BMW 3 Series Latest to Get New Turbo Engine
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ - BMW's 2011 335i coupe and convertible arrive this spring with a new engine, some minor cosmetic redo, new exterior colors, and other tweak.
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ - BMW's 2011 335i coupe and convertible arrive this spring with a new engine, some minor cosmetic redo, new exterior colors, and other tweaks, according to the New York Times.
The new engine is the single twin-scroll turbo 6-cylinder found in the recent 740i and 535i Gran Turismo. The revised direct-injection engine is called the N55. It maintains the same 300-horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque as the engine in the outgoing models. The engine also adds BMW's Valvetronic variable intake technology, which the company claims minimizes turbo lag and boosts performance.
BMW did not announce gas mileage figures, but the company said the N55 engine "achieves a more favorable emissions signature than its predecessor," according to the Times. The current 335i coupe is rated at 17 miles per gallon in the city and 26 on the highway.
Earlier, BMW announced the N55 engine would also go into the 135i coupe and convertible for 2011, with those models arriving this spring as well. Both 1 Series cars will have the 7-speed double-clutch transmission as an option. But the 1 Series won't get any physical changes.
The new 3 Series coupe will be available with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, and while some new wood trims will be available for the cabin, the convertible gets the advanced option of "sun-reflective" leather, which supposedly can reduce surface temperatures on the seats by up to 36 degrees to prevent backside burns.
The 328i versions will also be refreshed, with new headlamps and taillight designs, and will keep the same 230-horsepower straight-6 from the 2010 models. They new cars will also be shipping in the spring. No pricing has been announced on any of the cars.
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