BMW X5 and X6 get six-in-line diesel engine with 48 volt Mild Hybrid Tech

It’s a shame for us Yanks that Americans don’t like diesel engines. Europe has so many great options for diesel engines, giving customers affordable, efficient models that we don’t get. For the European market, both the recently facelifted BMW X5 and X6 get a new diesel engine option and we’re jealous.

From August, the BMW X5 and X6 will get a new six-in-line diesel engine and carry the name xDrive40d. The new I6 diesel engine uses a single twin-scroll turbocharger and gets 48-volt mild-hybrid technology. Not only does this help improve fuel economy and emissions, but it also helps smoother auto start/stop.

The 3.0-litre turbo diesel has new steel pistons, allowing BMW to operate at higher combustion pressures. BMW also improved the oil separation process and fitted new solenoid valve injectors. The latter send more fuel into the combustion chamber, creating a total pressure of 2,500 bar. Total power is 352 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque (720 Nm). Both cars are only available with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. According to BMW, both cars share identical 0-100 km/h (0-62) mph times of 5.5 seconds. It will be interesting to see what the final numbers are though, as BMW always underestimates its power and performance figures.

In terms of fuel economy, the BMW X6 is ever so slightly better than the X5, probably due to its more aerodynamic shape. The BMW X6 xDrive40d consumes 8.2—7.3 litres/100 km, compared to the BMW X5 xDrive40d, which consumes 8.4—7.3 litres/100 km.

BMW’s diesel engine options have always been attractive in cars like the X5 and X6 for European customers. Not only do they typically have more than enough power for the vast majority of customers’ needs, but they also typically have a lower entry point than their petrol counterparts. For example, the BMW X5 xDrive40d may cost less than the X5 xDrive40i, while having more torque. In addition, the diesel variants usually get lower fuel consumption while emitting fewer emissions, so that they make more logical choices. That is why you see so many expensive models with diesel engines in Germany.

Both the BMW X5 and X6 have recently been updated, with new looks, new interiors and new technology, making good cars even better. Now there’s a new engine option available for both that should get many realistic customers excited. If only BMW sold the diesel engine here in the States, we’d be much better off. Well, I think we’re stuck on the B58.