BMW 507 : 1956

This truly exclusive car went to exactly 251 proud owners between 1956 and 1959.

BMW Z8 : 2000

A fascinating milestone in automotive technology: the BMW Z8. Entering the new millennium, BMW proudly presented a very special new model: the BMW Z8.

BMW 315/1 Roadster : 1934

BMW announced the Companys first self-engineered roadster in 1934. And indeed, this concept with its six-cylinder power unit was destined to shape the future of the brand, extending all the way to the current BMW Z4.

BMW X1 Prototype First Drive

If initially we reported that the BMW X1 will only be available for the European market, at the NYC Auto Show, a BMW representative misterously spoke of BMW’s plans to indeed include the X1 in the U.S. line-up as well. So, apparently, BMW has always had plans for the U.S. market and for those of you looking for a smaller SAV model, the X1 might satfisfy your needs.

We arrived with enthusiasm for a drive of a prototype of the BMW X1 sport activity wagon (or SAW — after the cult series of scare-your-date films??), but then we immediately had the stuffing knocked out of us. Because although the BMW X1 starts deliveries in most of the world in October of this year, it won’t come to North America until the middle of 2011. So we’re driving the 2012 BMW X1.

Of course there are reasons for that, of which more later.

After picking ourselves up, dusting off and starting all over again, we stopped our whining long enough to discover in the still-camouflaged BMW X1 a really solid, car-based people/stuff carrier. Over all kinds of milder terrain and on spectacular curvaceous roads on the mostly German- and British- colonized Spanish island of Mallorca, the 2012 BMW X1 actually rips it up pretty darn well for being a new BMW that we don’t remember anyone anywhere asking for.

Continue reading on Edmunds Inside Line

More information surface on the BMW 3 Series GT

With the introduction of the BMW 5 Series GT, BMW can now move forward with their plans of building a Gran Turismo version of the popular 3 Series models.

The PAC, Progressive Activity Coupe or V3, as it is known internally, is expected to based on long-wheel base 3 Series. The Progressive Activity Coupe has a higher roof when compared to the existing 3 Series Wagon and of course, a longer wheelbase as well. The idea of a PAC vehicle is that the little less wealthy 3er customers might find 5 Series too expensive, X3 too big, therefore, the 3 Series GT can be desired solution.

BMW 3 Series GT Rendering

When questioned about the new 3 Series GT and how the the worldwide financial crisis had affected plans for this model, BMW CEO Dr. Reithofer said, “We haven’t canceled the development project for a crossover off the 3-series because it is considered a volume builder with which we can earn good money.” So, in other words, it’s coming!

In a recent post, Scott27, member of GCZ, has some new details on the 3er GT:

We call it Progressive Activity Coupe - because of the way the roof slopes down at the rear but instead of a larger glass area as in a Touring, we have an additional quarter light and a wrap around tailgate the rear end is a combination of Touring and a shooting brake . The 3 GT will not feature the flexible trunk arrangement instead settling for a traditional trunk to which aid the flexibility of the GT you will be able to lift the glass area for easy storage and then have full use of a tailgate as you would have in an SAV or Touring.

Because 3 GT will be in a smaller segment compared to the 5er it will share some personalization features such as optional bench or individual seating , and a very personal approach to luxury.
Because of the segment of the 3 GT the car will be very dynamic to drive it is best seen as an alternative to a Touring - Like the 5er GT it is all about making a statement and making cars very personal to the customer.

The engine range will include the latest six cylinder turbo as found in the GT and the latest six cylinder diesel , additional petrol and diesels will include BMW’s upcoming four cylinder Turbocharged petrol engine and the four cylinder diesel.

3er GT will also receive an optional full length Panoramic roof that will stretch from the front windscreen to the rear screen increasing the space on offer .
Based upon the new cost-efficient architecture that will be seen underneath the 1er and 3er that can be stretched and shrunk by being modular and flexible to whatever car requires it. The GT will be based on a slightly longer next generation 3er platform .

Prototypes using 3er Touring bodies and X1 facias have already begun testing the major componentry . With first prototypes carrying heavily disguised bodies to begin testing this September similar to the 5er GT in September 2007. When the time approaches BMW will no doubt showcase the 3er GT as a Concept.

If we were to draw a conclusion from all these details, it would the fact that we’re seeing a clear indication on how BMW would like to turn the 3GT into a high-volume seller car, rather than a niche-focused model as the 5 Series GT. Offering a wide range of engines will make the car appeal to multiple markets and customers, implicitly more opportunities to sell the car to different people.

So, whatever we like it or not, BMW is serious about extending their market share and creating new car segments. Will this be the best approach for the future? Time will tell….

[Source: GCZ ]

The BMW M3 Edition Models

BMW announced the launch of three M3 Edition Models which will be entering the market in July 2009. These individual cars will have some modifications in body design and interior features, as well as special light-alloy wheels and an even lower chassis.

The M3s will run in limited production for six months and they will be available in four distinct colors: Alpine White, Black, Dakar Yellow, and Monte Carlo Blue. The M3 Edition models will also sport the BMW Individual High-Gloss Satin Chrome.

More details about the BMW M3 Edition Models can be found in the press release below

Press Release BMW M3 Edition Models

Powerful, aesthetic design, supreme performance and exclusive style – the unique characteristics of the BMW M3 are now available in highly attractive Edition Models focusing on the most outstanding highlights of these outstanding cars.

Based on the BMW M3 Coupé, the M3 Edition Models offer a choice of no less than four highly individual cars boasting perfectly harmonised modifications in body design and interior features as well as special light-alloy wheels and an even lower chassis.

The BMW M3 Edition Models will be entering the market worldwide in July 2009 in Alpine White, Black, Dakar Yellow, and Monte Carlo Blue. In the interest of supreme exclusivity their production period is limited to just six months.
Individual highlights both outside and inside.

On the BMW M3 Edition Models the exterior paintwork and interior design are individually matched to one another. Depending on the respective Edition model, the body comes either in Alpine White Non-Metallic, Black Non-Metallic, Dakar Yellow Non-Metallic or Monte Carlo Blue Metallic. The combination with BMW Individual High-Gloss Satin Chrome accentuates the truly sophisticated character of the Edition Models.

