The rise of smaller turbocharged gasoline engines
For decades, car shoppers and enthusiasts associated power with engine size—massive V8 engines were seen as the ultimate way to achieve power and performance. But in recent years, automakers have been steadily phasing out larger engines in favor of smaller, more efficient turbocharged motors. This shift is not just about keeping up with the times; it’s a direct response to tightening federal fuel economy mandates, rising consumer demand for efficiency, and competition from electric vehicles.
The good news for all of us petrol heads is the fact that the modern 4-cylinder engine is very different than the one from even a decade ago. Most manufacturers are now adding turbocharging, allowing smaller engines to generate more power than their naturally aspirated counterparts. Turbocharging is a form of forced air induction that uses a turbine powered by the engine’s exhaust gases to force more air into the combustion chamber. By increasing the air (and fuel) that the engine can burn, a smaller engine can produce the power of a much larger one while still being more fuel-efficient when not being pushed to its limits.
