BMW is gradually replacing its N54 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six (featured in models like the 335i) with the firm's new twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six cylinder engine, designated N55. The latest Bavarian products to get the N55 are the 2011 model year 135i Coupe and Convertible that will go on sale in the United States in Spring 2010.
With a maximum output of 300HP at 5,800 rpm and a peak torque of 300 lb-ft available from 1,200–5,000rpm (U.S.-spec version), the new six-cylinder produces the same level of performance as the current twin-turbo six-cylinder.
However, BMW says that thanks to the adoption of the single, twin-scroll turbocharger and the integration of VALVETRONIC throttle-less intake technology, the new engine promises better throttle response and even more fuel efficiency.
In addition, the automaker claims that peak torque is reached 100rpm earlier than with the previous engine while engine boost response is improved across the entire engine speed range.
Both the 135i Coupe and Convertible will be optionally available with BMW's 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT) that now features dedicated steering wheel paddles for upshifting (on the right) and down shifting (on the left).
For the 2011 model year, BMW also replaced the HiFi System Professional with a new Harman Kardon Surround Sound System while the climate control instrument unit features a new alignment and optics.
6 Comments:
Nice improvement, but makes little difference to me with the pricing of this model and BMW's over the top options pricing.
I really like this car, and would have parked one in my garage, but the entry fee is way out of line.
3Deuce27
BMW just doesn't get it with this model...it should be offered with an entry level cloth upholstery version like they did with the TI which was a fun car...a California sunroof and TDI engine would be nice options too.
Nope, the Tii failed massively in terms of branding...every car journalist notes that besides the cheap interiors, the engine was also cheap as hell. This 135 will be a beast but those Germans were burned hard on the Tii
Subaru was pretty successful with the cheaper version of the WRX called the TR (Tuner Ready)...missing all the bells and whistles and just straight performance.
The 128/135 just needs a fair price and reasonably priced option packages.
It gets pretty ridiculous in a hurry when trying to add in some over priced (expensive) options to an already out of line entry fee for a entry model BMW. Maybe this economy will bring some common sense to BMW, more likely it will drive 3 series buyers to it and that might not be to BMW's long range benefit.
As for the 'Tii'...When I, and others I knew, were in the market for a performance coupe in the early seventies, we regarded the BMW 'Tii' as having a 'so, so' build quality and not much return for the price of the vehicle.
The Opel Manta and Celica had a better build quality and the Manta easily out handled it with a better ride and drive feel. The rather upright sedan like ergonomics didn't lend itself to the need for a low and sporty style envelope desired by the buyers of the time. The 'Tii's' rather quirky looks for the time didn't endear it to buyers either.
It's current (But fading) cult status, owes more to the BMW 'irregardless' fan base, then any merit inherent in the 'Tii'. That said, the BMW 320i was a worthy investment and deserves more attention then the 'Tii'
3Deuce27
i think this knew BMW is a great car as all the other 3-series BMW's were but i think that if it came with more options like a sun roof serious satellite radio or something like that it would sell way more than most regular BMW's would
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