The openings on the engine compartment lid on all models are finished in black, the BMW kidney grille, the side gills and the dual tailpipes on the exhaust system come in dark eloxy-plated chrome. The caps on the special BMW M exterior mirrors are likewise finished in black and are connected to the A-pillars by dual arms extending out of the mirror base finished in body colour.

Special colour highlights add an individual touch also to the interior of the BMW M3 Edition Models. The surfaces on the centre armrest, the centre console and the armrests on the door panels are finished in White on the Alpine White and Black models. At the same time these Edition Models come with interior trim in Carbon Structure Leather with white contrasting seams. The seats in Black Novillo Leather feature bespoke contrasting seams as well as vertical trim stripes on the upper section of the backrest and at the front of the legrest. On the Alpine White and Black models, these features come in white, on the Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue models they are in the appropriate exterior colour.

As a further feature the armrests and door closing handles at the inside on the Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue models come with yellow and, respectively, blue contrasting seams. And last but certainly not least, entry trim bars in Checkered Flag Design bearing the “M3“ model designation give all Edition Models yet another highlight.

Special rim design and lowered suspension.
To optimise the looks of the car, all four Edition Models come with specially designed light-alloy rims and a unique suspension: On all models the 19-inch forged M light-alloy rims in double-spoke design are available either in black or in the classic rim colour. And on the Alpine White, Black and Monte Carlo Blue models, the same rims are also available in a special white contrasting colour with polished spokes.

The suspension of the BMW M3 Edition Models adds to the sporting style of the cars, lowering the entire body by 10 millimetres or 0.4“.

BMW M3: supreme performance with eight cylinders and seven gears.
The BMW M3 Edition Models give this high-performance athlete a particularly striking look also reflected by the car’s supreme driving dynamics based on a unique all-round concept and drivetrain/suspension technology inspired by motorsport. The V8 high-speed power unit of the BMW M3 develops maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp from 4.0 litres.

Power is transmitted to the rear wheels either through the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard or through the optional M double-clutch gearbox with Drivelogic enhancing both the dynamic performance and the all-round efficiency of the BMW M3 all in one. In this case acceleration to 100 km/h comes in 4.6 seconds (six-speed manual: 4.8 seconds) and average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 11.9 litres/23.7 mpg imp (six-speed manual: 12.4 litres/22.8 mpg imp)/100 kilometres.

The BMW M3 comes as standard with a lightweight carbon roof, while the options include Electronic Damper Control and the M Drive menu enabling the driver to configure individual, M-specific suspension and drivetrain functions just right for his personal style.

[Source: BMW ]

2010 BMW X1 - Car News

If these barely disguised prototypes look familiar to you, it’s no surprise: This BMW X1 was already shown at last year's Paris auto show under the rather unimaginative but BMW-typical "Concept X1" moniker. Now BMW is testing prototypes on the Spanish island of Mallorca and releasing some details as the car is readied for its official launch later this summer. This will be BMW's fourth size of SUV—sorry, “SAV”—after the X3, X5, and X6.

The elderly X3 is having an increasingly difficult time in a changing marketplace that now includes the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK. The X5 and X6, on the other hand, have been getting flak for their politically incorrect appetite for fuel—even before BMW, in a somewhat incendiary move, added the over-the-top X5 M and X6 M.

Smaller than X3, but Only Slightly

To send out a good vibe to more socially minded SUV lovers, BMW has chosen to launch a smaller, lighter, more-efficient ute. Based on the company’s small rear-wheel-drive platform, shared with the 1-series and 3-series, the X1 is about 600 pounds lighter than the current X3.

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW X1 - Car News

Latest 2011 BMW 5 Series Wagon Spy Photos

Summer is here and BMW is increasing the testing on their upcoming models. The very much so awaited 2011 BMW 5 Series has made another appearance, this time, the Wagon variant. The fellows at CarMagazine UK managed to snap some new, exciting photos of the new 5er.

Everyone’s attention has been on the BMW 5 Series GT, but the real money-maker for BMW, will be the 5 Series models, one of the highest volume seller vehicles in the U.S. The new spotted test mule seem to be entering a higher phase in the Final Evaluation Stage where the now famous BMW camouflage doesn’t cover 100% the entire body.

We are almost certain that the headlights will be very close designed as the ones on the 5GT, but the common design elements stop here. As expected, the new F11 5 Series Wagon has grown in size and the rear-end sports a more coupeish like roof. The test mule also features a panoramic sunroof which we have no doubt it will look absolute spectacular.

Many of you might wonder where this new 5 Wagon will fit into, but as BMW has explained it before, the Wagon model will still appeal to the same consumers as it did before, larger families or people looking for more interior space and cargo room, without having to jump into an SUV or break the bank by buying the more expensive 5er GT.

The BMW 5 Series Wagon is considerably lower and sleeker than the Gran Turismo version, still keeping that sportiness much needed by any BMW owner.

While we can’t fully confirm these allegations, CarMagazine UK believes that the below engine line-up will most likely be offered by BMW. We would like to add that the 550i might actually use the new N55 engine and also that a hybrid version will be offered in the future as well.

• 523i – 2.5-litre straight six
• 530i – 3.0-litre straight six
• 540i – 3.0-litre straight six twin-turbo
• 550i – 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo
• M5 – 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo
• 520d – 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo
• 530d – 3.0-litre straight-six turbo
• 535d – 3.0-litre straight-six twin-turbo

[Source: CarMagazine UK]

First spy photos 2012 BMW 1 Series

To our surprise, the next generation BMW 1 Series due to launch in 2011 has already made an appearance in Munich. The test mule spotted here seems to be the 5-door hatchback version, one of the 5 different variants considered for the 1 Series family.

The first new BMW 1 Series will launch in 2011, along with the Z2 Roadster based on the same platform. The coupe and convertible models will be available a year later together with the 135i SuperSport vehicle.

Many people have wondered what the next 1 Series will bring to the table, some believe, including us, that the new 1 Series will have a revolutionary design, moving away from the safe design lines used in the current 1er.

