BMW to add Turbo models :eek:!!

[Chadder007]

BMW says it will add turbocharged models to lineup




By JENS MEINERS | Automotive News Europe

MUNICH, Germany -- BMW AG will offer turbocharged gasoline-powered engines in its main car models in the next few years.

The aim is to bridge the power gap between BMW's top-of-the-line models and its high-powered M versions, which will stay normally aspirated.

BMW's M5, to be introduced this year, has a 500-hp V10 engine. The normal 5-Series models have six- and eight-cylinder engines that produce as much as 333 hp.

The next 3 Series range will get six-cylinder engines. The next M3 will have a V8 that is much more powerful than the 343-hp six-cylinder in the current M3.

"This leaves a significant power gap that can be filled by the turbocharged engines," a BMW source says, adding that the turbo engines will be based on direct-injection gasoline-powered engines.

Some of the turbocharged models will come with automatic transmissions, increasing their appeal in the United States. The M models only come with manual transmissions. The United States was BMW's top market in 2003.

The turbocharged models will not have the extensive body and chassis modifications of the M models.

BMW has a history of making turbocharged cars. The 170-hp 2002 Turbo was introduced in 1973. In 1980, BMW introduced the 745i, a 252-hp turbocharged six-cylinder car that topped off the 7 Series lineup. Its successor was the 750i, which was powered by a 5.0-liter V-12. The turbo version of the 745i sold 16,031 units worldwide from 1980 to 1986.

http://autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?port_code=autoweek&cat_code=carnews&loc_code=index&content_code=08892964

 

[ElFenix]

The next 3 Series range will get six-cylinder engines.

well, that sure is a change!

 

[KingNothing]

That's not a history, that's footnotes on a handful of pages. Forced induction was inevitable though.

 

[Nebor]

WOW. This is big news. A turbocharged v8 m3 would be nice though. The regular one is too slow, it can't even break the sound barrier!

 

[NutBucket]

Why the ""? You act like its a bad thing....

 

[UNCjigga]

BMW purists lose. Horsepower-starved fanbois (most of whom won't ever drive these cars) win.

 

[boyRacer]

Originally posted by: Nebor
WOW. This is big news. A turbocharged v8 m3 would be nice though. The regular one is too slow, it can't even break the sound barrier!

The aim is to bridge the power gap between BMW's top-of-the-line models and its high-powered M versions, which will stay normally aspirated.

 

[Apex]

A few bucks worth of mods may end up pushing those turbocharged models faster than the M series. Should be an interesting few years.