Finding a reliable car is essential to avoid both financial strain and frustration, but sorting through vast amounts of information on a vehicle’s reliability can be daunting. To help simplify this, a list was created featuring 10 turbocharged four-cylinder engines known for their exceptional reliability.
These engines not only offer power but are also well-regarded for their dependability, providing peace of mind to drivers. To qualify for this list, engines needed to deliver at least 150 horsepower and have a proven track record for reliability.
The engines were ranked primarily by maximum power output, though other factors like J.D. Power reliability ratings, maintenance costs, and reported mileages were also taken into account.
Data for the list was gathered from various reliable sources, including manufacturers’ websites, MotorReviewer, Automobile Catalog, Auto-data.net, and tuning platforms like Tuning Pro. Reviews from car owners on automotive forums were also considered to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the engines’ performance and reliability.
1. Saab Turbocharged 2.0-Liter B202 Inline-Four: 185 HP
The Saab Turbocharged 2.0-Liter B202 Inline-Four engine is a notable powerplant that was produced from 1984 to 1993. Found in cars like the Saab 900 T16 Aero and Saab 9000 Turbo, this engine was a reliable and underappreciated piece of engineering.
Although it only produced a maximum of 185 horsepower, it stood out for its durability and overall reliability. The engine’s 2.0-liter displacement and turbocharged configuration provided a balance of power and dependability that many drivers appreciated, particularly in the classic Saab 900 Turbo.
In terms of performance, the engine delivered between 160 and 185 horsepower, with torque ranging from 188 to 200 lb-ft, offering a solid driving experience for its time. However, it wasn’t without some minor flaws, particularly with the vehicle’s electronics, but the B202 turbo engine itself was known for its bulletproof reliability.
This made the Saab 900 Turbo a dependable choice for those looking for a classic car with lasting power, despite its limited horsepower compared to some more powerful competitors.
The Saab 900 Turbo’s reliability extended to its long-term performance, with many owners reporting impressive mileage. For instance, some vehicles equipped with the B202 engine had been driven over 200,000 miles, with the highest recorded mileage being 211,000 miles on a 1989 Saab 900 SPG 2.0 Turbo.
Maintenance costs were also relatively low, with averages of $453 per year for the Saab 9000 and $404 per year for the Saab 900, making it an affordable option in terms of upkeep. The B202 turbo engine earned a reputation for being a robust and cost-effective choice in its class.
2. Honda Turbocharged 1.5-liter L15B7 Inline-Four: 205 HP
The Honda Turbocharged 1.5-liter L15B7 Inline-Four engine, produced from 2016 to the present, is a versatile and reliable powerplant found in popular models like the Honda Civic, Honda CR-V, and Honda Accord.
With a displacement of 1.5 liters, this turbocharged engine produces between 174 and 205 horsepower, with torque ranging from 162 to 192 lb-ft.
In addition to its turbocharging, the L15B7 features Honda’s VTEC system, enhancing its performance and making it an enjoyable engine for drivers. Despite not being the most powerful in its class, it offers a perfect balance of power and fuel efficiency.
The L15B7 engine stands out for its longevity and reliability, with many owners reporting that it can easily surpass 150,000 miles with proper maintenance.
Honda’s careful engineering of this engine allows for a reasonable level of power without excessive fuel consumption, making it an appealing option for those looking for an efficient yet capable engine.
Although there are four turbocharged cylinders that outperform the L15B7 in terms of raw power, Honda’s emphasis on durability and practicality has made it a favorite among owners.
In terms of reliability, the L15B7 engine holds strong ratings, with J.D. Power scores of 82/100 for the 2024 Honda Civic, 83/100 for the 2022 Honda Accord, and 84/100 for the 2021 Honda CR-V.
Maintenance costs are also reasonable, averaging $368 annually for the Honda Civic, $400 for the Accord, and $407 for the CR-V. Over the first 10 years, estimated maintenance costs range from $5,245 for the Civic to $7,155 for the CR-V.
While the highest reported mileage is lower than some other engines, with the most significant being 36,000 miles on a 2017 Honda Civic LX, the L15B7 is still a well-regarded engine for its reliability and manageable upkeep.
3. Toyota Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 3S-GTE Inline-Four: 256 HP
The Toyota Turbocharged 2.0-Liter 3S-GTE Inline-Four engine, produced between 1986 and 2007, is a standout powerplant known for its performance and reliability.
