The original M47 diesel engine featured non-common-rail direct fuel injection and a 2.0 L; 119.1 cu in (1,951 cc) block.

A software update developed in conjunction with X Power, and released in 2002 after Rover's separation from BMW, increased this to 96 kW (131 PS; 129 hp) at 3500 rpm and 300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) at 1900rpm, and was badged CDTi rather than CDT.

[2] The M47R in the Rover 75 and MG ZT used a Mitsubishi turbocharger with wastegate,[3] whereas that fitted to the Freelander used a Garrett VNT.

This consisted of a number of butterfly valves within each individual inlet tract, which are secured to an actuating rod via two small screws.

These failures have occurred in such quantity that a number of specialist BMW magazines have featured articles on the problem including information on how to remove the swirl flaps.

[1][4] For those who wish to perform some preventive maintenance on the M47TUD20 engine, there are companies who supply and/or fit blanking plugs to allow the removal of these swirl flaps altogether.

BMW addressed the problem by introducing stronger swirl flaps and larger diameter spindles – made from plastic – in 2006.