Turbocharging for decades a symbol of high-end, on-demand power — has finally gone mainstream. It's easy to forget that when the technology's first real ambassador, the Porsche 911 Turbo, debuted in 1974, the Arab oil embargo was at its peak. The "No Substitute" Turbo offered performance and pragmatism: turbochargers boost pressure in the engine, increasing torque and horsepower, while dropping fuel consumption. But as gas lines disappeared, so did the emphasis on fuel economy. Never a low-end feature, turbocharging then became an added bonus for, say, the well-heeled BMW or Mercedes-Benz owner who loved driving fast and hard. Still is.
But at this year's New York International Auto Show, it was clear that the technology isn't just being used for its get-up-and-go possibilities any more here in the United States, as high-performance turbocharged models from the likes of Volvo and BMW were joined on the show floor by much more affordable, turbocharged models from Chevrolet, Hyundai and Kia. Why? To boost fuel economy, of course.
2010 New York Auto Show Photo Gallery
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Geneva Motor Show Photo Gallery
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