- Filed under: Hatchback, BMW, Luxury
Rumors of a front-wheel drive model to slot in below the 1 Series have been circulating for some time, with the most recent report coming last October. Now, Autocar has confirmed with BMW's chairman, Norbert Reithofe, that an all-new model is coming from the automaker, designed to compete with the recently introduced Audi A1 and built atop the next generation Mini's platform.
However, the unsurprising introduction of a new premium sub-compact won't just be limited to BMW - Reithofer told Autocar that, "We will be extending the BMW and Mini brands into the small car segment with new models and variants." The exec also took pains to differentiate the new Bimmer from the upcoming Mega City EV, saying that this new model is being developed for both front- and all-wheel drive applications, and that the new urban runabout is a separate endeavor.
Combined with the next Mini, due out as early as 2013, the automaker wants to become more than a bit player in the compact class, and in order to keep volumes of scale in check, the new FWD BMW is likely to be built alongside its Mini counterpart in Oxford.
Plans for a revamped 1 Series are also in the works, but the automaker hasn't determined whether the next 1er will be rear- or front-wheel drive. Regardless, the introduction of BMW's first FWD model signals a significant shift, but as long as the brand's patented driving dynamics are present and accounted for, it's hardly the end of the world.
[Source: Autocar]Report: BMW working on new FWD model below 1 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Performance, Videos, BMW, Motorcycle, Humor
BMW S 1000 RR pulls off the old tablecloth trick - Click above to watch the video after the break
Ah yes, the good ol' pull-the-tablecloth-off-the-table-without-sending-dishes-flying routine. The oldest trick in the book? Possibly, but BMW has taken it upon themselves to update the classic demonstration in a major way. How 'bout upping the ante with 24 complete place settings around a giant rectangular table? Yeah, that'd do it.
Just how is BMW planning to remove said tablecloth? Using a new S 1000 RR superbike, that's how. Will it work? Well, it's really a question of physics, right? Take 193 horsepower and a 0 to 60 time that's just shy of 2.9 seconds. Add in one rider with a quick set of wrists and shake well. Garnish with celebratory wheelie.
We highly recommend that you click past the break to see it all go down on video. It's very much worth your time.
[Source: BMW via YouTube]Continue reading Video: BMW S 1000 RR pulls off the old tablecloth trick
Video: BMW S 1000 RR pulls off the old tablecloth trick originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Performance, BMW
BMW M5 spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery
It seems that the 2011 BMW M5 is nearing production-ready status, and while the new supersedan may still be wearing a bit of swirly camouflage, it's easy to see what the more aggressive M5 will look like in its new F10 5 Series body.
As we've mentioned earlier, the 2011 M5 is expected to ditch the outgoing car's high-revving V10 in favor of a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 borrowed from the X5 M and X6 M. Currently, that engine kicks out 555 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, but if the rumormill is to be believed, BMW's M division has cranked out some extra punch for the M5, to the tune of 578 hp and 530 lb-ft. That means 0-60 mph runs should happen in under 4.5 seconds on the way to a limited top speed of 155 mph. As for transmissions, we'll bet our last dollar that the M5 will use a dual-clutch setup, and we're still crossing our fingers that a proper manual transmission will find its way into the cards as well.
Expect the production-ready M5 to debut later this year (Paris Motor Show?) or in the very early months of 2011. In the meantime, click through the attached gallery to see all of the high-res spy shots.
[Source: CarPix]Spy Shots: 2011 BMW M5 shows off more of its new skin originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Coupe, Performance, BMW
2010 BMW 135i - Click above for high-res image gallery
The rumormill has been buzzing lately about a possible M-badged version of the lovely BMW 1 Series. (We still have a hard time calling it M1, since that name has long been reserved for a far more illustrious creation.) A new report from Inside Line, however, reveals that while a 1 Series-based M1 isn't in the cards, we can look forward to seeing a hotted-up 135is, similar to the Z4 sDrive35is and 335is that have just recently been introduced.
