Engine Performance: System: Turbocharger: Operation: INTERCOOLER
The 3.8L turbocharged engine uses an air-to-air intercooler that lowers inlet air temperature. Lowering of inlet air temperature increases air density which allows a more dense air/fuel charge to enter the combustion chamber. This increases power output by approximately 15%.
As inlet air is compressed, its temperature increases. This heated pressurized air is routed through the core of the intercooler. Outside air passes through the core of the intercooler and lowers the temperature of the compressed air. Efficiency of the intercooler is increased as a crankshaft mounted fan pulls air through the cooler.