What effect does a turbocharger typically have on engine performance?

A turbocharger is a device designed to increase an engine's efficiency and power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. This is accomplished by using the engine's exhaust gases to drive a turbine that compresses the incoming air. Consequently, with more air available in the combustion chamber, the engine can burn more fuel, leading to an increase in overall power output.

This enhanced air intake allows for a more complete combustion process, which can improve engine efficiency and performance, particularly at higher altitudes where atmospheric pressure is lower. The addition of a turbocharger makes it possible for smaller engines to achieve power levels that would typically require a larger engine, effectively balancing performance with fuel economy under many operating conditions.

While turbochargers can lead to reduced fuel consumption relative to power output in certain situations, particularly in well-designed systems, their primary function is to boost power by increasing the amount of air available for combustion. Thus, the increase in air intake and resulting power output accurately reflects the true role of a turbocharger in engine performance enhancement.