Neither BMW's famous straight-six nor the V8 engine are going anywhere. The latter in particular is too good a deal to be thrown out, says the boss.
Even though downsizing still means smaller displacement and fewer cylinders, BMW refuses to put the V8 engine in the grave.
This is primarily due to demand from drivers in the US and the Middle East, who appreciate the distinctive sound and power that only a V8 engine can deliver.
BMW's head of development, Frank Weber, says in a new interview with Automotive News that the V8 engine is here to stay.
He explains that although an electrified inline-six can deliver the same performance, many customers prefer the smooth running, sound and feel of a V8 engine. And that it is Americans in particular who love the engine type.
However, there are also other factors that come into play. Emission regulations are generally more relaxed in the US and the Middle East than in Europe.
This could mean that certain BMW models in the future will be offered with a V8 engine in the US, while BMW will have to cut back at home in Europe.
In fact, it has already happened. The BMW 760i is not sold in the EU unless you opt for the armored and significantly more expensive 7 Series Protection edition.
It is still unknown which future BMW models will get V8 engines. Prototypes of the next-generation X5 have been spotted testing.
Meanwhile, BMW is also reportedly planning to revamp the X6 and X7. The three SUVs are expected to retain at least eight cylinders in the U.S. The twin-turbo 4.4-liter engine will likely remain on the program in the Middle East and other parts of the world with more relaxed emissions regulations.
At the other end of the scale, BMW in Europe is content with three-cylinder engines. Small machines of one and a half liters, which are also found in various Mini models.
A three-cylinder engine is not found in a BMW sold in the US. However, the engine was on the program here in 2015 in the 3-Series known as the F30.
Something that many – both journalists and customers – found strange in a car that is usually marketed as a 'sporty sedan'. The 3-cylinder 3 Series did not last beyond the facelift. In this way, the smallest engine is now again a 4-cylinder engine of 1.6 liters.
