Videos: BMW X6 xDrive35i and xDrive50i in action
Monday, April 21st, 2008
Sponsored links:Superior engine dynamics in both the xDrive35i and xDrive50i.
Through its superior suspension technology, the BMW X6 is able to convert all the power of the engine safely and consistently into driving dynamics under virtually all conditions and on all kinds of surfaces. And the engines available in the first Sports Activity Coupe set standards themselves in terms of muscular performance, superior running smoothness, and outstanding efficiency in their respective class. Both the xDrive35i and xDrive50i feature Twin Turbo technology engines, representing the latest in state of the art engine technology-with the power range extending from 300 hp to 400 hp.
The BMW X6 xDrive50i is powered by an all-new eight-cylinder, while the BMW X6 xDrive35i features the most powerful straight-six within the engine portfolio of Germany’s leading premium automaker. The performance characteristics and efficiency for both of these engines benefits from the exclusive combination of Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection available only from BMW. The principle of combining two turbochargers and direct gasoline injection applied for the first time on the straight-six is now also to be admired on the new V8.
A class of its own: The new eight-cylinder with Twin Turbo Technology.
With ultimate driving performance as the most important feature-this applies to BMW’s X models and to BMW’s eight-cylinder engines-the BMW X6 is adding an incomparably dynamic variant to the line-up of BMW X Models, with the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe boasting a particularly sporting and dynamic eight-cylinder.
Displacing 4.4 liters, the new V8 engine with Twin Turbo technology and direct gasoline injection (High Precision Injection) develops its maximum output of 400 hp throughout a broad range of engine speed from 5,500-6,400 rpm. Engine torque reaches its peak of 450 lb-ft throughout an unusually large speed range from 1,750-4,500 rpm. The spontaneous, intense and long-lasting thrust generated in this way is the result of Twin Turbo technology already featured on BMW’s most powerful straight-six combined with High Precision Injection. The cooling effect of direct fuel injection allows for a very high compression ratio of 10.0:1 – which is quite unusual on a turbocharged engine. The high compression ratio helps to give the engine its high level of efficiency and performance characteristics.
The position of the turbochargers and catalytic converters in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders is likewise an innovation in technology allowing particularly compact engine dimensions and at the same time requiring new configuration of the intake and exhaust ducts. This means shorter intake and exhaust manifolds and larger cross-sections significantly reducing pressure losses on both the intake and exhaust side.
The all-aluminum V8 engine developed for the BMW X6 offers all the qualities typical of an eight-cylinder in incomparably sporting style. In practice, this means a combination of superior torque at low engine speeds with an ongoing surge of power and performance up to the higher speed range.
The BMW X6 xDrive50i accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds and boasts ample power reserves for exceptional acceleration also at higher speeds. When equipped with the optional 20 inch wheels with performance tires, the top speed is a truly impressive 155 mph limited electronically by the engine control unit.
Twin Turbo technology featured for the first time on an eight-cylinder gasoline engine.
The power and performance characteristics of the new V8 result to a large extent from Twin Turbo technology, the use of two turbochargers for the first time on an eight-cylinder engine serving to boost both engine output and torque with maximum efficiency. Each of the two turbochargers supplies compressed air to four cylinders at a time, ensuring particular spontaneity and a direct reaction to the gas pedal.
As with the straight-six featuring Twin Turbo technology, the “turbo lag” typical of a turbocharged engine with conventional technology, that is the time until the turbocharger builds up its boost, is virtually eliminated through the combination of two small turbos and the direct injection calibration.
A further advantage is that the engine revs up smoothly, maintaining its high torque consistently throughout an unusually broad range of engine speed. In its power and performance characteristics, therefore, the engine is comparable to a significantly larger normal-aspirated engine while offering the advantage of much lower weight and reduced package size.
Not only are the dimensions and weight of the new V8 unusually modest, but the fuel consumption is also exceptionally low for an engine of this caliber. A significant factor contributing to the superior fuel economy is double-VANOS infinite camshaft management, a technology characteristic of BMW engines. Indeed, this technology is also one of the reasons why the V8 – over and above its superior fuel economy – develops exceptionally high torque from low engine speeds.
High Precision Injection also plays a key role in the efficient use of fuel. This second generation of direct gasoline injection uses piezo-injectors positioned directly next to the spark plugs in the cylinder head and delivering fuel into the combustion chambers at a pressure of 2900 psi. The advantage is extremely precise dosage of fuel, with the further benefit of reduced emissions and improved engine acoustics.
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