How does a turbocharger increase engine performance?

A turbocharger significantly enhances engine performance by utilizing the energy contained in the exhaust gases. It consists of a turbine and a compressor. When the engine operates, exhaust gases flow through the turbine, causing it to spin. This rotational motion is then used to drive a compressor, which draws in more air (and therefore oxygen) into the engine's intake system.

By forcing in more air, the turbocharger allows the engine to burn more fuel, leading to a greater power output without significantly increasing the engine size. This process essentially improves the efficiency of the engine by enabling it to generate more power from the same amount of displacement. This is a primary reason turbocharged engines are often favored for their capability to produce higher horsepower and torque while maintaining lower fuel consumption compared to naturally aspirated engines.