BMW has lined up what it claims is the world’s lightest six-cylinder engine to replace its current 3,0-litre petrol engine and South Africans too will have the chance to sample this latest offering when it arrives.
BMW has lined up what it claims is the world’s lightest six-cylinder engine to replace its current 3,0-litre petrol engine and South Africans too will have the chance to sample this latest offering when it arrives.
The new magnesium-alloy composite crankcase designed by BMW engineers reduces the assembled weight to about 150 kg, increases performance by about 12 per cent while dropping fuel consumption by the same margin.
On Wednesday, Clynton Yon, BMW SA’s media liaison told CARtoday.com that the engine would probably not be making its way to SA.
However, on Friday, BMW SA’s product planning and pricing manager, Jan Lotter, told CARtoday.com that the “next-generation six-cylinder engine will definitely find its way here”.
The new unit will début in the 630Ci coupé and convertible versions, which have not been scheduled for South Africa.
And while unable to provide details as to when the engine would be arriving, Lotter said the new-generation straight six would initially be staggered across the 5 Series, X3 and X5 ranges. The engine will not be offered in the current 3 Series and should appear in the next generation when it is released next year.
Klaus Borgmann, head of BMW’s motor engineering, told further development of the existing Valvetronic engine management system provided most of the fuel consumption reduction.
The latest straight six will deliver about 192 kW and its fuel-saving features include a water pump operating at a tenth of regular power. This innovation allows the engine to reach its optimum temperature more quickly from a cold start.