Six-Cylinder Engines the Only Way for BMW in North America

BMWs 1-Series, the latest in the prestigious German manufacturers brand extension, follows the lead of Mercedes-Benz and Audi in developing smaller, more affordable compact luxury/sport models. The Munich-based automaker has reportedly embodied the new model with the same unparalleled driving dynamics as larger BMW vehicles without converting to front-wheel drive, which would detract from the companys brand image.

Initially BMW would neither confirm nor deny plans to offer the 1-Series in North America, but the announcement of Audis upcoming A3 and the potential threat

Smaller and more affordable, the new BMW 1-Series follows the trend of new compact luxury/sport models. (Photo: BMW of North America)

There are, however, several roadblocks standing in the way. Company officials felt that BMWs current 1-Series lineup of small inline-fours wouldnt be able to compete against Swedish and German rivals that offer powerful 5- and 6-cylinder powerplants respectively, the former featuring a powerful turbocharged variant

Unfortunately, several roadblocks stand in the way of the 1-Series arrival in North America. (Photo: BMW of North America)

A second issue that is troubling BMW and could be one of the reasons for the 1-Series North American debut delay, could be that it is currently only available in the five-door body style. Having observed Mercedes-Benz struggle

Another stumbling block for the 1-Series North American debut could be that it is currently only available in the five-door body style, but a sedan is on the way and will be first on our shores.

No problem, BMW simply needs to wait until alternative body styles are developed and an inline-six stuffed between the front strut mounts. Insider accounts state that the Bavarian brand plans to offer just one inline-six with the 1-Series, and that is the new N52 2.5-liter recently redesigned for the next-generation E90

BMW believes that few people in North America are interested in a Bavarian 5-door hatchback despite a recent surge of popularity in the segment, therefore BMW will wait until alternative body styles are developed like this coupe which will become the 2-Series.

While I just said the N52 would be the only six offered, it is possible that BMW may introduce a second inline-six for the 1-Series once the model-range has been established in America. A small 2.0-liter version could act as an entry level model, producing between 170 and 180 horsepower. Such an addition would allow BMW to compete with high performance models such as the 200 horsepower turbocharged

The current North American arrival date of the 1-Series, including the all-important four-door notchback sedan, is expected to be late 2006, early 2007. (Photo: BMW of North America)

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