Found in models like the Toyota Celica GT-Four, Toyota MR2 Turbo, and Caldina GT-T, the 3S-GTE was initially designed with modest power output but evolved into a formidable engine.
It started with 182 horsepower but later versions saw it producing up to 256 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque, a remarkable feat for a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
The 3S-GTE is particularly admired for its ability to maintain impressive longevity, with many engines lasting well beyond 200,000 miles when properly maintained.
While the 3S-GTE might not have had the initial expectations of extreme performance, Toyota proved its capabilities as the engine evolved over the years. Its performance made it a favorite among enthusiasts, especially in lightweight sports cars like the MR2 Turbo.
The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging allowed for a balance of power and efficiency, making it a reliable choice for driving enthusiasts looking for a fun yet durable engine. Its ability to endure the test of time, delivering solid performance even after decades, has solidified its place in automotive history.
Regarding reliability, the 3S-GTE engine maintains a strong reputation for durability, with typical yearly maintenance costs ranging from $367 for the Toyota Celica to $439 for the Toyota MR2.
While it’s not rated by J.D. Power, its track record for lasting well beyond 100,000 miles is well-documented by owners, with some vehicles reaching up to 50,000 miles on the 1993 Toyota MR2 GT Turbo.
Although not as high as other engines in terms of mileage, the 3S-GTE is still regarded as a reliable and long-lasting choice, thanks to Toyota’s engineering and attention to quality.
4. Toyota T24A-FTS 2.4-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: 278 HP
The Toyota T24A-FTS 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, launched in 2021, has quickly proven its reliability and performance in a range of Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
Initially introduced in the Lexus NX 350, this engine has since been used in the Toyota Highlander and the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, where it replaced the older 3.5-liter V6 engine.
The T24A-FTS engine is praised for its balance of power and efficiency, delivering up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Its performance has been well received, with vehicles equipped with this engine earning strong reliability ratings from J.D. Power, such as an 81/100 score for both the 2023 and 2024 Lexus NX.
Beyond its robust performance, the T24A-FTS engine has garnered a reputation for reliability, which is key for Toyota’s long-standing reputation in the industry.
The 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine provides a significant increase in torque, making it ideal for larger vehicles like the Toyota Highlander and Tacoma, while still maintaining strong fuel efficiency.
Its power output and torque make it a well-rounded engine, suitable for a range of driving conditions, from everyday commuting to more demanding tasks, like towing and off-roading.
Maintenance costs for vehicles equipped with the T24A-FTS engine are relatively manageable, with average yearly maintenance costs of $489 for the Toyota Highlander and $478 for the Toyota Tacoma.
Estimated maintenance costs over the first 10 years are $5,771 for the Highlander and $6,420 for the Tacoma, reflecting the engine’s efficiency and the overall affordability of its upkeep.
Despite its recent introduction, the T24A-FTS engine has proven to be a reliable and cost-effective option, further solidifying Toyota’s reputation for producing durable, high-performance engines.
5. BMW Turbocharged 2.0-Liter B48 Inline-Four: 302 HP
The BMW Turbocharged 2.0-Liter B48 Inline-Four engine, produced from 2015 to the present, has become one of the most reliable and high-performing engines in BMW’s lineup.
This 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is capable of producing up to 302 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, making it a powerhouse in models like the BMW M135i, Mini JCW GP, and various BMW SUVs and sedans, including the BMW X1, X2, X3, and 3 Series.
Despite BMW’s previous reputation for occasional reliability issues, the B48 engine has marked a significant improvement over its predecessor, the N20, positioning itself as a highly regarded choice for those seeking performance and dependability.
In terms of performance, the B48 engine delivers impressive power and torque for a four-cylinder, making it a versatile choice for a range of BMW vehicles. The engine’s output allows for an engaging driving experience, whether in sporty models like the M135i or more practical options like the BMW X3 and 3 Series.
The B48 engine’s strong reputation for reliability has made it a popular choice among BMW enthusiasts, with improvements in engineering and design making it one of the brand’s more dependable options in recent years.
Maintenance costs for vehicles equipped with the B48 engine are higher than some other brands, with average yearly maintenance costs of $915 for the BMW X1 and $748 for the BMW 3 Series (330i).
Over the first 10 years, the estimated maintenance costs can reach as high as $17,516 for the BMW X1 and $13,780 for the BMW 2 Series.
