As car manufacturers continue producing new models to fit the demand and the ever-changing market preferences, new technologies are always being introduced in the motor industry. Most – if not all – vehicles have some abbreviations embedded on the side or on the trunk but majority of vehicle owners do not know what they mean or represent. The manufacturers introduce new diction into the market that helps motorists differentiate one car’s performance from another. The abbreviations come with different meanings that are essential in informing a driver of the functionalities of their automobiles.
Here are the common abbreviations in cars and their meaning.
GTi
Grand Touring Injection (GTi) technology was introduced in the 1976 Volkswagen Golf GTi. It was meant to power long-distance journeys without sacrificing performance by using a new direct fuel injection system. The manufacturer explained that the technology would help the driver during an exhilarating drive for miles.
TDI
Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) is the design of turbodiesel engines featuring turbocharging and cylinder-direct fuel injection that was developed and produced by the Volkswagen Group. Cars with TDI badges emit very low levels of harmful exhaust gases.
TSI
Turbocharged Straight Injection (TSI) was inspired by the technology of Volkswagen’s TDI Clean Diesel and FSI direct fuel-injection engines. TSI engines are compact, high-powered and use less fuel. They allow higher torque at lower Revs Per Minute (RPM), which means the engine gives more power while also ensuring fuel economy.
FSI
Fuel Stratified Injection or FSI is a proprietary direct fuel injection system developed and used by Volkswagen AG, as well as Audi.
TFSI
Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection (TFSI) is a type of forced-aspiration turbo engine where the fuel is pressure-injected straight into the combustion chamber in such a way as to create a stratified charge. The TFSI became the first world turbocharged injection engine. Its system is characterised by producing a higher power output and optimum engine response, all while providing greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
CDI
Common-Rail Direct Fuel Injection (CDI) is a direct fuel-injection system for petrol and diesel engines. Alfa Romeo 156 2.4 JTD became the first passenger car maker to boast the CDI system and, in the very same year, Mercedes-Benz joined the stream with its W202 model. Because it has a direct fuel injection system, fuel economy is commendable and the same can be said about the power it generates.
VVT-i
Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), this is variable valve timing technology developed by Toyota. The Toyota VVT-i system replaces the Toyota VVT offered starting in 1991 on the 5-valve per cylinder 4A-GE engine.
AMG
AMG are the initials of the last names of two Mercedes engineers – Aufecht & Melcher and the last, Grobaspach, the German city where Aufecht was born. The most important in the company’s history. It is the division that produces performance vehicles with advanced engines which is the most distinct feature. To qualify for an AMG tag, a vehicle is given a high level of handling, exterior design, and power.
D-4D
Direct Injection 4 Cylinder Common Rail Diesel Engine (D-4D) are designed to work like a petrol engine to give power, fuel economy and keep emissions to the minimum. To achieve all, they gave it the ability to operate at extremely high pressure, and burn the diesel to vapour. Normally you will see it on the door of the Toyota Hilux.
DI-D
Direct Injection for Denso (DI-D) is a diesel engine and turbocharged, built by Mitsubishi for fuel economy, efficiency and to meet modern emission standards. Offers a smooth run, and fuel economy is great because the diesel is burnt at high pressure to meet emission standards.
V6 and V8
V6 and V8 are two of the most common labels on SUVs you will find anywhere. V6 means the vehicle is powered by a 6-cylinder engine and V8 an 8-cylinder engine . The V represents how the cylinders are arranged – in a V-like shape. Why are they placed in that shape? Well, to fit properly in the engine in most cars. V6 is lighter, smoother and offers stability. Meanwhile, the V8 is common with bigger cars and so offers much more power, enough for hauling and towing and offers high performance.
ZX and TX
In ZX and TZG, the letter ‘Z’ stands for Zenith which means the performance of the engine. It is the highest point a machine can operate. The letter ‘T’ generally stands for Touring as the vehicles will always take you miles away with extreme comfort and luxury. Such cars go for long trips without developing engine issues. They also have additional extra-powered features like sunshades and seat bolsters that provide cool rides.
