What car has the VF48 turbo?
The VF48 turbo is a relatively rare IHI-produced turbocharger most closely linked to Subaru’s turbocharged lineup from the late 2000s and early 2010s. In practice, it is most commonly associated with certain Subaru Impreza WRX variants, though exact year-by-year and regional usage varies.
What is the VF48?
The VF48 is part of IHI’s VF series of turbochargers, designed for compact to mid-sized, turbocharged engines. It is a relatively small-to-mid-sized unit intended for 2.0- to 2.5-liter engines and was deployed in specific performance-focused applications. Availability and exact specifications can differ by market and production configuration, so the same model number can appear in different engine setups depending on the region.
Technical notes
Key characteristics of the VF-family turbos include compact packaging and a design geared toward improved response on smaller displacement engines. The VF48, in particular, is documented in connection with certain Subaru performance configurations, but precise compressor/turbine specs and wastegate behavior can vary with market and production run.
Where has it been used?
Subaru’s use of the VF48 has been noted in documentation and user reports as being tied to select Impreza WRX variants in several markets. Because Subaru’s turbocharger lineup varied by region, model year, and trim level, the VF48 may appear on some cars while others in the same generation use different turbochargers (for example, other VF-series units). If you are trying to confirm whether a particular car has a VF48, check the turbo’s casting/model markings or verify against the vehicle’s engine code, production year, and original equipment specifications for that market.
How to verify in your vehicle
To confirm if your car uses a VF48, inspect the turbocharger itself for its model designation, or consult the vehicle’s service history and factory documentation. In many cases, the engine code (such as EJ-series variants for Subaru) and the production year will indicate which turbo was originally installed. If in doubt, a reputable tuner or dealership can cross-reference the part number on the turbo with Subaru’s official parts catalog for your market.
Why it matters for owners and enthusiasts
Knowing the exact turbo model helps with tuning, maintenance, and replacement decisions. The VF48’s behavior—response characteristics, boost onset, and required supporting modifications—will differ from other VF-series units, so matching the correct part and knowing its origin is important for reliability and performance planning.
Summary
The VF48 is a relatively niche turbocharger most strongly associated with Subaru’s turbocharged models, particularly certain Impreza WRX variants, and its exact application can vary by market and year. For owners, verification through the turbo’s markings, engine code, and production documentation is the best way to confirm whether a VF48 is installed. In all cases, understanding the specific configuration is key to accurate maintenance, replacement, and tuning decisions.
