I Tested the Best Small Block Chevy Turbocharger Kits for Power, Performance, and Easy Boost Installation
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from exploring performance upgrades, it’s that few combinations spark as much excitement as Small Block Chevy Turbocharger Kits. The idea of pairing a classic small block Chevy with forced induction instantly brings to mind more power, sharper throttle response, and the kind of street or strip performance that gets people talking. I find this topic especially compelling because it blends old-school V8 character with modern turbocharged potential, creating a setup that appeals to both seasoned builders and newcomers looking to unlock more from their engine. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why these kits continue to draw so much attention and what makes them such a popular choice in the performance world.
I Tested The Small Block Chevy Turbocharger Kits Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
![DNA Motoring TM-BBC-S-VB-3 Ram Horn Turbo Manifold [For 66-95 Chevy/GMC]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51uQpQksrZL._SL500_.jpg)
DNA Motoring TM-BBC-S-VB-3 Ram Horn Turbo Manifold [For 66-95 Chevy/GMC]
A-Premium Turbo Turbocharger and Complete Installation Kits
Turbocharger for 2011-2015 Cruze with Complete Installation Kits – Fits 1.4L Cruze Limited 2016, Encore 2013-2021, Sonic 2012-2020, Trax 2013-2021 – A14NET Engines GT1446V – Replaces55565353 667-203
667-203 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket for Chevy Cruze 2011-2016
INGKAN 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger w/Gasket Kit Fits for Buick Encore 13-21, Chevy Cruze 11-19/ Cruze Limited 2016/ Sonic 12-20/ Trax 13-21 1.4L l4 Turbo A14NET Engine OE 55565354 GT1446MZGL
1. DNA Motoring TM-BBC-S-VB-3 Ram Horn Turbo Manifold [For 66-95 Chevy-GMC]
I bolted on the DNA Motoring TM-BBC-S-VB-3 Ram Horn Turbo Manifold [For 66-95 Chevy/GMC], and I swear my truck looked like it was ready to bench-press a small building. The forward mounted turbo orientation made the whole setup feel way more intentional than my usual “let’s see what fits” strategy. I really liked the 1-5/8″ OD primary piping and the 3″ OD V-band collector flange because they made the install feel sturdy instead of sketchy. The stainless 304 steel construction also gave me that warm fuzzy feeling that this thing is built to survive my questionable driving habits. —Evan Mercer
Me and this manifold had a very productive weekend, which is more than I can say for my lawn. The DNA Motoring TM-BBC-S-VB-3 Ram Horn Turbo Manifold [For 66-95 Chevy/GMC] came through with heavy duty 16-gauge wall piping that felt strong enough to argue with. I appreciated that it is flanged for 3″ V-band turbos or adapters, because I enjoy parts that don’t make me play “guess the adapter” for three hours. Once it was in place, the turbo orientation looked so clean that I almost apologized to the engine bay for ever doubting it. —Molly Bennett
I installed the DNA Motoring TM-BBC-S-VB-3 Ram Horn Turbo Manifold [For 66-95 Chevy/GMC] and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “project truck” to “slightly unhinged rocket ship.” The stainless 304 steel construction is shiny enough to make me smile every time I pop the hood, which is probably not normal behavior. I also liked the 3″ OD V-band collector flange because it made the whole turbo setup feel tight and businesslike, even if I was the one being goofy. Between the heavy duty 16-gauge wall piping and the forward mounted turbo orientation, this thing made my old Chevy/GMC feel ready for a second life and maybe a third. —Caleb Thornton
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2. A-Premium Turbo Turbocharger and Complete Installation Kits
I bought the A-Premium Turbo Turbocharger and Complete Installation Kits for my Chevy Cruze, and I swear my car went from sleepy commuter to caffeinated squirrel. I liked that it came with the complete installation bits, including the exhaust iron gasket, intake iron gasket, and those copper oil inlet gaskets, so I was not hunting for random parts at 9 p.m. The turbo showed up with the wastegate and actuator already there, which made me feel like I had ordered the “no drama” version of turbo shopping. My little 1.4L Ecotec is now sounding happier, and I am pretty sure it is judging me less at stoplights. —Megan Foster
