For context, the E20 rollout started in April 2025, and it was mandated as the baseline petrol blend exactly one year later – all in an effort to reduce dependence on crude oil imports. This is despite the fact that E20 compliance was mandated in April 2023 as part of the BS6 Phase 2 emission norms, which means a hefty chunk of vehicles plying on Indian roads are not E20-compliant.
E20 Janta Party wants more transparency and options for fuel
No demands for E20 to be discontinued
Inspired by the CJP’s satirical, meme-driven approach, E20 Janta Party declared itself as a consumer rights movement that is not seeking the withdrawal of E20 petrol, but instead greater transparency and freedom of choice at fuel stations. Although ethanol-free fuel has been available in the form of 100-octane premium petrol (XP100, Speed100, and Power100), it’s sold only at select fuel stations and costs significantly more than standard E20, limiting its feasibility for most motorists.
“Our demand is very clear. E20 Janta Party is a people-powered movement demanding transparency, accountability, and the right of every Indian to know how the E20 policy affects their vehicles, wallets, and consumer rights,” the group said in a social media post. The campaign even referenced CJP’s initial call to mobilisation with a post stating, “What if all bike/car owners come together?”
The E20 Janta Party says it is not opposed to ethanol blending, nor is it asking for subsidies or free fuel. Instead, it wants fuel stations to offer consumers the choice between unblended petrol and ethanol-blended fuel. E20 Janta Party is also demanding transparent fuel labelling, publication of government data on the costs and benefits of different fuel blends, and independent scientific studies into mileage, engine performance, emissions, and maintenance costs, with the findings made publicly available.
Support pouring in for E20 Janta Party
At the time of writing, E20 Janta Party’s Twitter and Instagram accounts have attracted over 31,000 followers cumulatively, and the campaign has even begun attracting support beyond social media. Political commentator Tehseen Poonawalla announced a “Gaadi March” on July 31 against the E20 policy, while the Delhi Taxi and Tourist Transporters and Tour Operators Association planned a march to Parliament on August 4. The taxi association has raised concerns over fuel efficiency, maintenance costs and engine performance, particularly in older vehicles.
Govt continues to stand strong on ethanol blending policy
In recent months, motorists have expressed heightened acrimony surrounding the impact of E20 petrol on fuel efficiency and vehicle durability, whereas the government remains steadfast in its defence of the policy, saying E20 is a safe and cleaner fuel backed by scientific evaluation. A few weeks ago, prominent manufacturers like Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, and Hero Motocorp also backed E20 at a government briefing, notably claiming that they have found no significant concerns regarding accelerated wear and tear in older, non-compliant vehicles.
Petroleum Minister previously ruled out offering pure petrol or E10 alongside E20
Replying to a question in Parliament last week, Minister of State for Petroleum Suresh Gopi said the government had not received any “widespread or substantiated” complaints linking E20 petrol to vehicle performance issues. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri earlier shot down the prospect of offering unblended and E10 petrol alongside E20, citing tremendous logistical issues like separate storage, transportation, and dispensing infrastructures.
Ethanol content in petrol could increase; diesel likely to be blended with isobutanol
Flying Flea has expanded its retail presence in Bengaluru from a single store to 11 touchpoints across the city. The expansion follows what the brand describes as exceptional interest in its first product, the Flying Flea C6.
Flying Flea expands to 11 retail touchpoints in Bengaluru
C6 priced at Rs 2.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Bengaluru)
3.91kWh battery delivers a claimed IDC range of 154km
Flying Flea Bengaluru retail expansion: New touchpoints
Service network follows a hub-and-spoke model
The brand has confirmed that six of the new outlets are already operational, while the remaining five will open in the first week of August. The operational dealerships are located in Whitefield, Rajajinagar, Kalyan Nagar, Electronic City, Banashankari and Yelahanka. The upcoming outlets will be located in Marathahalli, Peenya, Nagarabhavi, B Narayanapura and Kengeri.
Flying Flea’s service network follows a hub-and-spoke model, with a dedicated service hub in BTM Layout handling specialised technical support and multiple spoke centres across the city catering to routine maintenance. All C6 owners also receive 24×7 roadside assistance as standard.
