The Best Modifications for the BMW B58
The BMW B58 engine is a 3.0L inline-6 turbocharged powerhouse that has garnered acclaim for its performance and modifiability. BMW knows they made something special and are using the B58 to its maximum potential. BMW has put the B58 engine in almost all of their models including the M140i, M240i, 340i, 440i, 540i, 640i, 740i, X3 M40i, X4 M40i, X5 40i, X6 40i and the X7 40i. As you can see, there really isn't a BMW model that did not utilize the B58 engine and that's for good reason. Toyota even uses the B58 in their new Supra! Now let’s delve into why it’s highly regarded:
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Reliability and Sturdiness:
- The B58 boasts a closed-deck design, forged crankshaft, and drop-forged cracked connecting rods, contributing to its robustness.
- Unlike its predecessors (such as the N54 and N55), the B58 has overcome reliability issues, making it a reliable choice for enthusiasts.
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Performance:
- Straight from the factory, the B58 delivers between 320 to 382 horsepower, depending on the model.
- With a simple tune and a catless downpipe, it can gain up to 80 wheel torque, which is impressive.
- BMW’s Valvetronic and Double VANOS systems enhance engine response and efficiency.
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Modifiability:
- Upgrades galore: From bolt-on mods to turbo enhancements, the B58 responds well to modifications. We'll list our favourites below!
As mentioned above, the BMW B58 engine responds really well to modifications. With just a simple tune + downpipe, you can get nearly 500 hp out of the engine with the right fuel. Here are our top mods for the BMW B58:
- ECU Tune
- A simple Stage 1 tune from a reputable company can bring the power output of the BMW B58 to over 400 hp. There are 2 companies that come to mind when we think of flash tuning a BMW and that's Bootmod3 (BM3) and MHD. We recommend BM3 for the B58.
- bootmod3 B58 - BMW Fxx Gxx 140i 240i 340i 440i 540i 640i 740i 840i Z4M40i M140i M340i X3 M40i Tune
- Downpipe
- There aren't many limiting parts on the stock B58 engine (when tuned) but the downpipe is an area that's worth upgrading. The extra air you can get to the turbo from an upgraded highflow downpipe is worth its weight in gold! The stock downpipe is restrictive and needs to go for anything above a Stage 1 tune. We recommend the VRSF catted downpipe or a CTS Turbo catted downpipe. Links below!
- VRSF B58 Catted Downpipe
- CTS Turbo B58 Catted Downpipe
- Cold Air Intake
- The stock intake in the B58 is actually pretty capable and don’t require upgrading until about 600 WHP. However, we like the looks and the sound it makes! We recommend the CTS Turbo intake for the B58 (link below)
- CTS Turbo Intake - BMW / F-Series / B58 / M140i / M240i / 340i / 440i / 3.0L
- B58TU Pump
- BMW updated the 40i models to the M40i somewhere around 2019 starting with the 3-series. This lead to the engine getting the street name, “B58 Gen 2” among enthusiasts. There are a few important changes however, the biggest change is the Fuel Pump - found in the M40i models such as the M340i, M440i, etc.
- The good news is that this upgraded TU pump can be installed without fuss to the B58 Gen 1 cars - the 340i, 440i, 540i, etc.
- With this simple mod, the B58 Gen 1 owners can push their cars to even higher outputs with the right tune. BM3 even has an OTS tune for the B58 Gen 1 cars who upgraded to this TU Pump named “Stage 2+”.
- We recommend the OEM Bosch Fuel Pump (link below).
- B58TU High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) - For B58 BMW M140I / M240I / 340I / 440I (F20/F22/F30/F32) X3 / X4 M40I
As far as modifications go, this is pretty much all you need to be at the 500hp mark. Anything above, you will need an upgraded turbo. However, with an intake, downpipe, TU pump + accompanying tune, you will easily walk most cars on the road. That includes the F80/F82 M3/M4.
The BMW B58 engine combines reliability, performance, and modding potential, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and tuners alike. Whether you’re cruising or pushing the limits, the B58 delivers! I guess that’s why the used car market for these are still so hot…