Air power

FIRST, it was seen on the NX compact crossover. Then, the new RX mid-sized SUV also debuted with this novel device. Next, the Lexus turbocharger will star in the IS compact sedan and GS mid-sized sedan.

The company which has famously relied on naturally aspirated engines and petrol-electric hybrid powertrains thus far has embraced forced induction and it is doing so with a vengeance.

The so-called small-displacement turbo engine is a brand new development from the Japanese luxury carmaker.

This two-litre, four-cylinder petrol unit has a twin-scroll turbocharger which, unlike most manufacturers, is completely designed and manufactured in-house. After all, Lexus' parent Toyota had extensive experience with turbocharging when it was involved in rallying a dec…