Z4 to Get BMW’s first 4-Cylinder in Decades

Can you name the last BMW sold in North America with a 4 cylinder engine? If you said the 318ti, give yourself a pat on the back. That was back in 1995. And before the 318ti it was the 2002. That just goes to show how into 4 cylinder engines BMW isn’t.

Well that’s certainly changing as BMW has announced a new 4 cylinder engine that will be making its way to Canada. It will be found in the Z4 to start, and will then find its way into the 3-series and the 1-series.

The new four pot will generate 240 horsepower and 260 pound feet of torque at just 1250 RPMs. Not bad considering the current 3 litre inline six offered in their 28i models are currently making 230 horespower and 200 pound feet of torque. That’s 10 more horses, but crucially, 30% more torque. This is achieved through Valvetronic intake management and a twin-scroll turbocharger.

So, why downsize especially when you’re known for making among the best inline six’s in the world? Well, they’re sort of forced to do it due to stricter CAFE regulations which demands all car companies increase the overall efficiency of their fleet by 2015. As a result, this new 4 cylinder will be 20% more efficient than the 6-cylinder but with more power. Best of both worlds? Let’s hope so.

No word yet on when the 4 cylinder Z4 will be released in Canada. Stay tooned.

[BMW]

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