Expect the 135is to use the boosted version of BMW's N54 twin-turbo six found in the Z4 and 3 Series variants. This means we can expect total output numbers around the 320 horsepower and 332 pound-feet mark, with an overboost mode that delivers up to 370 lb-ft for brief periods of time. Additionally, a more aggressively tuned suspension will be on hand, improving the coupe's overall dynamics. It might not be as exciting as what a full-bore M1 could be, but we aren't complaining, especially since we're such big fans of the current 135i as is.
So, why not do an M1? Much like the problem Porsche faces with the Cayman and the 911, a too-good 1 Series could potentially overthrow the grandaddy M3, and BMW certainly wouldn't want that. Still, we're glad that BMW is committed to producing a more potent 1 Series and are eagerly awaiting our first drive.
[Source: Inside Line]Report: BMW M1 not happening, look for 135is instead originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, BMW, Racing
BMW Motorsport Z4 GT3 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Late last year we told you that BMW would be creating a race-ready Z4 GT3 for customers who participate in motorsports, and we now have official images of the too-hot Z4 in all of its glory. We've always liked the styling of the Z4-based coupes, and this GT3 spec is certainly a looker.
BMW has shoehorned the M3's 4.0-liter V8 under the hood of the Z4 GT3, and when managed by a Type-408 ECU and Power400 control unit, the high-revving V8 cranks out a whopping 480 horsepower, and a six-speed sequential gearbox sends all of that power to the rear wheels. ABS and central-locking wheels are standard, and for consumers who want an extra touch of civilization, air conditioning is optional.
BMW will be offering the Z4 GT3 to consumers in the second half of this year, with an estimated price of around 298,000 Euro (that's over $405,000 based on current exchange rates). Hit the jump for the official words from BMW Motorsport.
[Source: BMW Motorsport]Continue reading BMW Z4 GT3 is the V8-powered Z4 M you can race
BMW Z4 GT3 is the V8-powered Z4 M you can race originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Crossover, BMW
Hamann Tycoon EVO M - Click above for high-res image gallery
We'll come clean. Collectively, we spend an unexpected amount time repeating the following sentence, "As much as I know I shouldn't, I love the BMW X6. I know it's wrong, I know. But it's just a great car." But you know what makes less sense than the X6? The X6 M. That car's stone cold crazy. Therefore we like it even more than the regular flavor SAC (Sports Activity Coupe). Have you met our friend Hamann?
For the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, Hamann brought along its new Tycoon EVO M. And... it's quite bonkers.The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 has been pumped up to the tune of 670 horsepower and 576 pound-feet of torque. For comparison's sake, the Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce's mighty 6.5-liter V12 produces 670 hp - exactly the same amount as the Hamann Tycoon EVO M. Crazy, no? Oh, also, the mightiest ever Lambo makes 89 lb-ft of torque less than this mental patient Hamann.
Then there's the little matter of the carbon fiber. Look, we're all for saving precious pounds but keep it real for a minute. Before Hamann got their filthy mitts all over it, the X6 M weighed in at 5,324 pounds. Lord (and Hamann) only knows what it weighs now. And since we're keeping it real, shaving a few pounds off the front end of an over-powered beast like the Tycoon is killing a mouse with the 101st Airborne. In other words, the carbon fiber hood and splitter is nothing but blingy, look-at-me bunting. And since we're ragging on conspicuous displays of too much wealth, Tycoon? Really? That said, we've never seen 23-inch wheels look so perfectly at home.
