BMW Pledges To Keep V8 Engines
Unlike Dodge and other brands, German automaker BMW has pledged to keep V8 engines in its model lineup. At least that's what BMW development head Frank Weber says, and he credits Americans, not Germans, for preserving the mighty V8. That gives us a big smile.During a recent interview with Automotive News, Weber made the declaration. 'V8s are here to stay. We will continue to offer V8s.' That's music to our ears.
Thankfully, Weber and his coworkers understand that adding an electric motor to an inline-six engine just won't replace a V8, even if the peak output figures match. Can someone get this guy on a conference call with Stellantis management?
For starters, peak output numbers only tell a part of the story about a car's performance. V8s are not only famously reliable, they deliver smooth power throughout the rev range. Six-cylinder engines, whether naturally aspirated, with forced induction, or in a hybrid setup, feel more stretched, frantic, and erratic – that's just a fact.
Plus, V8s sound so much better. We know some people don't care about that or smooth power delivery, so they're free to buy a six- or four-cylinder car. As for us and many other discerning car shoppers, we will take the V8 whenever possible.
Of course, people are speculating about which future BMW models will retain a V8 engine. Obviously the M5 will, the 7-Series should, as will the larger crossovers like the X5, X6, and X7. There might be versions of those three with alternative powertrains, but a V8 likely will be an option.
However, in areas of the world where emissions and fuel economy standards are tightening up to ridiculous levels, like the European Union, V8s likely won't be on the menu much longer. Germans could be looking at Americans driving BMWs with V8s and wishing they could enjoy such a thing before too long. What a time to be alive!
Image via BMW USA
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