The 'novel' aspect is the location of the twin turbochargers, also as has already been mentioned it has specifically been designed as a turbo charged engine.

But... remember, this engine is part of BMW's efficient-dynamics programme to replace large capacity engines with smaller turbo-charged engines, so the engineers were aiming at producing a lighter, more efficient and future-proof design that would meet all the emissions targets whilst providing better driveability and performance than a larger capacity V8.

As such it's not intended to be 'impressive' from a performance standpoint, compared to something after-market or even the typical low-end Mitsubishi Evo type product. They may produce excellent performance, but at what cost?

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