BMW Announces European Range Updates Including New Engine Options

BMW has announced a host of updates for its range of European models coming into autumn on the Old Continent.

One of the key updates made to the BMW family is the availability of five plug-in hybrid variants of the ever-popular 5-Series that now includes the BMW 545e xDrive Sedan, 530e Touring, and 530e xDrive Touring.

Of these, it is the 545e xDrive Sedan that is of particular interest thanks to its use of an inline six-cylinder engine with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission. It pumps out a total of 394 hp that is sent to all-four wheels.

Elsewhere, BMW has added new inline six-cylinder diesel engines with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology in the 3-Series and 8-Series. From November 2020, the 3-Series will be available in mild-hybrid 330d Sedan, 330d Touring, and 330d xDrive Touring guise, all of which deliver 286 hp. As for the 8-Series, it will be sold in mild-hybrid diesel form in the 840d xDrive Coupe and 840d xDrive Convertible, with an output of 340 hp.

The German automaker will also offer new powertrains in the 1-Series and 2-Series Grand Coupe. New to the range is the BMW 116i with a three-cylinder petrol engine producing 109 hp and 140 lb-ft (190 Nm) of torque. This model has a six-speed transmission as standard and can be optioned with a seven-speed Steptronic transmission. The 1-Series range now also includes a 120i variant with 178 hp and 206 lb-ft (280 Nm). Meanwhile, the 2-Series Gran Coupe can be purchased in 216d Gran Coupe form with a three-cylinder diesel producing 116 hp and 199 lb-ft (270 Nm).

As for other upgrades, BMW’s Urban Cruise Control function has been updated and includes traffic light recognition that prompts the car to stop at a red light and accelerate when the light turns green. BMW has also announced that adaptive LED headlights will be available on the X1 and X2, while also announcing a range of new paint finishes for the 4-Series, X5, X6 and X7.