Standard Unleaded Petrol is Changing – Everything You Need to Know

From summer 2021 the make-up of standard unleaded fuel will be changing, with the amount of renewable ethanol being increased to 10% from 5% previously – It will be known as E10.

All vehicles made since 2011 will be compatible with this new fuel, however, older vehicles may experience issues. If you own a vehicle built before 2011 you should check its compatibility using the Government’s online checker.



If your vehicle isn’t compatible you can continue to purchase E5 petrol by choosing ‘super’ 97+ octane unleaded petrol which is available at most petrol stations. Petrol pumps will be clearly labelled either E5 or E10. No changes are being made to diesel fuel.

Are Cars Sold by Smiths Motor Group Compatible with E10 Petrol?

Dacia

All Dacia petrol models are compatible with E10 petrol.

Hyundai

All Hyundai petrol models built since 2005 are compatible with E10 petrol.

Nissan

All petrol-powered Nissan vehicles manufactured since 1st January 2000 are compatible with E10 petrol.

Renault

All petrol-powered Renault vehicles manufactured since 1st January 1997 are compatible with E10 petrol with the following exceptions:

  • Megane I with 2.0-litre F5R direct-injection petrol engine (1999 – 2003)
  • Laguna II with 2.0-litre F5R direct-injection petrol engine (2001 – 2003)
  • Laguna II with 2.0-litre F4R Turbo engine (2000 – 2002)
  • Espace IV with 2.0-litre F4R Turbo engine (2000 – 2002)
  • Vel Satis with 2.0-litre F4R Turbo engine (2000 – 2002)
  • Avantime with 2.0-litre F4R Turbo engine (2000 – 2002)

Vauxhall

All Vauxhall models are compatible with E10 petrol with the following exceptions:

  • Models with the 2.2-litre direct injection-petrol engine, motor code: Z22YH

For other makes of vehicle, please use the Government’s online tool to check compatibility.

What is E10 Petrol?

E10 petrol contains 10% renewable ethanol produced from crops such as sugarcane and grains. Previously, unleaded fuel in the UK contained 5%. It is estimated that this change could reduce CO2 emissions by 750,000 tonnes per year, or the equivalent of having 350,000 fewer cars on the road.

What Happens if You Put E10 Petrol in an Incompatible Vehicle?

Unlike putting petrol into a diesel vehicle, or vice versa, a single fill-up of E10 petrol shouldn’t cause any major problems. It is, however, recommended that you fill up with E5 petrol the next time. Prolonged use of E10 petrol in a non-compatible vehicle may cause harm and is not recommended.

Can You Mix E5 and E10 Petrol?

If your car is compatible with E10 petrol, there is no reason why you can’t mix the two types of fuel.

How Can I Tell Which Fuel a Petrol Pump is Dispensing?

Petrol pumps will be clearly labelled with the following labels to show whether they are dispensing E5 or E10 petrol.