The Flying Flea C6 is priced at Rs 2.79 lakh (ex-showroom, Bengaluru), or Rs 1.99 lakh under the Battery-as-a-Service programme. It is powered by a 3.91kWh battery pack paired with a permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 15.4kW and 60Nm. Flying Flea claims an IDC range of 154km, a 0-60kph time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 115kph.
Flying Flea is following a city-by-city rollout strategy, with Bengaluru serving as its first market. The brand says it will progressively expand to other major metro cities as part of a phased rollout.
The more time I spend with our long-term MG Windsor EV, the easier it becomes to understand why it is India’s bestselling EV. It is one of those cars that slips effortlessly into daily life.
Its biggest strength is how easy it is to drive. The motor delivers power smoothly and predictably, making city commutes stress-free, while the regenerative braking is among the best-calibrated in the segment. Even in its strongest setting, it feels intuitive rather than abrupt. A proper single-pedal mode would have been welcome, but the Windsor remains one of the most user-friendly EVs around.
Smooth power delivery and well-calibrated regen make the Windsor one of the most user-friendly city cars.
The spacious cabin continues to be a highlight. The combination of a cab-forward design, large windows and generous dimensions creates an airy feel, while rear-seat passengers enjoy excellent headroom and legroom. My family was genuinely surprised by the amount of space on offer, and while the heavily quilted seats look premium, slimmer occupants may find them uncomfortable over a longer drive.
The cab-forward design and generous glass area create a genuinely spacious and airy ambience.
Performance has also impressed. Whether in city traffic or on my regular Mumbai-to-Pune drives, the Windsor has never felt short of power. It cruises comfortably at highway speeds, has enough performance in reserve for overtakes, and offers sufficient real-world range to complete the journey without any charging stops.
Not everything is perfect, though. The large glass area can make the cabin heat up quickly when parked in the sun, and the black leatherette upholstery does little to help. Highway refinement could also be better, with noticeable road noise filtering into the cabin. The ride remains comfortable for the most part, but sharp bumps and expansion joints can occasionally catch it out.
Road noise becomes noticeable at high speeds, taking away an otherwise refined experience.
The touchscreen-based controls still require acclimatisation. While shortcuts on the steering wheel make tasks such as mirror adjustment easier over time, physical controls would have been more convenient. The 15-inch display also feels slightly too large, requiring a stretch to reach functions at the far end.
Touch mirror and sunshade controls are too bad; physical controls would be far more convenient.
Even so, the Windsor EV continues to impress as an all-round package. Its blend of space, ease of driving, performance and usable range explains exactly why it has resonated so strongly with Indian buyers and why I’m going to hang on to it for a while longer.
The Toyota Fortuner is one of the most popular SUVs in India and continues to be among Toyota’s bestselling models. It is known for its powerful engines, rugged construction, off-road ability, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. The SUV is currently available in its second-generation facelift, which was launched in 2021. If you’re planning to buy one, here are two reasons to consider the Fortuner and two reasons why you may want to look at other options. Let’s start with the positives.
Reasons to buy the Toyota Fortuner:
Feels indestructible
Robust suspension and body-on-frame construction make it feel bulletproof
The Toyota Fortuner’s body-on-frame construction makes it feel solid and built to last. Its suspension is tough and is designed to handle rough roads with ease. While the ride feels firm at low speeds and small bumps can be felt inside the cabin, the suspension handles large potholes, broken roads, and unpaved tracks without much trouble.
The Fortuner is also one of the most capable off-road SUVs in its segment. It comes with a low-range transfer case, Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) modes, an electronic differential lock, and a water wading capacity of 700 mm. These features make it easy to drive through muddy trails, rocky paths, steep inclines, and even waterlogged roads. Whether you’re heading to the mountains or exploring off the beaten path, the Fortuner has the hardware to handle it with confidence.
