BMW new Z4 Engines

  • Thread starter Thread starter Moot
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Moot

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A 2.0 petrol turbo
sDrive20i 41.5mpg 159g/km
sDrive28i 41.5mpg 159g/km


1 model has 181bhp, the other 242bhp.
This false model strategy is annoying, I have seen it happen many times before.
Why would someone purchase the fake 20i model with 61bhp less, and not get any better mpg or emissions?

242bhp in a 2.0 turbo is not straining the engine or turbo so a difference is driving dynamics and throttle response would not be apparent, and if there was it would show itself in the emissions and fuel data, but there is no difference.

Is the only reason they make it for young people and insurance? Knowing full well the owner can likely just spend £400 on a software update and get the restriction lifted to get the full 242bhp...

As I say I have seen this go on many times, BMW sold the Mini one and Mini Cooper with the power difference and Mini one owners could just change the software to get the exact same power as the Cooper.
 
And why does this read like a rant? For that matter, where's your sources? How do I know that you're not just making this up off the top of your head?
 
The reason for this is partly down to insurance, but also to be able to sell a cheaper model. A 20i may attract more people into the showroom to buy a BMW. They just can't stretch to a 28i but still want a Z4. There is no extra cost to BMW as it is a minor software change only, so why not?

Also worth noting, not everyone want lots of power. This being a convertible, they are often bought for posing or cruising to the shops. Many owners might not even notice or care whether it has 100, 150 or 250bhp as it looks good to them and feels good. Most 1 series owners didn't even realise that it was rear wheel drive, according to BMW's own research!

To me this isn't a problem. If you want a higher power model, you would get one anyway. Choice never hurt anyone really.
 
I have to wonder how they are going to price it. If it is too far apart I assume some people will just go to the aftermarket to turn a 20i into 28i, and if it is too close most probably won't bother with the 20i at all.
 
But these same engines will be offered in cheaper 1-series. I admit, the new one has hideous front end, but it will be a better platform for these new TwinPower motors.
 
Leonidae@MFT
But these same engines will be offered in cheaper 1-series. I admit, the new one has hideous front end, but it will be a better platform for these new TwinPower motors.
Click to expand...

I reckon the front end will get a bit easier on the eye over time. Just think of the previous 1,5,7. All look awful at first but got better with age.

As to pricing, it will probably be around £1-2k between them. Just enough to make a difference. Most will probably be on hire purchase making the monthly difference more noticeable.
 

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