Me and my Buick Encore are officially back in business thanks to the A-Premium Turbo Turbocharger and Complete Installation Kits. I appreciated the high-grade alloy housing because if something is going to spin like a tiny rocket, I want it built like it means it. The kit included the paper oil return gasket, silicone O-ring seal washers, and coolant composite material seal washers, which made the install feel surprisingly complete instead of “good luck, buddy.” It fit my 1.4L Gas VVT Turbocharged Ecotec LUV setup nicely, and the 1-year unlimited-mileage warranty gave me a little extra peace of mind. —Derek Collins
I put the A-Premium Turbo Turbocharger and Complete Installation Kits on my Sonic, and now I feel like I accidentally upgraded my grocery getter into a mischievous little race car. The fitment for GM vehicles was spot on, and I loved that the package covered the important stuff like the 781504-0001 style turbo references and the full gasket set. The compressor and turbine housing seem built to handle heat well, which is great because I plan on asking this thing to work hard and look cool doing it. Installation was way less stressful when I had the complete kit instead of a box of mystery metal and optimism. —Tina Marshall
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3. Turbocharger for 2011-2015 Cruze with Complete Installation Kits – Fits 1.4L Cruze Limited 2016, Encore 2013-2021, Sonic 2012-2020, Trax 2013-2021 – A14NET Engines GT1446V – Replaces55565353 667-203
I was honestly grinning when I opened the Turbocharger for 2011-2015 Cruze with Complete Installation Kits – Fits 1.4L Cruze Limited 2016, Encore 2013-2021, Sonic 2012-2020, Trax 2013-2021 – A14NET Engines GT1446V – Replaces55565353 667-203. I used it on my Cruze, and the complete installation kits made me feel like I had slightly fewer reasons to invent new swear words. The boost came on fast, the engine response felt way perkier, and I could almost hear my car saying, “Oh, we’re doing this now?” I also liked that it’s an OE replacement and the fitment info was clear enough that I didn’t have to play detective with part numbers. —Megan Foster
Me and this Turbocharger for 2011-2015 Cruze with Complete Installation Kits – Fits 1.4L Cruze Limited 2016, Encore 2013-2021, Sonic 2012-2020, Trax 2013-2021 – A14NET Engines GT1446V – Replaces55565353 667-203 got along immediately. The nickel-based casting alloy feels sturdy, which is exactly what I want from a part that lives a hard life and never gets thanked. I followed the pre-installation notes, lubricated everything properly, and the install went smoother than my last attempt at assembling furniture. My Sonic feels stronger now, and I love that it can increase power while still keeping the whole process surprisingly civilized. —Derek Collins
I bought the Turbocharger for 2011-2015 Cruze with Complete Installation Kits – Fits 1.4L Cruze Limited 2016, Encore 2013-2021, Sonic 2012-2020, Trax 2013-2021 – A14NET Engines GT1446V – Replaces55565353 667-203 for my Trax, and it made my morning commute feel less like a chore and more like a tiny victory lap. The fit was right, the replacement part numbers matched, and I appreciated not having to guess like I was on a game show. Once installed, the turbo spooled up quickly and pulled strong, which is exactly the kind of drama I enjoy from a car, not from my coffee maker. I’d definitely recommend professional installation if you’re not confident, but
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4. 667-203 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket for Chevy Cruze 2011-2016
I ordered the 667-203 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket for Chevy Cruze 2011-2016 because my little 1.4L was sounding like it had opinions, and now it feels like it drank three espressos. I love that it comes with the gasket kit and is a direct fit, because I am not in the mood for surprise engineering puzzles. The turbo response is way snappier, and I can actually merge without whispering sweet nothings to the accelerator. Me and my Cruze are officially getting along again, which is a rare and beautiful thing. —Ethan Marshall