Geneva 2010: Hamann Tycoon EVO M more powerful than mightiest Lamborghini originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Podcasts, Geneva Motor Show, Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Kia, Lamborghini, Lexus, Porsche, Suzuki, Volkswagen
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
The Shunk, Nunez, Abuelsamid and Roth quartet reconvene for Episode #168 of the Autoblog Podcast with the Geneva Motor Show now underway. Our first order of business is a stop at the Autoblog Garage, occupied this week by the Suzuki Kizashi, Kia Sorento, BMW 750Li, and Cadillac SRX. Anticipating the massive auto show that's just about to start, we dive right in. Starting us off is the awesome electric-green Lamborghini 570-4 Superleggera. Jumping from Italian exotics to the ultimate SUV, we talk about the 2011 Porsche Cayenne before segueing cleanly into a discussion of the crack-pipe pricing for the Volkswagen Touareg hybrid. Before we leave the VW/Porsche sphere, we talk about how insanely cool the Porsche 918 Spyder concept car is. The Ford Focus station wagon is one of those things we'll see in Geneva, but likely not in the U.S., while the Lexus CT200h is making its way to the shores of North America. BMW's 5 Series Active Hybrid Concept keeps up the cavalcade of alternative propulsion by the big Swiss lake, and it's our last topic before calling it a night. Thanks for listening!
Direct fanmail to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, review the show in iTunes, fill out our survey or even leave us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget when podcast loneliness sets in. Thanks for listening!Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #168 - Geneva Eve
Autoblog Podcast #168 - Geneva Eve originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Sedan, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, BMW
BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
The dispersion of BMW's ActiveHybrid - and conjoined word - initiative continues with the 5 Series ActiveHybrid Concept. Billed as a "future-oriented full-hybrid model in the upper midrange segment" it boils down to the turbocharged inline-six you love and along with a 53-horsepower electric motor you will learn to love working through an eight-speed auto 'box for the middle-management set. They'll get 10-percent more distance for the gallon, and a squirt of instant boost thanks to those hard working electrons. Follow the jump for the goss on the ActiveHybrid evolution, and have a look at it in the gallery of high-res photos below.
Continue reading Geneva 2010: BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid Concept
Geneva 2010: BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Aftermarket, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Diesel, Luxury
BMW 5 Series GT by AC Schnitzer - Click above for high-res image gallery
The Schnitzer boys have waved wands over the BMW 530d GT, giving it a little more power and a lot more cosmetics. Under the hood is a modest power bump from 245 horsepower to 286, but torque numbers have been omitted so we're supposing there's no change there. If that is indeed the case, color us a wee bit surprised that no more twist was extracted from the torque-tastic oil-burner from Bavaria.
Outside and inside, though, changes abound: an AC Schnitzer engine cover and hood vents, skirts and spoilers everywhere, new rear silencer and chrome trim, aluminum pedals and footrest, plus AC-branded velours for the floor mats and trunk. And to keep you from ridin' dirty there's an AC Schnitzer spring kit and the firm's trademark wheels. Follow the jump for the complete specs, and take in the full view in the gallery of high-res photos below.
[Source: AC Schnitzer]
Continue reading AC Schnitzer decks out the BMW 5 Series GT
AC Schnitzer decks out the BMW 5 Series GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Videos, Audi, BMW
Click above to watch the video after the jump
Good, we were hoping BMW would answer the latest challenge from Audi in the online battle of boast. Audi started up again the dormant war of words between these two German automakers a couple weeks ago by patting itself on the back for winning three Car and Driver comparisons in a row, and now BMW is striking back by bragging about its mixture of efficiency and vehicle dynamics sans compromises.
Hit the jump to watch the 1:25 video for yourself. Unfortunately, Team Motor Werks didn't get to throwing down with Audi until the very end of the spot, which takes place in an elementary school classroom. And even when the guys and gals at BMW took their swing, we're afraid it just grazes the four-ringed chin of its luxury car rival. Let us know which automaker you think scored the more direct blow by chiming in on the post-jump comments.
[Source: YouTube]Continue reading Video: BMW gets cute, takes dig at Audi in the classroom
Video: BMW gets cute, takes dig at Audi in the classroom originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Classics, Auctions, BMW
1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia "Büegelfalte" - Click above for high-res image gallery
Built for the five years before WWII, BMW's sleek 328 roadster is coveted for both its beauty and rarity. Fewer than five hundred were made, and the car featured an advanced tube frame chassis, independent front suspension and a 2.0-liter inline-6 producing 80 horsepower. That might not sound like much, but the 328 weighed just 1830 pounds and could top 100 mph.
