Originally Posted By: CATERHAM
SlipperyPete and Garak have answered the question in part.
As mentioned by specifying a 0W-20 you are getting a synthetic oil with a VI higher than that of a 5w20 conventional. Pennzoil Platinum 5W-20 has a high VI for a 5W-20 but it's the exception and of course it's much lower than a OEM 0W-20 like TGMO as are most OTC 0W-20s like Mobil 1 0W-20.
The OEM 0W-20s, TGMO in particular is made specifically to maximize fuel economy while minimizing engine wear. And again in the case with Toyota, they have worked closely with their lubrication partners, Nippon Oil and ExxonMobil to make an ultra high shear stable oil.
This is the lubricant they use to produce their published fuel economy ratings. As a result the TGMO lubricant must be made available to their customers at a reasonable price but Toyota need not do more than recommend it's oil be used, consequently Toyota and all OEMs just require that the 0W-20 grade be used.
There is no question in my mind that TGMO 0W-20 is a more expensive oil to formulate than the average OTC 0W-20 but an aftermarket formulator need just make a 0W-20 that meets the requirements of the grade and API and it is okay to be used in vehicles for which the grade is specified.
Since most aftermarket 0W-20s are not high VI oils they will be heavier than necessary, primarily on start-up but at the very least will be mostly synthetic and lighter than almost all 5W-20s.
This position is the best for all involved parties.
The OEMs get to maximize their fuel economy ratings and the aftermarket oil formulators have a less stringent requirement to formulate a 0W-20 grade.
The consumer has the choice to use whatever API 0W-20 they want.
That said, I think it's best for most applications for consumers to use the OEM high VI 0W-20s since that is what is spec'd for their car but I fully support consumer choice even if the reason is for nothing more than brand loyalty.
Well said.
What do you think the differences are (if any?) between TGMO 0W-20 and ENEOS Sustina 0W-20?
Inquiring minds need to know.