The M62 is BMW's powerful 4.4-liter V-8 engine, replacing the M60. Also available as a 3.5-liter, the M62 is used in BMW models like the E39 5 Series Sedan, the E38 7 Series, the E31 8 Series and the X5 SAV.

A further stage in the development of the BMW V-8 engine went into production in 1996. The main aims of this iteration were a reduction in fuel consumption, a decrease in noise emissions and an increase in torque. To these ends, the displacements of the two versions were increased to 3.5 liters and 4.4 liters. The output of the smaller engine rose to 235 bhp while that of the larger one remained the same.

In order to reduce internal friction and thus fuel concumption, as well as noise, single-row (simplex) timing chains were introduced and the inertia of the valve gear was reduced. In order to provide an operating temperature that was optimal at all times, the thermostat was now controlled depending on the engine's operating condition ("map-controlled thermostat").

In 1998 the V-8 engine was given the VANOS variable cam timing system. This led to a further increase torque for both engines and an extra 10 bhp for the 3.5-liter engine. In addition, it provided reductions in both exhause emissions and fuel consumption in the lower load range.