But according to Scott27, “the best way to describe some of the styling “revolution” on the “evolution” is to look at aspects of the X1. The strong sculptured line that begins from the rear quarter light and scoops down towards the flanks and then joining the shoulder line before the front wheelarch, is the 1er family design characteristic for the next generation. If you look at the shape on the X1 on the lower flanks you can see it is an interpretation of the feature on the current 1er. The bathtub shoulder line will stay with more of an angle coming down towards the front of the car. ”

The 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models will receive different front and rear ends when compared to the hatchback. As we stated  before, BMW is looking into developing at least five different variants of 1 Series vehicles:

• 5 door hatch - conventional 5dr hatch
• 3 door hatch - conventional 3dr hatch
• 2 door coupe - sedanish coupe with 2 doors
• 2 door convertible - sedanish cabrio with 2 doors and canvas roof
• small crossover CAS (1er GT / Y1) - 5dr mix of a hatch, wagon and sedan

The rumor around the Munich HQ is that BMW was looking at the idea of a smaller XCoupe, based on the original XCoupe Concept, but no green light has been given at this time.

BMW plans to downsize the displacement of its engines and moving into the turbocharging direction. The turbo four-cylinders developed together with the PSA Group, will power some of the entry level 1 Series models and we recently learned that 3 cylinder engines will be available for the entry level models.

We should learn more about the 1 Series family at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

[Source: 1Addicts - Photo Credit Brenda Priddy ]

BMW 7 Series with the M Sport Package

While the initial plan was to build a Gran Turismo car based on the new 7 Series, BMW had to scratch that model off their “approved list”. But to satisfy the 7 Series owners who are looking to add even more sportiness to their cars, BMW decided to build an Aerodynamic Package, basically an M Sport Package that will visually enhance the image of the new 7.

So, the first test mule fitted with the M package was spotted by the never sleeping spy photographers. And judging from the photo below, the less exciting front bumper will be replaced by a far more aggressive, “M-ish” type of bumper. While we don’t have any confirmation, we speculate that the large grille will also be modified in the aerodynamic package, making it easier to differentiate itself from the regular 7 model.

Caption: Not the actual car, for the spy photos, see this link

In the near future, we also expect to see the corona-rings headlights coming to the 7 Series models, but once again, we can’t confirm at this time if the M Sport Package will include them as well.

No release date has been announced at this time, but we will most likely see the package available for the MY2010 models, so….late fall.

Update: Scott27 states that the new Tri-Turbo Diesel engine (354 horsepower) will be available for the 7 Series.

[Source: 7Post ]

Cool photos of the new BMW 7 Series

It has been a while since we have posted some cool photos of the recently released BMW 7 Series. Since its unveiling at the L.A Auto Show, there have been numerous articles posted by us, including an extensive photo gallery.

One of the most exciting photos of the new 7 that we have seen so far, are the ones showing the Individual options available for the flagship sedan.

 

Without further ado, let me share with you some new great shots of the BMW 740i, the 3.0 liter six-cylinder twin-turbo engine which outputs 326 horsepower.

If the next generation 2012 BMW M5 looks like this….

I have no choice but to cut off all the extra spending, entertainment, showgirls, gadgets, you name it, so I can start saving money before the next generation BMW M5 will come out in 2012. No seriously, not even kidding this time…….

I don’t often get super excited about new models, it usually takes a while for a new bimmer to sink in and be accepted by me, but the moment I saw this rendering of the F10 BMW M5, I just fell in love. The design lines are just rights, very masculine and muscular, a wide body, extremely aggressive but yet still appealing even to the most conservative BMW fans - yes, I’m one of them.

But what I love the most about this new rendering is the fact that it does NOT resemble in any way the new 7 Series. I honestly got tired of seeing all those photoshops of the next 5er being based on the bodystyle of the 7 Series. As many people close to BMW have said, the cars are absolutely different and the only slightly similar design element are the headlights.

The details on the next M5 are sketchy and the secret is well guarded behind metal doors in Munich, but what we can tell you at this time is that the BMW M5 will drop the famous naturally aspirated V10 engine in favor of a twin-turbo V8 similar to the one offered in the X5 M/X6 M. If that will be the case, the M5 will have a little bit over 550 horsepower under the hood and will be going after the Audi RS6 and its 572 horsepower.

As far as the release date, historically the M model of the 5 Series, is expected a year later after the launch of the regular 5 Series sedan, so we should expect the new M5 in the first half of 2011.

As usual, as soon as we hear more, you’ll be the first to know.

Photo credit WildSpeed2009

BMW X1 Interior revealed for the first time

The German fellows at Auto-News.de had the opportunity to test drive the BMW X1 xDrive23d in Mallorca, Spain. As expected, plenty of photos were taken, but the most interesting one to us is the interior design shot.

There were many speculations around the interior design of the X1, many believe that it will be a combination between the 1 Series design with the navigation part from the 3 Series. Well, judging from these photos, while it share some common elements with the other models, the interior of the X1 is unique in its own way.

It features similar controls, but with the buttons arranged differently, also inside air vents have a more angular shape and the navigation screen is built into the dashboard. Overall, a simple, but stylish layout.

In the same article, Auto-News confirmed our previous statements, there will be three different engines at the X1 launch, followed by other powerplants in the near future:

• BMW X1 xDrive20d - 177 horsepower - 8.4 seconds 0-60 mph - Max Speed 132 mph (213 km/h) - 40.5 mph (5.8 liters / 100 km)
• BMW X1 xDrive23d - 204 horsepower - 7,3 seconds 0-60 mph - Max Speed 138 mph (223 km/h) - 37 mpg (6,3 Liter / 100 km)
• BMW X1 xDrive28i - 6.7 seconds 0-100 - Max Speed 142 mph(230 km/h)

As part of the BMW EfficiencyDynamics program, next Spring, two new entry models are expected, BMW X1 xDrive18i and xDrive18d, which will offer improved fuel consumption and reduced CO2 emissions. The rumor mill says that a rear-wheel-drive model is expected in the future.

BMW X1 will be available this Fall in Europe.

Source: Auto-News

2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo in Action

BMW released all the details and images on the 2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo this past Friday. Today BMW released some static and driving footage of its latest addition.

