So I'm looking at a 2007 Lexus ES 350. Its got the 2GR-FE engine in it and the owner insists in needs Premium fuel but I've been researching and it seems like the 2GR-FE is used in lots of Toyota cars that call for 87 Octane. The Lexus manual says: "If 91 rating gasoline cannot be obtained, you may use unleaded gasoline with an octane rating as low as 87" but also states it could knock with lower grades. Some people have said that Lexus just says you need premium so they can advertise a slightly higher hp.
What is the truth? Is there any difference between the 2GR-FE in the Lexus vs in a Toyota Avalon? Is it safe to assume running 87 will be fine?
Only use the 87 in a pinch. It needs 91, period. The higher compression and more advanced timing require it.
both 2007 Avalon and 2007 ES 350 have compression ratios of 10.8: 1
What's your point? The manual says 91, use 91.