Saab expected to announce deal for BMW engines

Saab Spyker Automobiles has reportedly struck a deal with BMW to supply engines, according to Automotive News. These new powertrains would replace those provided by General Motors, as the giant automaker withdraws from its purged brand. The industry newspaper said that diesel engines were discussed, and that the first fitment would likely be the 2012 Saab 9-3.

Saab will hold a press conference on Wednesday.

As the new Dutch owners seek to elevate the Saab brand and product portfolio, tapping BMW as a supplier could be a strong step toward winning converts to the brand. The current BMW engines provide strong power and relatively good fuel economy.

In the BMW 3 Series, the diesel engine delivered 28 mpg overall in our tests. The 328i with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine returned 23 mpg overall. And for more verve, there is the twin-turbo six with 300 horsepower. Reliability for 3 Series engines has been well above average the past few years. Coming from a competing car line, these engines are the most natural fits for the Saab 9-3. By outsourcing the engines, Saab would save considerable money in development and manufacturing that would have to be amortized over a rather modest sales volume.

But, are these engines the best fit for Saab's character? Saab enthusiasts may argue that small-displacement, turbocharged engines have defined the brand in recent decades. Yet, the reputation for frugal luxury that (to stereotype) a professor would approve of, the current 9-3 with a turbocharged four-cylinder matches the base 3 Series with 23 mpg overall. And the 9-3 jogs 0-60 mph in 8.0 seconds, compared to the 3 Series' sprint in 6.9 seconds. The 3 diesel is even quicker, hitting 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.

I feel this could be a brilliant move on Saab's part. What do you think?

Update 9/29/10: Saab licensed not the 3 Series engines, but the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder used in the Mini car range. Perhaps published reports about the engines being destined for the 9-3 where off, as well. These small-displacement engines may instead be destined for a smaller, sub-9-3 model.

—Jeff Bartlett