Refresher: In the U.S. market BMW will offer the 306-hp 535i Gran Turismo which is powered by a 3.0L straight 6-cylinder twin-turbo. That allows for a 0 to 62 mph run in 6.3 seconds with fuel-economy estimated at 26 mpg. U.S. buyers can also opt for the BMW 550i Gran Turismo, which is powered by a 4.4L V8 twin-turbo engine making 407-hp and maximum torque of 442 lb-ft. 0 to 62 mph comes in 5.5 seconds while fuel-economy is estimated at 21 mpg.

2012 BMW 3 Series platoform being tested again

BMW intensifies the testing for its next generation 3 Series due out in 2012. Built under the internal code F30, the new 3 Series will receive a complete redesign and from what our sources are telling us, quite adventurous and unique.

With the new design just recently selected after an internal competition, the first test mules showing off the new bodystyle, won’t be seen until late next year.

But this doesn’t stop BMW from testing the new platform and from all the information we acquired in the past, we learned that the F30 3er will grow in size.  The fellows at Carmagazine UK mention a wheelbase measuring 2.8 meters (9.2 feet). A similar architecture will be used in the new 2011 BMW 1 Series but also the upcoming 2010 X3.

We already know that a Progressive Activity vehicle based on the 3 Series will be showcased at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September. Developed under the name Gran Turismo, the the Progressive Activity Coupe has a higher roof when compared to the existing 3 Series Wagon and of course, a longer wheelbase as well. We learned a while back that the 3-series crossover will come with rear-wheel drive as standard, but four-wheel drive will be offered as an option.

The 3 Series GT is all about space and convenience, but without sacrificing performance. The rear seats offer generous room, higher sitting position that in the regular 3 Series models and of course, comfort.

The 2012 BMW 3 Series will offer a large variety of powerplants, from the existing petrol and diesel engines, to future four-cylinder turbo engines. Being still a few years prior to the official launch, we expect BMW to surprise us with more exciting engines, including one similar to the new N55 powerplant used in the BMW 550i GT

BMW fan reviews the new BMW X6 M

The New York Auto Show remains in history as the first motor show where BMW has officially revealed their first all-wheel drive M car, the X6 M. Even though the X6 M is not considered by BMW as being an SUV-type of car, bimmer fans will often refer to it  as the first M SUV.

We were fortunate to attend the official launch of this new Motorsport model and we were quite excited about  the design and technologies behind this car. Despite the always crowded BMW floor, we managed to spend some time with the car and snapped some photos for you.

Since we were waiting for the production model to launch before we can share with you all of our findings, we got beaten to it by Kamil at CarGuyDad, who spent some time himself with a production ready model near the Spartanburg plant.

He goes into more details and shared with us some known and unknown things about the BMW X6 M. Head over to his blog and see what he had to say.

BMW Z4 sDrive23i

For those of us that live in the U.S., BMW is offering only two choices when it comes to the new BMW Z4 roadster: the entry-model, sDrive30i and the more powerful, sDrive35i.

We recently had the opportunity to drive sDrive30i model and our review should be up tomorrow, but what we won’t have for a while is the opportunity to drive an European only model, like the sDrive23i that is available in the United Kingdom as well.

The UK based fellows at AutoExpress decided to go back and this time drive their entry model as well, especially since they were highly impressed with the sDrive35i they have previously tested. Has the sDrive23i lived up to their expectations? We shall find out next.

This UK-spec model provides the answer. It’s fitted with the entry-level 201bhp 2.5-litre straight-six engine, which revs sweetly all the way to 7,000rpm and produces a tuneful exhaust note.

Our example was also equipped with the optional M Sport adaptive suspension. This gives a choice of Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings, selected through the Drive Dynamic Control (DDC) function. DDC applies the same modes to the throttle response and steering weight.

The standard ride setting on the previous Z4 compares to Sport+ here. And in Normal and Sport, refinement is vastly improved – during our run, the springs soaked up the worst the UK’s roads could muster, instantly making the BMW feel like a more grown-up car

BMW Golf Cartbag - Stylish and Practical

Let’s break away from the monotony of our usual posting and allow us to show you something different: the latest BMW……Golf Cartbag designed together with the sports bag specialists OGIO. Now we know that many of you are golf players, so we thought it will be interesting to show you what you can buy from the bmw-shop.com website.

So next time you show up at the golf course in your Z4 or even better, the new 7 Series, sporting a BMW Golf Cartbag might win you some extra points…….okay, we made up this last part and it’s kinda cheesy but you get the point.

Sporty elegance, plenty of room and sophisticated details are guaranteed to make the new BMW Golf Cartbag - with its generous stowage space and numerous compartments - even more fun to have on the course. BMW has partnered with the renowned US sports bag specialists OGIO, to launch this 9-Inch bag in trendy white. Thanks to multiple compartments and a soft rubberized edge, it ensures optimum transport of your clubs. With eleven special pockets that make searching for purse, cell phone and scorecard a thing of the past, this bag is destined to quickly become a golfer’s favorite.

A Favorite Place for Golf Equipment.
The spacious outside pocket offers plenty of room for balls, tees and scorecard. Ten other compartments do away with the painstaking search for pitch mark and glove on the course. These include the fleece-lined, weatherproof compartment for valuables, the inside cell phone pocket and the spacious, soft rubber coated club compartment with seven partitions.

Quality - Right Down to the Last Detail.
As always, details make all the difference: The zippered rain cover is quickly attached when needed and golf gloves are fastened to the bag by means of Velcro, while a special tee holder and the insulated 0.5 l beverage compartment make this bag a comfortable companion on the course. Then there’s a lift grip for convenient handling and attachments to hold a caddy towel and umbrella. The bag comes with a shoulder strap, a practical adjustable foot and a patented, ergonomic 3-point plastic handle. The 3-ball dispenser makes sure your golf balls are always ready at hand. Thanks to the zipperless ball pocket, reserve balls and tees are quickly and easily accessed. The BMW Golf Cartbag is complemented by a fine selection of equipment and apparel, such as functional polo shirts made of breathable fast-drying fabrics.

