Why don't Japanese cars use turbocharging?
2 Answers
Japanese cars generally avoid turbocharging because turbocharged engines have certain drawbacks. When operating, turbocharged engines reach very high temperatures, which can affect mechanical performance and lubrication. Additionally, maintenance costs are relatively higher. A few Japanese models do use turbocharged engines, such as the Corolla's 1.2T and Honda's 1.5T variants. Turbocharging is essentially an air compressor that increases engine power and torque by compressing air to boost intake volume. It can be categorized into mechanical supercharging, pressure wave supercharging, exhaust gas turbocharging, and compound supercharging.
I've been driving Japanese cars for most of my life, and I feel they don't commonly use turbocharging mainly because they prioritize reliability and peace of mind. While turbochargers can boost power, they have complex structures and are prone to failure, especially with components frequently encountering issues under high temperatures. In contrast, naturally aspirated engines are simpler and more durable, often running trouble-free for a decade or more. Japanese carmakers emphasize durability and low-cost maintenance, and turbocharging increases repair expenses and failure rates, which doesn't align with their pursuit of economical practicality. Additionally, Japan's road conditions often involve urban driving, where naturally aspirated engines provide smoother and more fuel-efficient performance at low speeds, avoiding the lag associated with turbos. Of course, it's not an absolute rule—some sports cars do use them—but for family cars, stability takes priority. Nowadays, with hybrid technology gaining popularity, Toyota and Honda use battery assistance, which is more energy-efficient and eco-friendly than turbocharging. In short, as an average car owner, I really appreciate this worry-free driving experience.