M54 Engine: Introduction

The M54 - 6 cylinder engine is being introduced with the 2001 Model Year E53 - X5. The displacement of the new engine for the X5 is 3 liters and the engine will replace the 2.8 liter engine in the E46/Z3 series in 6/2000 and E39 series vehicles in 9/2000. A 2.5 liter version of the new M54 engine will be introduced starting with 9/2000 production in the E46/E36 Z3 and E39 vehicles.

Although the E53 X5 with the M54 engine will be LEV compliant, the M54 - 3 liter displacement engine meets ULEV compliancy, for emission standards, for the balance of the product. The 2.5 liter version of the M54 engine will remain LEV compliant.

Design objectives for the M54 engine were to provide:

Lower Emissions

Maintain Fuel Economy

Maintain Power and Performance levels