Facts & Figures:
BMW Golfsport Collection: Golf Cartbag
Weight: 4.1 kg (9 lbs.)
Size: 40 x 35 x 94 cm (15.7″ x 13.8″ x 37″)
Material: Leatherette, nylon
Color: White

The complete BMW Lifestyle Collection is available at selected BMW dealers and on the Internet at www.bmw-shop.com.

BMW 130i tii by Format76

By now, you probably know our infatuation with the tii version of the BMW 1  Series. Since its first unveling at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2007, the BMW 1 Series tii model has been one of our most desired BMWs to date and seeing the car at the Chicago Auto Show as well, proved us why we love this car so much.

The 1 Series Coupe tii replicas have been around for months now, but for the first time, we have the opportunity to see a tii version of the 130i hatchback as well. Sporting the same performance parts as the coupe version, the hatchback model is just as good looking.

But what makes this video so special are the video producing skills shown by the guys at Format76.net. So let’s see if you agree with us.

If you can see this, then you might need a Flash Player upgrade or you need to install Flash Player if it's missing. Get Flash Player from Adobe.

BMW’s Mini USA division launches “True Blood” campaign

BMW and MINI USA continue to impress with their latest and most innovative marketing techniques. If the MINI viral videos are already well known and appreciated by the fans, this latest campaign surprises everyone and hopefully, in a good way.

The campaign will launch under the “True Blood” name and MINI receives some help from the TV network HBO who runs the vampire show with the same name. This latest effort by HBO comes as continuation of the last year’s launch campaign that centered on ads suggesting a blood substitute.

In this new campaign, MINI is one of the several brands being pitched to…..vampires and the marketing efforts will run until June 14th when the show returns with its second season.

The ads feature blood-red versions of the MINI Cooper and Clubman and run with the headlines like: ”Feel the Wind in Your Fangs” and “Type GO.”. Several advertising spots were bought on  US Weekly, AM New York or the New York Observer.

Online, the ads can be seen on Yahoo and AOL portals, along with the CNN and HBO’s homepage. Several microsites have been setup for this campaign:  bloodcopy.com, fellowshipofthesun.org, and americanvampireleague.com.

Kate Alini, MINI marketing communications manager, saw an opportunity in this unique campaign when HBO approached her last month:  ”After evaluating it, we thought it interesting, fun, and unique. They came up with the concept and were dead on and authentic with our brand identity. But it was their concept,” she says.

Will this new ads be successful? No doubt, MINI has so far not failed to impress us.

[Source: MediaPost ]

BMW 128i vs. MINI Cooper S at the track

I bet you any money that you didn’t expect such a comparison today featured on the blog, but our friends over at InsideLine have done it again. They decided to take the BMW 128i Convertible and the MINI Cooper S Cabrio at the track and see how they stack against each other. Almost a year ago, we have performed our own comparison, but at the time, we chose the 135i Coupe and the Cooper S.

As usual, they put the two vehicles through some intensive tests, straigtlines, cornering, you name it…..who came up on top? Well, let’s watch the video.

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BMW 7 series HARTGE anthracite CLASSIC wheel set

HERBERT HARTGE GmbH & Co. KG are delightful to present the new HARTGE anthracite CLASSIC wheel set and the HARTGE sports spring set for BMW 7 series. HARTGE anthracite CLASSIC wheel set: 9.5 x 22″ offset 25 with 265 / 30 ZR 22 front ; 10.5 x 22″ offset 28 with 295 / 25 ZR 22 [...]

Toyota Possibly Developing Solar-Powered Car

Remember reports Toyota was working on a solar-powered Prius? Maybe they weren't entirely wrong. According to The Nikkei, Toyota's secretly developing a vehicle powered solely by solar energy, some on the car and others not-so-much.

According to Japanese newspaper The Nikkei, Toyota is working on an electric vehicle that will get some of its power from solar cells on the vehicle, and that can be recharged with electricity generated from solar panels on the roofs of homes. The report goes on to say the automaker later hopes to develop a model totally powered by solar cells on the vehicle. All of this is of course completely done without citing sources.

The Nikkei newspaper, however, did say it will be years before the planned vehicle will be available on the market. Yeah, like for-never. Seriously, we might be able to see this as a concept car at some point, but does anyone really think it's cost-efficient or energy-efficient enough of a technology to see the light of day beyond any but the world's sunniest markets? Just sayin'... (Hat tip to James!)

The latest BMW engine: N55 - found in the BMW 5 Series GT

The launch of the BMW 5 Series GT also coincides with the introduction of a new BMW engine, internal codename: N55. The new BMW TwinPower Turbo uses a single twin scroll turbo instead of twin turbochargers as the N54 engine. The 2,979cc six-cylinder powerplant features for the first time High Precision Injection and variable VALVETRONIC valve management combined with the single twin-scroll turbocharger.

Even though BMW has not yet confirmed our suspicions, we believe the single turbocharger used in the 5 Series GT is the same as those fitted to the new 4.4 liter V8 engine in the X5M/X6M. Power and torque is similar to the twin turbo engine - 225 kW/306 hp at a speed of 5,800 rpm- but the 400Nm/295 lb-ft peak torque kicks in 1,000 rpm earlier at 1,200 rpm.

N54 Engine Featured Here

Compared to the BMW turbo engine already well-known in the 335i, 535i and other models, the N55 engine offers even greater fuel economy combined with optimized CO2 management. The power unit of the BMW 535i Gran Turismo is the first turbocharged engine to feature a map-controlled oil pump which, taking up less energy, makes a further contribution to motoring efficiency.

We’ve also done some snooping around and asked some people, and the rumor is that in the near future, BMW will offer a twin-turbo engine with VALVETRONIC and Direct-Injection, which might produce close to 360 horsepower. Since we can’t confirm it 100%, take this with a grain of salt, but we’ll let you know as soon as we hear more.

Press Release

World debut:
TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC in a new straight-six gasoline engine.

The new model is entering the market with a choice of two gasoline engines and one diesel power unit. In the process BMW’s newly developed straight-six gasoline engine for the fi rst time featuring turbocharger technology, High Precision Injection and variable VALVETRONIC valve management all together is making its world debut. Indeed, the intelligent combination of these three technologies gives this power unit the best and most direct response ever offered by a straight-six turbocharged engine from BMW.
The new BMW TwinPower Turbo develops 225 kW/306 hp at a speed of 5,800 rpm, maintaining its maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres/295 lb-ft over a wide speed range from 1,200–5,000 rpm and, in comparison with the BMW turbo engine already well-known in other model series, offering even greater fuel economy combined with optimised CO2 management.

