Turbocharging has become increasingly common as manufacturers strive to provide better fuel economy and performance. Turbocharging allows for higher engine output with smaller displacement engines and fewer cylinders. In model year 2000, turbochargers were only found in cars and accounted for around 1% of the cars produced. Over time, manufacturers have added turbochargers to other segments and by 2019, 34% percent of all new light-duty vehicles produced were equipped with a turbocharger.
Note: Data for 2019 are preliminary. Data are production weighted. The “Car SUV” category includes 2-wheel drive SUV with inertia weight of 4,000 lb. or less.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2019 EPA Automotive Trends Report, EPA-420-R-20-006, March 2020.