BMW is synonymous with luxury, innovation, and performance, and when it comes to their engines, few powertrains have generated as much praise in recent years as the B58. Introduced in 2015, the B58 engine has become a staple of BMW’s lineup, renowned for its smooth power delivery, impressive reliability, and a level of refinement that has redefined the driving experience for many enthusiasts. It has earned accolades for its blend of performance and efficiency, as well as for being one of the best inline-six engines in modern automotive engineering.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the B58 engine, exploring its unique features, what makes it stand out in the world of internal combustion engines, and, most importantly, which BMW models are powered by this engineering marvel. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or someone in the market for a new luxury vehicle, understanding which BMW models have the B58 engine will help you appreciate the performance and pedigree behind these cars.
The B58 Engine: A Powerhouse Redefined
Before exploring the specific BMW models that feature the B58 engine, it’s essential to understand what makes this engine so remarkable. The B58 is part of BMW’s modular engine family, replacing the N55 engine and taking the inline-six engine architecture to new heights. Here are some key characteristics of the B58 engine that set it apart:
Inline-Six Layout
BMW’s long-standing tradition of building inline-six engines continues with the B58. Inline-six engines are celebrated for their inherent balance, which provides a smooth and refined operation. The B58 is no exception, offering seamless power delivery and a distinct lack of vibration, making for a more enjoyable driving experience compared to four-cylinder engines.
Turbocharged Power
The B58 is a single-turbocharged engine featuring BMW’s TwinScroll turbo technology. This setup optimizes power and torque delivery, reducing turbo lag while maintaining strong low-end performance. The engine’s responsiveness has been widely praised, as it offers quick acceleration without compromising on fuel efficiency.
Efficient Cooling and Fuel Systems
BMW integrated advanced cooling technologies into the B58, including a water-to-air intercooler and improved engine cooling systems that enhance performance, particularly under high loads. The engine also uses direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VANOS), and variable valve lift (Valvetronic), maximizing both power output and efficiency.
Impressive Performance
The B58 engine produces anywhere between 320 and 382 horsepower (depending on the specific model and tuning), along with torque figures ranging from 330 lb-ft to 369 lb-ft. This powertrain is capable of launching models like the BMW M340i from 0 to 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds, delivering a thrilling performance worthy of the BMW badge.
With this background, let’s move on to the BMW models that feature the B58 engine.
BMW Models Featuring the B58 Engine
Since its introduction, the B58 engine has powered several BMW models across various categories, from sedans to SUVs and sports coupes. The engine’s versatility allows it to be paired with rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive systems, making it a key component in BMW’s lineup of performance-oriented vehicles. Below is a detailed overview of the BMW models equipped with the B58 engine.
BMW 3 Series (G20/G21) – M340i and M340i xDrive
The BMW 3 Series is one of the brand’s most iconic models, known for blending luxury and performance in a compact executive sedan. The B58 engine is featured in the M340i and M340i xDrive variants of the 3 Series, which serve as performance-focused models just below the high-performance M3.
Engine Specs: The M340i models come with a 3.0-liter B58 inline-six producing 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this setup propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 4.1 seconds with the xDrive (BMW’s all-wheel-drive system).
Driving Experience: Thanks to the B58 engine, the M340i delivers thrilling performance with a smooth and linear power delivery. The combination of the engine’s power and the agile chassis of the 3 Series creates a car that is both fun on the track and comfortable on daily commutes.
BMW 4 Series (G22/G23/G26) – M440i and M440i xDrive
The 4 Series, a coupe version of the 3 Series, also benefits from the power of the B58 engine in its M440i and M440i xDrive variants. Whether in coupe (G22), convertible (G23), or four-door Gran Coupe (G26) form, the B58 gives the 4 Series its characteristic punchy performance.
Engine Specs: The M440i is powered by the same 3.0-liter B58 engine with 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, ensuring fast acceleration and a dynamic driving experience.
Performance & Styling: The combination of the B58 engine with the sporty coupe design makes the M440i a standout in the luxury sports car market. It delivers exhilarating acceleration while retaining BMW’s trademark balance of luxury and performance.
BMW Z4 (G29) – Z4 M40i
The BMW Z4 roadster is a perfect example of how the B58 engine can enhance a car’s personality. The Z4 M40i, the high-performance version of the Z4, showcases how the B58 turns an already stylish and dynamic roadster into a true sports car.
Engine Specs: The Z4 M40i comes with a 382-horsepower version of the B58 engine, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. This performance is especially impressive for a two-seater convertible.
Driving Experience: The Z4 M40i is not only fast but also refined, thanks to the smooth and predictable power delivery of the B58 engine. Whether cruising along a coastal road or carving up a mountain pass, the Z4 M40i offers an exciting and composed drive.
BMW 5 Series (G30/G31) – 540i and 540i xDrive
The BMW 5 Series is the epitome of luxury sedans, combining cutting-edge technology with powerful performance. In the 540i and 540i xDrive trims, the B58 engine provides the perfect balance between performance and luxury.
Engine Specs: In the 540i, the B58 engine produces 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. This output is slightly lower than in the M340i, but still provides plenty of power for swift acceleration and smooth highway driving.
Luxury & Performance: The 540i blends executive luxury with a powerful and refined driving experience. The B58 engine ensures that the 540i remains nimble and responsive, while the plush interior and advanced technology cater to passengers seeking comfort and sophistication.
