Is the Excelle Turbocharged or Naturally Aspirated?
3 Answers
The Excelle offers both turbocharged and naturally aspirated versions. The Excelle is a compact sedan under the Buick brand, equipped with two types of engines: a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine. Below is a brief introduction to these two engines: (1) The 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine delivers 113 horsepower and a maximum torque of 141 Nm. This engine reaches its maximum power at 6000 rpm and its maximum torque at 4400 rpm. It features DVVT technology and multi-point fuel injection, with an aluminum cylinder head and cast iron cylinder block. It is paired with a 6AT transmission. (2) The 1.3-liter turbocharged engine produces 163 horsepower and a maximum torque of 230 Nm. This engine achieves its maximum power at 5500 rpm and its maximum torque between 1800 to 4400 rpm. It includes a 48V mild hybrid system and multi-point fuel injection, with an aluminum cylinder head and block. It is also matched with a 6AT transmission.
When I was buying a car, I researched the Excelle and chose the 1.3T turbocharged version. It feels quick to accelerate, especially when overtaking in the city—the power response is very direct, and the push-back sensation when the RPM goes up is exhilarating. However, my friend drives the 1.5L naturally aspirated version, and he says it feels smoother, with less noise, making it less abrupt during stop-and-go traffic at city traffic lights. Turbocharging releases more horsepower at high RPMs, but you need to pay attention to the turbo system during maintenance, such as changing the oil more frequently. Naturally aspirated engines don’t have that issue—they have a simpler structure and are easier to maintain. Buick has done a thoughtful job giving users options with the Excelle. If you like driving excitement or frequently drive on highways, the turbocharged version is suitable; if you prioritize comfort and economy, the naturally aspirated version is more practical. Overall, each has its own characteristics, and it depends on your personal driving habits.
I recently bought an Excelle and hesitated between choosing a turbocharged or naturally aspirated engine. I finally settled on the 1.5L naturally aspirated version, mainly because it's fuel-efficient, quiet, and smooth for daily commuting. However, during the test drive, I also experienced the 1.3T turbocharged version, which has strong instant burst power when you step on the accelerator, making acceleration very exhilarating. The naturally aspirated version is simpler to maintain, less prone to faults, and the money saved on maintenance can be used for more fuel; the turbocharged version requires regular inspection of the turbo components, otherwise, issues like oil leaks can be troublesome. Buick designed this car quite diversely to meet different needs. If you commute a lot or use it for family purposes, the naturally aspirated version is sufficient; if you occasionally want to speed, the turbocharged version is the better choice. You need to consider your budget and daily road conditions when choosing.
