BMW has been at the forefront of CO2 emissions reduction recently with its Efficient Dynamics programme. Its role looks set to continue with these early details emerge of a new range of 3-cylinder petrol engines for the next generation 1- and 3-Series models as well as the upcoming Z2 baby roadster.
The new engines will be turbocharged to ensure that the legendary BMW performance remains despite the 1,350cc capacity. A larger, 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine will power the more upmarket models. Here’s a list of the new engine line-up:
x18i – 1.35-litre, 3-cylinder, 201bhp/162 lb-ft
x20i – 1.35-litre, 3-cylinder, 241bhp/192 lb-ft
x23i – 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder, 273bhp/220 lb-ft
x25i – 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder, 321bhp/258 lb-ft
The engines are currently in the development stage and are said to be two years away from production reality so the figures above are set to change slightly. Nevertheless they are more powerful, torquier and presumably cleaner than the current range.
Engine downsizing is the next big thing – the Mercedes E250 CGI’s turbocharged 1.8-litre engine shows that that it’s a win-win in terms of performance and economy. This is a 1.8-litre, large saloon that’s fast enough to have to be electronically limited to 155mph yet with the CO2 emissions of your average supermini.
Don't worry though – BMW isn't got to stop building straight-six and V8 engines just yet.
We’ll bring you more details as they emerge but for now we’re going to be daydreaming about how a turbocharged BMW 3-cylinder will sound…
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