Updated Powertrain from BMW
BMW has introduced an updated 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that now produces 387 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain will be installed in the M240i, M340i, and M440i models. Compared to the previous engine version, power has increased by 18 hp, and torque has increased by 30 pound-feet.
Despite tightening environmental regulations in Europe, BMW continues to improve traditional internal combustion engines. Although electric vehicles are considered the future of the automotive industry, the Bavarian manufacturer demonstrates that gasoline engines still have significant potential.
Improved Performance and Efficiency
The updated powertrain will appear on the M340i xDrive Sedan and M340i xDrive Touring models on the European market this autumn. The engine, which works in tandem with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, shows significant performance improvements. BMW also plans to install this engine in the M440i xDrive Coupe, M440i xDrive Convertible, M440i xDrive Gran Coupe, and M240i xDrive Coupe.
Thanks to the additional power, all models with the new engine can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h 0.1 seconds faster. Even more impressive are the fuel efficiency figures – for example, the M240i xDrive Coupe now consumes 8.0 L/100 km compared to 8.7-8.8 L/100 km for the previous version. CO2 emissions have also decreased from 199-200 g/km to 183 g/km.
Efficiency of Different Models
The 3-Series and 4-Series models with the new engine show even better efficiency figures. The M340i xDrive Sedan consumes 7.5 L/100 km, and the Touring – 7.9 L/100 km. The figures for the M440i xDrive Coupe, Convertible, and Gran Coupe are 7.7 L/100 km, 7.7 L/100 km, and 7.8 L/100 km, respectively.
Interestingly, for the North American market, the M340i model already received similar specifications last year. The M240i and Z4 M40i models continue to offer power at the level of 382 hp.
Additional Updates
In addition to engine updates, BMW also announced that the updated 4-Series Gran Coupe and i4 models will receive standard laser rear lights and optional adaptive LED headlights. For the 2-Series Gran Coupe, a new Cape York Green color option has also become available when ordering with M Sport design or M Sport packages.
The engine updates from BMW demonstrate that the manufacturer continues to invest in the development of traditional technologies while simultaneously improving their environmental characteristics. This is especially important against the backdrop of tightening environmental requirements in Europe, where many automakers are focusing exclusively on electric vehicles. Technical improvements allow BMW to offer customers improved performance without harming the environment, which could become an important competitive advantage in the market.