The car you see here is a one-off 328 roadster built specifically to race in the 1940 Mille Miglia. In an effort to improve the car's performance, BMW designer Wilhelm Mayrhofer created an especially lightweight and aerodynamic body welded to the tube frame, allowing the engine and drivetrain to sit lower for a better center of gravity. Its design influence can be felt even today, specifically with the 2006 BMW Mille Miglia Concept Coupe.
Seized by the Russians after WWII, the 328 Mille Miglia Büegelfalte spent several years in Eastern Europe, although it was in BMW's care for many years as well. The current owner purchased the car in 2001, and is now offering it for sale at RM's Monaco auction on May 1. Hit the jump for more details on the car or browse through the beautiful high-res gallery below.
[Source: RM Auctions | Photos (C)2010 Peter Raider]Continue reading Unique 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia to highlight RM's Monaco auction
Unique 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia to highlight RM's Monaco auction originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Feb 2010 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: SUV, BMW, Luxury
2011 BMW X5 M Sports package - Click above for high-res image gallery
Initially, BMW revealed that for the 2011 X5 would be getting two new turbocharged engines, as well as some very minor visual tweaks to both the front and rear fascias. Now, however, the Bavarians have dished out the details about the X5's new M Sports package, which not only gives the popular SUV a more aggressive appearance, but makes slight improvements to its overall dynamics.
No tweaks have been made to the engine's overall performance, though a slightly revised chassis setup features a high-speed setting for better handling and stability. New 19-inch light-alloy wheels are standard fare for the M kit, and a bi-colored set of 20s are optional, both of which are wrapped in different tires that BMW says are "chosen specifically for the X5." Other exterior upgrades include revised tailpipes for six-cylinder models, an M body kit, new door sills and satin-finished chrome roof rails. The M Sports treatment also adds sporty touches to the cabin, including sport seats, an M-branded leather steering wheel and brushed aluminum trim.
Pricing for the M Sports package has not been confirmed, but we're willing to bet that it'll probably carry a price around $6,500, which is what the current X5's M kit commands. Expect the new M Sports package to be available on the full range of X5 models. Hit the jump to read BMW's official press release.
[Source: BMW]Continue reading BMW reveals X5 M Sports package details, photos
BMW reveals X5 M Sports package details, photos originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Concept Cars, BMW, Motorcycle, Electric
BMW fuel cell motorcycle design concept - Click above for image gallery
Like many other automakers, BMW has expended plenty of research and development on hydrogen fuels. But unlike every other automaker, BMW has focused on liquid hydrogen with internal combustion engines. A group of design students at ISD of Valenciennes, France felt no such constraints in their latest project.
They've created a BMW badged motorcycle powered by a hydrogen fuel cell with a lithium polymer battery for electrical energy storage. Hydrogen is stored in a 20-liter cryogenic tank mounted where the engine would normally sit, with a suspension consisting of single-sided swing arms front and rear. Propulsion comes via a shaft drive system from the 100 kilowatt motor.
At this point, the bike doesn't physically exist, but it looks really cool in the video after the jump.
A tip of the hat to Radhika!
[Source: Yanko Design]
Continue reading Video: Design students create a fuel cell powered BMW bike
Video: Design students create a fuel cell powered BMW bike originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, BMW
BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery
BMW is expanding its hybrid lineup down the model range to the recently introduced 5 Series sedan with a new concept that debuts Monday at the Geneva Motor Show. The new Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid will likely transition to a production model sometime in 2011. This will be the third different hybrid powertrain variant introduced by BMW following the two-mode system in the ActiveHybrid X6 and the mild hybrid system in the AcitveHybrid 7 Series.
The 5 Series uses a new derivative of the modular mild hybrid system from the larger 7. The 15 kilowatt electric motor from the 7 has been upgraded to a full 40 kW for the smaller sedan. That will allow the hybrid 5 Series to function as a full hybrid, operating in electric-only mode at city speeds. Unlike the twin-turbo V8 used in the earlier hybrids, the 5 uses the 300-horsepower twin-scroll turbo inline-six available in the 535i. A clutch between the engine and motor allows them to be disengaged for electric drive.
