Why Would Mercedes Consider Using BMW Engines in Its Future Cars?
If you’d told a car enthusiast a decade ago that Mercedes-Benz might use BMW engines in its next generation of cars, you’d probably get a raised eyebrow. Yet, here we are—two of Germany’s most storied rivals are deep in talks about just that. So, what’s driving this unexpected collaboration?
The answer lies in a rapidly shifting automotive landscape. Electric vehicles (EVs) were supposed to be the future, and fast. But the reality? EV adoption has been slower than many automakers predicted. That’s left companies like Mercedes rethinking their internal combustion engine (ICE) strategies, especially as they face stricter emissions regulations and the looming Euro 7 standards in Europe.
Developing new petrol engines that meet these requirements is expensive and time-consuming. By teaming up with BMW, Mercedes can secure a supply of cutting-edge, Euro 7-compliant engines without pouring billions into fresh R&D. It’s a pragmatic move—one that could keep their plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and range-extender models competitive while freeing up resources for other innovations.
Which Mercedes Models Could Get BMW Power?
This isn’t just about one or two niche models. If the deal goes through, BMW’s four-cylinder petrol engines could find their way into a broad swath of the Mercedes lineup. We’re talking everything from the compact CLA and GLA, to the versatile GLB, the ever-popular C-Class and E-Class, the GLC SUV, and even the upcoming “Little G”—a smaller sibling to the iconic G-Class.
The engine in question is rumored to be a turbocharged 2.0-liter version of BMW’s B48 four-cylinder, a powerhouse already found in nearly every current BMW and Mini. What makes the B48 so appealing? Flexibility. It’s designed for both longitudinal and transverse layouts, meaning Mercedes can slot it into both compact and mid-sized cars without major engineering headaches.
How Does This Fit with Mercedes’ Current Engine Plans?
You might be wondering—doesn’t Mercedes already have its own new engine? Yes, the brand recently rolled out the M252, a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder developed in Germany and produced in China through a partnership with Geely and Renault’s Horse venture. It’s already powering the new CLA, offering outputs from 136 to 190 horsepower and paired with a slick eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that houses a 27-horsepower electric motor.
Here’s the catch: the M252 is tailored for mild-hybrid setups, not full plug-in hybrids or range-extender applications. That’s a significant gap, especially as demand grows for PHEVs that can deliver both efficiency and performance. BMW’s B48, on the other hand, is already proven in these roles, making it a logical solution for Mercedes as it broadens its electrified lineup.
What’s in It for BMW?
This isn’t just a one-way street. For BMW, supplying engines to Mercedes could mean higher production volumes, better economies of scale, and a stronger foothold in global markets. There’s even talk of a shared engine plant in the US—a strategic move to sidestep rising import tariffs and ensure a steady supply for both brands’ North American operations.
It’s also a testament to how the industry is evolving. Collaboration, even among fierce rivals, is becoming the norm as automakers face mounting regulatory, technological, and financial pressures. According to a 2023 report from McKinsey & Company, more than 60% of automotive executives expect cross-brand partnerships to increase over the next five years, especially in areas like powertrain development and electrification.
Could This Partnership Go Beyond Engines?
While the current discussions focus on four-cylinder petrol engines, insiders suggest the partnership could expand. Gearboxes, hybrid systems, and even joint production facilities are on the table. If that happens, it would mark a historic first for Germany’s luxury car sector—two giants not just sharing technology, but potentially reshaping how premium vehicles are built and delivered worldwide.
What Does This Mean for Drivers?
For the average driver, the badge on the hood will still say Mercedes. But under the skin, you might find a BMW heart beating—at least in some models. The outcome? Potentially better-performing, more efficient cars that meet the latest emissions standards without sacrificing the driving experience Mercedes owners expect.
And let’s be honest: both brands have a reputation for engineering excellence. If anything, this partnership could raise the bar for what’s possible in the next generation of hybrid and petrol-powered luxury vehicles.
Looking Ahead: A New Era of Automotive Collaboration
It’s easy to get nostalgic about the days when Mercedes and BMW were locked in fierce, solitary competition. But today’s challenges demand fresh thinking. By joining forces, these two icons are signaling that adaptability—and a willingness to break with tradition—may be the key to thriving in a rapidly changing world.
For car lovers, it’s a fascinating development. For the industry, it could be a glimpse of what’s to come: more collaboration, smarter resource use, and ultimately, better cars for everyone. One thing’s for sure—the lines between rival and partner are getting blurrier by the day. And that might just be the shake-up the automotive world needs.