what cars have the n55

[DiSamuel]

The BMW N55 engine is found in a wide range of BMW models produced between 2009 and 2017, primarily replacing the famed N54. It's a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine known for its smooth power delivery and improved reliability over its predecessor. If you're looking for a car with this engine, your search should focus on core BMW models from that era, including the 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, X3, X4, X5, X6, and the Z4 roadster.

The N55 was the workhorse of BMW's lineup, powering everything from sporty coupes to luxury SUVs. Its technical name is the N55B30, indicating its 3.0-liter displacement. A key feature that set it apart from the N54 was the switch to a twin-scroll turbocharger. This design helps reduce turbo lag by using divided exhaust gas inlets to keep exhaust pulses separate, resulting in more immediate throttle response.

The horsepower and torque figures are quite consistent across most applications, typically around 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. However, there are several versions and power levels to be aware of, depending on the model and model year.

BMW Model	Model Years (Approx.)	Common Body Style Codes	Typical Horsepower (hp)	Typical Torque (lb-ft)
1 Series (E82/E88)	2010-2013	135i, 135is	300-320	300-317
3 Series (E90/E91/E92/E93)	2010-2015	335i, 335i xDrive	300-320	300-317
4 Series (F32/F33/F36)	2014-2016	435i, 435i xDrive	300-320	300-317
5 Series (F10/F07)	2010-2017	535i, 535i xDrive	300-335	300-332
X3 (F25)	2011-2015	X3 xDrive35i	300	300
X4 (F26)	2015-2017	X4 xDrive35i	300	300
X5 (E70)	2010-2013	X5 xDrive35i	300-400	300-450
X6 (E71)	2010-2014	X6 xDrive35i	300-400	300-450
Z4 (E89)	2010-2016	Z4 sDrive35i, Z4 sDrive35is	300-335	300-332

When shopping, it's crucial to verify the engine code, as some models transitioned to the newer B58 engine in the 2016-2017 model years. The N55 is generally considered a more reliable engine than the N54, but common issues to look out for include the oil filter housing gasket leak, valve cover gasket leak, and water pump failure. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a specialist is highly recommended.

[LaDonovan]

My 2014 335i has the N55, and it's the perfect daily driver. It's plenty quick but way more dependable than the older twin-turbo N54 that my friend is always fixing. You'll find this engine in the 3 Series from around 2010 to 2015, the 4 Series for a few years, and even the 5 Series and X5. Just look for the 35i badge on the trunk—that's your clue. It’s a smooth, powerful engine that makes the commute a lot more fun without the constant worry of something breaking.

[Sue]

As a mechanic who sees a lot of these, the N55 is in a ton of BMWs. Check the VIN or look under the hood for the engine cover stamp. Key models are the F10 535i, the E70 X5 xDrive35i, and the E92 335i. The single twin-scroll turbo is simpler than the N54's setup. Watch for leaks from the oil filter housing—it's a common failure point that can drip oil onto the serpentine belt, which is a bad day waiting to happen. Otherwise, it's a solid motor if maintained properly.

[RoseFitz]

I just went through this search for a used family SUV. We landed on a 2013 X5 with the N55 engine. It's got great power for a vehicle that size. You're looking at the X5 and X6 from about 2010 to 2014, specifically the xDrive35i trim. The 5 Series sedan, the 535i, is another great option if you don't need an SUV. The key is finding one with a solid service history. We passed on a couple that didn't have records for the water pump being replaced, as that's a known expensive repair around 60,000-80,000 miles.

[SanBrody]

For a balance of tuning potential and daily-driving sanity, the N55 is a fantastic choice. It's the heart of some of the best modern BMWs for enthusiasts. The 1M Coupe and the later M2 both use a more robust version called the N55B30T0, sharing DNA with the standard N55. For a more accessible project, a 135i or 435i offers a great platform. The engine responds very well to a simple ECU tune, easily pushing over 370 horsepower reliably. Focus on models from 2011 onwards for the most updated version of the engine, as earlier models had a different valvetronic system.