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In 2025, the engine oil industry is entering a new phase of development with the introduction of the ILSAC GF-7 specification and the corresponding API SQ standard. These are the most advanced requirements ever set for gasoline engine oils. TotalEnergies is one of the first manufacturers in the world to meet them in its flagship product, TotalEnergies Quartz Ineo Xtra EC6 0W-20.
The answer to the challenges of modern engines
API SQ / ILSAC GF-7 is the result of joint work between the American API and Japanese ILSAC organizations. Both institutions have developed a new set of tests and criteria to meet the growing demands of internal combustion engines, stricter emission standards, and user expectations for engine durability and vehicle efficiency. The new generation of standards replaces API SP / ILSAC GF-6 and introduces a number of key changes, including:
- Higher fuel economy – fuel economy limits have been raised by up to 20% in tests, which translates into a real reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
- Improved piston cleanliness and oxidation resistance – requirements have been increased by 10%. This provides more effective protection against carbon deposits and oil-based deposits, as well as reducing the risk of ring sticking.
- LSPI protection throughout the entire service life – this is a very important change, as the test covers not only fresh oil, but also used oil.
- Reduction of timing chain wear – the new chain elongation limit is 0.080%, which translates into greater durability of the mechanisms.
- Better pumpability at low temperatures – reducing the maximum MRV viscosity of fresh oil from 60,000 cP to 40,000 cP ensures faster lubrication during cold starts.
- Lower sulfate ash content – reducing the limit to 0.9% increases compatibility with GPF particulate filters.
- New oil gelation test (EOGT) – reduces the risk of sludge formation in oil in the presence of water, which simulates the operation of oil in underheated engines used in hybrid drives. Sludge formed under such conditions can cause blockages in the lubrication system.
- Extended seal compatibility tests – the number of elastomers tested has been increased. These are additional elastomers used, for example, in seals and/or wet timing belts.
- Total backward compatibility – API SQ / ILSAC GF-7 oils can be used in all engines requiring earlier standards.
A product ready for stricter requirements
TotalEnergies Quartz Ineo Xtra EC6 0W-20 meets the most stringent requirements of the new specifications. This is the result of a precise selection of base oils and advanced additive packages designed to withstand the extreme operating conditions of modern engines.
This is not a cosmetic change, but a clear increase in the requirements for oils. The fact that TotalEnergies Quartz Ineo Xtra EC6 0W-20 has received the highest API SQ and ILSAC GF-7A specifications is a clear signal that TotalEnergies is one of the leading oil brands on the market. Our products provide exceptional protection against LSPI, support fuel economy, and are fully compatible with GPF filters. Meeting the new limits required precise work on the formulation, which translates into real benefits for drivers – in both new and older vehicles. The migration to SQ/GF-7 oils is a necessity today, as only these oils guarantee the highest operational safety in the coming years."
Andrzej Husiatyński
Technical Department Manager, TotalEnergies Marketing Polska
TotalEnergies sets the direction for new generation engine oils
API SQ / ILSAC GF-7 opens a new stage in the development of lubricants. TotalEnergies is one of the first manufacturers to offer a product that is fully compliant with the new specification, thus confirming its position as a technological leader in the market.