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→‎Comparison with V8 engines: Comparison should remain to cars produced by the same manufacturer. M cars are built by M GmBh, not BMW per se. Furthermore, torque at the wheels [see: gearing] on an M3 is much higher than the 335is
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|name=BMW N54 engine
|name=BMW N54 engine
|manufacturer=[[BMW|BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG]]
|manufacturer=[[BMW|BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG]]
|production=2006–2008
|production=2006–
|predecessor=[[BMW M54]], [[BMW N52]]
|predecessor=[[BMW M54]], [[BMW N52]]
|successor=[[BMW N55]]
|successor=[[BMW N55]]
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|+'''Models'''
|+'''Models'''
|-
|-
!Engine!!Displacement!!Power!!Torque!!Redline!!Bore!!Stroke!!Compression ratio!!Year
!Engine!!Displacement!!Power!!Torque!!Redline!!Year!!Note
|-
|-
|[[#N54B30|N54B30]]||{{convert|2979|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}})||225 kW (306 hp) @ 5800||400 N·m (295 lb·ft) @ 1400-5000||7000 rpm||84.0||89.6||10.2:1||2007
|[[#N54B30|N54B30]]||{{convert|2979|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}}||190 kW (254 hp) @ 6600||310 N·m (230 lb·ft) @ 2600||7000 rpm||2009||Naturally aspirated; Asian markets only
|-
|-
|[[#N54B30|N54B30]]||{{convert|2979|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}}||243 kW (326 hp) @ 5800||450 N·m (332 lb·ft) @ 1500-4500||7000 rpm||84.0||89.6||10.2:1||2008-2009
|[[#N54B30|N54B30]]||{{convert|2979|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}})||225 kW (306 hp) @ 5800||400 N·m (295 lb·ft) @ 1400-5000||7000 rpm||2007||Twin Turbocharged
|-
|-
|[[#N54B30|N54B30]]||{{convert|2979|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}}||250 kW (335 hp) @ 5900||450 N·m (332 lb·ft) @ 1500-4500||7000 rpm||84.0||89.6||10.2:1||2010
|[[#N54B30|N54B30]]||{{convert|2979|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}}||243&nbsp;kW (326&nbsp;hp) @ 5800<ref name="F01">{{cite web |url=http://paultan.org/archives/2008/07/05/new-bmw-7-series-f01-specifications-and-photos/ |title=New BMW 7-Series F01 Specifications and Photos |accessdate=July 8, 2008 |author=Paul Tan |date=July 5, 2008 |work=Paul Tan's Automotive News | archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20080708033130/http://paultan.org/archives/2008/07/05/new-bmw-7-series-f01-specifications-and-photos/| archivedate= 8 July 2008 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref>||450&nbsp;N·m (332&nbsp;lb·ft) @ 1500-4500||7000 rpm||2008-2009||Twin Turbocharged
|-0
|[[#N54B30|N54B30]]||{{convert|2979|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}}||250&nbsp;kW (335&nbsp;hp) @ 5900||450&nbsp;N·m (332&nbsp;lb·ft) @ 1500-4500||7000 rpm||2010||Twin Turbocharged
|}
|}


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According to BMW, the N54B30 produces {{Convert|306|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and 295&nbsp;lb·ft/400&nbsp;N·m.<ref>[http://autos.ca.msn.com/reviews/2007/article.aspx?cp-documentid=19292632]</ref> Third party testing has revealed the engine is significantly underrated, producing {{Convert|332|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and 311&nbsp;lb·ft/422&nbsp;N·m in one test.<ref name="dinancars.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.dinancars.com/assets/File/Press%20Release%20335i%20software%20REV%20A%20EDITED.pdf |title=Available now at all 150 Dinan dealers |format=PDF |date= |accessdate=2010-09-13| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20100920155345/http://dinancars.com/assets/File/Press%20Release%20335i%20software%20REV%20A%20EDITED.pdf| archivedate= 20 September 2010 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref>
According to BMW, the N54B30 produces {{Convert|306|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and 295&nbsp;lb·ft/400&nbsp;N·m.<ref>[http://autos.ca.msn.com/reviews/2007/article.aspx?cp-documentid=19292632]</ref> Third party testing has revealed the engine is significantly underrated, producing {{Convert|332|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and 311&nbsp;lb·ft/422&nbsp;N·m in one test.<ref name="dinancars.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.dinancars.com/assets/File/Press%20Release%20335i%20software%20REV%20A%20EDITED.pdf |title=Available now at all 150 Dinan dealers |format=PDF |date= |accessdate=2010-09-13| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20100920155345/http://dinancars.com/assets/File/Press%20Release%20335i%20software%20REV%20A%20EDITED.pdf| archivedate= 20 September 2010 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref>

In the Asian-only F01 730i/Li variant, the twin turbochargers are removed leaving the engine to be naturally aspirated and directly-injected.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.oneshift.com/articles/article.php?artid=641&pageid=1 |title=Entree Level}}</ref>


===N54B30 (225&nbsp;kW version)===
===N54B30 (225&nbsp;kW version)===
The [[BMW N53|N53]] naturally-aspirated direct-injection engine, released in 2007, was never brought over to the United States and Canadian markets, due to the high sulphur content of the gasoline in these regions, so the N54 was the performance upgrade option from the base N52 for the 3 Series and 5 Series.

