Which BMW Has the N55 Engine? Full List Explained
Image: BMW N55 Engine from MT Auto Parts
The BMW N55 engine is a popular choice among BMW owners. It is known for its balance of power and efficiency, which is what many UK drivers are after. If you own a BMW with this 3.0-litre inline-six turbo engine, you already know how important it is to keep it in good shape.
Also, if you are thinking of getting a new BMW with this engine, but don’t know which is which? We’ve got you. In this article, we will take you through which BMWs have the N55 engine.
What is the N55 Engine?
The BMW N55 motor, also known as N55B30A, is BMW's first single-turbo inline-six engine. This engine was introduced in 2009 as a successor to the N54. It powers a range of BMW models and delivers 300–335 horsepower, depending on the tune. The N55 engine also uses a twin-scroll turbo for quick response and better fuel economy.
Although it has many advantages, it also has a few shortcomings, such as high-pressure fuel pump failures or turbo wear. These shortcomings are a major reason why reliable BMW engine parts are so essential.
BMW Models with BMW N55 Engine
The N55 engine can work effectively with several BMW models, ranging from fast coupes to utilitarian SUVs. The table below lists models with the N55 engines:
N55 Engine Code Key Explanation
N55B30O0 — Early production base variant
N55B30M0 — Main production variant with updated components
N55B30T0 — M-tuned version for M2
N55B30A0 — Hybrid application variant for ActiveHybrid 7
Why Is the N55 Still One Of the Best BMW Engines?
From the track-ready M235i to the all-rounder 535i and the punchy X3, the N55 still offers a perfect blend of turbocharged power and everyday reliability while driving on UK roads. It also laid the foundation for future engines like the B58 — but that’s a story for another blog.
Why the N55 Still Matters for BMW Owners in 2025
The N55 isn’t just a footnote in BMW’s engine history. It’s the one that proved turbocharging could still feel sharp, responsive, and properly Bavarian. And over a decade on, it still holds up.
If you're behind the wheel of an F30 335i or an M2 carving up B-roads, the N55 delivers that straight-six balance of torque and smoothness that never gets old. It’s quick to spool, sounds great with the right setup, and handles daily driving without complaint.
But like any engine that’s getting on a bit, it needs care. And when things like valve covers, injectors, or turbos start to show their age, you’ll want to replace them with the right BMW engine parts. Cheap knock-offs won't cut it, you know yourself.
Getting the Right Parts for Your N55
Replacing an N55 engine or chasing down reliable bits for your 135i or X5, second-hand BMW parts from MT Auto parts are the smart choice. Tested. Proven. Far more affordable than going through a dealer. Especially if you're fixing common issues like water pump failure or charge pipe cracks.
MT Auto Parts offers dismantled N55 engines and N55 BMW engine spare parts. These are genuine parts pulled from F or G generation models, inspected and cleaned by BMW specialists. Fast UK delivery. 30-day warranty included!
Final Thoughts: Is the N55 Still Worth Owning?
Yes. If you want a BMW that blends modern turbo performance with that classic straight-six character, the N55 hits the mark. It may not be the newest, but it’s still one of the best for daily fun, tuning potential and reliability when looked after properly.
Just keep it serviced, run decent oil, and swap failing engine parts before they cause bigger problems. And when it’s time to replace something major, go for a tested unit you can trust.
You’ll be glad you did — the N55 still has plenty to give.
