According to InsideLine, BMW is considering bringing a diesel engine in the U.S. with the introduction of the new BMW 3 Series. BMW’s head of sales and marketing, Ian Robertson, says “the diesel infrastructure is progressing well in the U.S.,” and customer are learning about the positive aspects of the diesel technology.
Robertson also points out that the X5 diesel sales are doing well in the US and it accounts for a third, and sometimes even half the sales of the X5. With the pressuring emission standards coming out in 2015, Robertson says that diesel technology could play a critical role for the company.
The board member omits to mention which 3 Series diesel model will make its way to the U.S., but we are inclined to believe that the company will continue to offer the 335d model.
BMW has been out of the American diesel market for around 20 years now and they marked their return in 2008 with the twin-sequential-turbocharged 3.0 liter diesel engine for the E90 335d. BMW’s first 50-state-legal diesel delivers 265 hp at 4220 rpm, and an impressive 425 lb-ft of torque between 1750 and 2250 rpm. Driving through a six-speed automatic transmission, this engine will propel the outgoing generation 335d from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 sec while delivering 23 mpg city and 36 mpg on the highway.
With the new technology found in the F30 3 Series, we anticipate an even more fuel efficient 335d.
While we entertain the idea of a six-cylinder diesel being sold again in North America, our hearts go to the four-cylinder 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that could deliver performance close to the six-banger, with increased fuel efficiency.
More on the diesel strategy for North America in the near future.