For the BMW 3 Series, the N54 engine powered the 335i high-end configuration from the 2007 model year onwards, replacing the 330i and its [[BMW N52#N52B30|3.0L naturally aspirated straight-6]] as the performance trim (ranking below the new 4.0L V8-powered [[BMW M3]]).
For the BMW 3 Series, the N54 engine powered the 335i high-end configuration from the 2007 model year onwards, replacing the 330i and its [[BMW N52#N52B30|3.0L naturally aspirated straight-6]] as the performance trim (ranking below the new 4.0L V8-powered [[BMW M3]]).


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===Comparison with 6-cylinder engines===
===Comparison with 6-cylinder engines===
The N54 gives similar acceleration to the high-reving 3.2&nbsp;L [[BMW S54B32|S54B32]] which was based on the [[BMW M54|M54]]; the N54 has less horsepower but greater torque is available at a much lower rpm while consuming less fuel. In addition, while the S54 was an expensive engine limited to uses a [[BMW M]] model, the E46 [[BMW M3]], the N54 is less costly to produce and has a wider range of application in BMW's lineup.<ref name="caranddriver2007"/><ref>{{Cite web|last=Jacquot |first=Josh |url=http://www.insideline.com/bmw/m3/2002/comparison-test-2002-bmw-m3-vs-2008-bmw-135i-vs-2008-bmw-335i.html |title=2002 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 135i vs. 2008 BMW 335i Comparison Test |publisher=Insideline.com |date=2008-04-23 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref><ref name="ReferenceA">{{Cite web|last=Walton |first=Chris |url=http://www.insideline.com/bmw/3-series/2007/comparison-test-2007-bmw-335i-vs-2007-lexus-is-350.html |title=Comparison Test: 2007 BMW 335i vs. 2007 Lexus IS 350 |publisher=Insideline.com |date=2007-05-22 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref>

The N54 has considerably higher horsepower and torque, compared to BMW's recent straight-6 engines which were all naturally aspirated such as the high output versions of the [[BMW N52#N52B30|N52B30]] (which has the same displacement as the N54), with the N54 having an additional 45 horsepower and 80 pound-feet of torque over the N52B30.<ref>{{Cite web|author=May 2007 BY JARED GALL |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/07q2/2008_bmw_5-series-first_drive_review |title=2008 BMW 5-series - First Drive Review - Car Reviews |publisher=Car and Driver |date= |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> The N54 is the upgrade engine in the 3 Series and 5 Series, above the N52 naturally-aspirated base powerplant.
The N54 has considerably higher horsepower and torque, compared to BMW's recent straight-6 engines which were all naturally aspirated such as the high output versions of the [[BMW N52#N52B30|N52B30]] (which has the same displacement as the N54), with the N54 having an additional 45 horsepower and 80 pound-feet of torque over the N52B30.<ref>{{Cite web|author=May 2007 BY JARED GALL |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/07q2/2008_bmw_5-series-first_drive_review |title=2008 BMW 5-series - First Drive Review - Car Reviews |publisher=Car and Driver |date= |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> The N54 is the upgrade engine in the 3 Series and 5 Series, above the N52 naturally-aspirated base powerplant.