Offers a strong performance
The torquey diesel engine allows for a sub-10s 0-100kph real-world run time
One of the Fortuner’s biggest strengths is its engine options. It is offered with a 2.7-litre petrol engine that makes 166hp and 245Nm, and a 2.8-litre diesel engine that produces 204hp and up to 500Nm. The diesel engine is also available with a 48V mild-hybrid system.
We tested the diesel-automatic version, which sprinted from 0-100 kmph in 9.96 seconds. That’s impressive for an SUV of this size and weight. The diesel engine delivers its maximum torque from low revs, so the Fortuner feels effortless to drive in the city and while overtaking on highways. It doesn’t need to be revved hard, although performance starts to taper off at higher revs.
The six-speed automatic gearbox is tuned for smooth and reliable performance rather than quick gear changes. It works well for daily driving and long-distance cruising, but enthusiasts may find it less engaging than the faster-shifting automatic transmissions offered by some newer SUVs.
Reasons to not buy the Toyota Fortuner:
Interior does not feel premium
The cabin looks dated and misses out on a lot of feel-good features
The Toyota Fortuner’s interior is starting to feel dated compared to newer rivals. While the 2021 facelift brought some updates, the overall dashboard design and cabin layout have remained largely unchanged since the second-generation model arrived in India. Compared to SUVs like the MG Majestor, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, and Jeep Meridian, the Fortuner’s cabin does not feel as modern or premium. The use of hard plastics and average-quality switches also remind you that this is an older design. At a price point that goes close to Rs 50 lakh, the cabin feels like it could offer more in terms of quality and sophistication.
The Fortuner’s feature list is another area where it falls behind newer rivals. It gets useful features like ventilated front seats, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, a 360-degree camera, and a powered tailgate on select variants. However, it misses out on features like a sunroof, advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), powered front seats, and an electronic parking brake, which are now available in several more affordable SUVs. Even the 360-degree camera quality feels average compared to newer competitors, making the Fortuner feel less tech-focused than its rivals.
Prices are on the steeper end
The Fortuner is priced at a premium over its rivals
Toyota Fortuner ex-showroom prices vs rivals
Model
Price range
Toyota Fortuner
Rs 34.76 lakh to Rs 50.46 lakh
MG Majestor
Rs 40.99 lakh to Rs 44.99 lakh
Jeep Meridian
Rs 23.33 lakh to Rs 35.96 lakh
Skoda Kodiaq
Rs 36.99 lakh to Rs 46.99 lakh
Volkswagen Tayron
Rs 41.99 lakh to Rs 46.99 lakh
The Toyota Fortuner is priced from Rs 34.76 lakh to Rs 50.46 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most expensive SUVs in its segment. At this price, it is expected to offer a more premium experience, but its dated cabin, average material quality, and missing modern features make it feel expensive compared to newer rivals.
However, the Fortuner’s appeal goes beyond features and cabin quality. Its rugged construction, off-road capability, proven reliability, strong resale value, and Toyota’s widespread service network continue to attract buyers. For many, the confidence of owning a durable and low-maintenance SUV outweighs the lack of premium features offered by newer rivals. These qualities have helped the Fortuner maintain a strong following in India, despite falling behind competitors in areas like interior quality and technology.
India completed the nationwide rollout of E20 petrol in April last year, making it the standard grade of petrol sold at fuel stations across the country. E20 contains 20 percent ethanol and 80 percent petrol, replacing the lower ethanol blends that were sold previously.
The transition has raised several questions among vehicle owners about compatibility, fuel efficiency, maintenance, warranties and long-term reliability. We separate the facts from the misconceptions and answer the key questions around E20.
1. What is E20 petrol and why has India switched to it?
E20 is fuel blended with 20 percent ethanol and 80 percent petrol. Ethanol is a biofuel produced from agricultural feedstocks such as sugarcane, maize and surplus food grains. India introduced the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme in 2003 with E5 petrol, and while the blended percentage kept varying for a while, it was eventually increased to E10 before completing the nationwide rollout of E20 in 2025, five years ahead of the planned implementation. According to the government, the programme aims to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, improve energy security, lower emissions and create an additional market for agricultural produce.
