BMW to debut three-cylinder engine with next generation Mini at LA

BMW has announced a newly developed three-cylinder engine to be unveiled at the LA Motor Show in November, along with the all-new next generation Mini. This compact engine will power the next generation of the Mini and also the 1 Series which will for the first time feature a front-wheel-drive setup.

The new three-cylinder engine will be turbocharged to produce 134bhp and 154Nm that is 13bhp more than the output of the existing 1.6-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated unit.  There is also a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine; presumably for the Cooper ‘S’ Models with a power rating of 190bhp and 280Nm

Both of these engines are based on BMW`s new modular engine design, where each cylinder displaces 0.5-litre. BMW plans to have an entire range of such similar engines displacing half-a-litre per cylinder. The three-cylinder unit is 20 pounds (about 9 kg) lighter than the four-cylinder engine and despite improved output will offer 15% better fuel efficiency.

The platform and engine of the next-gen Mini is also expected to underpin the new 1 Series that will then run front-wheel-drive setup. All-in-all, BMW will finally enter front-wheel-drive market mainly for cost benefits, which hopefully will be passed on to the customers. Till then, enjoy the Minis which will now be lighter, quicker and more efficient.

Source:Car and Driver