TURBO OR NORMALLY ASPIRATED
A brief background to my query: I drive a 2018 Ford Fiesta Auto Trend (new shape) powered by a 998 cc turbopetrol motor. I’m in my 70s and drive about 4 000 km per year, almost all of which is in the greater Durban area. I seldom exceed 100 km/h. The car came with a four-year maintenance plan, which I recently extended by another four years to enhance the trade-in value at the end of the first four-year period. All servicing is done by Ford.
I’ve heard occasional comment on the Dstv Buyers’ Guide motoring programme, expressing reservations about small capacity turbocharged engines. The exact nature of their reservations is not clear but they appear to suggest that if the turbocharger is not meticulously maintained as per the OEM specifications, there is an increased chance of damage that is costly to repair. I don’t recall anyone saying outright that turbochargers are inherently unreliable, but the hint appears to be that motorists should rather buy a vehicle with a naturally aspirated motor. As an owner, I like everything about the Fiesta, and if Ford launches an upgraded model in two or three years, powered by a similar turbocharged engine I would likely buy it.
My questions:
1. From a motorist’s point of view, was my purchase of a small cc turbocharged motor an unwise choice?
2. When the time comes for me to trade in the Fiesta, should I instead aim for a naturally aspirated motor?
3. Does a small capacity cc turbocharged motor have a negative impact on a vehicle’s trade-in value?
DAVID VAN ROOYEN
Via email
The turbo vs. normally aspirated engine debate has been going for years, more so since small turbo engines have become increasingly popular. This trend to smaller capacity turbo-petrol engines is a result of manufacturers, particularly in Europe, needing to meet increasingly stringent emission and fuel consumption requirements, and the fact that these engines perform better in this regard in the required tests. Requirements in many other markets are less stringent and manufacturers have been able to meet the required standards with improved efficiency, normally aspirated engines. In SA, both engine types meet local requirements and, consequently, both are well represented in this market allowing local buyers to select vehicles and engine types according to their preferences.
As covered in the October Tech Feature, hot shutdowns of turbo engines, the use of incorrect specification engine oil and/or nonadherence to recommended oil change intervals can all result in premature turbo bearing wear and ultimately turbo failure. However, regular servicing and allowing a short cooling-off period for the hot engine after high-load driving should ensure turbo reliability and longevity. Given your description of your driving patterns, I don’t believe you need to have any concerns regarding turbo reliability on your vehicle. Reading between the lines, it seems you have got used to and enjoy the driving characteristics of your current turbo engine vehicle. Under the circumstances, you need not have any reservations about replacing it with another turbocharged vehicle.
Regarding resale, some buyers will probably have reservations about the turbo but equally, many will be attracted to its driving characteristics; a strong, flat torque curve with minimal power loss at altitude. When a used car is appraised, brand/model reputation, vehicle service record and overall vehicle condition all carry a lot of weight. In your case, the vehicle’s low mileage, service record and extended service plan, combined with your relationship with the dealer – they know you and your car – should all help ensure a competitive trade-in value – tech editor.