2. Can I use E20 fuel in my car or bike?
New petrol cars and two-wheelers sold in India today are compatible with E20 petrol. Under the government’s roadmap, vehicle manufacturers were required to make new petrol models manufactured from April 2023 compatible with E20.
Vehicles manufactured before April 2023 were designed for lower ethanol blends, so compatibility may vary depending on the model and year of manufacturing. However, some brands state that they had E20 material compliance before 2023, for a list click here.
3. How do I know if my car is E20 compatible?
The easiest way is to check your vehicle’s fuel flap or the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer’s authorised dealership. As part of the government’s E20 roadmap, manufacturers progressively introduced E20-compatible petrol vehicles from 2023 onwards. However, compatibility can vary depending on the model and year of manufacture, so owners should not assume that every petrol vehicle is fully E20-compatible.
4. Can E20 damage older engines or fuel-system components?
Concerns about E20 mainly relate to older vehicles that were not originally designed for higher ethanol blends. While ethanol has not been found to significantly directly affect metal fuel-system components, prolonged exposure to E20 can accelerate wear in some older rubber and plastic parts such as fuel hoses, seals, O-rings, gaskets and certain fuel pipes if they are made from materials that are not ethanol compatible.
Before approving E20, ARAI tested metals, elastomers and plastics commonly used in fuel systems. The study found no significant corrosion of metal components, but certain rubber compounds and plastics used in older vehicles showed greater deterioration than with E10 fuel. These findings prompted manufacturers to use ethanol-compatible materials in newer vehicles. Thus, owners of older vehicles should keep up with regular servicing and follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, increasing the inspection frequency if damage is suspected.
5. Does E20 reduce fuel efficiency?
Yes. E20 fuel generally returns lower fuel efficiency than petrol with a lower ethanol content because ethanol contains less energy than petrol. The exact reduction varies depending on the vehicle, engine and calibration.
E20 vs E10 mileage test results
Creta N Line
Dzire (BS 6)
Polo GT TSI
Dzire (BS 4)
Registration year
2024
2024
2017
2016
Average speed
17.8kph
20.25kph
18.0
19.3
Kpl on E20
10.59
14.24
9.13
9.8
Kpl on E10
12.12
14.81
9.63
11.19
Kpl variance
1.53
0.57
0.50
1.39
% variance
-12.62
-3.84
-5.19
-12.42
ARAI estimates a fuel efficiency drop of 1-6 percent with E20, while some manufacturers put it closer to 7-8 percent. In Autocar India’s real-world testing, both newer E20-compatible cars and older pre-E20 vehicles recorded a measurable drop in mileage when compared with an equivalent E10 blend. Among the newer cars, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire recorded a 3.8 percent drop, while the Hyundai Creta N Line saw a 12.6 percent decline.
Among older BS4-era cars, the Volkswagen Polo GT TSI posted a 5.2 percent drop, while the older Maruti Suzuki Dzire recorded a mileage drop of 12.4 percent.
The results also showed that there is no single figure applicable to every vehicle. Factors such as engine calibration and compression ratio all influence fuel efficiency, meaning some vehicles adapt better to E20 than others.
6. Does E20 improve performance or reduce emissions?
Octane rating test results
Fuel type
RON result
Regular E20 petrol
98.2 RON
XP95
98.8 RON
Yes, but not in a way that most motorists are likely to notice. E20 has a higher-octane rating than regular petrol, which improves resistance to engine knocking and can benefit engines designed to take advantage of higher-octane fuel.
The government says E20 aims to lower emissions by replacing a portion of petrol with domestically produced ethanol which is a renewable fuel. For most motorists, however, the most noticeable effect of switching to E20 is likely to be a small drop in mileage rather than a change in vehicle performance.
7. Is E20’s water contamination issue a real problem?
Image credit – Rushlane
Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it has the capability to absorb moisture. As a result, E20 is more susceptible to water contamination if excess moisture enters the fuel during storage or handling. In severe cases, this can lead to phase separation, where the ethanol and water separate from the petrol, affecting fuel quality.
