Next-Gen BMW M3, M4 Could Have Four Cylinders
Could the next-generation BMW M3 and M4 models return to their four-cylinder roots?
With potent turbocharged four-cylinder engines becoming more common, such as in the Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG, BMW isn’t ruling out the possibility that its next-generation M3 and M4 sports cars may benefit from the technology. Despite not currently having a four-cylinder engine in its entire lineup, BMW M Division Head of Product Management Carsten Pries recently said that it was “foreseeable” that a four-cylinder engine could be found lurking under the hood of the next-gen M3 and M4.
SEE ALSO: 2014 BMW M 235i vs 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG
The latest 2015 BMW M3 and M4 are both powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine, which is about 25 percent more fuel efficient than the previous V8 engine found in the last M3. Thanks to a pair of turbos, the new engine also offers significantly more performance.
Naturally, the biggest concern BMW faces heading into the future is meeting increasing emissions regulations worldwide, which means a four-cylinder with plenty of power would be a good compromise.
GALLERY: 2015 BMW M3
GALLERY: 2015 BMW M4
GALLERY: 2015 BMW M3 and M4
[Source: Motoring.com.au]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Fuel economy is a concern for an M buyer? I think not. Imagine (G)od (M)otors dropping a Supercharged V6 into the bonnet of a Corvette. That's a job for a Pony Car ie Camaro. IMO, The time has come for BMW to punch out and likely stroke the 3.0 inline 6 to atleast 4 liters both literally and figuratively. I prefer a normal inducted engine as opposed to FORCED anyway. The additional 100cc along with direct injection and of course Double Vanos should be good for at least 100 HP. Before the twin screw blow dryers were introduced, Bavaria was able to get 333Hp out of the M3's 3.2 liter. Although it was light on Foot Pounds, most purist would be okay with a 450 BHP normally inducted engine. Porsche engineers don't care about tourqe, just revs. Just sayin.
significantly more performance. Since when is 11hp significantly more performance??