The history of BMW’s modern turbo engines going back to the year 2006 is characterised by spectacular power and exemplary efficiency. And now BMW is opening up a new chapter in this history, the straight-six gasoline engine powering the BMW 535i Gran Turismo consistently continuing the process of optimising engine power while at the same time reducing both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions on an engine of this calibre.
The 3.0-litre power unit, for example, is yet a further result of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy, offering a range of highlights in technology never seen before on any other engine – highlights created in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics and now ideally matched for optimum driving dynamics and economy all in one.
The new straight-six is the world’s first engine to combine turbocharging, direct gasoline injection and fully variable VALVETRONIC valve management developed by BMW. The turbocharging process follows the twin-scroll principle already applied successfully by the BMW Group and now further enhanced consistently for use in a particularly powerful and sporting straight-six.
The combination of this turbocharger technology with High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC exclusive to BMW exceeds even the response and efficiency of the BMW Twin Turbo power unit launched back in 2006.

Response even better than before, fuel consumption even lower.
VALVETRONIC has already proven its qualities in numerous BMW engines the world over as a particularly effective technology providing even greater efficiency. The big advantage of VALVETRONIC is the infinite control and adjustment of valve stroke on the intake valves, making the throttle butterfly used in former times superfl uous. VALVETRONIC reduces throttle losses in the charge cycle process to an absolute minimum and optimises engine response since the air mass required to control the combustion process is masterminded in the engine itself and not outside the power unit with the usual “dead” volume. This ensures particularly efficient use of the energy contained in the fuel, developing a very muscular torque curve and giving the engine optimum response. In particular, the better response of a VALVETRONIC engine results from the fact that underpressure under part load is only approximately 50 millibar, while on a conventional engine up to 800 millibar of underpressure has to be set off.
On the BMW 535i Gran Turismo the VALVETRONIC functions have been optimised again by a new adjuster complete with a fully integrated sensor serving above all to make the adjustment process even faster than before. Indeed, the inertia factor on the new adjuster is only one-tenth the figure on the former model, serving to further improve engine response. Responding smoothly, directly and immediately to the gas pedal, the new straight-six is clearly the leader in its class also in this discipline. Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres/295 lb-ft, for example, comes at just 1,200 rpm.
Apart from the optimised VALVETRONIC control unit, the newly developed turbocharger also contributes to this superiority, ensuring a particularly spontaneous build-up of power since the ducts of three cylinders at a time are separated from one another both in the exhaust manifold and the turbocharger.
In practice, this means particularly low exhaust gas counter-pressure at low engine speeds, the double ducts then enabling the fl ow of gas to build up greater dynamism in the exhaust manifold and powerfully drive the turbocharger blades even at low engine speeds. Twin-scroll technology thus combines the benefits of two turbochargers within one system. And now this principle adapted to the BMW straight-six with its high standard of technology marks the ongoing, consistent development of BMW’s turbocharged engines.

High Precision Injection with new injector nozzles.
The VALVETRONIC system is fully integrated in the cylinder head. This intelligent and extremely compact arrangement allows a direct combination with High Precision Injection with its injection nozzles placed in the middle between the valves and, therefore, in the immediate vicinity of the spark plug in the cylinder head.
High Precision Injection in the new six-cylinder delivers fuel through innovative multi-hole valves at an injection pressure increased once again in large areas all the way to 200 bar. This ensures extremely precise dosage if the fuel injected as well as a particularly clean combustion process. And last but not least in this context, the direct injection of fuel serves to cool the fuel/air mixture and increase the compression ratio to a higher level than in a turbocharged engine with manifold injection – an advantage contributing once again to the greater power of the straight-six.
Displacing 2,979 cc, the new power unit delivers maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp. It therefore offers all the torque and muscle of a significantly
larger eight-cylinder, but comes with much lower weight and significantly lower fuel consumption and emissions. It is indeed far lighter than a comparably powerful eight-cylinder and remains even 4 kilos lighter than the straight-six turbocharged engine already well-established in the market.
The BMW 535i Gran Turismo accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h or 155 mph. The unusually good balance of performance and fuel consumption is clearly expressed by average fuel consumption in the combined EU cycle of just 8.9 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 31.7 mpg imp. And the CO2 rating of the BMW 535i Gran Turismo is just 209 grams per kilometre.
The BMW 535i Gran Turismo, like the other two model variants, comes as standard with a wide range of BMW Eff cientDynamics technology. Supplementing the excellent effi ciency of the respective engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission, features such as Brake Energy regeneration, on-demand management and operation of ancillary units including the electrical coolant pump, the electrical power assistance pump and the detachable a/c compressor, as well as consistent lightweight engineering, optimised aerodynamics including active management of air flaps, and tyres with reduced roll resistance, ensure optimum fuel economy and emission management at all times.

The power unit of the BMW 535i Gran Turismo is the fi rst turbocharged engine to feature a map-controlled oil pump which, taking up less energy, makes a further contribution to motoring effi ciency. Yet a further point is that the new straight-six power unit with turbocharger, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC, does not require sulphur-free fuel and may therefore be used without problems the world over. The final point is that the engine naturally fulfils both the EU5 emission standard in Europe and the ULEV II standard in the USA.

Monaco the BMW Killer

After the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona, BMW Sauber were beginning to look toward a brighter finish to the season. They had introduced a massive upgrade to the F1.09 for that race and there was cause to be more positive after looking at the results. Most other teams introduced significant upgrades that weekend as well and although the F1.09 was much better the resulting gain wasn’t as significant.

The next upgrade which includes a new double decker diffuser is to be ready to be introduced for Istanbul Turkey in 2 weeks time. This left the Monaco Grand Prix this past weekend with the upgrades from Spain only. Monaco, with its many slow speed corners will magnify any downforce problems a car has problems by 10 and this was what was awaiting BMW Sauber.