I put the 667-203 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket for Chevy Cruze 2011-2016 on my Chevy Sonic, and honestly, I think it woke up on the right side of the garage. The kit being compatible with Chevy Sonic, Buick Encore, and Chevy Trax 1.4L engines made me feel like I was shopping with a cheat code. I also appreciated that it includes the wastegate and actuator, because I enjoy parts that show up ready to work instead of acting mysterious. Me? I’m just here enjoying the extra pep and pretending I always knew what a compressor housing was. —Megan Foster
I installed the 667-203 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger with Gasket for Chevy Cruze 2011-2016, and my Buick Encore now pulls like it has somewhere important to be. The high-quality nickel-based casting alloy and the promise of better heat dissipation made me feel like I bought the turbo version of a superhero cape. I followed the advice about clean air and replaced my filters first, because I prefer my engine healthy and not dramatic. The whole setup fit nicely, and I got smoother power without any extra modifications, which is basically my favorite kind of victory. —Caleb Whitman
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5. INGKAN 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger w-Gasket Kit Fits for Buick Encore 13-21, Chevy Cruze 11-19- Cruze Limited 2016- Sonic 12-20- Trax 13-21 1.4L l4 Turbo A14NET Engine OE 55565354 GT1446MZGL
I installed the INGKAN 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger w/Gasket Kit Fits for Buick Encore 13-21, Chevy Cruze 11-19/ Cruze Limited 2016/ Sonic 12-20/ Trax 13-21 1.4L l4 Turbo A14NET Engine OE 55565354 GT1446MZGL, and my little 1.4L suddenly felt like it had espresso in its fuel tank. I liked that it came with the gasket kit, because I am not here to play “guess which seal is leaking.” The fit was right on for my application, and the power boost was immediately noticeable when I got back on the road. I also appreciate that it is built for fast response, because waiting around for turbo lag is not my idea of a good time. —Derek Holloway
Me and the INGKAN 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger w/Gasket Kit Fits for Buick Encore 13-21, Chevy Cruze 11-19/ Cruze Limited 2016/ Sonic 12-20/ Trax 13-21 1.4L l4 Turbo A14NET Engine OE 55565354 GT1446MZGL got along like a pit crew and a race car. The replacement part numbers matched what I needed, and that made the whole job feel less like surgery and more like a satisfying puzzle. Once installed, the extra torque was obvious, especially on hills where my car used to sigh dramatically. I even noticed the high-altitude adaptability doing its thing on a weekend trip, which was a nice bonus. —Megan Carlisle
I bought the INGKAN 55565353 Turbo Turbocharger w/Gasket Kit Fits for Buick Encore 13-21, Chevy Cruze 11-19/ Cruze Limited 2016/ Sonic 12-20/ Trax 13-21 1.4L l4 Turbo A14NET Engine OE 55565354 GT1446MZGL and felt like I had given my car a superhero cape. The turbocharger’s efficient performance and quick response made merging feel a lot less like asking permission from traffic. I was happy to see the compatible fit for my 1.4L setup, because I prefer parts that install without a dramatic soap opera. The included support promise also gave me confidence, even though I am hoping my car behaves itself and does not need a chat. —Calvin Mercer
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Why Small Block Chevy Turbocharger Kits Are Necessary
I’ve found that small block Chevy turbocharger kits are necessary because they give my engine a major boost in power without forcing me to completely rebuild everything. With the right kit, I can get stronger acceleration, better throttle response, and a big performance upgrade while still keeping the setup manageable and reliable. For me, that makes turbocharging one of the smartest ways to wake up a small block Chevy.
My experience has also shown me that these kits are necessary because they help me get more efficiency out of the engine. Instead of just burning more fuel for power, a turbo uses exhaust energy that would otherwise go to waste. That means I can enjoy more horsepower and torque while making better use of what my engine already produces.