Compared to larger displacement naturally aspirated 6-cylinder engines, such as the [[Toyota GR engine#2GR-FSE|Lexus 3.5L V6 (2GR-FSE)]] which has a top output of 305&nbsp;hp and 278&nbsp;lb·ft<ref name="ReferenceA"/> and [[Infiniti]]'s [[VQ37VHR]] 3.7 L [[V6]] that has an output of 328&nbsp;hp (245&nbsp;kW) 269&nbsp;lb·ft (365 N·m), the N54 has less horsepower but greater torque available at much lower rpms. The N54 was mated with a shorter gearing manual transmission and this combination gave the 2007 BMW 335i the advantage over a 2008 [[Infiniti G37]] 6-speed manual with a 0.3-second lead in 0-to-60&nbsp;mph and quarter-mile times (5.1 and 13.7, respectively) with a 3.1-mph-higher trap-speed. The N54 is also a smoother and more efficient engine, as the 335i got 3.3 mpg more in fuel economy over the G37's 18.4 mpg.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/coupes/112_0708_infiniti_g37_bmw_335/index.html |title=2008 Infiniti G37 vs 2007 BMW 335i - Head to Head |publisher=Motor Trend |date= |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Riches |first=Erin |url=http://www.insideline.com/bmw/3-series/2007/comparison-test-2007-bmw-335i-vs-2008-infiniti-g37.html |title=Comparison Test: 2007 BMW 335i vs. 2008 Infiniti G37 |publisher=Insideline.com |date=2007-06-28 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref>
⚫
BMW's newer [[BMW N55|N55 3.0L turbo inline-6]] uses a single turbocharger but with twin scroll technology, and its 300&nbsp;lb-ft of torque comes at 1200 rpm which is 200 revs earlier than the N54’s identical output.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q2/2011_bmw_335i_sedan-first_drive_review |title=2011 BMW 335i Sedan - First Drive Review - Car Reviews |publisher=Car and Driver |date=2012-07-22 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> The N55 is also more fuel-efficient and has less emissions than the N54. However, the N54 engine has more output potential and a variant of the N54B30 with higher power and torque but across a narrower peak torque band is used in the [[BMW F01|F01 2009 BMW 740i]].<ref name="F01">{{cite web |url=http://paultan.org/archives/2008/07/05/new-bmw-7-series-f01-specifications-and-photos/ |title=New BMW 7-Series F01 Specifications and Photos |accessdate=July 8, 2008 |author=Paul Tan |date=July 5, 2008 |work=Paul Tan's Automotive News | archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20080708033130/http://paultan.org/archives/2008/07/05/new-bmw-7-series-f01-specifications-and-photos/| archivedate= 8 July 2008 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref><ref name="caranddriver.com"/> A comparison test saw the 2011 BMW 740i accelerate quicker than the 2011 BMW 535i (equipped with the N55), even though the 535i weighs 300 pounds less.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/02/25/insideline-2011-bmw-740i-full-test/ |title=InsideLine: 2011 BMW 740i Full Test |publisher=Bmwblog.com |date=2011-02-25 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> It was not 2012 (for the 2013 model year) that a high-output version of the N55 engine debuted which will replace the last variants of the N54.<ref>[http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/driven/1205_2013_bmw_640i_gran_coupe/]</ref>

⚫
BMW's newer [[BMW N55|N55 3.0L turbo inline-6]] uses a single turbocharger but with twin scroll technology, and its 300&nbsp;lb-ft of torque comes at 1200 rpm which is 200 revs earlier than the N54’s identical output.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q2/2011_bmw_335i_sedan-first_drive_review |title=2011 BMW 335i Sedan - First Drive Review - Car Reviews |publisher=Car and Driver |date=2012-07-22 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> The N55 is also more fuel-efficient and has less emissions than the N54. However, the N54 engine has more output potential and a variant of the N54B30 with higher power and torque but across a narrower peak torque band is used in the [[BMW F01|F01 2009 BMW 740i]].<ref name="F01"/><ref name="caranddriver.com"/> A comparison test saw the 2011 BMW 740i accelerate quicker than the 2011 BMW 535i (equipped with the N55), even though the 535i weighs 300 pounds less.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/02/25/insideline-2011-bmw-740i-full-test/ |title=InsideLine: 2011 BMW 740i Full Test |publisher=Bmwblog.com |date=2011-02-25 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> It was not 2012 (for the 2013 model year) that a high-output version of the N55 engine debuted which will replace the last variants of the N54.<ref>[http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/driven/1205_2013_bmw_640i_gran_coupe/]</ref>

A comparable 6-cylinder engine to the N54 in torque and horsepower is [[Audi]]'s [[List of Volkswagen Group petrol engines#3.0 V6 24v TFSI 213-245kW|3.0 TFSI]] ([[G60]]) supercharged V6 engine, which makes 300 to 333 hp in various states of tune. The 2009 [[Audi A6]] 3.0T is a direct competitor to the 2009 BMW 535i,<ref>{{Cite web|author=August 2009 BY JOHN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID DEWHURST |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/09q3/2009_audi_a6_3.0t_vs._2009_bmw_535i_2009_infiniti_m45_2009_jaguar_xf_2010_m-b_e350-comparison_tests |title=2009 Audi A6 3.0T vs. 2009 BMW 535i, 2009 Infiniti M45, 2009 Jaguar XF, 2010 M-B E350 - Comparison Tests |publisher=Caranddriver.com |date=2012-07-04 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/sedans/1002_luxury_sport_sedan_comparison/index.html |title=Luxury Sport Sedan Comparison - Acura RL vs Audi A6 vs BMW 535i vs Cadillac CTS vs Infiniti M35 vs Jaguar XF vs Lexus GS 350 vs Mercedes-Benz E350 |publisher=Motor Trend |date= |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> as is the 2010 [[Audi S4]] to the 2009 BMW 335i.<ref>{{Cite web|author=October 2009 BY AARON ROBINSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY MORGAN SEGAL |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/comparisons/09q4/2010_audi_s4_vs._2009_bmw_335i-comparison_tests |title=2010 Audi S4 vs. 2009 BMW 335i - Comparison Tests |publisher=Caranddriver.com |date=2012-07-06 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref>


