In European markets, the N53 began to replace its port injected parent, the BMW N52 in 2007.

Markets such as the United States, Canada, Australia and Malaysia retained the N52 as the N53 was deemed unsuitable due to the high sulphur content of local fuel.

[3] As per the N52, the N53 has double-VANOS (variable valve timing) and a magnesium alloy block.

[3] Unlike the N52, the N53 does not have Valvetronic (variable valve lift), due to space limitations in the cylinder head.

[5][11] Applications: The N53 uses the same High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) as the BMW N54 turbocharged straight-six engine,[12] which had HPFP failures leading to Lemon Law "buy backs" and legal action in the United States.