My car’s manual states that the Max Torque (Nm at rpm) is 320/ 1500 - 4200. (2017 A3 2.0 TFSI 140kW, quattro). Based on those figures, does my turbo start to spool-up at 1500rpm up to 4200rpm. Or is it from the get go.

I have not had the car very long, consequently I am still trying to get the best out of it. I feel I’m in need of further understanding how to get the best the car can deliver whilst maintaining reliability and good health. I want to have fun but not boring motoring!!  Cruising rpm and acceleration rpm range would be helpful. More so the latter, really. Basically, I’m not feeling it, what I mean is, I’m not understanding turbo lag or more importantly the turbo threshold. Is my ‘power band’ between 1500 to 4200 for example?

Could you please help me, help my car?

Terry

Turbo lag when is when your turbo is not spooling up at the desired rate due to a lack of exhaust gas to spin the exhaust turbine, typically being in a gear to high and planting the accelerator will produce turbo lag until the revs pick up enough to produce more exhaust gas to spin the turbo to provide the boost required. Your turbo will be spinning as soon as you start your engine due to the above reason and will increase in speed with more revs. 

8 hours ago, Sid2020 said:

Turbo lag when is when your turbo is not spooling up at the desired rate due to a lack of exhaust gas to spin the exhaust turbine, typically being in a gear to high and planting the accelerator will produce turbo lag until the revs pick up enough to produce more exhaust gas to spin the turbo to provide the boost required. Your turbo will be spinning as soon as you start your engine due to the above reason and will increase in speed with more revs. 

Thank you Matt,

I do understand what you are saying and I am always conscious of NOT planting the accelerator, rather I try to just build my speed gradually. Of course I’m sure it is probably something I need to practice more. I like to go for the odd spirited drive in manual mode which allows the engine to stretch its legs, so to speak, rather than poodle around in low revs causing our friend ‘Mr Carbon’ to do his worst. Of course sport mode is often used too as it too has the desired effect. The car itself is always set to Dynamic mode. 

I have often read that replacing the air filter for one that flows more efficiently (cone for example) could help but then there are so many different mods to choose from but which of them really work. To be honest, I believe even the manufacturers struggle with this phenomenon.

Anyway, thanks for your input.

Terry

11 hours ago, Telsown said:

Thank you Matt,

I do understand what you are saying and I am always conscious of NOT planting the accelerator, rather I try to just build my speed gradually. Of course I’m sure it is probably something I need to practice more. I like to go for the odd spirited drive in manual mode which allows the engine to stretch its legs, so to speak, rather than poodle around in low revs causing our friend ‘Mr Carbon’ to do his worst. Of course sport mode is often used too as it too has the desired effect. The car itself is always set to Dynamic mode. 

I have often read that replacing the air filter for one that flows more efficiently (cone for example) could help but then there are so many different mods to choose from but which of them really work. To be honest, I believe even the manufacturers struggle with this phenomenon.

Anyway, thanks for your input.

Terry

I came to the understanding after sitting thru many training courses that the manufacturers have to juggle giving customers a car that drives good but one that is also reliable and will last well past 100k.  Cone filters, blanking  egr’s and mapping can be fun but ultimately puts more strain and wear on other components. 

Hi Matt,

Thanks for being that voice of reason. I think it’s in our DNA to want to tinker with our cars from an early age. For me, at age 74yrs, that hasn’t changed. Long may it last, I say. We all need something to make the heart flutter amongst all of the other menial duties of life.

Good to chat.

Terry.

6 minutes ago, Telsown said:

Hi Matt,

Thanks for being that voice of reason. I think it’s in our DNA to want to tinker with our cars from an early age. For me, at age 74yrs, that hasn’t changed. Long may it last, I say. We all need something to make the heart flutter amongst all of the other menial duties of life.

Good to chat.

Terry.

74 and still tinkering, your a legend in my eyes terry