===Comparison with V8 engines===
===Comparison with V8 engines===
The torque characteristic of the N54 engine combined with the relative lack of turbo lag provides a similar feel to a small V8, according to a journalist.<ref name="caranddriver2007"/> The advantage of the N54B30 engine is that compared to similar power output {{Convert|225|kW|hp|0|abbr=on}} {{Convert|290|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} V8 [[BMW N62#N62B40|4.0L N62B40]] it weighs 70&nbsp;kg less than the V8, which is massive at {{Convert|265|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}. Additionally, the N54 has higher low-end torque than the N62B40. In the [[BMW E60|5 Series (E60)]], the N54 in the 2008 BMW 535i gives it almost equivalent acceleration to the BMW 550i, with a V8 engine ([[BMW N62#N62B48|4.8L N62B48]]) which costs an additional $10,000 USD in MSRP and makes the front 200 pounds heavier (which affects vehicle handling).<ref>{{Cite web|author=May 2007 BY JARED GALL |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/07q2/2008_bmw_5-series-first_drive_review/v-8_with_extra_weight_page_3 |title=V-8 with Extra Weight |publisher=Caranddriver.com |date= |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> It is likely for these reasons BMW chose to develop bi-turbo inline [[straight-6]] engines for the 3-series instead of using heavier V8 engines.{{Citation needed|date=October 2012}}
The torque chracteristic of the N54 engine combined with the relative lack of turbo lag provides a similar feel to a small V8, according to a journalist.<ref name="caranddriver2007"/> The advantage of the N54B30 engine is that compared to similar power output {{Convert|225|kW|hp|0|abbr=on}} {{Convert|290|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} V8 [[BMW N62#N62B40|4.0L N62B40]] it weighs 70&nbsp;kg less than the V8, which is massive at {{Convert|265|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}. Additionally, the N54 has higher low-end torque than the N62B40. In the [[BMW E60|5 Series (E60)]], the N54 in the 2008 BMW 535i gives it almost equivalent acceleration to the BMW 550i, with a V8 engine ([[BMW N62#N62B48|4.8L N62B48]]) which costs an additional $10,000 USD in MSRP and makes the front 200 pounds heavier (which affects vehicle handling).<ref>{{Cite web|author=May 2007 BY JARED GALL |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/07q2/2008_bmw_5-series-first_drive_review/v-8_with_extra_weight_page_3 |title=V-8 with Extra Weight |publisher=Caranddriver.com |date= |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> It is likely for these reasons BMW chose to develop bi-turbo inline [[straight-6]] engines for the 3-series instead of using heavier V8 engines.{{Citation needed|date=October 2012}}

The only V8 engine in [[BMW E90|E90]] BMW 3-Series range was the [[BMW S65|S65]] in the [[BMW M3|M3]], weighing in at {{Convert|202|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}} and generating {{Convert|414|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and {{Convert|295|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}}, however [[BMW S65|this V8]] is derived from the [[BMW S85|V10]] engine that powers the [[BMW M5]]. Nonetheless the higher-output version of the N54, which is found in the 2011 BMW 335is, has higher low-end torque than the M3's V8 engine, 332 pound-feet at 1500 rpm for the 335is versus 295 pound-feet at 3900 rpm for the M3, and the V8's higher maximum horsepower of {{Convert|414|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} is only available at 8300 rpm.
<ref>{{Cite web|author=By&nbsp; Chris Paukert RSS feed |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/28/first-drive-2011-bmw-335is-munich-finally-builds-a-special-on/ |title=First Drive: 2011 BMW 335is - Munich finally builds a special one for U.S |publisher=Autoblog.com |date= |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref>


