What’s the difference between a BCW, Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 Hybrid Turbo?
Upgrading your turbocharger is one of the most effective ways to extract serious performance from your vehicle, but navigating the terminology can be confusing. At Falcon Turbos, we re-engineer turbochargers to be stronger, more efficient, and more reliable than OEM units using our proprietary performance components, upgraded bearing systems, lightweight billet compressor wheels, and high-flow shafts.
To help you choose the right setup for your power goals and hardware, here is a breakdown of the different types of hybrid turbos we offer and the main differences between our BCW, Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 builds.
BCW (Billet Compressor Wheel) Upgrades
BCW units are direct replacements for factory turbochargers. By replacing the standard cast wheel with a CNC-machined lightweight billet compressor wheel, these units deliver sharper transient response, quicker spool, and improved airflow without altering the factory footprint.
- Supporting Hardware: None required; runs with entirely stock hardware.
- Software/Mapping: Operates safely on a stock ECU map or a mild Stage 1 remap.
- Best For: Drivers looking for the safest, most reliable drop-in upgrade for a noticeable bump in power and throttle response without modifying any other engine components.
Stage 1 Hybrid Turbos
A Stage 1 hybrid is a mild performance upgrade engineered to optimise airflow while retaining the vehicle’s standard engine setup. These units typically feature re-profiled compressor geometry and uprated internal bearings to handle slightly elevated boost pressures efficiently.
- Supporting Hardware: Compatible with standard engine components; upgraded intake or panel filter recommended.
- Software/Mapping: Designed specifically to work in conjunction with an ECU remap to unlock extra power.
- Best For: Everyday road cars wanting a solid jump in mid-range torque and peak power without investing in extensive hardware modifications.
Stage 2 Hybrid Turbos
Stage 2 units are built for enthusiasts demanding significantly higher airflow and sustained top-end pull. These turbos feature larger, CNC-profiled compressor wheels, clipped or upgraded turbine shafts to reduce backpressure, and heavy-duty 360-degree thrust bearings to withstand higher boost levels.
- Supporting Hardware: Must have supporting modifications. Benefits significantly from a larger front-mount intercooler, uprated downpipe (high-flow sports cat or decat), and an upgraded intake tract.
- Software/Mapping: Mandatory remap required before driving. The engine management must be calibrated immediately to match the substantial increase in air volume and avoid lean conditions.
- Best For: Fast-road and track vehicles aiming for significant power increases while retaining a bolt-on OEM-style footprint.
Stage 3 Hybrid Turbos
Stage 3 represents the pinnacle of hybrid turbo engineering, pushing the original housings to their absolute mechanical limits. These hybrid turbo builds incorporate oversized billet compressor wheels, enlarged aerospace-grade turbine shafts (such as Mar-M alloys), and full 360-degree motorsport thrust systems designed to flow massive volumes of air at high RPM.
- Supporting Hardware: Requires comprehensive supporting modifications, including uprated high-pressure fuel pumps (HPFP) or injectors, full free-flowing exhaust downpipes, upgraded cooling/intercoolers, uprated charge pipes, and transmission/clutch upgrades.
- Software/Mapping: Data logging and custom ECU and TCU calibration required.
- Road Suitability: Not suitable for road use without significant engine preparation and supporting modifications.
- Best For: High-output project cars, drag strip builds, and dedicated track platforms seeking maximum horsepower without switching to an expensive, complex full-frame external turbo layout.
Quick Comparison Guide
| Turbo Spec | ECU Remap Required? | Key Supporting Hardware Needed | Best Suited For |
| BCW | Optional (Stock or Mild Remap) | None (Stock setup) | Direct OEM replacement with enhanced spool and safety |
| Stage 1 | Recommended | Stock / Minor intake upgrades | Mild road upgrade without major hardware modifications |
| Stage 2 | Mandatory before driving | Intercooler, uprated downpipe, intake | Fast-road builds requiring substantial power gains |
| Stage 3 | Mandatory custom tune | Full hardware: Fuelling, cooling, exhaust, drivetrain | Maximum-power builds with comprehensive engine prep |
Need help selecting the right hybrid turbo specification for your vehicle? Contact the team at Falcon Turbos in Sheffield for expert advice and bespoke builds tailored to your platform.
