What engine is used in the BMW F35?
4 Answers
The BMW F35 is equipped with three types of engines: a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, a low-power version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and a high-power version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. All three engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF. The 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, codenamed B38, delivers a maximum power of 100 kW and a maximum torque of 220 Nm. Its maximum power output is achieved between 4,400 and 6,000 rpm, while the maximum torque is available from 1,250 to 4,300 rpm. This engine features direct fuel injection technology and utilizes an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. The BMW F35 is the long-wheelbase version of the BMW 3 Series, belonging to the sixth generation of the model. The extended wheelbase provides more rear-seat space and enhances overall ride comfort.
The BMW F35 model, to put it bluntly, is the domestically produced long-wheelbase version of the BMW 3 Series, most commonly equipped with gasoline engines. I've studied several of them - early models mostly came with the 1.6L inline-four N13 engine producing about 136 horsepower. That TwinPower Turbo technology is impressive, delivering strong low-end torque though it gets a bit noisy at high RPMs. Later versions primarily use the 2.0L four-cylinder B48 engine starting at 184 horsepower, with fuel consumption around 7L/100km, being both more fuel-efficient and quieter than older models. Some high-end versions like the 335Li pack the 3.0L six-cylinder B58 engine with 326 horsepower - quite a beast. All these engines are based on BMW's modular design with good parts commonality, though the turbocharging system occasionally has minor issues. If you're buying used, check the production year to avoid getting stuck with older engine versions. Overall they're quite reliable, especially for daily commuting with quick and smooth acceleration, but avoid excessive throttle abuse to prevent premature wear.
Speaking from my personal experience driving the F35, that 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is truly impressive. After three years of ownership, with mostly city commuting, the fuel consumption stays around 8L. The engine sound at startup is deep and pleasant, and acceleration feels brisk with a hidden power. When tackling uphill roads or overtaking on highways, the power delivery is steady and responsive, though the fan can get a bit loud like a hairdryer when temperatures rise. Mine is a 2017 model with the B48 engine, offering 184 horsepower—plenty for daily family use and confident on long trips. Maintenance hasn’t been an issue; regular oil changes suffice, but older N20 engines might have some oil consumption problems. Overall, it’s a reliable drive, especially on Chinese roads where the suspension is well-tuned—neither too soft nor too firm—and the engine cooperates seamlessly, making it feel like handling an old friend.
The history of the BMW F35 is quite fascinating. It belongs to the long-wheelbase version specifically designed for the Chinese market in the sixth-generation 3 Series. When first launched in 2012, it was equipped with 1.6L and 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engines. The powertrain evolved from the initial N13 to the more efficient B48 series, delivering improved performance while being more environmentally friendly. According to my research, this design catered to Chinese consumers' preference for spaciousness and comfort, while the powertrain retained BMW's sporty DNA but was tuned for smoother operation.
