Long Live Diesel: BMW Keeps Engines Coming Until The 2030s

BMW has confirmed its commitment to producing compression-ignition (diesel) engines through the 2030s. The company is leveraging the profitability of diesel models in the premium segment to fund investments in electric vehicles and new platforms.

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Production Infrastructure and Platform Strategy

The X3 Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV) remains a primary financial driver for the group. Simultaneously, BMW is transitioning to the Neue Klasse architecture, which serves as the foundation for the iX3 and iX3 L electric versions. These electric models, along with the extended X3 (G48), are produced exclusively in China.

By maintaining separate platforms within a single model line, BMW integrates established internal combustion mechanisms with new electric technologies without requiring full unification across the entire fleet.

Technical Specifications of the Diesel Powertrain

The current 1,995 cc engine is configured as a mild hybrid (MHEV) featuring twin turbochargers. The 48V electrical system includes an 8 kW motor delivering 25 Nm of torque. The primary combustion engine produces 145 kW (197 hp) and a maximum torque of 400 Nm.

To increase efficiency, BMW engineers integrated active air flaps, an electric air conditioning compressor, and a coasting mode. To preserve cargo capacity—which ranges from 570 to 1,700 liters—the MHEV battery is positioned beneath the trunk floor.

Market Demand and International Competition

According to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), over 900,000 diesel passenger cars were registered in Europe during the first half of the year across EU-EFTA-UK markets. Germany and Italy contributed significantly to this volume, with Germany recording 193,157 registrations in the first six months.

While European manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Stellantis navigate this landscape, Chinese brands are expanding their diesel offerings. Great Wall Motor (GWM) has introduced a new 3-liter engine producing 170 kW for its Cannon Alpha and Tank 500 models, targeting the Australian market.