NA vs Turbo petrol engines: AT Advisor tells you which one to pick

India Today

3 days ago

In India's bustling car market, choosing between a naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine and a turbocharged petrol engine is a key decision for buyers, especially with popular models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Venue, Hyundai Verna, and Kia Sonet offering both options. Each engine type has distinct characteristics, catering to different driving preferences, budgets, and needs. Here's a breakdown to help you decide which is the right pick for you.advertisementNaturally aspirated petrol engines: Smooth and steady
The Hyundai Exter comes with a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.
Naturally aspirated engines, like the 1.5-litre units in the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Hyundai Verna, draw air into the engine without forced induction. These engines are known for their simplicity and linear power delivery, making them ideal for city commuters and those who prefer a relaxed driving experience.Pros of NA engines:
Smooth power delivery: NA engines offer predictable, linear acceleration, ideal for stop-and-go traffic in Indian cities. For example, the 1.5-litre NA petrol in the Creta and Seltos produces around 113bhp and 144Nm, ensuring effortless low-end torque for urban driving.Lower maintenance costs: With fewer components than turbo engines, NA engines are generally cheaper to maintain and have a longer life due to lower stress on parts.Better fuel efficiency: The Hyundai Venue's 1.2-litre Kappa NA engine, for instance, delivers around 17-18kmpl, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commutes. on the highways, numbers as high as 22kmpl have been reported. But one has to make sure that the car is driven in a sedate manner with speeds not exceeding 80kmph. At the same time one has to shift up as soon as possible to extract this kind of efficiency. However, start pushing the engine into the higher reaches of the rev band, or, start driving at 100kmph plus and the fuel efficiency numbers will start tumbling down.Affordable pricing: NA variants are often priced lower. For example, the Venue's NA petrol manual variant is about Rs 2 lakh cheaper than its turbo counterpart.Cons of NA Engines:Limited power: NA engines lack the punch of turbo engines, which can feel underwhelming on highways. NA engines can feels strained, especially during overtaking maneuvers compared to a turbo car. To compensate the lack of power, one often has to downshift to get into the right power band.Less exciting drive: Enthusiasts often find NA engines less engaging, as they miss the thrilling surge of a turbo.Turbocharged petrol engines: Power-packed performance
The Kia Syros comes with a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine.
Turbocharged engines, like the 1.5-litre turbo in the Hyundai Verna, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos or the smaller 1.0-litre turbo in the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Kia Syros use a turbocharger to force extra air into the engine, boosting power output. These engines are gaining traction in India for their thrilling performance in day to day driving.Pros of turbo engines:advertisementPerformance: Turbo engines deliver a strong punch, making overtaking on highways a breeze. The Hyundai Verna's 1.5-litre turbo, producing 160bhp, offers a wave of power that enthusiasts love.Higher power from smaller engines: Downsizing allows compact engines to pack a punch. The Kia Sonet's 1.0-litre turbo delivers 118hp and 172Nm of peak torque, outpacing larger NA engines.Cons of turbo engines:Turbo lag: Some turbo engines exhibit noticeable lag at low RPMs, which can be frustrating in city traffic.Higher maintenance costs: Turbocharged engines add complexity, leading to higher maintenance and repair costs over time.Fuel efficiency trade-off: While efficient on paper, real-world mileage can drop significantly with aggressive driving.Premium pricing: Turbo variants are pricier, with top trims of the Creta, Seltos, and Verna often costing way more than NA options.Which one should you pick?Choose naturally aspirated if: You prioritise affordability, low maintenance, and smooth city driving.Choose turbocharged if: You crave spirited driving, frequent highway trips, or a premium driving experience.Consider your driving conditions: In India's congested cities, NA engines shine for their low-end torque and efficiency. On open highways, turbo engines excel with their mid-range power.Turbocharged engines vs Naturally aspirated engines: The verdictThe choice between naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines depends on your priorities. If budget, simplicity, and city driving are key, NA engines in cars like the Venue, Sonet, or City are hard to beat. For those seeking excitement and highway prowess, turbo engines deliver unmatched thrills. With manufacturers like Hyundai and Kia offering both in their lineups, test-drive both options to find the perfect fit for your driving style and needs.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine- Ends