In the 2011 [[BMW 7 Series (F01)|BMW 740i]], the N54 is down {{Convert|85|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and {{Convert|120|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} compared to the BMW 750i’s [[BMW N63|N63 4.4L twin-turbo V8]], however the 740i weighs about {{Convert|215|lb}} less, which considerably improves handling dynamics.<ref name="insideline.com">{{Cite web|last=Elsinore |first=Bradford |url=http://www.insideline.com/bmw/7-series/2011/2011-bmw-740i-first-drive.html |title=2011 BMW 740i First Drive |publisher=Insideline.com |date=2010-06-25 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> The 740i also retains respectable straight-line acceleration in a comparison test as it could make the 0 to {{Convert|60|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} run in 5.1 seconds compared to the 750i's 5.2, and the 750i only catches up at {{Convert|70|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}, with the N54 having less turbo lag, smoother acceleration, and smoother power delivery than the N63.<ref>{{Cite web|author=You must be logged in to post |url=http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/editors_notebook/1112_2012_bmw_740i_sedan/viewall.html |title=2012 BMW 740i Sedan - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine |publisher=Automobilemag.com |date=2011-12-20 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> Fuel economy of the 740i is 17 mpg city and 25 highway, compared with the 750i’s 15/22 and the ActiveHybrid 7's 17/26, considering that the 740i has an MSRP of $71,025 USD while the ActiveHybrid 7 (which shares the N63 V8 with the 750i but mated to an electric motor) starts at $103,125 USD.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_bmw_740i-short_take_road_test |title=BMW 7-series Review: 2011 BMW 740i Test – Car and Driver |publisher=Caranddriver.com |date= |accessdate=2010-09-21| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20100828121248/http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_bmw_740i-short_take_road_test?| archivedate= 28 August 2010 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref>
In the 2011 [[BMW 7 Series (F01)|BMW 740i]], the N54 is down {{Convert|85|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and {{Convert|120|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} compared to the BMW 750i’s [[BMW N63|N63 4.4L twin-turbo V8]], however the 740i weighs about {{Convert|215|lb}} less, which considerably improves handling dynamics.<ref name="insideline.com">{{Cite web|last=Elsinore |first=Bradford |url=http://www.insideline.com/bmw/7-series/2011/2011-bmw-740i-first-drive.html |title=2011 BMW 740i First Drive |publisher=Insideline.com |date=2010-06-25 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> The 740i also retains respectable straight-line acceleration in a comparison test as it could make the 0 to {{Convert|60|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} run in 5.1 seconds compared to the 750i's 5.2, and the 750i only catches up at {{Convert|70|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}}, with the N54 having less turbo lag, smoother acceleration, and smoother power delivery than the N63.<ref>{{Cite web|author=You must be logged in to post |url=http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/editors_notebook/1112_2012_bmw_740i_sedan/viewall.html |title=2012 BMW 740i Sedan - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine |publisher=Automobilemag.com |date=2011-12-20 |accessdate=2012-07-27}}</ref> Fuel economy of the 740i is 17 mpg city and 25 highway, compared with the 750i’s 15/22 and the ActiveHybrid 7's 17/26, considering that the 740i has an MSRP of $71,025 USD while the ActiveHybrid 7 (which shares the N63 V8 with the 750i but mated to an electric motor) starts at $103,125 USD.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_bmw_740i-short_take_road_test |title=BMW 7-series Review: 2011 BMW 740i Test – Car and Driver |publisher=Caranddriver.com |date= |accessdate=2010-09-21| archiveurl= http://web.archive.org/web/20100828121248/http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_bmw_740i-short_take_road_test?| archivedate= 28 August 2010 <!--DASHBot-->| deadurl= no}}</ref>

Revision as of 22:10, 24 February 2013

BMW N54 engine
Overview
ManufacturerBMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG
Production2006–
Layout
ConfigurationStraight-6
Chronology
PredecessorBMW M54, BMW N52
SuccessorBMW N55

The N54 is a direct injection twin-turbocharged straight-6 automobile engine from BMW.[1] It debuted at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show and was launched in late 2006 as a high-performance option for the BMW 3-Series, first to be released along with the new 3-series E92 Coupé, to be followed closely by other existing 3-series models, then with other BMW series as well. The N54 has won five straight International Engine of the Year awards,[2] and three straight Ward's 10 Best Engines awards.[3]

The use of two small turbochargers plus direct fuel injection allows for a broader power band and less turbo lag than previous turbocharged gasoline engines. Despite its relatively small-displacement, the N54B30 provides the midrange torque of a mid-displacement V8 engine more efficiently and at less weight.[4]

Specifications

Models
Engine Displacement Power Torque Redline Year Note
N54B30 2,979 cc (3.0 L; 181.8 cu in) 190 kW (254 hp) @ 6600 310 N·m (230 lb·ft) @ 2600 7000 rpm 2009 Naturally aspirated; Asian markets only
N54B30 2,979 cc (3.0 L; 181.8 cu in)) 225 kW (306 hp) @ 5800 400 N·m (295 lb·ft) @ 1400-5000 7000 rpm 2007 Twin Turbocharged
N54B30 2,979 cc (3.0 L; 181.8 cu in) 243 kW (326 hp) @ 5800[5] 450 N·m (332 lb·ft) @ 1500-4500 7000 rpm 2008-2009 Twin Turbocharged
N54B30 2,979 cc (3.0 L; 181.8 cu in) 250 kW (335 hp) @ 5900 450 N·m (332 lb·ft) @ 1500-4500 7000 rpm 2010 Twin Turbocharged