Despite these costs, the B48 engine’s reputation for longevity and the positive J.D. Power reliability ratings—85/100 for the 2022 BMW X3 and 81/100 for the 2022 BMW 3 Series—suggest it is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a balance of performance and long-term durability in their BMW vehicle.
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6. Volkswagen Turbocharged 2.0-Liter EA888 Inline-Four: 310 HP
The Volkswagen Turbocharged 2.0-Liter EA888 Inline-Four engine, produced from 2008 to the present, is a high-performance engine found in a variety of Volkswagen and Audi vehicles, including the Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, and Audi S3.
This turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates between 170 and 310 horsepower, making it versatile enough to handle everything from daily driving to spirited performance.
The EA888 engine has earned a reputation for its robust performance, offering sufficient power for most driving needs, and has been a key player in models like the Audi TT, Tiguan, and several Audi A3, A4, A5, and Q3 variants.
While the EA888 is not the most indestructible turbocharged four-cylinder, it is widely regarded as a reliable engine. It has proven to be a solid option for those seeking a balance of power and dependability in their Volkswagen or Audi vehicle.
The engine’s reliability is reflected in its use across many models, demonstrating its versatility and long-lasting performance when well-maintained. Despite not being the most bulletproof, the EA888 engine offers solid engineering that can handle high mileage and demanding conditions with proper care.
Maintenance costs for the EA888 engine are relatively moderate, with average yearly costs of $752 for the Audi TT and $676 for the Volkswagen Tiguan. Over a 10-year period, estimated maintenance costs are $9,644 for the Audi TT and $7,644 for the Tiguan.
While these costs can be higher than some other engines, the EA888’s strong performance and overall reliability make it a worthwhile option for many drivers. J.D. Power’s reliability ratings of 86/100 for the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta and 82/100 for the 2016 Audi Q3 further support the engine’s reputation as a dependable choice.
7. Honda Turbocharged 2.0-Liter K20C1 Inline-Four: 320 HP
The Honda Turbocharged 2.0-Liter K20C1 Inline-Four engine, introduced in 2015 and still in use today, powers the Honda Civic Type R and the 2024 Acura Integra Type S. This 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers between 306 and 320 horsepower, along with 295 to 310 lb-ft of torque, depending on the specific model.
Known for its high performance, the K20C1 is one of the most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engines available, offering both power and reliability. Key features like an aluminum block and forged steel crankshaft contribute to its durability and overall strength.
The K20C1 engine is built for performance and efficiency, featuring advanced technology such as an exhaust manifold integrated within the cylinder head for direct access to the turbocharger.
To improve cooling, the engine uses F1-style internal cooling galleries and oil jets inside the cylinder block, helping to keep the pistons cool during intense use.
These innovations ensure that the engine is capable of handling high-performance demands without sacrificing reliability. In the 2024 Acura Integra Type S, the engine produces up to 320 horsepower, further enhancing its impressive capabilities.
Reliability for the K20C1 is backed by an 82/100 J.D. Power score for the 2024 Honda Civic. Maintenance costs are relatively affordable, with an average yearly cost of $368 for the Civic. Over a 10-year period, estimated maintenance expenses total $5,245.
The engine’s durability is evident, with reports of models like the 2018 Honda Civic Type R reaching up to 70,000 miles without significant issues. The K20C1 offers a combination of exceptional power, engineering, and long-lasting reliability.
8. GM L3B: 325 HP
The GM L3B turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine, produced from 2019 to the present, has quickly become a favorite among performance enthusiasts thanks to its impressive power and reliability. It produces between 237 and 325 horsepower and up to 430 lb-ft of torque, depending on the application.
This engine is found in various General Motors vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Chevrolet Colorado, and Cadillac CT4 and CT4-V. Its strong performance and versatility make it a key component in GM’s truck and luxury vehicle lineup.
Not only is the L3B engine powerful, but it is also built for durability. It features an aluminum block and cylinder head, forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, and aluminum pistons with a cast iron ring groove insert.
These high-quality materials ensure that the engine can handle the stresses of performance driving while maintaining reliability over time. The L3B has earned high marks for dependability, with J.D. Power giving the Cadillac CT4 an impressive reliability score of 86 out of 100 in both the 2023 and 2024 model years.
