Specifications
The BMW N55 engine is a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine that succeeded the N54, offering enhanced efficiency and performance.”. It features a single twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection (High Precision Injection), variable valve timing (Double-VANOS), and an aluminum engine block with a magnesium-aluminum composite intake manifold for weight reduction. Producing between 300 to 335 horsepower and 300 to 450 Nm of torque depending on the variant, the N55 is known for its smooth power delivery, strong mid-range torque, and improved efficiency and reliability compared to its predecessor. It has been widely used in various BMW models, including the 3 Series, 5 Series, X3, and Z4, until being succeeded by the B58 engine in 2015.
Engine Variant
N55B30M0
The BMW N55B30M0 is a 3.0-litre (2979 cc) inline-6 turbocharged petrol engine, featuring an aluminum block and head, direct injection, double-VANOS and Valvetronic, paired with a single twin-scroll turbocharger. It produces around 306 PS (225 kW) and 400 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end power and smooth acceleration across the rev range. Known for its balance of performance, efficiency, and refinement, it has been widely used across multiple BMW models.
N55B30T0
The BMW N55B30T0 is a high-output version of the N55 3.0-litre inline-6 turbocharged engine, equipped with direct injection, double-VANOS, Valvetronic, and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. It delivers approximately 320 PS (235 kW) and 450 Nm of torque (up to 500 Nm with overboost), giving noticeably stronger performance than the standard N55 variants. Built with an aluminum block and head, it combines smooth power delivery, quick throttle response, and strong mid-range pull, making it a popular engine in sport-oriented BMW models.
N55HP
The N55HP is a 3.0-litre (2979 cc) straight-6 petrol engine built on an aluminium block, with a bore of 84 mm and a stroke of 89.6 mm, and a compression ratio of 10.2:1. BMW BLOG+2enginedna.com+2 It uses a single twin-scroll turbocharger paired with direct injection and the manufacturer’s Valvetronic/VANOS variable-valve timing system. ZipTuning+2enginedna.com+2 In its N55HP tuning, the engine delivers around 250 kW (≈ 335 hp) at ~5800 rpm and 450 Nm (≈ 332 lb-ft) of torque typically peaking between roughly 1,500–4,500 rpm. BMW BLOG+2motor-car.net+2 The redline is 7,000 rpm.
Alpina tuned N55
The Alpina-tuned N55 is a high-performance evolution of BMW’s 3.0-litre inline-6 turbo engine, upgraded with twin mono-scroll turbochargers instead of the stock single turbo, a larger intercooler, strengthened aluminum crankcase, and enhanced fuel and cooling systems along with specialized ECU calibration. These upgrades boost output to around 410–440 PS (301–324 kW) and 600–660 Nm of torque, delivering a much wider and stronger torque band with sharper throttle response and sustained high-rpm power. The result is an engine that blends Alpina’s signature smoothness with significantly more performance compared to the standard N55.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What factors affect N55 engine reliability?
N55 engine reliability is generally good, but common issues include charge pipe failures, water pump failures, oil leaks, and carbon buildup. Regular maintenance and upgrades, like a metal charge pipe and periodic walnut blasting, help improve longevity.
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What is N55 engine size?
The N55 size is 3.0 liters (2,979 cc) with an inline-6 configuration. It utilizes direct fuel injection.
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What is the recommended BMW N55 engine oil?
The recommended BMW N55 oil is BMW TwinPower Turbo 5W-30 or 0W-40, meeting LL-01 specifications. The engine requires 6.5 to 7 quarts (6.2 to 6.6 liters) of oil. Regular changes every 5,000–7,500 miles ensure optimal performance and longevity.
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What cars have N55 engine?
The BMW N55 is found in models like the BMW 135i, 335i, 535i, X3, X4, X5, and X6, produced between 2009 and 2019.
N55 Engine
