BMW plans to end production of its V8 diesel engines and will no longer offer the option for its future models, although the current lineup will remain. Speaking with Auto Motor and Sport, CEO Norbert Reithofer said BMW would be focusing on its six-cylinder engines as it attempts to improve its emissions and fuel consumption levels in light of stricter regulations set to roll in over the next decade in both the U.S. and Europe.
The source also claims that Mercedes-Benz is planning to do the same, although no official word has been released.
The move makes sense if you consider that a majority of buyers looking for diesel are doing so because they’re seeking better fuel economy, not more performance. It will be interesting to see Audi’s response as it has just released a new V12 TDI oil-burner and is planning a more powerful version of its current 4.2L V8 unit.
Reader Comments
Wed Mar 26 2008 1:59 PM
raptor says
How about making smaller, for example 2 liter V-8s and turbocharging it? V-6 are okay but nothing beats the sound of a good old V-8! I am sure it is possible to make small efficient V-8s.
Thu Mar 27 2008 7:12 AM
chris says
i'm with you rap. instead of bringing down the cylinder numbers, lets just keep what we have now; 4 cyls in anything "small", v6's in "mid sized" and v8's in anything bigger. BMW can take the financial hit that would be associated with offering small yet complex V8's.
we're fast approaching on the day where the base engines in all your trucks will be V6's. and I'm not talking about your rangers either. the 2010 F150 is set to get the 3.7L v6 duratec. if BMW doesnt buck the trend, you're going to end up with a slew of I4 and V6 options in the 2015 7 series. i can see it now. a 720XLi. but it wont be a v8 or v12. no. it will be an I4.
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