The N54B30 does not use the second generation Valvetronic technology found in the naturally aspirated N52 and the newer (single) twin-scroll turbocharged straight-6 N55. The engine block of the N54 is derived from the older generation BMW M54B30 engine - all aluminum with cast iron cylinder liners. This is because the newer N52 aluminum-magnesium engine block was not deemed as suitable for turbo-charging with the above-mentioned engineering goals. The N54's block size is identical to the older M54B30 at 2979 cc/181 in³ instead of the 2996 cc/182 in³ of the new N52B30 3.0L engine, while the N54 is physically heavier (195 kg (430 lb)) than the very light (161 kg (355 lb)) N52 engine. There are some differences between the M54 and N54; the M54 is a single-piece block, with the water pump housing cast into the block, and is a closed-deck design, compared to the N54's two-piece block with a separate bedplate, electric water pump, and open deck. [6]

The engine uses two small low-pressure turbochargers to remove turbo lag at low elevations. For this reason, the turbo pressure is only 8.8 psi as the engineering goal was to offer the same driving feel as with naturally aspirated engines.[7] BMW's brand for turbocharging is "TwinPower Turbo".[8]

The engine's gasoline direct injection system uses high-priced piezo injectors, also used in the naturally-aspirated N53 (mostly European markets only). However it was found that the piezo injectors were very expensive and not reaching their full potential when used in North America, in contrast to Europe which they could perform lean burn. The succeeding N55's direct injection uses cheaper Bosch solenoid-type injectors.[9] BMW's trademark for direct injection, regardless of type, is known as "High Precision Injection".[10]

According to BMW, the N54B30 produces 306 hp (228 kW) and 295 lb·ft/400 N·m.[11] Third party testing has revealed the engine is significantly underrated, producing 332 hp (248 kW) and 311 lb·ft/422 N·m in one test.[12]

In the Asian-only F01 730i/Li variant, the twin turbochargers are removed leaving the engine to be naturally aspirated and directly-injected.[13]

N54B30 (225 kW version)

The N53 naturally-aspirated direct-injection engine, released in 2007, was never brought over to the United States and Canadian markets, due to the high sulphur content of the gasoline in these regions, so the N54 was the performance upgrade option from the base N52 for the 3 Series and 5 Series.

For the BMW 3 Series, the N54 engine powered the 335i high-end configuration from the 2007 model year onwards, replacing the 330i and its 3.0L naturally aspirated straight-6 as the performance trim (ranking below the new 4.0L V8-powered BMW M3).

For the BMW 5 Series, the N54 engine powered the 535i midrange configuration from the 2008 model year onwards, replacing the 530i and its 3.0L naturally aspirated straight-6 in that trim level. The V8 performance trim (which slots above the 530i/535i and below the BMW M5) saw an increase in its engine output from 322 hp (4.4L) to 360 hp (4.8L) (being renamed from 545i to 550i for the 2006 model year).

BMW has rated this engine at 225 kW and 400 N·m.[14] However, independent testing has revealed the engine is significantly underrated, producing 332 hp (248 kW) and 311 lb·ft/422 N·m in one test.[12]

Applications:

N54B30 (240 kW version)

A variant of the N54B30 with higher power and torque but across a narrower peak torque band is used in the 2009 740i[15] and 2011 335is.[16]

Applications:

N54B30TO (250 kW version)

The most powerful version of the N54 is found in the 1 Series M Coupe.[17][18]

Applications:

Performance

Comparison with 6-cylinder engines

The N54 gives similar acceleration to the high-reving 3.2 L S54B32 which was based on the M54; the N54 has less horsepower but greater torque is available at a much lower rpm while consuming less fuel. In addition, while the S54 was an expensive engine limited to uses a BMW M model, the E46 BMW M3, the N54 is less costly to produce and has a wider range of application in BMW's lineup.[4][19][20]

The N54 has considerably higher horsepower and torque, compared to BMW's recent straight-6 engines which were all naturally aspirated such as the high output versions of the N52B30 (which has the same displacement as the N54), with the N54 having an additional 45 horsepower and 80 pound-feet of torque over the N52B30.[21] The N54 is the upgrade engine in the 3 Series and 5 Series, above the N52 naturally-aspirated base powerplant.

