BMW has finally revealed details on its new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine slated to appear in many North American models, starting next year. Named the N20, it's actually an indirect replacement for the least powerful version of the German carmaker's classic 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder gasoline engine.
Running a twin-scroll turbocharger together with BMW's patented variable valve timing and variable camshaft-control systems, the new 1,997-cc unit reportedly produces 245 horsepower (hp) at 5,000 rpm. This represents an additional 74 hp compared to the most powerful version of BMW's existing naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder. In addition the new N20 pumps out an impressive 258 pound-feet of torque at just 1,250 rpm. The last time BMW offered four-cylinder engines in its U.S. models was over 10 years ago.
As of now, the N20 is set to debut in the BMW X1 xDrive28i - a reworked range-topping version of BMW's entry-level off-roader. This will result in 12 hp less than the current X1 xDrive28i's naturally aspirated engine. However, it will also result in 29 more pound-feet of torque and is capable of propelling the new four-cylinder model from 0-62 mph in just 6.1 seconds and top speeds of 149 mph with a standard six-speed manual. That's an improvement of .7 seconds and 6 mph respectively.
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