BMW says its diesel engine strategy is far from over, even as diesel-powered vehicles continue to lose ground across Europe. While hybrids and electric vehicles have accelerated the decline of diesel sales, the automaker has confirmed that its 3.0-liter B57 diesel engine will remain in production for the X5 and X7 well into the next decade, highlighting continued demand in key markets.
Diesel Sales Continue to Decline Across Europe
Diesel engines have experienced a dramatic decline in Europe after once accounting for more than half of all new-car sales. Since the mid-2010s, growing interest in hybrid and electric vehicles, combined with stricter emissions regulations, has pushed many buyers away from diesel-powered models.
According to data published by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), diesel vehicles represented just 6.5% of new-car registrations in Europe through June. Although Europe has historically been the largest market for diesel vehicles, demand remains stronger in other regions, including Australia, where diesel continues to be popular in larger vehicles used outside urban areas.
BMW Plans to Keep the B57 Diesel Engine
In an interview with GoAuto, BMW’s head of product and market planning for Australia, Brendan Michel, said the company’s 3.0-liter B57 diesel engine will continue powering the BMW X5 and X7 “well into the next decade.”
The engine currently serves the brand’s large luxury SUVs, reinforcing BMW’s commitment to offering diesel powertrains alongside other propulsion technologies.
Diesel Expected Across Multiple BMW Models
The BMW X5 has already transitioned from the G05 generation to the G65. The X7 is scheduled to move from the G07 to the G67 generation in 2027.
Although not discussed during the interview, the next-generation BMW X6 (G66), reportedly due in 2028, is also expected to receive the latest version of the B57 diesel engine.
In Europe, BMW has updated the B57 to comply with Euro 7 emissions regulations. As a result, the new X5 40d xDrive delivers substantially less power than before.
BMW also continues to offer the 2.0-liter four-cylinder B47 diesel engine in compact and midsize models. Earlier in the previous decade, the automaker sold the smaller 1.5-liter three-cylinder B37 diesel, which powered entry-level BMW models and several MINI vehicles.
Diesel power remains available beyond the SUV lineup. The upcoming 5 Series LCI is expected to offer both the B47 and B57 in sedan and wagon configurations, while the facelifted 740d remains part of the lineup.
Highway Range Keeps Diesel Competitive
According to Michel, the B57 continues to offer a significant advantage for long-distance driving. He said an X5 equipped with the inline-six diesel engine can travel approximately 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) on the highway.
Michel noted that this exceeds the range of BMW’s upcoming electric SUVs, including the iX3, rated at 805 kilometers (500 miles), and the iX5, rated at 845 kilometers (525 miles). He also pointed out that those figures are based on the combined WLTP testing cycle, and real-world highway driving would likely result in shorter electric driving ranges.
The B47 diesel engine also remains an option for drivers who regularly cover long highway distances, with no indication that it will be discontinued in the near future.
BMW Maintains Its Powertrain Strategy
BMW continues to follow its long-standing “Power of Choice” strategy by offering multiple powertrain options. Although diesel remains the most vulnerable technology as the industry shifts toward electrification, the company says its diesel engines will continue serving customers who prioritize long-distance efficiency for years to come.