Right from the start on Thursday free practice it was clear Monaco would have the better of the F1.09 no matter who were to drive it. Practice times were very much off the pace and it didn’t matter what setup was used or weather they used the soft or super soft tires. The car was slow.

To make matters worse, the usually bulletproof reliability has hit the team and in the second practice session on Thursday Robert Kubica lost an engine in a cloud of white smoke and flames. This left him short on setup laps for qualifying and quite bitter.

Qualifying on Saturday was no better performance wise. Add to the problems a lot of traffic crammed into this short track and neither Nick Heidfeld or Robert Kubica could advance past Q1 and would start 16th and 17th on the grid.

Come race day it was clear that BMW Sauber were to be back markers for their first time ever. Before the race was 2 laps old Kubica suffered a flat tire and had to pit immediately forcing him way off the back of the Monaco train with little hope of gaining any meaningful positions. It was lap 22 that finally ended his day when on and off brake problems finally forced him to the garage. That left Nick Heidfeld to at least finish the race. Being on a one stop strategy and hoping for attrition ahead of him was his only option to gain position and he did. The ever reliable Nick Heidfeld clawed his way up to 11th where he finished.

This was an embarrassing weekend for the team and at one point a shot of Kubica on a rant next to Heidfeld who continually nodded his agreement showed the building frustration. No one on the team is happy and as Mario Theissen put it “at no point this weekend was our car competitive”.

In 2 weeks is the Turkish Grand Prix in Istanbul and this is where the new double decker diffuser will be introduced. If the package works the F1.09 should gain quite a bit of downforce through the corners and improve race pace.

MotorTrend calls the BMW M3 “The World’s Greatest All-Around Car”

The 2009 BMW M3 gets an endorsement from the popular auto magazine MotorTrend who declared the luxury sporty sedan, “The World’s Greatest All-Around Car”. Of course, not all of you might agree with this statement and that’s perfectly fine, but we still suggest reading the MotorTrend article and find out the reasons behind this powerful statement they have made.

The BMW M3 has always being considered one of the best all around sports cars ever built and the competitors Lexus IS-F, Audi RS4 and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG have always been looking to threaten the M3’s position. Recently even the Cadillac CTS-V started to be considered a direct competitor.

But let’s see what MotorTrend has to say:

I took our long-term 2009 BMW M3 sedan out again yesterday, a long afternoon drive and then home, and more than ever I’m convinced this is the single finest all-around automobile in the world. Sure, myriad other cars have their talents—the scream and Gucci-chic of a Ferrari, the awesome power of the ZR1, the try-and-stop-me capability of a Land Rover, the elegance and comfort of a big Benz. But probably no other car combines so many virtues—speed, handling, good looks, roominess, practicality—into one package. And few cars of any kind are executed so well. Driving the M3 is an absolutely blissful experience, flooding your brain with dopamine as if you were arriving to courtside seats at the Lakers game with Jennifer Connelly on your arm.

BMW 135i tii featured in the Blur racing game

The beautiful BMW 135i tii model is making its way into the games world as well. The latest racing game developed by Bizarre Creatings under the Blur name, features the sporty and good looking 135i tii, a car that made the news headlines when it was unveiled two years ago at the Tokyo Auto Show.

As BMW named it back then, the 1 Series tii is a young interpretation of classic BMW brand values with specific requirements for motosport. The tii design follows the tradition of BMW’s compact, light and extremely sporting coupes.  BMW 1 Series tii underlines the extremely sporting potential and the youthful, temperamental character of the BMW 1 Series.

Since the official unveiling, we have seen many unofficial versions of the tii, built by BMW fans with parts ordered from the BMW Performance Parts catalogue. We have even seen a tii replica on sale on eBay.

So to us it was a pleasant surprise to see the BMW 135i tii featured in a racing game, for the first time as far as we know.

The racer will feature licensed cars, as well as real-world locations like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Barcelona. Blur will also include a number of arcade style power-ups like speed boosts and the ability to blast other cars with bursts of energy. Blur is also all about driving social network and plans to create a large community behind it. As you would expect in such game, there will be plenty multiplayer options, online playing and four player split-screen mode.

The game will be available on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC.

Wouldn’t be interesting to host our own Blur championship with our readers competing against each other?

BMW 330d xDrive Sedan

For those of us that live in the U.S., the BMW diesel choices are limited at this time, with the 335d and X5d being the only models available for us. While we hope that in the near future we will see more diesel engines here and implicitly giving us the opportunity to test drive them, for now we will just have to rely on our European friends to provide some reviews of diesel powered BMWs available there.

Today, the fellows at Autoevolution sent us in their latest test drive of the popular BMW 330 xDrive Sedan.

Obviously, the 330d, even in xDrive form, lacks some of the spirit of the 330i, and we’re talking mainly about the gas-powered model’s ability to rev through the roof to give its occupants a glimpse of the real driving pleasure, as the BMW purists might say. The three-liter diesel on the other hand totally makes up for that with its gargantuan torque which is felt at almost any speed, in any gear.

While cruising on a small stretch of empty road at about 1900 rpm we “opened her up” a little bit and in of just a few seconds we went from doing 130 km/h (81 mph) to almost 180 km/h (112 mph). And all that while being in sixth gear! Our photographer was most impressed with this fact from the passenger seat, but then again he drives a 1.6-liter diesel, so he should be pretty easy to please from this point of view.

In almost any diesel, modern or oldschool, the low range punch usually prevails over any other speed-inducing sensation. The sequential turbocharger setup of the highly-touted three-liter diesel found in some BMWs changed that. Our test car wasn’t equipped with that engine, but with a new one, which in theory should be positioned lower on the “sportiness scale”, since it’s “only” a single-turbo.

Turns out it isn’t (Ed, positioned lower). Although it has almost 40 hp, 60 Nm (44.2 lb ft) and a turbocharger less than its big brother, our test car is actually faster to 100 km/h (62 mph) than the 335d. To put things into a bigger perspective, the 330d xDrive is faster than the first generation M3 to 100 km/h by almost a full second. Talk about efficient torque distribution! This engine is all about low-range AND mid-range punch, unlike other oil burners, which brings it very close to a turbocharged gasoline counterpart.

