BMW Debuts New Diesel Engine and Eight Speed Transmission

A BMW 5 Series at the BMW Welt in Munich

BMW announced the unveiling of a new generation of four-cylinder diesel engines for the BMW 5 Series. The Munich-based automaker is also introducing a new 8-speed transmission for many of its vehicles.

The four-cylinder diesel engines will premier on the BMW 518d, the BMW 520d, and the BMW 520d xDrive, all of which are available as sedan and touring models. Featuring an aluminum crankcase with thermally joined liners, integrated balance shafts, and a map-controlled oil pump, the new engine delivers a maximum output of 150 horsepower.

Thanks to an increase of seven horsepower in the new engine, the 518d can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 9.5 seconds, with an average fuel consumption of 55 to 51 mpg (4.3 to 4.6 l/100 km) with a CO2 emission rate of 114 to 124 grams per kilometer.

The new engines have an even greater impact on the 520d sedan’s fuel economy and acceleration, with a similar increase in horsepower and an additional 15 pound-feet of torque.  The 520d achieves an average fuel consumption rating as low of 57 mpg (4.1 l/100 km), and can accelerate from 0 to 62.1 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in 7.9 seconds.  Additionally, the 520d sedan has a CO2 emission rating of 109 to 119 grams per kilometer.

The entire 5 Series range will benefit from BMW’s new eight-speed Steptronic transmission with proactive drive system.  The new technology shifts gears based on current conditions and the driving system at that moment using data from the navigation system, so it knows about everything from curves and hills to exit ramps before they appear.

Both the new engines and the new transmission will be available beginning this summer.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)