Compared to larger displacement naturally aspirated 6-cylinder engines, such as the Lexus 3.5L V6 (2GR-FSE) which has a top output of 305 hp and 278 lb·ft[20] and Infiniti's VQ37VHR 3.7 L V6 that has an output of 328 hp (245 kW) 269 lb·ft (365 N·m), the N54 has less horsepower but greater torque available at much lower rpms. The N54 was mated with a shorter gearing manual transmission and this combination gave the 2007 BMW 335i the advantage over a 2008 Infiniti G37 6-speed manual with a 0.3-second lead in 0-to-60 mph and quarter-mile times (5.1 and 13.7, respectively) with a 3.1-mph-higher trap-speed. The N54 is also a smoother and more efficient engine, as the 335i got 3.3 mpg more in fuel economy over the G37's 18.4 mpg.[22][23]

BMW's newer N55 3.0L turbo inline-6 uses a single turbocharger but with twin scroll technology, and its 300 lb-ft of torque comes at 1200 rpm which is 200 revs earlier than the N54’s identical output.[24] The N55 is also more fuel-efficient and has less emissions than the N54. However, the N54 engine has more output potential and a variant of the N54B30 with higher power and torque but across a narrower peak torque band is used in the F01 2009 BMW 740i.[5][15] A comparison test saw the 2011 BMW 740i accelerate quicker than the 2011 BMW 535i (equipped with the N55), even though the 535i weighs 300 pounds less.[25] It was not 2012 (for the 2013 model year) that a high-output version of the N55 engine debuted which will replace the last variants of the N54.[26]

A comparable 6-cylinder engine to the N54 in torque and horsepower is Audi's 3.0 TFSI (G60) supercharged V6 engine, which makes 300 to 333 hp in various states of tune. The 2009 Audi A6 3.0T is a direct competitor to the 2009 BMW 535i,[27][28] as is the 2010 Audi S4 to the 2009 BMW 335i.[29]

Comparison with V8 engines

The torque chracteristic of the N54 engine combined with the relative lack of turbo lag provides a similar feel to a small V8, according to a journalist.[4] The advantage of the N54B30 engine is that compared to similar power output 225 kW (302 hp) 290 lb⋅ft (390 N⋅m) V8 4.0L N62B40 it weighs 70 kg less than the V8, which is massive at 265 kg (584 lb). Additionally, the N54 has higher low-end torque than the N62B40. In the 5 Series (E60), the N54 in the 2008 BMW 535i gives it almost equivalent acceleration to the BMW 550i, with a V8 engine (4.8L N62B48) which costs an additional $10,000 USD in MSRP and makes the front 200 pounds heavier (which affects vehicle handling).[30] It is likely for these reasons BMW chose to develop bi-turbo inline straight-6 engines for the 3-series instead of using heavier V8 engines.[citation needed]

The only V8 engine in E90 BMW 3-Series range was the S65 in the M3, weighing in at 202 kg (445 lb) and generating 414 hp (309 kW) and 295 lb⋅ft (400 N⋅m), however this V8 is derived from the V10 engine that powers the BMW M5. Nonetheless the higher-output version of the N54, which is found in the 2011 BMW 335is, has higher low-end torque than the M3's V8 engine, 332 pound-feet at 1500 rpm for the 335is versus 295 pound-feet at 3900 rpm for the M3, and the V8's higher maximum horsepower of 414 hp (309 kW) is only available at 8300 rpm. [31]

In the 2011 BMW 740i, the N54 is down 85 hp (63 kW) and 120 lb⋅ft (160 N⋅m) compared to the BMW 750i’s N63 4.4L twin-turbo V8, however the 740i weighs about 215 pounds (98 kg) less, which considerably improves handling dynamics.[32] The 740i also retains respectable straight-line acceleration in a comparison test as it could make the 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) run in 5.1 seconds compared to the 750i's 5.2, and the 750i only catches up at 70 mph (110 km/h), with the N54 having less turbo lag, smoother acceleration, and smoother power delivery than the N63.[33] Fuel economy of the 740i is 17 mpg city and 25 highway, compared with the 750i’s 15/22 and the ActiveHybrid 7's 17/26, considering that the 740i has an MSRP of $71,025 USD while the ActiveHybrid 7 (which shares the N63 V8 with the 750i but mated to an electric motor) starts at $103,125 USD.[34]

HPFP Problems

In at least the US market, the N54 engine has been characterized by a very large number of High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failures,[35]

On 26 October 2010, following an ABC News story about HPFP failures,[36] BMW announced a recall of vehicles with the pump in question from manufacturing years 2007-2010.[37] A class action suit has been filed against BMW regarding these problems.[38]

