Malaysia raises biofuel blend to B15, sparking diesel truck and SUV compatibility concerns. Find out which models are ready. Learn more now.
Starting this year, Malaysia has increased the mandatory biofuel blend in gasoline and diesel from B10 to B15 – meaning 15% palm‑derived methyl ester (PME) is now mixed with 85% conventional petroleum. Nineteen licensed biodiesel plants, capable of producing up to 1.5 million litres a month, will supply the new blend nationwide.
Why the Shift Matters
The move is part of a long‑term roadmap that aims for higher blends such as B20, B30 and eventually B50, depending on market readiness. The government assures motorists that the B15 fuel meets strict testing standards introduced in 2020, so there should be no incompatibility issues for modern diesel engines.
Manufacturer Responses
Isuzu – D‑Max
Isuzu Malaysia confirms that every D‑Max pickup built from 2020 onward has been mechanically tuned to handle blends up to B20. Vehicles still under the original warranty retain full legal protection.
Ford – Ranger & Everest
Ford states that the latest‑generation Ranger and Everest, equipped with 2.0‑litre single‑ or twin‑turbo diesel engines, are factory‑approved for B20 without any hardware changes.
Toyota – Hilux & Fortuner
While Toyota has not issued an official comment, international technical data shows that Hilux and Fortuner models produced from 2015 can safely run on both B15 and B20 blends.
Mitsubishi – L200/Triton
The sixth‑generation L200, powered by the 2.4 L 4N16 turbo diesel, is cleared for B20 use without affecting the factory warranty.
Mazda – BT‑50, CX‑5, CX‑8
All BT‑50 pickups (sharing Isuzu’s 1.9 L and 3.0 L engines) can operate on B20, provided the fuel meets Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) specifications. Mazda warns that B20 may slightly reduce acceleration and cause the fuel‑filter warning light to illuminate earlier.
For the SkyActiv‑D equipped CX‑5 and CX‑8, Mazda advises staying below B7 to avoid performance loss and warranty issues.
Hyundai & Kia
Modern diesel engines across models such as the Staria, Santa Fe, Palisade, Carnival, and Sorento are certified for blends up to B30 under international standards. Nevertheless, both brands recommend using Euro 5‑standard B7 fuel for optimal combustion efficiency.
Ford – Older Duratorq Engines
Legacy Duratorq 2.2 L and 3.2 L engines were originally approved only for B10. To safely move to B15 or B20, owners must install an aftermarket fuel‑filter kit from an authorized dealer. The manufacturers will not cover any damage once the standard warranty period has expired.
Mitsubishi & Nissan Older Models
Owners of pre‑fifth‑generation Mitsubishi Triton and early‑generation Nissan Navara (YD25 engine) are advised to either keep using B7 fuel or consult an authorized service centre for a thorough inspection.
Bottom Line
Most diesel pickups and SUVs released from 2015 onward are ready for B15 and even B20 blends, with several newer engines tolerating up to B30. However, drivers of older trucks should verify compatibility with their dealer before switching to higher‑blend biodiesel.
Stay informed, check your vehicle’s warranty terms, and enjoy the environmental benefits of Malaysia’s new B15 biofuel policy.