[bwrlane]

http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/in...-diesel-engine

Unfortunately a VAG creation... But I was thinking something like this could be the answer to our prayers. Those of us who love Diesel engines for their shove and economy, but hate their weight. This engine is more powerful than the nominal output of the 330d (with less torque) but will have the weight of a 2.0. Presumably the economy of one too.

I test drove an F31 320d SE and bought an F31 330d MSport (adaptive). To the extent that I can remember what the 320d felt like, I would say the difference of having a lighter lump up front is easily noticeable. Probably not at higher speeds, but at lower speeds my car just seems less happy about moving its nose. The 320d felt just a little more neutral in balance, I'd say. And overall, just a lighter car (which it is).

That said, I feel the flat and controlled nature of the adaptive MSport suspension wins against the rather more bouncy SE in the 320d.

[Tengocity]

I read this and saw a completely different benefit!

My biggest issue with diesels in low rev throttle response, and either hybrid tech or electrically driven small turbos seem an ideal way to sort this issue.

The major downside of 4 cylinder diesels for me is still the lack of refinement.

[Tengocity]

I'm assuming the title of this thread was intended to make childish people like myself chuckle?

[bwrlane]

Originally Posted by Tengocity

I read this and saw a completely different benefit!

My biggest issue with diesels in low rev throttle response, and either hybrid tech or electrically driven small turbos seem an ideal way to sort this issue.

The major downside of 4 cylinder diesels for me is still the lack of refinement.

Indeed. The second issue is a big one for me. The 320d I test drove, to these ears sounded like a tractor, while my 330d sounds like an operatic baritone!

I agree that an electrical small turbo could help with low end response.

[bwrlane]

Originally Posted by Tengocity

I'm assuming the title of this thread was intended to make childish people like myself chuckle?

[Rich9600]

Sounds like an interesting lump.

I'm planning on enjoying my 330d for another 4 or so years. So, let's hope that BMW respond with a small clever diesel.

Volvo make a 5 cylinder 2L and 2.5L diesel...

How about a 2.5L BMW 6 pot with this kind technology. Even with xDrive weight a 2L 5 or 2.5L 6 could maintain a preferential weight distribution. God forbid ditching I6... But, a shorter V5 or V6 may be the ideal rearward weight xDrive solution...

Just thinking.

[bwrlane]

Originally Posted by Rich9600

Sounds like an interesting lump.

I'm planning on enjoying my 330d for another 4 or so years. So, let's hope that BMW respond with a small clever diesel.

Volvo make a 5 cylinder 2L and 2.5L diesel...

How about a 2.5L BMW 6 pot with this kind technology. Even with xDrive weight a 2L 5 or 2.5L 6 could maintain a preferential weight distribution. God forbid ditching I6... But, a shorter V5 or V6 may be the ideal rearward weight xDrive solution...

Just thinking.

My parents have a Volvo V4 with a 2.0 5cl engine. It sounds quite cultured and not clattery at all. I just can't stand the sound of 4cl diesels. The only way for them to be tolerable is to reduce the noise to the point where it doesn't intrude.

[335dJa]

Ahh, this will be the phasing out of diesel I was told about a few months ago then...

[Nick the Greek]

Far more interesting and applicable to the enjoyment of driving are the forthcoming petrol/ electric hybrids that will kill off diesels in cars.

VW have a range of commercial vehicles they need diesel engines for of course.....

[Proftinkerpot]

Get a 335d and there is no issue with throttle response at any revs! 😊

[NISFAN]

VAG engine, so will drink oil, have an oil pump drive failure, never get anywhere close to the claimed fuel consumption figures and be fitted to a car with no soul.

[Tengocity]

Originally Posted by Proftinkerpot

Get a 335d and there is no issue with throttle response at any revs! 😊

Sorry, I wish that was the case, but from a slow tight corner where you're off throttle coming in to it then it's slow to spool back up unless you very consciously prepare for it.

[bwrlane]

Originally Posted by Proftinkerpot

Get a 335d and there is no issue with throttle response at any revs! 😊

But it has the same flaw as my 330d that was my original reason for noticing this powerful 4 pot. A lot of weight up front.