MUNICH, GERMANY – BMW now intends to install the engine used in its Mini Cooper in its 1 Series as well, according to www.motortrend.com. BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer said the Munich company will include both normal and turbo versions of the 1.6L four-cylinder in the next-generation 1 Series, though whether they will be available across the model lineup or just on specific cars remains to be seen. Both the turbo and 118 horsepower base engine are currently available in the second-generation Mini, as well as versions of the Peugeot 207 hatchback, wagon, and hardtop convertible.
It’s unlikely either engine will ever make it to the United States, where the 1 Series is exclusively a performance coupe and convertible. But in Europe, the car also comes in three- and five-door hatchback form with four-cylinder and diesel power. Currently the 1’s most powerful four-cylinder achieves only 168 horsepower and 155 lb.-ft. of torque (versus 173 and 177 lb.-ft. for the 1.6L, so stepping up to the Mini’s engine will add a dose of power.
Reithofer also hinted in the interview that the upcoming 7 Series flagship, due out by the end of the year, will include a hybrid model, according to www.motortrend.com. BMW was a joint developer (along with Daimler and GM) of the new two-mode system in the Yukon and Tahoe hybrids as well as the Saturn Green Line 2, and though few details are known about the hybrid 7, it seems likely the car will employ a similar powertrain. No word yet on whether the hybrid will launch at the same time as the regular model or at a later date
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