API SQ Explained: What It Means and How Motul Delivers
As OEM's continue to push for better fuel economy and lower emissions, engine technology has rapidly evolved. Modern engines are smaller, more efficient, and more demanding on lubricants. To meet these challenges, a new global standard has been introduced: API SQ, effective March 31, 2025.
What is API SQ?
The American Petroleum Institute (API) sets the standard for lubricant quality worldwide. API SQ is the latest petrol engine oil specification, developed to address today’s high-performance, turbocharged, direct-injection engines. It introduces stricter tests and performance requirements compared to API SP, focusing on:
- Fuel Economy – Reduced friction for improved efficiency, with support for ultra-low viscosity oils like SAE 0W-8 and 0W-12.
- Provides full drain interval protection against Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI), safeguarding turbocharged engines from destructive knock throughout the oil’s life cycle.
- Cleaner Engines – Stronger deposit and oxidation control for cleaner pistons and turbochargers.
- Durability – Enhanced timing chain wear protection and improved oil stability over extended drain intervals.
- Emission System Compatibility – Capped sulfated ash (≤0.9%) to protect petrol particulate filters (PPFs).
- Cold-Start Performance – Delivers easy start-up and protection during cold winter mornings, with the stability to handle African heat.
What’s New vs API SP?
API SQ goes beyond SP with:
Stricter and longer test cycles for LSPI (including Aged Oil testing).
Improved piston cleanliness standards.
Expanded focus on ultra-low viscosity oils for the next generation of fuel-efficient vehicles.
Tighter sulfated ash limits to extend PPF service life.
In short: API SQ = More Efficiency + Longer Protection + Cleaner Engines.
Motul is Ready
Motul has already prepared its premium 8100 ECO-lite range to meet the new API SQ standard. This includes:
8100 ECO-lite 0W-16
These formulations are specifically designed for modern American, Asian, and European petrol engines, ensuring full compliance with API SQ while delivering the Motul advantage, cutting-edge protection, performance, and reliability inspired by our motorsport heritage.
What This Means for Drivers
Lower fuel consumption and running costs.
Longer engine life with reduced risk of LSPI damage.
Cleaner engines and emission systems.
Reliable performance in both hot and cold conditions.
Meets global standards while delivering proven reliability for Southern African driving conditions
Why it Matters for Southern Africa
Namibia’s car park is changing fast. Alongside trusted brands like Toyota, Ford, Volkswagen, Nissan, Isuzu, Jetour & Cherry are making their mark on local roads. At the same time, a wave of new entrants is bringing modern, compact petrol and hybrid engines. These engines promise excellent fuel economy but only if paired with the right next-generation lubricants.
API SQ is specifically designed for this shift: small, high-output petrol and hybrid engines that require ultra-efficient, ultra-durable oils.
That’s why Motul South Africa is ready. We’re committed to ensuring that drivers, workshops, and fleets across the region have access to lubricants that not only meet global standards but also cater to the specific needs of our roads and vehicles.
For Southern African drivers, this means:
- Confidence in new-generation vehicles – ensuring warranty protection and maximum performance across both traditional and new OEMs.
- Lower fuel bills – critical as fuel prices remain volatile, and API SQ can deliver up to 16% fuel savings compared to previous API generation lubricants.
- Longer engine life – essential when vehicles are kept on the road for longer in our market.
- Adaptability for all conditions – from stop-start traffic in Windhoek to long-haul trips across the country
With API SQ-ready oils, Motul South Africa helps ensure that modern vehicles on our roads meet their promises of efficiency, reliability, and longevity.
Whether you're commuting in Joburg Traffic or exploring Africa's open roads, Motul means one thing confidence in every journey.