Avensis And Optimax

[The Real Tao]

I've started using Shell optimax petrol and have noticed quite a dramatic increase in flexibility with the 1.8 lean-burn engine. Average consumption has risen from 40 to 45 mpg and i no longer get the "put the foot down and nothing happens" syndrome, between 3000 and 4000 rpm.

Has anyone else tried it, or more importantly ......am i doing the engine more damage than good ??

[cal]

I heard quite a lot of people say that the optimax has a noticable effect and in your case, it has certainly worked for you. Whether it is worth that extra few pence I don't know but it shouldn't do the engine any harm. Basically, if you notice better performance, it means the fuel is burning much efficiently, and besides, Toyota engines are real tough anyway.

[mark.wallace@mawallace1.d]

I use Optimax in my tank every other fill up.

Given the extra cost I found that the "small" increase in mpg was not worth it. I did not notice much improvent in perfomance either.

(Avensis 2.0 GLS)

[ganyb]

I've used Optimax here in Melbourne, for almost 3 years. Firstly in a 3.8lt V6 Holden, and now in my 03 1.8 Corolla. In my experience, it has resulted in an economy improvement of >5%, smoother idling, and distinctly better pick up on acceleration. It is apparently a denser fuel with a much cleaner burn.

You need to run 4 to 5 full tanks before effects are are fully apparent, I'm totally converted and won't use anything else.

[runboy]

Use it in my 03 Corolla 1.6. Noticed an immediate improvement. MPG gone up, smooth running (hunting of the engine revs at idle has gone-don't know if using Optimax is connected). Performance is sweet for a 1.6!.