BMW 540i 2017-present Drivetrain Specifications
BMW 540i 2017-present

BMW 540i 2017-present Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the 2017-Present BMW 540i drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, differential, and driveline components. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2017-Present BMW 540i, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission type', 'engine output', or 'differential ratio'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the document. Each major section is labeled with a title and contains subsections for detailed information.

Key Specifications

Engine Type

3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6

Transmission

8-speed Steptronic Sport

Horsepower

335 hp @ 5500-6500 rpm

Torque

332 lb-ft @ 1380-5200 rpm

0-60 mph

4.9 seconds (RWD)

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications, performance metrics, and technical features

Engine Specifications
  • 3.0L TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine
  • Maximum output: 335 hp @ 5500-6500 rpm
  • Peak torque: 332 lb-ft @ 1380-5200 rpm
  • Compression ratio: 11.0:1
  • Direct fuel injection system
Transmission System
  • 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission
  • Adaptive transmission control with shift paddles
  • Gear ratios: 1st (5.25), 2nd (3.36), 3rd (2.17), 4th (1.72), 5th (1.32), 6th (1.00), 7th (0.82), 8th (0.64)
  • Final drive ratio: 2.81:1

Note: The transmission features a launch control function for optimized acceleration.

Drivetrain Configuration

Information about the drivetrain layout, differential, and power distribution

Drivetrain Layout
  • Rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard
  • Optional xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD) system
  • Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) configuration
  • Weight distribution: 50:50 (front:rear)
Differential System
  • Electronically controlled limited-slip differential
  • Differential ratio: 2.81:1
  • Torque vectoring for improved cornering
  • Integrated dynamic stability control (DSC)

Note: The xDrive system can distribute torque variably between the front and rear axles.

Performance and Efficiency

Technical details about the drivetrain's performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions

Performance Metrics
  • 0-60 mph acceleration: 4.9 seconds (RWD), 4.6 seconds (xDrive)
  • Top speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
  • Brake horsepower: 335 hp
  • Power-to-weight ratio: 9.1 lb/hp
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
  • Fuel economy: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (RWD)
  • CO2 emissions: 198 g/km
  • Start-stop technology for reduced idle emissions
  • EURO 6 compliant

Note: Fuel efficiency may vary based on driving conditions and xDrive configuration.

Component Specifications

Engine

Type
B58B30M0
Displacement
2998 cc
Configuration
Inline 6-cylinder
Compression Ratio
11.0:1
Max Power
335 hp @ 5500-6500 rpm
Max Torque
332 lb-ft @ 1380-5200 rpm
Fuel System
Direct injection
Part Number
11002438782

Transmission

Type
8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP50)
Gear Ratios
1st: 4.714
2nd: 3.143
3rd: 2.106
4th: 1.667
5th: 1.285
6th: 1.000
7th: 0.839
8th: 0.667
Reverse: 3.317
Part Number
24008627659
Fluid Type
BMW ATF 3
Fluid Capacity
9.5 liters

Driveshaft

Material
Carbon fiber reinforced plastic
Length
1450 mm
Diameter
80 mm
Part Number
26107571945
Torque Rating
450 Nm

Differential

Type
Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD)
Gear Ratio
2.81:1
Part Number
33107571946
Fluid Type
BMW SAF-XO
Fluid Capacity
1.2 liters

Axles

Front Axle
Type: Double wishbone
Part Number: 31207571947
Torque Rating: 350 Nm
Rear Axle
Type: Five-link
Part Number: 33307571948
Torque Rating: 400 Nm

Transfer Case

Type
All-wheel drive (xDrive)
Part Number
27107571949
Gear Ratio
1.20:1
Fluid Type
BMW TF0870
Fluid Capacity
1.0 liter

Clutch

Type
Torque converter
Part Number
21507571950
Torque Capacity
500 Nm
Engagement Speed
1200 rpm

Propeller Shaft

Material
Aluminum
Length
1200 mm
Diameter
70 mm
Part Number
26107571951
Torque Rating
400 Nm

Wheel Bearings

Front
Type: Tapered roller bearing
Part Number: 31207571952
Load Rating: 1200 kg
Rear
Type: Tapered roller bearing
Part Number: 33307571953
Load Rating: 1300 kg

Suspension

Front
Type: Double wishbone
Spring Rate: 25 N/mm
Damping Force: 1500 N
Rear
Type: Five-link
Spring Rate: 28 N/mm
Damping Force: 1600 N

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules

10000
12
  • Engine oil and filter change
  • Transmission fluid check
  • Differential fluid check
  • Transfer case fluid check
  • Driveshaft inspection
  • Wheel bearing inspection

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

30000
36
  • Transmission fluid change
  • Differential fluid change
  • Transfer case fluid change
  • Propeller shaft inspection
  • Clutch inspection

Inspect for wear and replace as necessary

60000
72
  • Driveshaft replacement
  • Wheel bearing replacement
  • Suspension component inspection
  • Axle inspection

Replace components showing signs of wear or damage

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 2017-Present BMW 540i use?

The 2017-Present BMW 540i features a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system as standard, with an optional xDrive all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The xDrive system dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear axles for improved traction and stability.

Q2

What is the transmission specification for the BMW 540i?

The BMW 540i is equipped with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth shifting and optimal fuel efficiency, with a torque capacity of up to 500 Nm (369 lb-ft).

Q3

What is the maximum torque output of the BMW 540i drivetrain?

The BMW 540i's 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-6 engine produces a maximum torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at 1,380–5,200 rpm, which is efficiently transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels.

Q4

How does the xDrive system improve performance in the BMW 540i?

The xDrive system in the BMW 540i continuously monitors driving conditions and adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear axles. This enhances traction, stability, and handling, particularly in adverse weather conditions or during aggressive driving.

Q5

What maintenance is required for the BMW 540i drivetrain?

Regular maintenance includes checking and replacing transmission fluid every 60,000–100,000 miles, inspecting the driveshaft and differential for wear, and ensuring proper alignment of the drivetrain components. Always refer to the official BMW service schedule for specific intervals.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 540i Drivetrain Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical documentation detailing the drivetrain components, specifications, and maintenance procedures for the BMW 540i.

xDrive System Overview

Coming Soon

A comprehensive guide to the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, including its operation, benefits, and maintenance requirements.

8-Speed Steptronic Transmission Guide

Coming Soon

Detailed information on the 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, including its design, performance, and service recommendations.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official catalog of genuine BMW parts for the 540i drivetrain, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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