In fact, this new engine is so advanced that the only true "new" technology
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| Turbo lag shouldn't be a problem, like it was on this '70s 2002 Turbo. (Photo: BMW Canada) |
that it doesn't have is variable turbine geometry, which BMW is well acquainted with from building turbodiesels. VTG turbochagers are commonplace in the world of performance oil-burners, and, as a matter of fact, BMW employs them in their award-winning 3.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine. Expect this technology, which alters the angle of the turbine's blades, to arrive in the not too distant future, as Porsche has just debuted the system on their all-new 997-type 911 Turbo.
While
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| The 3.0L Turbo makes more power and torque than the 4.0L V8 in the new Euro-spec 740i. (Photo: BMW Canada) |
BMW will be holding off on announcing which models the new engine will be fitted to, it's almost certain that they're going to be dropped into the 3-Series first, in both sedan, and the yet to be revealed coupe and folding hardtop convertible, for a debut this fall. The BMW model will most likely be badged as a 335i, and will pose a direct threat to Lexus' extremely quick IS 350 and the forthcoming 300 horsepower 3.2-litre FSI V6 engine that will arrive in some Audis in the not too distant future. Eventually, there is some word that BMW will mate this engine to a hybrid drivetrain to make the Ultimate Environmental Machine.
