2009 BMW 760Li pricing details announced

The most powerful BMW 7-Series, the 760i and the 760Li, made their debut earlier this year in Europe. The United States will now be getting the high-performing sedan but will only get one variant as they did with the last model year - the 2009 760Li.

Power comes from a 6.0L V12 with BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology and High Precision Injection and double-VANOS infinite camshaft. That allows for a whopping 544-hp and 553 lb-ft of torque from just 1,500 rpms. 0 to 62 mph for the 2009 BMW 760Li comes in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Estimated fuel-economy comes in at 18 mpg.

Pricing for the 2009 BMW 760Li starts at $137,425. Buyers can opt for a night-vision system for $2,600, active (scary to us) cruise control for $2,400, a wood trimmed steering-wheel for $800, $150 for Bluetooth and $200 for massaging rear-seats. The Individual Composition Package that adds 20-inch wheels, Alcantara headliner, Merino leather and wood trim goes for $6,500. The M Sport package gets you 20-inch double-spoke wheels, an M steering wheel and a body kit - all for $3,900. The rear-seat entertainment package goes for another $2,200.

Oh and don’t forget - if you go for the 2009 BMW 760Li - get ready to cash out a $3,000 gas-guzzler tax.

 

2009 BMW 760Li:

Press Release:

• Supreme motoring culture and luxurious comfort in perfection: The new BMW 760i and BMW 760Li twelve-cylinders mark the pinnacle of the fifth-generation BMW 7 Series. Superior powertrain technology, generous space and comfort, and unique features all round create an incomparable driving and travelling experience impressively confirming BMW’s leading position in the global market of luxury performance cars. Two body variants and a wide range of customisation options provide a huge margin of freedom for enjoying the exclusivity of this twelve-cylinder luxury saloon in your own, very personal style. Together with the BMW 760i, the BMW 760Li with its wheelbase extended by 140 millimetres or 5.5″ and particular emphasis on rear-seat comfort is also entering the market as the absolute climax in motoring luxury.

• The newly developed V12 power unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, ¬High Precision Injection and double-VANOS infinite camshaft adjustment delivers maximum output of 400 kW/544 hp from engine capacity of 6.0 litres and develops peak torque of 750 Newton-metres/553 lb-ft from just 1,500 rpm. A masterpiece in modern engine technology, the all-aluminium twelve-cylinder power unit stands out through its effortless surge of power, unique acoustic and vibration-damping qualities, and a level of efficiency never seen before in this performance class. Naturally, both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li comply in full with the EU 5 emission standard.

• Both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li come with brand-new eight-speed transmission featured in these outstanding models for the first time. With its innovative gearset configuration, the new transmission offers additional gears while maintaining the dimensions and weight of a conventional six-speed automatic. This makes the eight-speed automatic transmission an ideal match for the power and performance characteristics of the new twelve-cylinder, bringing out the comfort and dynamic qualities of the V12 in particular style. And at the same time the new transmission enhances the all-round efficiency of the car to an even higher standard never seen before.

• The BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li both represent the stylish presence, superior sportiness and precise elegance of the BMW 7 Series in particularly exclusive style. The outstanding highlights of these very special models include the extra-wide, slightly concave chrome frame as well as powerfully contoured bars in the BMW kidney grille, 19-inch light-alloy wheels, the V12 model designation on the chrome-plated gill elements, an additional chrome bar at the rear as well as twin tailpipes in rectangular design.

• Detailed refinements add yet a further exclusive touch to the modern and luxurious interior ambience. The special features exclusive to these very special models include stainless-steel entry trim with an illuminated V12 model designation, the instrument panel finished in nappa leather and highlighted by elegant stitching, the roof lining and sun visors in alcantara as well as high-quality burr walnut interior trim of the most exclusive standard.

• Offering generous freedom of space, the wide range of standard features as well as innovative comfort and entertainment options enhance the grand touring experience particularly on the rear seats. The BMW 760Li comes with individually adjustable single seats at the rear, kneeroom of 208 mm/8.2″ and headroom of 988 mm/38.9″ setting up new records even in this demanding segment. Standard equipment on both models features highlights such as four-zone automatic air conditioning, the BMW Professional navigation system, comfort seats, Park Distance Control and Automatic Soft Close on the doors. Additional enjoyment is added by optional features such as the multi-channel audio system, a DAB double tuner, a DVD system at the rear, an additional iDrive Controller serving to mastermind entertainment, telecommunication and navigation functions from the rear seats, active seat ventilation, massage seats as well as the contoured sliding roof optimised for excellent noise control and highly attractive design.