See also

References

  1. ^ Finlay, Steve (2007-04-01). "Direct Injection, Turbo Pay Off For BMW | News & Analysis content from WardsAuto". Wardsautoworld.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  2. ^ "BMW takes home 4 awards from International Engine of the Year competition - N54 and S65 continue dominance". bimmerboost.com. Retrieved 2012-10-06.
  3. ^ "BMW's Newest I-6 Better, Not Bigge". wardsauto.com. Retrieved 2012-10-06.
  4. ^ a b c "2007 BMW 335i Coupe - Road Test - Car Reviews". Car and Driver. 2012-07-22. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  5. ^ a b Paul Tan (July 5, 2008). "New BMW 7-Series F01 Specifications and Photos". Paul Tan's Automotive News. Archived from the original on 8 July 2008. Retrieved July 8, 2008. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  6. ^ "Motor Engine: BMW N54 inline 6 twin turbo". Motorengine.blogspot.com.au. 2008-11-30. Retrieved 2012-05-30.
  7. ^ Mark Wan. "BMW Page". Autozine.org. Retrieved 2010-09-13.
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  12. ^ a b "Available now at all 150 Dinan dealers" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 20 September 2010. Retrieved 2010-09-13. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  13. ^ "Entree Level".
  14. ^ "The latest BMW engine: N55 - found in the BMW 5 Series GT". Bmwblog.com. Retrieved 2012-05-30.
  15. ^ a b "2011 BMW 740i / 740Li - First Drive Review - Auto Reviews". Car and Driver. Archived from the original on 16 September 2010. Retrieved 2010-09-13. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  16. ^ "2011 BMW 335is First Drive". Insideline.com. 2010-01-27. Archived from the original on 21 September 2010. Retrieved 2010-09-13. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  17. ^ CarAdvice.com.au (2012-02-13). "BMW 1-Series M Coupe Review". Car Advice. Retrieved 2012-05-30.
  18. ^ Kavanagh, Jason (2011-05-25). "Dyno-Tested: 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe". Blogs.insideline.com. Retrieved 2012-05-30.
  19. ^ Jacquot, Josh (2008-04-23). "2002 BMW M3 vs. 2008 BMW 135i vs. 2008 BMW 335i Comparison Test". Insideline.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  20. ^ a b Walton, Chris (2007-05-22). "Comparison Test: 2007 BMW 335i vs. 2007 Lexus IS 350". Insideline.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  21. ^ May 2007 BY JARED GALL. "2008 BMW 5-series - First Drive Review - Car Reviews". Car and Driver. Retrieved 2012-07-27.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  22. ^ "2008 Infiniti G37 vs 2007 BMW 335i - Head to Head". Motor Trend. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  23. ^ Riches, Erin (2007-06-28). "Comparison Test: 2007 BMW 335i vs. 2008 Infiniti G37". Insideline.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  24. ^ "2011 BMW 335i Sedan - First Drive Review - Car Reviews". Car and Driver. 2012-07-22. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  25. ^ "InsideLine: 2011 BMW 740i Full Test". Bmwblog.com. 2011-02-25. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  26. ^ [5]
  27. ^ August 2009 BY JOHN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID DEWHURST (2012-07-04). "2009 Audi A6 3.0T vs. 2009 BMW 535i, 2009 Infiniti M45, 2009 Jaguar XF, 2010 M-B E350 - Comparison Tests". Caranddriver.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  28. ^ "Luxury Sport Sedan Comparison - Acura RL vs Audi A6 vs BMW 535i vs Cadillac CTS vs Infiniti M35 vs Jaguar XF vs Lexus GS 350 vs Mercedes-Benz E350". Motor Trend. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  29. ^ October 2009 BY AARON ROBINSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY MORGAN SEGAL (2012-07-06). "2010 Audi S4 vs. 2009 BMW 335i - Comparison Tests". Caranddriver.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  30. ^ May 2007 BY JARED GALL. "V-8 with Extra Weight". Caranddriver.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  31. ^ By  Chris Paukert RSS feed. "First Drive: 2011 BMW 335is - Munich finally builds a special one for U.S". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  32. ^ Elsinore, Bradford (2010-06-25). "2011 BMW 740i First Drive". Insideline.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  33. ^ You must be logged in to post (2011-12-20). "2012 BMW 740i Sedan - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine". Automobilemag.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  34. ^ "BMW 7-series Review: 2011 BMW 740i Test – Car and Driver". Caranddriver.com. Archived from the original on 28 August 2010. Retrieved 2010-09-21. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  35. ^ "Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff takes on BMW in class action suit regarding defective HPFP BMW News at". Bimmerfest.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  36. ^ By  Zach Bowman RSS feed. "ABC News airs big exposé on BMW N54 engine problems, lawsuits [w/video] [UPDATE]". Autoblog.com. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
  37. ^ Consumerist: BMW Recalls 150,000 Cars Over Fuel Pump Failures
  38. ^ "Bmw Law Suit Hpfp". Scribd.com. 2010-09-29. Retrieved 2012-07-27.
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