A larger battery pack than the 7 Series Hybrid is mounted in the trunk, but BMW has not yet specified if the 5 is using a nickel metal hydride battery like the X6 or a lithium battery like the 7. Chances are it will be the latter in order to minimize intrusion on the cargo capacity.
BMW has incorporated a variety of new strategies into the hybrid control, such as monitoring the navigation route to anticipate what is coming up and to make maximum use of the electric drive. At this point, BMW is not giving specifics on the efficiency of the new hybrid except to say that it should improve on the standard model by more than 10 percent.
[Source: BMW]Continue reading Officially Official: BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid
Officially Official: BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Filed under: Spy Photos, Wagon, Europe, BMW, Luxury
BMW 5-Series Touring spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery
Only days after receiving official word that BMW would be unveiling its next-generation 5 Series Touring at the Auto Mobil International in Leipzig, our spies have spotted a nearly finished prototype frolicking in the snow. As reported earlier, the new Fiver wagon will be very similar to the 5 Series sedan that we recently tested, and judging by these early photos, the only real difference seems to be the distinct full-bore hatch out back. Turbocharged engines, eight-speed transmissions and both rear- and all-wheel drive should be on hand.
Don't expect the 5 Series touring to show up in U.S. showrooms, though. BMW is hoping that American consumers will warm up to the new Gran Turismo model, especially since the proper wagon variant has had relatively dismal sales numbers in recent years. It's a completely different story in other markets, however, and we're sure that the new Touring will be welcomed by 5 Series customers looking for quite a bit more in the way of functionality.
Spy Shots: BMW 5-Series Touring spied prior to Leipzig debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Archive for the 'BMW' Category
Wednesday, June 6th, 2007
Introducing the BMW Concept CS, Germany’s leading manufacturer of premium automobiles is presenting the vision of a unique four-door car which combines the exclusivity of a genuine luxury Gran Turismo with the fascinating thrill of a high-performance sports car.
Character:
• Concept study of a four-door Gran Turismo for the luxury segment.
• Modern, sophisticated surface design bearing testimony to a supreme standard of craftsmanship and experience in moulding convex-concave surfaces.
• The very essence of brand values so typical of BMW in a new segment ensuring a perfect combination of superior dynamics and stylish exclusivity.
• Modern interpretation of the premium concept ensured by extreme precision in every design detail, choice of the most refined materials, and perfect craftsmanship.
• Previously unseen combination of vehicle dimensions and weight ensured by consistent implementation of lightweight strategies.
• European-style aesthetics, clear emphasis on the car’s stretched look, low-slung roof-line, low centre of gravity, extremely long wheelbase (see “Exterior and Interior Dimensions”).
• Innovative interior design with layered surfaces, clearly defined joints serving a functional purpose.
• Clearly defined, sporting seat position for four occupants.
Exterior design:
• Sporting, sleek and low-slung all-round look as an expression of a four-door Gran Turismo.
• Highly expressive, dynamic front-end design with the striking BMW kidney grille as the central highlight.
• Prominently positioned BMW kidney grille to ensure a good supply of cooling air to the engine.
• Re-interpretation of BMW’s classic contour line at the side, door handlers fitted flush in position as a consistent testimony to the car’s attractive sculpture.
• Powerfully flared wheel arches, 21-inch light-alloy wheels, body width increasing towards the rear and thus emphasising the sporting, wide track of the car.
• Flowing roof area with aerodynamically optimised contours.
• Innovative headlights with LED reverse projection technology and extremely slender rear lights behind clear glass. Night design with homogeneous light bodies.
Interior design:
• Uncompromising, highly aesthetic interior design with layered surfaces (layer design concept) and clearly defined functional joints.
• Driver-oriented cockpit with clear ergonomic structuring of functions relevant to the driver and oriented towards superior comfort in the controls and displays.
• Layer design concept also applied to the design of the double circular dials to provide clearly structured information on several visual levels.