• The BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li come as an option with the full range of features from BMW ¬ConnectedDrive, including driver assistance systems such as Cruise Control with Stop & Go, a High-Beam Assistant, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, Side View and a back-up camera. Further features offered by BMW ¬ConnectedDrive are BMW Online, BMW Assist, BMW TeleServices and unrestricted use of the internet in the car as well as the Extended Emergency Call function with automatic determination of the car’s current location.

• Suspension technology unique even in the luxury class gives both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li truly fascinating performance and, in particular, unparalleled comfort. Both models come with a double-wishbone front axle, the Integral-V rear axle exclusive to BMW, hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with on-demand management of the power assistance pump and Servotronic. Significant features coming as standard are Dynamic Damping Control including Dynamic Drive Control as well as Dynamic Drive anti-roll stability. The BMW 760Li comes additionally with air suspension and self-levelling on the rear axle, and as an option, both models are available with Integral Active Steering.

• Maximum occupant safety is guaranteed by the optimised structure of the body in conjunction with a wide range of passive safety systems interacting with one another and masterminded by electronic management. These include three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, frontal and side airbags, head airbags at the side, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres as well as a Tyre Defect Indicator. The BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li come as standard with bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime lights function provided by corona rings as well as foglamps and Adaptive Brake Lights. Adaptive Headlights with a Bending Light function, variable light distribution and adaptive headlight range control are all available as options.

• Model variants:
BMW 760i: V12 gasoline engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and ¬
High Precision Injection
Capacity: 5,972 cc, max output: 400 kW/544 hp at 5,250 rpm
Max torque: 750 Nm/553 lb-ft from 1,500-5,000 rpm
Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 12.9 litres/100 kilometres
(21.9 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 299 g/km
Emission standard: EU 5

BMW 760Li: V12 gasoline engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and High Precision Injection
Capacity: 5,972 cc, max output: 400 kW/544 hp at 5,250 rpm
Max torque: 750 Nm/553 lb-ft from 1,500-5,000 rpm
Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 13.0 litres/100 kilometres
(21.7 mpg imp)
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 303 g/km
Emission standard: EU 5

BMW to quit Formula One by the end of 2009

BMW surprised the Formula One world today by announcing their exit as a team and engine supplier at the end of 2009.

“Resources freed up as a result are to be dedicated to the development of new drive technologies and projects in the field of sustainability,” BMW said in a statement. “BMW will continue to be actively involved in other motor sports series.”

“Of course, this was a difficult decision for us. But it’s a resolute step in view of our company’s strategic realignment,” explained Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “Premium will increasingly be defined in terms of sustainability and environmental compatibility. This is an area in which we want to remain in the lead.”

Reithofer said that BMW will remain active in the field of motor sports, focusing on close-to-production motor sports and promoting young drivers.

Follow the jump for the press release.

Press Release:

BMW looks back on a long track record of success in the field of motor sports:

BMW achieved eight Formula One victories from 1982 to 1985 with Brabham. In 1983, BMW won the driver’s championship with Nelson Piquet (Brabham BMW). The last win with the legendary turbo engine followed with Benetton in 1986. Ten victories were scored during the partnership with Williams (2000-2005). BMW had a total of 19 grand prix wins and 33 pole positions before the BMW Sauber F1 Team era.

In its debut season in 2006, the newly established BMW Sauber F1 Team wound up fifth in the constructor’s championship. In 2007, the German-Swiss team came in second after McLaren-Mercedes’ exclusion from the points standings. The 2008 season saw the team in the hunt for the world championship until the end of the season, winding up third. Polish-born Robert Kubica achieved the first and hitherto only GP victory in Canada on June 8, 2008. So far, the BMW Sauber F1 Team has taken one pole position (Kubica in Bahrain in 2008) and 16 podium finishes. The BMW Sauber F1 Team occupies the eighth spot in the manufacturer’s standings in the season presently underway.

BMW to show EfficientDynamics supercar concept at Frankfurt

Earlier this year, reports of a new BMW fuel-efficient supercar started making their way around the internet. It was reported that the supercar will incorporate all of BMW’s EfficientDynamics fuel-saving technologies including start/stop technology and a regeneration braking system that would increase fuel-efficiency by 15 percent.

According to Autotelegraaf, the car will make its concept debut at September’s 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. As reported earlier this morning, BMW will not longer participate in Formula One after the end of this season.

