BMW will replace the current V8 and V10 engines in the M models with smaller-displacement turbocharged units.

CEO of BMW, Norbert Reithofer, recently confirmed that there would be no new eight-cylinder diesel engines. But it seems that this is only the beginning of a process through which BMW will downsize many of its engines so that they comply with the new emissions regulations and reduce their consumption.

The famous M division of the brand will be one of those affected by this phenomenon known as “down-sizing” of engines. Thus, the current V8 and V10 units found in the M3 and M5, for example, will have slightly smaller displacement and be turbocharged as soon as next year. Of course, they will deliver more power than their predecessors.

The first M models expected to receive these novelties are the X5 and X6 M, which have already been spied on numerous occasions. They will fit a turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 producing more than 500 horsepower and 700 Nm of peak torque, enough to shave more than five seconds off the 0-100 km/h sprint.

In addition, BMW will equip the new M models with Start/Stop technology and regenerative brakes to further reduce consumption and emissions. This decision will probably not sit well with BMW purists, but it will not be the only one, as AMG is also known to be downsizing its engines.

Source | Motor Authority