BMW Details “Efficient Dynamics” Engine Strategy

BMW AG says its new family of modular 3-, 4- and 6-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines will share as much as 60% common parts and 40% common structure, thus enabling all iterations to be produced on the same assembly line.

The first of the new "Efficient Dynamics" engines a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder unit that produces about 120 hp and 198 lb-ft of torque will debut late next year in 2014-model Mini city cars. The engine will probably be offered outside North America in BMW Series 1 and 3 small cars too.

All the new engines are turbocharged and share a 500-cc modular cylinder design. Thus the family's four-cylinder engine displaces 2.0 liters and the six-cylinder engine displaces 3.0 liters. BMW says each cylinder produces between 40 hp and 74 hp in the gasoline engines and between 27 hp and 60 hp in the diesels.

Each engine model also is fitted with the company's Valvetronic variable valve timing system, which "dims" each cylinder under light load to maximize fuel economy. BMW says the technology delivers the same benefits of cylinder deactivation but more smoothly.

BMW says the 3-cylinder engine is a quick-revving powerplant with good low-end torque and a sporty sound. The unit is fitted with a vibration damper to control roll torque but requires no balance shaft.