“Resources freed up as a result are to be dedicated to the development of new drive technologies and projects in the field of sustainability,” BMW said in a statement.

Insiders have previously said that the car, internally known as the Z10 ED, will be a “puristic two-seater that draws on all the latest BMW technology and lightweight build processes.” A source close to the project says that the new car will be influenced by the M1 Hommage concept.

Sounds like a Mercedes-Benz SLS Gullwing competitor to us.

BMW picks SB LiMotive to supply lithium-ion batteries for new Megacity Vehicle

BMW’s CEO Norbert Reithofer said earlier this year that the second phase of Project i will be a new vehicle by the name of “Megacity Vehicle.” At the time, Reithofer said that BMW is pursuing a radical approach to sustainable mobility with the Megacity Vehicle and hopes to move it through the development process as quickly as possible.

Well, BMW announced a “milestone for future electric today” and confirmed that it has chosen SB LiMotive as the supplier of lithium-ion battery cells for the future project Megacity Vehicle.

“The decision is a major milestone along the way to serial production of the Megacity Vehicle. The battery is a key component in any electric vehicle - it determines the range and performance of the car, said Reithofer.

As for the Megacity Vehicle, Reithofer has previously said that the electric-vehicle will be the first of a range of zero-emission models from BMW. He said that “customers will have the choice between a fully electric drive and a high-efficiency combustion engine. Large-scale production could start in the first half of the next decade.”

Make the jump for the press release for more details.

Press Release:

Milestone for future electric…

# 03.08.2009 - Munich. The BMW Group has opted for SB LiMotive as the supplier of battery cells for the future project Megacity Vehicle. This gives the company access to state-of-the-art lithium-ion storage technology. “The decision is a major milestone along the way to serial production of the Megacity Vehicle. The battery is a key component in any electric vehicle - it determines the range and performance of the car. With SB LiMotive we have selected a supplier who offers the best available technology, combining leading German automotive expertise with future-oriented Korean battery know-how,” explains Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.

SB LiMotive is a 50:50 joint venture of Bosch and Samsung SDI. Here the two companies pool their expertise to develop and produce lithium-ion storage cells. Samsung SDI is a leader in the use of lithium-ion batteries in mobile phones and laptops. The technology has a proven track record in this area of application with millions of products to its name. However, integration in an automobile requires higher standards in terms of durability, operational stability and safety. Here, Bosch contributes its experience from a company history which goes back over 100 years.

“In this collaborative effort, three global technology leaders are coming together to shape the future of the electric vehicle. With our SB LiMotive joint venture as a supplier for the Megacity Vehicle’s battery cells, we are sure that we can play a major role here,” says Franz Fehrenbach, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH.

“Our foremost objective is to supply BMW with the best battery technology available in terms of performance, range, and safety. At the same time, we want to establish SB LiMotive lithium-ion battery cells as a sustainable product which, after being used in the car, can be reused in other areas or recycled,” says Soon Taek Kim, CEO of Samsung SDI.

By opting for a battery supplier, the BMW Group underscores its commitment to electric mobility. The company concentrates its activities relating to electric motoring and urban mobility solutions in project i, an initiative which forms part of Strategy Number ONE. The first outcome of project i is the MINI E: this purely electrically powered vehicle is currently the focus of a large-scale field test involving some 600 vehicles in the US, Great Britain and Germany. Insights gained during this field test will be just as essential to the serial development of both the Megacity Vehicle as the battery technology. The zero-emissions vehicle will go into serial production in the first half of the next decade.

BMW CEO confirms new sub-brand will sell electric Megacity Vehicle, most likely to be called Isetta (w/ video)

Earlier this week, BMW announced that it has chosen SB LiMotive as the supplier of lithium-ion battery cells for the future “Megacity Vehicle” project. Ever since, we’ve been hearing speculations about what BMW is going to call this new Megacity Vehicle and what brand will the new model be sold under.

Around the same time BMW was releasing new details about its Megacity Vehicle, it was celebrating its BMW Isetta - a 1-cylinder 13-hp compact car that it introduced in 1955. BMW held a huge Isetta campaign with 7,500 miniature Isetta models and a 60-second cinema commercial (which you can watch after the jump) relating the journey of the pocket-sized Isettas from the BMW Museum to the center of Munich.

Reuters is also reporting that BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer confirmed that the automaker will launch a new sub-brand to market its upcoming Megacity Vehicle. Reithofer said that the new sub-brand will sell a range of substantial vehicles.

