AutoWeek reports that GM plans to gradually introduce smaller, turbocharged engines in their cars. First up, GM will update the Chevy Cobalt and Saturn Astra with a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder in 2009. GM engineering chief Jim Queen confirmed the company's plans to use the powertrain and also said it could be used in mid-sized vehicles later on, according to the report. "You're going to see turbocharged four-cylinders in vehicles that no one could have ever imagined that they would be in," he said.

Keep in mind that 1.4 liters is quite small. For comparison purposes, the base Mini Cooper and the Chevy Aveo both have naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engines, and the Toyota Yaris has a 1.5 liter mill. Regardless, a 1.4-liter turbo should help the Cobalt improve on its current mediocre fuel economy ratings of 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway (using the new 2008 EPA rules)—without taking a hit in horsepower or overall drivability.

[via AutoWeek]

Post by Jamie Lendino