400Nm four-banger diesel from BMW

BMW has designed a new 2.0L turbodiesel engine that puts out an impressive 204hp and 400Nm of torque. Additional benefits over the 177hp outgoing motor is a wider power band, improved fuel economy and a lighter aluminum engine block. BMW made use of a variable twin turbo system, utilizing a small low inertia turbo that spools up almost instantly off idle combined with a larger unit at high rpm loads.

The end result is a smooth torque curve with 200Nm of twist coming from just 1200rpm and the 400Nm peak not far off at only 2000rpm. This should provide plenty of urge around town without the engine even having to break a sweat. BMW is yet to release fuel consumption figures, but it claims the new engine is more economical than the previous 2.0L diesel, which used just 4.9L/100km.

The engine makes do with latest diesel technology including high pressure Piezo injection with fuel squirted in rounds of three and at 2000bar pressure. Thanks to the particulate filters, the new unit releases just 129g of carbon-dioxide emissions per 100km. The motor has also been designed to sit further back in the engine bay, which not only improves handling and balance, but also makes the vehicle safer for pedestrians in the event of a collision.