[OptionOfT]

Engine modules are locked because of regulation to ensure that emissions control remain in place.

Pops don't disappear with software updates. Pops disappeared in Europe because of the dreaded OPF.

[tmcnally]

Focusing on US, not EU: Had a 2020 m340i delivered pre2020 so lived through this. The niche market also understands this, C3 made a full breakdown presentation for the Volkswagen scandal (https://media.ccc.de/v/32c3-7331-the_exhaust_emissions_scand...) that makes your first point moot.