Plus, compared to “that other, real type” of combustion, the 330d takes much less effort to run at the same speed and on the same road. It still has that laid-back attitude of your everyday diesel – hence the very frugal fuel economy – but it can also provide neck-snapping acceleration in almost any gear thanks to its massive 520 Nm (383.5 lb ft) torque figure, strangely available from 1750 to 3000 rpm.

Gold BMW M5

Well, we have seen a lot of strange things posted on our blog in the last few years, right? I mean, we saw an orange painted M5 and a wannabe BMW, but have you ever seen a gold plated M5? I didn’t think so….neither did we.

So this gold plated BMW M5 was spotted on the roads of Moscow and quite frankly, it simply makes my head spinning just by looking at it. The  car has been creating a lot of buzz all over the web, some believe it’s an insult to a BMW car, others, more extravagant, like the show off look of this car and the yellow shine that makes it stand out.

Hopefully this one won’t be carjacked like the gold plated Porsche in Moscow last year.

As far as I myself, if I were to own a beautiful, classy M5, I think I will just leave it the way it is, no need to modify a car that has all it needs.

More photos after the jump

BMW Sauber at Monaco Grand Prix

Monaco. The BMW Sauber F1 Team leaves Monaco empty handed. Nick Heidfeld finished 11th, while his team mate, Robert Kubica, retired after 29 laps because of brake problems. Nick Heidfeld: 11th BMW Sauber F1.09-06 / BMW P86/9 Fastest lap 1:16.268 min on lap 49 (15th fastest overall) ”I tried to make up positions at the start and on the [...]

2009 BMW M5

Unlike the old spaghetti western that culminates in a Mexican standoff between the three antagonists, the 2009 BMW M5 encompasses each quality in a single package–good, bad, and ugly. The good of the 2009 M5 is its race-derived, 500-horsepower V-10 engine, making it BMW’s fastest four-door, with a 0-60 time of just 4.5 seconds. The [...]

2009 BMW Z4

BMW’s modern Z roadster started its evolution as the Z3 back in 1996 and was reconceived as the Z4 for 2002; now it’s been thoroughly redesigned. The new 2009 BMW Z4 has revamped styling, a new retractable hard top, and a raft of new high-tech performance features. Likes Tight hardtop Velvety, responsive engines Excellent dual-clutch automatic Phenomenal poise, with good [...]

BMW 5 Series GT brings the “Brake Energy Regeneration” technology

An important element overlooked in the new BMW 5 Series GT, is the introduction for the first time in a U.S. BMW models of the Brake Energy Regeneration system. This particular technology has been already integrated in some European models as part of the BMW Efficiency Program.

The Brake Energy Regeneration system helps to save energy and therefore reduce the fuel consumptions by using an electronically controlled alternator. In most of the cars out there, the car’s alternator runs continuously and it can charge the battery at any time. In the new 5 Gran Turismo, the alternator is disengaged from the engine during normal cruise and acceleration, but it activates during decelerating or braking.  This adds to the engine drag braking, and the car’s kinetic energy is effectively transformed into electrical energy which replenishes the battery. An electronically controlled clutch is added to engage and disengage the alternator.

The battery uses a technology called “glass mat”, in which its internal plates are separated with saturated absorbent glass-boron silicate rather than the usual liquid electrolyte.

Judging from the photo below, the speed gauge now has an indicator for EfficientDynamics. Despite the fac that the car in these photos are built with European specs, we expect to see the Brake Energy Regeneration in the U.S. models as well.

[Source: Autospies ]

2010 BMW 5-series Gran Turismo - Official Photos and Info

Usually, we herald the introduction of a brand-new BMW. Even when it challenges our preconceptions about the brand—as did the 1999 X5, the 2002 7-series, and, more recently, the oddly appealing slant-back X6—we try to keep an open mind. But BMW is pushing the limits of our love with its 2010 5-series Gran Turismo, aka 5-series GT, which we first saw in concept form at the Geneva auto show. BMW claims the inaptly named GT's pragmatic sheetmetal will attract Lexus buyers.

As previewed in Geneva, the 5-series GT blends 5-series mechanicals with a none-too-sexy hatchback body and a capacious interior. On the outside, virtually nothing has changed from concept to reality, with the broad, blunt nose leading the way (and containing many pedestrian protection devices within it). While the “Corona rings” in the headlights are now LEDs and frameless windows top the aluminum doors, the most interesting exterior feature is the curious hatchback. It can be opened like a traditional hatchback and also has a separate flap that opens more like a trunk, presumably in order to make the car more palatable to people that have a stigma against hatchback designs. (Since people who stigmatize hatchbacks usually do so because of their looks, not their cargo access, the dual-mode hatch probably won’t help.) Wheel sizes will range from 18 to 20 inches, but even the biggest rollers get dwarfed by the slab sides of the GT. This fortress-on-tiny-wheels design may appeal to Lexus RX shoppers.

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW 5-series Gran Turismo - Official Photos and Info

Technical Specifications: BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

With the risk of overloading you with all these BMW 5 Series GT related information, we still need to continue reporting our findings on this latest BMW model and also, to dig deeper into all the technical specifications we’re receiving. Yesterday we talked about the three different engine offerings to choose from in the 5 GT line-up, but many of you requested to see things like dimensions, weight, fuel consumption or emission levels.

The 5 Series models will be available with both gasoline and diesel engines, starting with the turbo inline-six 3.0 liter diesel engine which outputs 245 horsepower. The award-winning engine from the 335i or the 535i sedan made its way into the line-up as well. The high-end 550i GT is powered by the V8 twin-turbo 4.4 liter engine producing 407 horsepower.

One concern that many BMW fans always had, was the overall weight of these new vehicles that keep adding more technologies to them and becoming larger in size. BMW announced that the 535i GT weighs 4,277 lbs (1,940 kg), the diesel version, 530d GT,  4,321 lbs (1,960 kg) and the 550i GT, 4,542 lbs (2,060 kg).

As a comparison, the 2009 BMW 535i Wagon has a curb weight of 4,145 lbs (1,880 kg).

There are many more technical specs on the photos below, so feel free to scan through them.