• Focus on the joints and seams around the body panels serving to consciously use air venting and ambient interior illumination options.
• Supreme exclusivity and perfect craftsmanship in the finish of the interior highlighted by contrasting colours and surfaces in different kinds of leather.
• Introduction of particularly sophisticated, powerful-looking ceramics as the material for the controls and instruments.
• Innovative sports seats with a fold-up collar element.
This unique combination never seen before offers the perspective to enjoy sheer driving pleasure in a dimension quite unprecedented in the world of motoring. Indeed, the BMW Concept CS is a new definition of design culture. Concentrating on powerful, expressive design, materials of the highest quality, and quality of finish in perfection, this unique new model offers a completely new understanding of premium quality. And within its interior, the BMW Concept CS combines stylish luxury with the most uncompromising ambience full of class and value.
Through its design alone, the BMW Concept CS underlines the supreme skill and competence of the BMW brand in developing the most sporting and dynamic cars offering ample space for more than two occupants. The most spectacular rendition of this heritage at BMW is the BMW M5, which established a brand-new segment in the world of motoring more than two decades ago and is acknowledged to this day as the benchmark in high-performance saloon motoring.
Now the know-how BMW has acquired over the years and decades comes together with the worldwide fame of the company as a manufacturer of premium automobiles, the BMW Concept CS thus offering the best of both worlds.
BMW is using the skills and competence established over such a long time to combine the most fascinating highlights of sporting performance and sophisticated luxury in an unprecedented new concept. Hence, the BMW Concept CS impressively proves how the successful strategy of the sporting four-door may be carried over consistently into the luxury performance segment.
Unparalleled and typical of BMW: the BMW Concept CS.
The unique flair pampering both the driver and his passengers within the BMW Concept CS is an equally clear expression of both a new culture in body design. Both outside and inside, the BMW Concept CS therefore conveys the same message, telling the world that the experience of driving a saloon now comes in an entirely new rendition. So in presenting this new Concept Car, BMW is not only entering a brand-new segment of the market never occupied before, but is also setting the milestone with a brand-new type of car: The four-door luxury Gran Turismo enters a new dimension of motoring in new style and with new features.
A new experience of dynamics and the ambience around us, exemplary quality in design and finish, extreme precision in the dimensions of the car, and concentrated luxury within the interior – these are the features that characterise the BMW Concept CS. And at the same time all this bears clear testimony to the superior know-how and competence of BMW’s engineers and designers in creating such truly emotional automobiles. The sum total of such qualities in the BMW Concept CS can be created only on a sound foundation of firmly defined values: innovative power, sporting performance, aesthetic design, an open frame of mind, and full awareness of quality. Precisely these are the values BMW has been applying consistently for decades in the development of particularly outstanding saloons and fascinating, truly dynamic sports cars. And now these values are concentrated even more than before in an unprecedented manner in the BMW Concept CS.
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Sport Cars, Automotive News, BMW | No Comments »
Sunday, May 20th, 2007
One of the most successful cars of its class is the BMW X5. BMW only recently introduced its latest successor and HAMANN has already put together a complete program for the new X5.
• Aerodynamic parts for sportier debut
• Increase in performance for 3.0si, 3.0d and 4.8i
• Agile road handling through sport springs
• four wheel designs available in three sizes
Hardly any area has been left untouched. Whether it’s suspension, wheels, performance, interior or aerodynamics, the Laupheim German specialists provide clear individualisation launching far above the norm.
New aerodynamic components are mandatory hence HAMANN begins with a new front spoiler that lends the SAV X5 a significant powerful feature. It?s mounted on the series-produced front apron. In back HAMANN added a rear apron seizing the design of the front spoiler to match. This component is also affixed to the series-produced parts. A further sporty accent shines through with the HAMANN roof spoiler, providing a stabilizing effect.
With such a large vehicle, every miniscule of power counts. For this reason, HAMANN reprogrammed the series-produced Motronic. The X5 3.0si received subsequently a power boost to about 14 PS/10kW and 25 Nm more torque. The X5 3.0d (with it?s basic 235 PS/173 kW) is raised by the tuners to 265 PS/ 195 kW and 600 Nm and 8-cylinder model 4.8i jumps by 18 PS/ 13 kW for more power and torque increase as well.
