With strong internals (forged pistons, strong rods/crank) it is possible to be reliable at 100 hp per cylinder on pump gas. The Golf R and GTI are good to 400+ but the 1.8 TSI is not (different internals). The Focus RS is rated 375 hp. From what I understand they are reliably making 400. I run 400+ hp on my Subaru 4…

Another big part of it is packaging. Adding 2 cylinders could be a pain to shove into that already tight engine bay. I mean, I'm sure they could, but if the car is already meant for the 4 banger, then they're working well with what they have. 

Engine structure is the key. Block is reinforced, pistons, rods, crank, valve train,etc.....

When running a transverse engine layout where you need big crash structures to pass modern crash regs, you can’t add more cylinders. This is the only way to get the kind of performance they want in the size vehicle they have.

I’d much rather have an I6 version of this, with the displacement cranked up (from 3.0 to around 3.5, since no balance issues) and boost dialed down accordingly.  And then you can always crank it back up aftermarket.

I think the opposite. We’ve figured how to reliably use fewer parts and less weight to create powers that exceed what was possible with much larger and mechanically more complex engines.

Economical in what way? Monetary, resources?

I only have two turbocharged datapoints, and only one of those I can compare with a naturally-aspirated engine.

I don’t know anything about the engineering-but this is all about avoiding taxes on displacement. China has an extra tax on engines larger than 2 liters. I believe, but am not going to check, that the EU does the same.

The loads on the engine shouldn't be an issue if it is engineered right with properly reinforced structures compared to less powerful 2.0 liter 4-bangers. The fuel is only an issue with most turbo engines if you have a lead foot...sure, less fuel efficient than a non-boosted or lower boosted engine of same…

There is more flexibility with a high output turbo motor then a larger displacement one. By reducing boost and adjusting timing and fuel you can essentially get a small turbo 4 to run like a small displacement motor (very fuel efficient) or run like a beast (less efficient but plenty of power). This can all be done…

There is a soft wear update coming for that.

Teslonium!

$30k for a new battery pack??? Holy shit this car is so far in the crack pipe range it’s off the scales!!

I thought it was because I was fat, but in fact its just a glandular problem.

Ah yes, I’ve seen that b-pillar wear on a number of these. I’m shocked that Elon Musk hasn’t announced some sort of new atomic element that Tesla has developed and will be retrofitted to ensure that part never wears again.

I have about 65k miles on my P85 and here are some interesting aspects:

That must be a really, really fun job.  

The next move should be obvious.

4/5