Maintenance costs for vehicles equipped with the GM L3B engine are moderate, with the average yearly maintenance cost for the Cadillac CT4 at $783 and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 at $714. Over a 10-year period, estimated maintenance costs are $9,161 for the Cadillac CT4 and $10,003 for the Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
These costs reflect the engine’s reliability and performance, making the L3B a solid choice for those looking for a balance of power, durability, and relatively low maintenance costs in their vehicle.
9. Mitsubishi 4G63T: 405 HP
The Mitsubishi 4G63T is a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine produced by Mitsubishi Motors from 1987 to 2013. This engine has been widely used in several of the company’s vehicles, including the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I-IX, Mitsubishi Eclipse I-II, and Mitsubishi Galant VR-4, among others.
It offers a broad range of power outputs, from 200 to 405 horsepower, depending on the application, with torque ranging from 203 to 355 lb-ft. The engine is known for its durability and performance, making it a popular choice for performance-oriented cars.
One of the most notable applications of the 4G63T was in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution series, particularly the Evo VII, which initially delivered 276 horsepower. Some versions, like the UK-spec, limited-edition Evo FQ-400, pushed these numbers even further, reaching up to 405 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque.
These figures show the engine’s versatility and potential for high performance, even within the boundaries of the Japanese Gentlemen’s Agreement, which limited horsepower figures in production cars.
The Mitsubishi 4G63T engine is known for its reliability and longevity. With proper maintenance, it can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles. The average yearly maintenance cost for vehicles equipped with the 4G63T is approximately $646 for the Mitsubishi Lancer and $510 for the Mitsubishi Eclipse.
This engine’s durability and relatively low maintenance costs have contributed to its popularity among car enthusiasts, with some owners reporting high-mileage figures of up to 200,000 miles in certain models.
10. Ford Turbocharged 2.3-Liter EcoBoost Inline-Four: 405 HP
The Ford 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four is a turbocharged engine introduced in 2015 and is still in production. Designed for both performance and efficiency, this engine produces between 270 and 405 horsepower with torque figures ranging from 305 to 369 lb-ft.
It has been used in a variety of Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including the Ford Mustang EcoBoost, Focus ST, Ranger, Explorer, and Lincoln Corsair, as well as the VUHL 05 sports car. The EcoBoost technology optimizes fuel efficiency while delivering impressive power, making it a competitive alternative to larger V6 and V8 engines.
Despite some reliability concerns, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost is capable of exceeding 200,000 miles when properly maintained. It powers high-performance models like the Ford Focus RS and Mustang, showcasing Ford’s ability to extract significant power from a four-cylinder engine.
While some enthusiasts may prefer traditional V6 or V8 engines, the EcoBoost proves that smaller turbocharged engines can deliver comparable, if not superior, performance while maintaining better fuel efficiency.
In terms of reliability and maintenance costs, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost has received favorable J.D. Power quality ratings, with the 2023 Ford Mustang scoring 84/100 and the 2021 Lincoln Corsair scoring 87/100.
The average annual maintenance costs are around $709 for the Mustang and $732 for the Explorer, with estimated 10-year maintenance costs of $7,093 and $9,017, respectively.
While high-mileage reports are still limited, some owners have reached 63,000 miles in a 2016 Mustang EcoBoost, indicating the engine’s potential for longevity when well cared for.
Finding a reliable turbocharged four-cylinder engine that balances power and longevity is no small task, but this list showcases some of the best options available. Whether it’s the classic Saab B202, the efficient Honda L15B7, or the high-performance Ford 2.3-liter EcoBoost, each engine has proven its dependability across various vehicles.
Many of these engines have exceeded 100,000 miles with proper maintenance, and some, like the Mitsubishi 4G63T and Toyota 3S-GTE, have gained legendary status among enthusiasts.
By considering horsepower, maintenance costs, and real-world reliability ratings, drivers can make informed decisions about which engine best suits their needs.
While some of these engines are built for efficiency and daily driving, others, like the Honda K20C1 and BMW B48, cater to performance-oriented drivers. Toyota’s T24A-FTS and GM’s L3B provide a balance of power and durability, making them excellent choices for long-term reliability.
Although maintenance costs and upkeep vary, these turbocharged four-cylinders demonstrate that smaller displacement engines can deliver impressive performance without compromising dependability.
Whether for spirited driving, towing, or everyday commuting, these engines prove that forced induction technology continues to evolve, offering both excitement and reliability.
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