Not an easy choice!
Pondering over wheel choices will require the majority of customers? time. Here are four designs of choice including PG3, Anniversary I and II as well as Edition Race.
The noble tuners from Laupheim present a multi-pieced wheel PG3 available in silver finish with high-polished flange. It?s characterized through the sporty five-spoke design.
The one-pieced wheel Anniversary I portrays a light footing with its? multi-spoke design. HAMANN supplies these in silver finish with INOX stainless steel lip flange. The multi-pieced light alloy wheel Anniversary II exhibits a multi-spoke design as well projecting a feeling of pure motor sports. The silver rims with high-polished flange reflects both nobility and luxury simultaneously.
The appearance of the three-piece, ultra light forged wheels Edition Race in crossing spoke design and black wheel spider is identified through its? nine main spokes double-attached, branching and continually double-crossing towards the outside rim. Its? stirring design becomes particularly noticeable through Titan studs. The high-polished flange is icing on the cake to complete this luxurious look.
PG3 and Anniversary I are available through HAMANN for the X5 in 20 and 22-inch, Anniversary II in 22-inch and the wheel Edition Race comes in an impressive 23-inch.
Naturally HAMANN offers the wheels in form of complete wheel sets.
Typical wheel / tire combinations:
Edition Race : FA/RA 10,5 Jx23 315/25R23 102Y XL
PG3: FA /RA 10,5 J x 22 295/30 ZR 22
PG3: FA/RA 9,5 J x 20 295/40 ZR 20
Anniversary II: FA/RA 10,5 J x 22 295/30 ZR 22
Anniversary I: FA/RA 10,5 J x 22 295/30 ZR 22
Anniversary I: FA/RA 10,5 J x 20 295/40 ZR 20
Anniversary I: FA/RA 10,5 J x 20 FA 275/40 ZR20 / RA 315/35 ZR 20
By using a set of progressive suspension springs, HAMANN reduces the center of gravity for the X5 . For those vehicles that have level regulation, it is lowered to about 40 mm in front, and for vehicles without level regulation or air suspension to about 40 mm in front and about 30 mm in back. Through this, the X5 receives a bit of agility back which, in contrast to its? predecessor model, had suffered somewhat due to its bigger size.
Interior modifications per request
Large vehicles such as the BMW X5 are tailor-made for travel. Due to this, HAMANN also modified the interior. Travellers should have the drive be as comfortable as possible and additionally should provide a feast for the eyes. HAMANNs? accessories such as an exclusive foot mat flooring in black, a foot pedal of aluminium or even an aluminium foot rest enhance the cockpit of the X5. Naturally HAMANN also modifies each BMW X5 for personalized customer requests. For example, extravagant leather decor is available in a variety of colours or an elaborate multimedia alterations including DVD, TV and Play station.
Posted in World Cars, Passenger Cars, Tuning Cars, Automotive News, BMW | No Comments »
Friday, March 9th, 2007
The new BMW M5 Touring
Powered by the back-to-back International Engine of the Year-winning engine driving through BMW’s unique seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox, the new M5 Touring offers up to 1,650 litres of boot space for owners needing to move sizeable loads…… quickly.
Performance
With the previous M5 Touring (E34) only available in left-hand drive, the arrival of the new M5 Touring marks the first time the high-performance estate has been offered to British customers. Powered by the same normally aspirated 5.0-litre V-10 cylinder engine as its Saloon counterpart, the new M5 Touring redlines at 8,250rpm. 507hp and 520Nm of torque propel the car from zero to 62mph in 4.8 seconds (only 0.1 seconds slower than the Saloon). Without the 155mph electronic limiter the new M5 Touring would be capable of achieving 200mph while still transporting the largest of loads.
This balance of ultimate practicality and performance is summed up by Lee Connolly, BMW UK’s Product Manager for the new M5 Touring “The M5 Touring will be the perfect car for delivering supercar owners’ luggage to their holiday homes in France or Spain. Usefully, their luggage will arrive before they do!”
