BMW really blew it
February 21st, 2006As covered in a post in our archives, BMW - like Honda – has taken a ‘if you can’t beat ‘em in power, join ‘em in turbocharging’ philosophy. (Luckily today’s engine managment allows higher compression ratios for less lag).
BMW will unveil its first turbocharged, direct-injection gasoline engine. The engine is based on BMW’s 265-hp, 3.0-liter inline-six. However, with gasoline direct injection and two turbochargers each feeding three cylinders, the engine produces 306 hp; torque is boosted 30 percent over the inline-six. BMW said performance is comparable to that of the automaker’s 4.0-liter V-8, yet the engine emits lower exhaust emissions and produces a 10 percent increase in fuel economy over the V-8. – Automotive News
The 3 series will be the first car to get this engine here in the U.S. – expect it to be badged the 335i and 335Ci. (330Ti and 330iT would have made more sense but when you think about it a turbo does effectively increase displacement. Besides – the Ti label had already been used for 3 series hatches and the iT moniker by dealers to denote wagon versions).