Note that our friends at MB have already started the I4 journey with the CLA 45 AMG!
From a displacement of just 2 liters, the new AMG 2.0 liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine generates 265 kW (360 hp), which represents a benchmark output of 133 kW (181 hp) per liter of engine displacement. It delivers 450 Nm of torque.
Further to the DTM discussion above by
Levi we must remember why the current E9x M3 uses a 90-degree, four-litre V8 ... DTM!
The DTM is set to ditch V8 engines in favour of two-litre turbos within three seasons as part its drive to become a global formula.
The series has set a target of 2016 to go down the same route as Super GT in Japan, which next year will adopt small-capacity, direct-injection four-cylinder turbos for its GT500 class.
The revelation of the plans comes in the wake of rules accord signed with the Super GT organiser last October, under which the Japanese series is embracing the philosophy of the DTM regulations, and the firming up in March of plans for DTM America with a start date set for either 2015 or '16.
Hans-Werner Aufrecht, chairman of the DTM-organising ITR, told AUTOSPORT: "We want two-litre turbos in Europe and America, no question. We want the same regulations everywhere.
"The important point that all the manufacturers have accepted is cost reduction. This will allow them to run around the world with the same car and engine."
Aufrecht explained that the move away from V8s was also designed to mirror the downsizing of engines in the manufacturers' ranges of road cars.
The revelation will mean an end for the current breed of 90-degree, four-litre V8s, which date back to the rebirth of the series in 2000.