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Originally Posted by edh
... it would stand to reason that a 128i powered by an N20 would match a 130i powered by an N52.
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I would go as far as to say that this is all but fact. We have already seen the N20B20 work its magic in conjunction with the 8 speed ZF in the X1, which also formerly had the N52B30 @ 258hp. Better acceleration and lower emissions than the outgoing model.
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Perhaps there might be an N55 powered car later but not without a much more aggressive configuration.
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Sure, we could end up with a situation here that mimics the E30 325i vs. the E30 M3. The former was a 6 cyl (M50, IIRC) with about 165hp, while the latter was a 4 cyl S14 with 200hp+.
My gut still tells me there is more in store for the role of the 4 cyl turbo, however. I think we will see an N20, or its successor (N21?) with 280hp. An N55 may thus not be necessary for the 1 series and X1. To me, the model changeover to the F2x is the prime time to get everyone used to the fact that the smallest RWD BMW will forgo the 6 cylinder entirely from this point forward. We shall see.