Car Engine Types Explained: Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid, EV & More

What's the difference between naturally aspirated, turbo, hybrid and electric? Our complete guide to every car engine type in India.

1. Naturally aspirated petrol — Simple, reliable, refined. Best for city driving. 2. Turbo petrol — More power from a smaller engine. Best for performance. 3. Diesel — High torque, better highway mileage. Best for high running. 4. Mild hybrid — Small electric assist for better mileage. 5. Strong hybrid — Can run on electric alone for short distances. 6. Plug-in hybrid — Larger battery, can be charged externally. 7. Electric (EV) — No fuel, lowest running cost, needs charging infrastructure. 8. CNG — Cheapest running cost after EV, popular for cabs.

- Under 1,000 km/month city: Petrol or EV - 1,000-1,500 km/month mixed: Petrol or hybrid - Over 1,500 km/month highway: Diesel - City cab use: CNG or EV