BMW to Drop V-12 Engine?

BMW AG may not continue to offer its top-end 6.0-liter V-12 engine beyond 2016, Car Advice reports.

The Australian magazine cites Christoph Priemel, who manages BMW product and pricing in the country, who says the "final call has not been made." Priemel notes that flagging demand and pressure to meet tougher fuel economy and carbon dioxide emission standards work against the big engine.

The twin-turbo V-12 produces 535 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque, making it one-third more powerful than BMW's twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 but about 13% less fuel efficient.

BMW offers the V-12 only in the largest of its top-of-the-line 7 Series sedan, the 760Li. At $140,200, that model represents a miniscule portion of 7 Series sales and has very little impact on the company's overall fuel economy and emission scores, Priemel points out. He predicts continuing demand for the high-powered sedan by status-conscious buyers who appreciate the car's heritage.