Missing from the U.S. Market for more than a decade, the 4-cylinder engine is back in BMW's vehicles, reports MSN Autos.
Thanks to rising gas prices and corporate fuel economy strategies, many luxury brands are downsizing, but BMW's news at the 2011 New York International Auto Show was nothing less than shocking.
The engine is called a "'twin-scroll' turbocharger," according to the news source, "which acts like two turbos in one, transforming the small engine into a powerhouse."
BMW is calling this "TwinPower" technology," add the auto experts.
So which model is getting the 4-cylinder? That would be the 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i.
The automaker's roadster will receive the special treatment thanks to its performance compatibility. Despite having 15 less horsepower than the 6-cylinder the 4-cylinder replaces, it has 40 lb-ft more torque.
In addition, the car will be 20 percent more fuel efficient.
According to Dr. Harald Unger, who is the head of inline engine development at BMW, one turbocharger with double the scrolls is actually better than two single turbochargers. The technology will also be available on the 6- and 8-cylinder engine models.