Monthly Archives: October 2025

How Turbochargers Work and Why Most European Engines Use Them

How Turbochargers Work and Why Most European Engines Use Them

Open the hood of most modern European cars and you’ll likely find a turbocharger. Whether it's a compact hatchback or a luxury sedan, the trend is clear. European automakers have embraced turbocharging as a way to meet fuel efficiency and emissions goals while still offering strong performance. But how do turbos actually work? And why have they become the standard for so many European vehicles? What a Turbocharger Actually Does A turbocharger uses the engine’s exhaust gases to spin a turbine. That turbine powers a compressor, which forces more air into the engine's cylinders. More air means more oxygen, which allows the engine to burn more fuel and produce more power. It’s a clever way to boost engine output without increasing engine size. Instead of using a larger, heavier engine, a smaller turbocharged engine can deliver similar or even better performance. Turbochargers are especially helpful when the driver asks for more power, like dur ... read more