BMW 7 Series (G11/G12) – 740i and 740i xDrive
In the realm of full-size luxury sedans, the BMW 7 Series is a flagship model that prioritizes both comfort and performance. The B58 engine powers the 740i and 740i xDrive, offering a refined driving experience in a large and luxurious package.
Engine Specs: In the 740i, the B58 engine produces 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for this large sedan. The smooth power delivery and quiet operation of the engine make it ideal for the 7 Series’ focus on luxury.
Driving Dynamics: The B58 engine ensures that the 7 Series delivers strong performance while remaining calm and composed. Its silky smooth operation enhances the sense of tranquility inside the cabin, making it perfect for long-distance cruising or chauffeured driving.
BMW X3 (G01) – X3 M40i
The BMW X3 M40i is one of the most popular luxury SUVs in the BMW lineup, and the inclusion of the B58 engine makes it both practical and powerful. This model offers the utility of an SUV with the performance of a sports car.
Engine Specs: The B58 engine in the X3 M40i delivers 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, propelling the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. This makes it one of the fastest compact luxury SUVs on the market.
Versatility & Performance: The X3 M40i is a standout for those who want an SUV that offers both practicality and driving pleasure. The B58 engine ensures that it feels light and responsive, making it fun to drive while still offering the utility needed for daily life.
BMW X4 (G02) – X4 M40i
The BMW X4 M40i is the coupe-like sibling of the X3, offering a sportier design while still benefiting from the power of the B58 engine. The X4 M40i is aimed at those who want a stylish SUV without sacrificing performance.
Engine Specs: Like the X3 M40i, the X4 M40i comes with a 382-horsepower B58 engine, allowing it to accelerate quickly and provide a thrilling driving experience. Despite its SUV body style, the X4 M40i is nimble and handles like a smaller, sportier vehicle.
Driving Experience: The sloping roofline and athletic stance of the X4 M40i, paired with the B58 engine’s power, make it one of the more dynamic luxury SUVs on the market. It offers an engaging driving experience while still providing everyday practicality.
BMW X5 (G05) – X5 xDrive40i
The BMW X5 has long been a benchmark in the luxury SUV segment, and with the B58 engine, it offers a blend of power, comfort, and off-road capability. The X5 xDrive40i is a popular choice for those who want a powerful and spacious SUV with excellent road manners.
Engine Specs: The X5 xDrive40i is powered by a 335-horsepower version of the B58 engine, offering strong performance for a mid-size SUV. The engine provides ample torque for highway cruising and light off-road use, while maintaining good fuel efficiency for its class.
Luxury & Capability: The X5 xDrive40i delivers a balanced combination of luxury and performance, with the B58 engine providing plenty of power for most driving situations. It is an excellent choice for those who want a versatile SUV that can handle both city streets and outdoor adventures.
See Also: What is the BMW F10?
Toyota Supra (A90) – Supra 3.0
Although not a BMW, the Toyota Supra features the B58 engine, thanks to the collaboration between BMW and Toyota. The Supra 3.0 uses a BMW-sourced B58 engine, which has been praised for delivering strong performance and driving dynamics in this iconic sports car.
Engine Specs: The Supra 3.0 is powered by the B58 engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This allows the Supra to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, making it one of the fastest sports cars in its price range.
Driving Experience: The pairing of Toyota’s engineering with BMW’s B58 engine has resulted in a sports car that is fun to drive, with sharp handling and strong acceleration. The Supra is a prime example of how the B58 engine can be used in different platforms while still delivering excellent performance.
Why the B58 Engine Stands Out in the BMW Lineup
The B58 engine has become a cornerstone of BMW’s engine lineup for several reasons. Here’s why it’s considered one of the best engines in the modern automotive world:
Reliability and Durability
Despite being a high-performance engine, the B58 has earned a reputation for reliability. Its design incorporates durable materials and advanced engineering, which reduces wear and tear even under intense driving conditions.
Smooth Power Delivery
Thanks to its inline-six configuration and TwinScroll turbocharger, the B58 engine delivers power in a smooth and linear fashion. There’s minimal turbo lag, and the engine’s balanced design ensures a refined driving experience at all speeds.
Efficiency
While it’s undoubtedly a performance-oriented engine, the B58 also manages to be fuel-efficient, particularly in models equipped with BMW’s mild-hybrid technology. This combination of performance and efficiency makes it a versatile engine for a variety of driving scenarios.
Adaptability
The B58 engine has proven itself to be adaptable across a range of vehicle types, from compact sedans and coupes to SUVs and sports cars. Its power output can be fine-tuned depending on the model, ensuring that it delivers the appropriate level of performance for each specific application.
Conclusion
The B58 engine is a testament to BMW’s commitment to performance, innovation, and luxury. Its combination of power, smoothness, and efficiency has made it a standout choice in BMW’s modern lineup. From the sporty Z4 roadster to the practical and luxurious X5 SUV, the B58 powers some of the most exciting and versatile vehicles in BMW’s portfolio.
Whether you’re looking for a high-performance sedan, a luxury SUV, or even a sports car like the Toyota Supra, the B58 engine provides an exhilarating driving experience with the refinement and reliability that BMW is known for. With such a broad range of models featuring the B58 engine, there’s a BMW (or Toyota) for nearly every type of driver who values the combination of luxury and performance.
So, the next time you’re in the market for a vehicle that offers both thrilling performance and everyday practicality, consider one of the many models equipped with the B58 engine. It’s more than just an engine—it’s a key ingredient in what makes driving a BMW such a rewarding experience.
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