What's next in boosting my 1.5?

[84-Orwell]

I'm working on modding my 1.5 LTG Malibu which currently has a CAI, upgraded intercooler and a high-flow cat.

Should I consider a performance turbocharger as the next step or focus on tweaking the exhaust system for better airflow?

 

[watchbearer11]

well you can do both for maximum gains, but it all depends on how much you wanna spend and the figures youre after

 

[84-Orwell]

well you can do both for maximum gains, but it all depends on how much you wanna spend and the figures youre after

Can you recommend a turbocharger or exhaust setup that gives stable performance without costing me a fortune?

 

[HighwayHeritage]

Should I consider a performance turbocharger as the next step or focus on tweaking the exhaust system for better airflow?

bro, what are your power goals? That'll help decide

 

[84-Orwell]

bro, what are your power goals? That'll help decide

Good question. Power goals are key. I'm aiming for a reliable boost in performance without costing a fortune or going overboard.

 

[watchbearer11]

Can you recommend a turbocharger or exhaust setup that gives stable performance without costing me a fortune?

bnr racing have a turbo kit for this engine and magnaflow or solo performance have some exhaust systems. Make sure you get a tune for this, preferably a custom one because you're adding a bigger turbo and chcnign the exhaust. My guess is that you should see some 30-40 hp gains if everything is done right

 

[84-Orwell]

bnr racing have a turbo kit for this engine and magnaflow or solo performance have some exhaust systems. Make sure you get a tune for this, preferably a custom one because you're adding a bigger turbo and chcnign the exhaust. My guess is that you should see some 30-40 hp gains if everything is done right

Appreciate the info. That 30-40 bump would surely wake it up. You run the BNR kit yourself or just know folks who have?

 

[Wizeass]

Appreciate the info. That 30-40 bump would surely wake it up. You run the BNR kit yourself or just know folks who have?

I installed the bnr kit with a friend of mine for his malibu, nothing terrible to report and he hasn't dynode it yet but it seems a bit snappy. Could be a placebo tbh

 

[OlivePenderghast]

Appreciate the info. That 30-40 bump would surely wake it up. You run the BNR kit yourself or just know folks who have?

Not who you're replying to but I strongly suggest you run the BNR kit with help from a professional. It's kinda delicate.

 

[84-Orwell]

@Wizeass
Good to hear the installation went smoothly! Even without a dyno, did it feel stronger in daily driving, or just a slight bump? Curious if the responsiveness is more noticeable under load.
@OlivePenderghast
Appreciate the heads-up. I'm handy with installs, but I'll definitely look into getting pro help for the tuning side. Any shops you'd recommend that specialize in the BNR kit?