A source told BMW Blog that ”Isetta will be a reimagining of the original cult classic using today’s and tomorrows technology to provide urban mobility and sustainability in a lovable modern design wholly inspired by the original,” (which sounds like something straight out of a press release).

Previous plans to consider adding a fourth brand to the group’s existing Rolls-Royce, BMW and Mini marquees had been put to rest, Reithofer said. He said that the first vehicle to be launched under the new drive will be an electric car.

G-Power Typhoon RS: 525-hp wasn’t enough to beat the BMW X5 M

Before BMW unveiled the 555-hp X5 M, tuner G-Power revealed a 525-hp V8 G-Power Typhoon based on the X5. In an effort not to be left behind by the OEM X5 M, G-Power has now unveiled an even more powerful X5 - known as the X5 G-Power Typhoon RS.

With the help of a G-Power SK III RS supercharger, the Typhoon RS produces at total of 625-hp with a maximum torque of 516 lb-ft. That allows it to go from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 177 mph. The standard BMW X5 also goes from 0 to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds with a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.

The performance kit by G-Power also uses a high-performance exhaust system, racing catalysts and rear mufflers, and a large-volume aluminum charge air cooling system at the front.

Jon Sibal draws up the BMW EfficientDynamics Supercar

Just two days ago we saw the first spy shots of the upcoming BMW concept that is scheduled to make its debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show next month. However, the shots showed the BMW concept wearing a silver car cover so we hardly got to see anything at all.

Thank to Jon Sibal, who recently brought us our first look at the Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder, and his photo rendering skills - we now have an idea of what BMW’s green supercar concept will look like when the covers come off in Frankfurt next month.

Make sure you stay tuned for more details on this upcoming BMW concept.

A closer look at the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6’s technology

BMW has just released a video for those who hate reading to have a closer look at the innovative hybrid technology found in the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6.

Making at total of 480-hp from its 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 and two electric motors, the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is considered the world’s most power hybrid electric-vehicle. It also has the ability to run exclusively on electric-power when traveling at speeds of up to 37 mph for a total of 1.6 miles.

Fuel-economy in the EU test cycle is improved by roughly 20 percent. Stay tuned for official EPA figures.

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is officially the most powerful hybrid in the world

Along with the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 sedan, BMW unveiled the production version of the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 SUV. The ActiveHybrid X6 will make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month and will go on sale in the U.S. a little before the ActiveHybrid 7 - during the fourth-quarter of 2009.

Power for the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 comes from a reworked version of the xDrive50i’s 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 making 400-hp and a peak torque of 450 lb-ft. When compared to the standard twin-turbocharged V8 of the xDrive50i, the ActiveHybrid X6’s version has no starter, alternator, or belt drive for the air-conditioning compressor. The dual-circuit cooling system has been modified for all-electric operation.

Mated to two electric motors (powered by nickel-metal hydride batteries) that each have an output of 91-hp and 86-hp respectively, with a peak torque values of 192 lb-ft and 206 lb-ft, the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 produces a total of 480-hp with a maximum torque of 575 lb-ft. This makes it the most powerful hybrid vehicle in the world. Mated to 7-speed automatic transmission, 0 to 60 mph comes in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph.

The 2010 BMW AvtiveHybrid X6 is the German automaker’s first full-hybrid vehicle and also has the ability to run exclusively on electric-power when traveling at speeds of up to 37 mph. The combustion engine is activated automatically when required. Fuel-economy in the EU test cycle is improved by roughly 20 percent.

First BMW X1 commercial says ‘Joy is the new BMW X1′

BMW has released its first commercial for the upcoming 2011 BMW X1 called “Joy is the new BMW X1.”

Refresher: The BMW X1 will hit markets next year and will be available with three engine choices. Kicking of the lineup is the xDrive20d, which is powered by a 177-hp diesel engine. Second is the xDrive23d, which is powered boy 204-hp turbodiesel. The xDrive28i gasoline model is powered by a 3.0 6-cylinder making 231-hp and a 199 lb-ft of torque. It will be the only model offered in North America.

BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition coming to Frankfurt with 57 mpg

Before you read any further - we just want to tell you that this car isn’t going to be coming to the United States anytime soon (or ever). BMW announced today that it will unveil its new BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition at next month’s 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine making 163-hp with a maximum torque of 265 lb-ft. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission that drives power to the wheels. While 0 to 62 mph comes in a somewhat respectable 8.2 seconds with a top speed of 140 mph, fuel-economy comes in at an outstanding 68.9 mpg imp. (57 mpg in U.S. terms).