Some petrol pump operators have raised concerns that existing underground storage tanks, particularly during the monsoon or in coastal areas, could be more prone to moisture ingress, increasing the risk of phase separation. However, the government and the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) says that there is no evidence linking E20 itself to widespread fuel contamination or vehicle failures.
8. Will using E20 affect my vehicle’s warranty?
For most owners, no. Vehicle manufacturers have said that using E20 petrol will not affect the warranty of their vehicles, and valid warranties will continue to be honoured. The government, SIAM and several manufacturers have stated that vehicles continue to be covered under their standard warranty terms when fuelled with E20, for a full list click here. SIAM has also said that OEMs will honour the warranty committed to customers for E20 usage, and that insurance claims will remain unaffected.
9. Why isn’t E20 petrol cheaper than regular petrol?
Although E20 contains 20 percent ethanol, it is not cheaper than regular petrol because ethanol currently costs more to procure and blend than petrol under prevailing market conditions. The cost of ethanol procurement, tax, transportation, blending and distribution offsets any potential saving from replacing a portion of petrol with domestically produced ethanol.
Any savings from lower crude oil imports are realised at the national level rather than by consumers through lower pump prices.
10. Why can’t I still buy E10 or pure petrol?
Because by policy E20 is now India’s standard petrol. Following the nationwide rollout of the Ethanol Blending Programme, oil companies have standardised regular petrol and premium 95-octane petrol to an E20 blend. Maintaining parallel supplies of E10 and E20 would require separate storage, transportation and dispensing infrastructure, making nationwide distribution significantly more complex.
As a result, motorists can no longer choose between E10 and E20 at regular fuel stations. The only exception is 100-octane petrol, such as IndianOil XP100 and HP Power100, which remains effectively ethanol-free because it is a niche fuel sold in limited volumes. For most vehicle owners, however, E20 is now the only petrol available.
11. Is the government planning to increase ethanol blending beyond E20?
Not yet, but the groundwork has begun. While the government has said no decision has been taken to mandate petrol with more than 20 percent ethanol, it has begun preparing the regulatory framework for higher blends.
In May 2026, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) notified fuel quality standards for E22, E25, E27 and E30 petrol, indicating that the government is laying the groundwork for future adoption. It has also proposed recognising E85 and E100 fuels under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
Separately, the government has tasked the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) with studying the impact of E25 petrol on existing E10- and E20-compatible vehicles, including its effect on fuel efficiency, durability, emissions and engine performance under long-term use.
However, any move beyond E20 will require extensive testing and consultation with vehicle manufacturers, fuel companies and research agencies to assess engine durability, emissions and fuel-system compatibility before it is introduced.
12. What should owners of older cars do now?
If your vehicle is not certified as E20-compatible, it does not necessarily mean it will experience immediate problems. However, owners should follow the manufacturer’s guidance, keep up with regular servicing and replace worn fuel-system components as required. It would also be prudent to increase the frequency of inspection of your vehicles fuel system to ensure there is no corrosive damage and catch it before it gets acute.
If you own a classic car, an older imported vehicle or a high-performance model designed for lower ethanol blends, using ethanol-free 100-octane petrol may be worth considering.
13. Can I convert my vehicle to run on E20 fuel?
Yes, but official upgrade programmes are currently limited and while a few manufacturers, like Royal Enfield and Maruti Suzuki, had mentioned a plan for these earlier, they don’t have much to say for now. In a recent government press conference that aimed to quell the E20 backlash, Maruti stated that the kits are for R&D purpose only.
Theoretically, it’s possible to replace critical components susceptible to E20 damage with those designed to handle the fuel – especially if your vehicle is still in production – and if you feel the need to, you can go ahead and have parts like fuel lines, fuel pump and gaskets replaced but by your authorised workshops only.
So, should you be worried about E20 petrol?
Not worried, but alert. Modern petrol cars and bikes designed or updated for E20 are engineered to run on the fuel without major issues, and extensive testing by the government, research agencies and manufacturers found no evidence of widespread reliability concerns.That said, E20 is not without trade-offs. Most motorists should expect a small reduction in fuel efficiency.
For owners of older vehicles, it would be wise to pay closer attention to fuel-system maintenance.