Transmission
These levels of performance are in part made possible by the world’s first seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox with Drivelogic in a production car. The gearbox features eleven different change patterns to offer the driver a personally-tuned driving experience - six settings vary speed and response of gear change in a manual mode and there are five automatic modes. A Launch Control function delivers the fastest possible acceleration from standstill.
Traction
Like the Saloon, the new M5 Touring features a three-stage DSC+ traction control system. The default mode offers drivers high levels of performance and stability. M Dynamic Mode allows an enthusiastic driver the ability to push the M5 Touring to, and beyond, the absolute limits of traction, permitting some sideslip and countersteering before the system cuts in and is selected in the M Drive Manager (see below). If the DSC button is pressed, DSC+ is completely disengaged.
BMW M’s variable M differential also offers the highest levels of driving stability and traction, especially when accelerating out of high-speed corners, with up to 100 per cent of drive being transferred to the rear wheel with most traction. Finally, the Electronic Damper Control (EDC) system offers three suspension settings to complement the prevailing driving conditions.
MDrive Manager packages these programmable settings, so that the touch of a single button sets the car up as required. Like a boy visiting his favourite sweet shop, the M5 driver can select his preferred settings for power, gearbox, EDC and DSC modes, Head-up Display and the degree of Active Seat bolster support, via the iDrive menu. One-touch of the M Drive button on the steering wheel then selects the desired combination and instantly changes the character of the car. One moment the M5 Touring is a placid and practical family car, the next it’s more akin to a track day special.
Exterior design
Visually, the new M5 Touring follows BMW M’s philosophy of high performance shrouded in the body of a standard car with discreet styling enhancements that highlight the potential under the skin. The larger front air dam, side sills, monikered side gills and a rear valance with BMW M’s quad tailpipes protruding all hint at the performance of the world’s most dynamic estate car.
Interior
Internally the new M5 Touring features the same enhancements as the ‘standard’ 5 Series (see below) as well as offering the Active Seat bolsters from the M5 Saloon. In addition, the Touring variant comes with BMW’s innovative iDrive control system with new short cuts - eight freely programmable buttons for instant porgramme selection. Finally, music aficionados can now specify the BMW Individual High End Audio system that uses 16 loud speakers to generate an ear-ringing 825 watts.
The new BMW M5 Touring starts production in March 2007 and will be priced at £67,075 on the road in UK.
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Saturday, June 10th, 2006
Details info: Alternative names:
BMW 1-series (E81) Hatchback 5d
Sales Company:
Available version:
116i - 1.6 16v
118d - 2.0 16v CRD
118i - 2.0 16v aut.
118i - 2.0 16v
120d - 2.0 16v CRD aut.
120d - 2.0 16v CRD
120i - 2.0 16v aut.
120i - 2.0 16v
130i - 3.0 24v
Previous version:
Variation:
Info:
Donors:
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Saturday, June 10th, 2006
Details info: Alternative names:
BMW 3-series (E46) Coupé 2d
3-series (E46)
(1998 - )
Sales Company:
Available version:
M3 - 3.2 24v SMG
M3 - 3.2 24v
Previous version:
318Ci - 2.0 16v Steptronic
318Ci - 2.0 16v
320Ci - 2.2 24v Steptronic
320Ci - 2.2 24v
325Ci - 2.5 24v Steptronic
325Ci - 2.5 24v
330Ci - 3.0 24v Steptronic
330Ci - 3.0 24v
M3 CSL - 3.2 24v
M3 GTR - 4.0 V8 32v
Variation:
Alpina (Germany) B3 (E46)
Hamann (Germany) BMW 3er tuning
BMW (Germany) 3-series (E46 Facelift)
Hamann (Germany) Laguna Seca II
Hamann (Germany) Las Vegas Wings
Hamann (Germany) GT-R
Info:
Description:
318Ci-330Ci Coupé 03.1999-2003,
M3 Coupé 07.2000-
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