BMW Considering Turbocharged Power for 3 and 5-Series?

Having learned a great deal about turbocharging in the development its all-conquering 3.0-litre twin-turbodiesel I-6, it's

BMW learned a great deal about turbocharging in the development its all-conquering 3.0-litre twin-turbodiesel I-6. (Photo: BMW Canada)

reported that BMW will apply the same technique in building the gasoline equivalent. Though the motor will have two turbos, they will not operate in tandem like a conventional biturbo (i.e. Audi A6 2.7T); a small, light-pressure turbocharger will provide additional power without the lag and delay for superior low-end grunt, while a larger turbo will operate at higher revolutions to improve performance once the car is underway. The idea, already in practice in the 535d, works with absolute efficiency providing a one-two knock out punch of acceleration and responsiveness throughout the rev range.

Building on the existing R6 means that the twin-turbo version will feature the same weight-saving construction and power-improving technologies. While not confirmed, the turbo add-on should boost the 335i's output to around 330 horsepower, an increase of 72 from the 330i, and less than 15 horses short of the current M3! This should guarantee that the 1,500 kg (3,300 lb) 3-Series be propelled to 100 km/h in around six seconds, and have an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). If you hadn't figured it out already, the name relates not to the car's displacement

While not confirmed, the turbo add-on should boost the 335i's output to around 330-horsepower, an increase of 72 from the 330i, and less than 15 horses short of the current M3! (Photo: BMW Canada)

as with the 330i, but rather the equivalent engine size for the power output. Lexus uses such a system now for designating its hybrid models, the new RX 400h and upcoming GS 450h.

Though a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic gearbox will undoubtedly be offered with the 335i, insiders believe that BMW will be phasing out the current SMG option for regular 3-Series models. Having observed the ultra-quick gear change times and the unparalleled smoothness of the Borg-Warner designed VW-Group DSG twin-clutch gearbox, BMW is said to be investing in its own variant for use in the 335i. The engine will most likely debut prior to the release of the transmission.