When did Lexus start using turbo engines?
Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, has been known for its refined and smooth-riding vehicles. However, in recent years, the brand has embraced a more performance-oriented approach, introducing turbo-charged engines to its lineup. The shift towards turbo power has been a strategic move by Lexus to appeal to a wider range of luxury car buyers who demand both luxury and performance.
The Beginnings of Lexus Turbo Engines
Lexus first introduced turbo-charged engines in 2015 with the launch of the Lexus NX 200t, a compact luxury crossover SUV. The NX 200t was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This was a significant departure from the naturally-aspirated V6 engines that had traditionally powered Lexus vehicles.
The introduction of the turbo-charged NX 200t was a strategic move by Lexus to compete with other luxury brands that had already embraced turbo technology, such as BMW and Audi. The turbo engine provided the NX with a boost in power and performance, while still maintaining the refined and comfortable driving experience that Lexus customers had come to expect.
Expanding the Turbo Lineup
Following the success of the NX 200t, Lexus has continued to expand its turbo-charged engine offerings across its lineup. In 2017, the brand introduced the Lexus IS 300 and Lexus ES 300h, both of which were available with turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The Lexus IS 300 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbo engine that produced 241 horsepower, while the Lexus ES 300h utilized a 2.4-liter turbo engine that generated 268 horsepower.
More recently, in 2021, Lexus introduced the Lexus IS 500 F Sport Performance, which was powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine with a turbocharger. This high-performance variant of the Lexus IS delivered 472 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful Lexus sedan ever produced.
The Benefits of Turbo Power
- Increased Power and Acceleration: Turbo-charged engines provide a significant boost in power and acceleration compared to naturally-aspirated engines, allowing Lexus vehicles to deliver a more thrilling driving experience.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Turbo-charged engines are often more fuel-efficient than larger displacement naturally-aspirated engines, as they can deliver similar power output with a smaller engine size.
- Versatility: Turbo-charged engines can be tuned to provide a wide range of power and performance characteristics, allowing Lexus to offer a variety of engine options to meet the diverse needs of its customers.
The introduction of turbo-charged engines has been a game-changer for Lexus, allowing the brand to offer a more dynamic and performance-oriented driving experience while still maintaining the luxury and refinement that Lexus customers expect. As the luxury automotive market continues to evolve, it's likely that Lexus will continue to expand its turbo-charged engine offerings to stay competitive and appeal to a wider range of luxury car buyers.
What old cars come stock with turbo?
10 Turbocharged classics for boost on a budget
- Porsche 944 (1985- 1991)
- Pontiac Trans am (1989)
- Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4/Dodge Stealth R/T twin-turbo (1990-2000)
- Ford Mustang SVO (1984-1986)
- Toyota Supra MK III (1987-1992)
- Mazda RX-7 (1985-1991)
- Chevrolet Corvair (1962-1966)
- Buick Regal Turbo T-type (1983-1986)
What is the fastest Lexus engine?
4.8-liter V10 engine
The fastest production Lexus is the Lexus LFA. Although only 500 were produced for the 2012 model year, things like its 4.8-liter V10 engine have made it legendary.
How long will a Lexus turbo last?
On average, turbos last up to 150,000 miles.
How much horsepower does a Lexus 2.0 turbo have?
The press materials note that the new 2.0L turbo engine is being developed in two flavors: One with roughly 400 horsepower, and another with approximately 600 horsepower for high performance applications.
Which Lexus models have turbo?
EXPLORE OUR TURBO SUVS
- NX 300. Compact Luxury SUV.
- NX 300 Premium. Compact Luxury SUV.
- NX 300 F SPORT. Compact Luxury SUV.
- RX 300. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
- RX 300 Luxury. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
- RX 300 F SPORT. Mid-size Luxury SUV.
What is the lifespan of a Lexus is engine?
Many owners report achieving well over 200,000 miles on their IS 250 with proper maintenance and care.
Do turbo engines have more problems?
Reliability: Turbocharged engines may not be as reliable as standard engines. Engines with more parts have more that can go wrong. Maintenance: Because turbochargers stress the engine and its parts, turbocharged engines often require more routine maintenance.
Does Lexus RX 350 have turbo?
Note: This performance review was created when the 2023 Lexus RX 350 was new. The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provides outstanding ride comfort and impressive fuel efficiency, but its driving dynamics are merely OK. Its turbocharged engine is zippy but not fast, and it sounds a bit coarse.
What year did they start putting turbos in cars?
The first automotives to have turbochargers were trucks with the first prototypes being made around 1938. The first turbocharged passenger cars did not appear until the 60s, and even then they were still very unreliable.
What are the disadvantages of a turbo engine?
Cons of a turbocharged engine
Engines with more parts have more that can go wrong. Maintenance: Because turbochargers stress the engine and its parts, turbocharged engines often require more routine maintenance. Towing capability: Turbochargers aren't a good option if you plan to haul heavy loads.
