mikeyb
04-05-2008, 03:46 PM
http://news.windingroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/bmw-six-turbo-enginehl.jpg
BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer hinted recently that major changes could be in store for the automaker’s engine lineup. In yet another example of the shift away from larger displacement powerplants, Reithofer has said that he would like to phase out diesel V-8 engines “across the board,” as well as turning to six-cylinder engines with turbos to lead the vaunted M division.The BMW Chief told German magazine Auto Motor und Sport that he would make such moves to reduce emissions and decrease fuel consumption in the average BMW, even with the M cars. He envisions M car of the future as being lighter than they are now, and making use of engines along the lines of the company’s current twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six.
While forced induction may not seem particularly in line with the standing M philosophy, we think that the idea of shedding weight to aid performance sounds wonderfully promising. And though we doubt BMW will get back down to the featherweight days of the original M3, this is certainly a step in the right direction.
BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer hinted recently that major changes could be in store for the automaker’s engine lineup. In yet another example of the shift away from larger displacement powerplants, Reithofer has said that he would like to phase out diesel V-8 engines “across the board,” as well as turning to six-cylinder engines with turbos to lead the vaunted M division.The BMW Chief told German magazine Auto Motor und Sport that he would make such moves to reduce emissions and decrease fuel consumption in the average BMW, even with the M cars. He envisions M car of the future as being lighter than they are now, and making use of engines along the lines of the company’s current twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six.
While forced induction may not seem particularly in line with the standing M philosophy, we think that the idea of shedding weight to aid performance sounds wonderfully promising. And though we doubt BMW will get back down to the featherweight days of the original M3, this is certainly a step in the right direction.