Choosing the right lubricant engine oil types is one of the most important decisions you can make for your car’s performance, fuel economy, and long-term health. In 2025, engine designs are more efficient but also more demanding, and poor oil choices can cost you in mileage, responsiveness, and wear.
This guide will help you understand which oil types are most suited for different car engines, why 20w40 engine oil still remains a go-to option for Indian drivers, and which options are considered the best engine oil for car in India right now.
Why You Need to Know Lubricant Engine Oil Types
Not all engine oils perform the same. Whether you’re driving a petrol sedan or a diesel SUV, the wrong oil can increase friction, cause sludge, or even trigger overheating.
Common lubricant engine oil types used in Indian cars include:
1. Mineral Oil
- Basic protection
- Shorter oil change intervals
- Suitable for older engines
2. Semi-Synthetic Oil
- Balanced option for urban and highway use
- Better thermal stability than mineral oil
- Works well in stop-and-go conditions
3. Fully Synthetic Oil
- Best-in-class lubrication
- Strong resistance to breakdown under extreme heat
- Ideal for turbocharged, BS6, and high-performance vehicles
4. High-Mileage Engine Oil
- Fortified with seal conditioners
- Designed for engines with 75,000+ km
- Helps reduce oil burn and internal leaks
Whether you use mineral or synthetic, each of these lubricant engine oil types serves a specific purpose. Choosing well ensures better mileage, lower maintenance, and a smoother drive.
What’s the Best Engine Oil for Car in India?
For you to know which engine oil is the best for the car in India, you will be required to consider the following factors:
A. Viscosity Grade
Temperature determines how the oil is going to move. A grade like 20w40 engine oil is best for Indian summers and varying traffic conditions.
B. Driving Style
- Heavy traffic = Semi-synthetic or Full Synthetic oil
- Long-distance highway = Stability at high temperatures is a requirement, followed by deposit control
C. Engine Type
Modern engines need oils with a higher level of performance and that are laced with powerful detergent and anti-wear additives as well.
D. Maintenance Habits
If the oil is changed periodically, you can use semi-synthetic. If the intention is to reach an extended mileage, it is safer to use fully synthetic oil.
What makes 20w40 Engine Oil viable in 2025?
Even though the trend is moving towards thinner oils such as 5W30 or 10W40, many Indian drivers still rely on 20W40 engine oil due to its start-up and high-temperature performance handling balance.
Benefits of 20w40:
- Great performance in older petrol/diesel engines
- Stands up to heavy loads and is good for long idling
- Makes the engine knock disappear in high-temperature areas
- More often, a lower cost while maintaining the level of functionality
This grade is still the all-around lubricant that can fit many cars that are used for mixed driving, which may be urban, highway, country, etc.
Nitco’s Most Trusted Lubricant Engine Oil Types for Cars in 2025
Due to the increasing sophistication of engine technology, good quality lubrication is critical. Besides, Nitco has a robust range of lubricant engine oil types that cater to all the performance needs of contemporary and high-mileage cars.
1. Turbo Premium Engine Oil SAE 5W30 (Petrol)
Best for: City commuters, hybrid vehicles, and vehicles that require better fuel economy
Technical Highlights:
- Viscosity Index: 150
- Flash Point: 230°C
- Pour Point: -50°C
- Kinematic Viscosity @100°C: 10.5–12.5 cSt
- TBN: 8–10
- Performance: Stable despite sharp temperature fluctuations, great for urban driving in traffic jams
- Pack Sizes: Ranging from 500ML to 210LTR
The product, synthetic oil, contributes to a clean environment by reducing fumes and promoting the vehicles’ high efficiency and reliable performance during the entire journey.
2. Turbo Premium Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil SAE 15W40
Ideal for: Durable trucks, long-distance, and commercial transport
Technical Highlights:
- Viscosity Index: 125
- Flash Point: 225°C
- Pour Point: -23°C
- Kinematic Viscosity @100°C: 14–16 cSt
- TBN: 10–13
- Performance: Meant for friction protection in high-torque applications, not only that but also it minimizes piston deposits
- Pack Sizes: 500ML to 210LTR
Diesel oil with a CH4 API rating, such as this, takes care of the engine during long travel hours and can also keep the engine in good shape, especially those that are old or under severe stress.
3. Ultra Premium Multigrade Engine Oil SAE 20W40
Ideal for: Mixed-use petrol and diesel cars, older engine designs, high-mileage users
Technical Highlights:
- Viscosity Index: 110
- Flash Point: 220°C
- Pour Point: -15°C
- Kinematic Viscosity @100°C: 14–16 cSt
- TBN: 7–8
- Performance: Long-drain formula with alkaline reserve, excellent for handling high-sulfur fuels and reducing soot build-up
- Pack Sizes: 500ML to 210LTR
The 20w40 engine oil, visualized as a thermal stability protector, shear resistance preserver, and metal corrosion fighter, definitely is the best choice for Indian road and fuel conditions.
Smart Oil Habits for Better Performance
Have the best oil performance that you can by doing the following things:
- Use the same viscosity as suggested by your vehicle manufacturer
- Change the oil at the proper intervals only, not beyond 10,000 km for synthetics
- Don’t mix different types of oil
- Change the oil filter together with the change of oil
- Check the oil level and color every month
Your car’s well-being is assured if its lubrication is based on the correct type of oil. In 2025, so many motor oils will be available that you must choose only one!
Whether it is a BS6 petrol hatchback or a rugged diesel workhorse, picking the right engine oil for the car in India, like Nitco’s Turbo Premium or Ultra Premium 20w40 can do more than just keeping the engine in shape; it can, in fact, turn it into a performer and a long-distance contestant.
If you want to change your engine oil to gain maximum performance, check out a variety of car oils on the Nitco Lubricants website, which offers you a smooth, long-distance drive.
FAQs
- What is the best engine oil for car in India in 2025?
Nitco’s 5W30 and 20W40 grades continue to lead in both performance and value, especially for Indian conditions. - Is 20w40 engine oil good for both petrol and diesel cars?
Yes. It works well in both, especially for vehicles used in mixed or high-temperature environments. - How do I know if I’ve chosen the wrong oil?
Watch for signs like engine knocking, lower mileage, dark oil within 1,000 km, or excessive vibrations. - How often should I change engine oil in India?
Every 8,000–10,000 km for synthetic oils, and 5,000–6,000 km for semi-synthetic or mineral oils.
5. Can I switch oil grades if I change my driving habits or shift to hill areas?
Yes, but it’s best to consult your mechanic or oil brand support team first. Viscosity needs may change with climate and usage.