Possible New BMW 4-Cylinder Engines For North American Models

[JoshCalkins]

1999 BMW 318ti

About five months ago, BMW let it be known that they were working on a series of turbocharged four-cylinder engines that would provide power comparable to some of their naturally aspirated six-cylinder models, but get better fuel economy. These engines, however, were initially slated only for distribution in European and Asian markets. Now, however, the German automaker is hinting that the engines might make it to North America.

The last BMW model sold with a four-cylinder engine in North America was the 1999 318ti. The main thing holding the company back right now is that the future of the United States' CAFE (Corporate Average fleet Fuel Economy) hasn't been laid out. The U.S. Congress decided in 2007 that the CAFE rating should be 35 mpg by the year 2020, but they have so far been dithering in explaining exactly what steps must be taken each year in order to meet that standard. Before BMW can get a hand on the actual figures, and check them against their financials, the proposed four-cylinder models will have to wait.

However, their inclusion is likely because as soon as gas prices rebound, the demand for more fuel efficient vehicles will rise. Another factor that may spur the decision is that Mercedes-Benz has been showing off a new four-cylinder engine that they plan on offering for their C-Class sedans and the GLK small SUV.

[craig4ie]

The 318ti was never offered with a turbocharger. The early models came with the normally aspirated 1.8 M42 and the later models came the the normally aspirated 1.9 M44. "t" stand for touring, not turbo.

[Hey-U]

Originally Posted by craig4ie The 318ti was never offered with a turbocharger. The early models came with the normally aspirated 1.8 M42 and the later models came the the normally aspirated 1.9 M44. "t" stand for touring, not turbo.

I think your right but I was getting excited about the ability of finding a stock turbo M44 to retro fit.

[JoshCalkins]

Originally Posted by craig4ie The 318ti was never offered with a turbocharger. The early models came with the normally aspirated 1.8 M42 and the later models came the the normally aspirated 1.9 M44. "t" stand for touring, not turbo.

You're right. My mistake.