Hybrid Cars: Does the Engine Feel Weak When Taking Over?

Many hybrid drivers experience a specific sensation during daily driving: When the electric power fades and the combustion engine takes over, the throttle response feels a beat slow, and the acceleration lacks directness.

This usually isn't due to engine aging or a lack of horsepower. Instead, it comes from:

• The electric motor's instant torque, which raises the driver's expectations.

• The engine itself being designed for efficiency and fuel economy, resulting in a conservative response.

• Factory/Certified oils prioritizing durability and emissions, leading to a milder feedback sensation.

The result is: 👉 The engine still has power, but the power delivery isn't crisp.

Why switching to Torco SR-1R engine oil brings improvement The characteristics of Torco SR-1R engine oil include:

• Excellent high-shear stability.

• Clear oil film feedback.

• It does not intentionally suppress friction values to extremely low levels.

In terms of actual driving feel:

• The transition when the engine intervenes is significantly smoother.

• Re-acceleration at low-to-mid speeds feels more connected.

• Performance remains consistent after the car warms up; it doesn't get "soft" the longer you drive.

It’s not about increasing horsepower, but making the throttle response more direct and the power build-up faster.

Hybrid cars aren't typically performance-oriented, but the engine takeover shouldn't make you feel "powerless" either.

The role of Torco SR-1R oil is to make the engine's output align closer with the driver's pedal feel—without modifying the ECU or touching the hardware.

For owners already accustomed to the instant response of electric motors, this tangible improvement is often felt much more than numbers on a spec sheet.