Baby BMW M3 in the works?

I hope it looks better than that in person, not that we'll ever get it in the states anyways, at least I hope not.

I've heard very very little on the 335i, except for the fact that it is being tested. For some reason that topic has been rather hush hush. Dealers are denying because they want you to get what is available now, vs. waiting for the 335i, which in inevitable.

Since 745i of the mid-80s, BMW has not produced any turbocharging petrol engines. Undeniably, its normally aspirated engines are among the best of the mass production world, especially the inline-6. However, as mentioned in a 3-Series report recently, BMW's 3-litre inline-6 has already ran out of space for enlargement, and it is now struggling to match its rivals' 3.5-litre or so V6s. To strike back, BMW is going to use turbocharging again.

The first car to use the turbo engine is likely to be 335i. It will arrive in mid-2006. Its engine is based on the 3.0-litre R6 magnesium engine. An advanced twin-turbo system will boost power to approximately 330 horsepower. That's a good 75 hp more than 330i. The turbocharging system employs a small turbine for low rpm to ensure instant response and a large turbine for full boost. An advanced control ensures the transition from small to large turbine is seamless. A similar twin-turbo system made by BorgWarner has been used successfully in the 535d, now it finally make debut in a petrol engine.

The 330hp 335i will bridge the gap between the 255hp 330i and the forthcoming 400hp M3. On the other hand, the 272hp diesel engine of 535d will also join the 3-Series. Turbocharging seems to have a bright future with BMW.

Peeyew!

Peeyew!