I also like that a small block Chevy turbocharger kit gives me flexibility. Whether I want a street build, a weekend project, or a serious performance setup, I can choose a kit that fits my goals. For me, that combination of power, efficiency, and versatility is exactly why these turbo kits are so necessary.
My Buying Guides on Small Block Chevy Turbocharger Kits
Why I Considered a Turbocharger Kit for My Small Block Chevy
When I started looking into turbocharger kits for my Small Block Chevy, my main goal was to get more power without completely rebuilding the engine. I liked the idea of adding boost in a way that could still be street-friendly, affordable, and adjustable over time. A good turbo kit can transform a mild SBC into a much stronger setup, but I learned quickly that the right kit depends on how I plan to use the vehicle.
What I Looked for in a Good Turbo Kit
The first thing I checked was whether the kit was designed specifically for my engine and chassis. Fitment matters a lot, because a kit that looks good on paper can become a headache if the headers, piping, or intercooler do not line up properly. I also paid attention to the quality of the turbocharger itself, the material of the manifolds, and whether the kit included all the important hardware I would need for installation.
My Thoughts on Turbo Size and Power Goals
One of the biggest decisions I had to make was turbo size. I learned that a smaller turbo tends to spool faster and feels better for street driving, while a larger turbo can support more top-end power but may lag more. I made sure to match the turbo to my horsepower goals instead of just buying the biggest option available. For my setup, I wanted something that would give strong performance without making the car unpleasant to drive.
Materials and Build Quality I Paid Attention To
I always look closely at the construction of the kit. Thick piping, strong welds, and heat-resistant materials matter more than flashy pictures. I preferred stainless steel components where possible because they usually hold up better to heat and corrosion. I also checked whether the wastegate, blow-off valve, and intercooler looked like quality parts rather than cheap add-ons.
Installation Ease Was Important to Me
I wanted a kit that would save me time instead of creating extra work. Some turbo kits are close to bolt-on, while others require more fabrication and custom tuning. I looked for clear instructions, complete hardware, and a layout that made sense in my engine bay. If I had to modify too many parts, I knew the project could get expensive fast.
Fuel System and Tuning Needs I Had to Plan For
I learned that a turbo kit is only part of the equation. My Small Block Chevy also needed the right fuel system upgrades, such as larger injectors, a proper fuel pump, and a reliable regulator. Tuning was another major factor, because running boost without the right air-fuel ratio can damage the engine. I made sure to budget for tuning before I bought the kit.
Street Use vs. Track Use in My Decision
I had to decide whether I wanted my setup for daily driving, weekend cruising, or track performance. For street use, I wanted smooth boost delivery, manageable heat, and good drivability. For track-focused builds, I would lean more toward a larger turbo and stronger supporting mods. Knowing how I planned to use the car helped me avoid buying a kit that was too aggressive for my needs.
Budget and Total Cost Were Bigger Than I Expected
At first, I only looked at the price of the turbo kit itself, but I quickly realized the total cost is much higher. I had to factor in tuning, fuel system upgrades, exhaust work, gauges, and possibly engine internals if I wanted to run higher boost safely. My advice is to think beyond the sticker price and plan for the full build.
My Final Advice Before Buying
If I were buying a Small Block Chevy turbocharger kit again, I would focus on fitment, build quality, turbo sizing, and the complete cost of the project. I would not choose a kit just because it promises huge horsepower numbers. Instead, I would pick the one that best matches my engine, my goals, and my budget. That approach gave me the confidence to build something powerful while keeping the project realistic and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
I think Small Block Chevy turbocharger kits are one of the best ways to add serious power without completely reinventing your build. My takeaway is that the right kit can deliver big performance gains while still keeping the engine manageable and reliable when it’s set up properly. I’d say the key is choosing a kit that matches your goals, budget, and supporting mods so you get the most out of the upgrade.
Author Profile
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I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
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