Until BMW decides to bring the 320d EfficientDynamics Edition to the U.S., you can satisfy your fuel-economy hunger with the BMW 335d or Volkswagen’s Jetta diesel.

Follow the jump for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2010 BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition:

Press Release:

The New BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition:
Yet Another Step Ahead.

An unprecedented combination of low emissions and sheer driving pleasure: 4.1 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 68.9 mpg imp) and 109 grams CO2/km for 120 kW/163 hp. Most fuel-efficient and lowest-emission model in BMW’s current product portfolio sets new standards in the midrange segment.

Munich. Premium car maker BMW is further increasing its substantial lead in the development of particularly clean and at the same time very dynamic cars of the highest standard. Teaming up with the BMW 320d, the new BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition is being presented for the first time at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. This unique saloon combines fuel consumption of just 4.1 litres diesel/100 kilometres (equal to 68.9 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 109 grams per kilometre in the EU test cycle with engine output of 120 kW/163 hp.

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of this high-tech model boasts an all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharging with variable intake geometry and common-rail direct fuel injection complete with piezo-injectors. With the engine and the entire car modified once again for an even higher standard of efficiency, this unique saloon targeted above all at the German, Italian, French and Spanish markets comes with optimised aerodynamics, an extra-long final drive ratio, and an innovative two-mass flywheel incorporating a centrifugal-force pendulum.

All this makes the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition the most fuel-efficient and lowest-emission car in BMW’s current model range. In the fiercely contested midrange segment it is an unparalleled, highly attractive premium offer for the truly demanding and progressive customer focusing primarily on superior economy and the environment, without wishing to forego the sporting driving characteristics so typical of a genuine BMW.
The enhanced efficiency already offered by the existing models in the BMW 3 Series thanks to BMW ­EfficientDynamics making these cars superior to their competitors, is now raised to an even higher level in the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition.

Four-cylinder diesel engine with optimised efficiency and superior performance all in one.

The BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine specifically optimised for even greater fuel economy and emission management and, therefore, for a standard of efficiency never seen before. All this comes from the 2.0-litre four-cylinder power unit with its all-aluminium crankcase, turbocharging and the latest generation of common-rail fuel injection featured with various power stages also in the BMW 316d, the BMW 318d and the BMW 320d. The engine specially conceived for the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition develops maximum output of 120 kW/163 hp at an engine speed of 3,500-4,200 rpm and peak torque of 360 Newton-metres/265 lb-ft all the way from 1,750 to 3,000 rpm.

The engine stands out in particular through its sporting and dynamic power from low revs. The innovative centrifugal-force pendulum incorporated in the two-mass flywheel, together with the longer transmission ratio, serves to significantly reduce the level of engine speed at all road speeds relevant in practice in the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition. The shift in load points beneficial to fuel economy and emissions goes together in this case with full maintenance of the spontaneity and running smoothness so typical of a BMW diesel.

Centrifugal pendulum in the two-mass flywheel for smooth and comfortable motoring without vibrations even at very low engine speeds.

To ensure smooth driving characteristics free of vibration also when driving at particularly low engine speeds, the power unit of the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition features a so-called centrifugal pendulum efficiently compensating any unsmoothness in running characteristics typically encountered at low revs. This innovative component is integrated in the engine’s two-mass flywheel where it dampens the vibrations generated under load, thus ensuring comfortable and acoustically optimised development of power and performance all the way from low engine speeds.

This increase in motoring comfort will encourage the driver to use a higher gear more often or, respectively, not to shift back as he otherwise would do. But when accelerating the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition still offers the driving behaviour and agility so typical of BMW.

The driving dynamics characteristic of a BMW are borne out also by the car’s acceleration to 100 km/h in just 8.2 seconds and by the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition accelerating in fifth gear from 80-120 km/h in 9.6 seconds. Top speed is 225 km/h or 140 mph.

Lower emissions, more driving pleasure: consistently implementing the potential of BMW ­EfficientDynamics.
The BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition comes with the complete range of technologies serving to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions and already featured as standard on the other models in the BMW 3 Series. Brake Energy Regeneration, for example, serves to concentrate the generation of electric power for the on-board network on overrun and the application of the brakes, thus avoiding even the slightest increase in fuel consumption. The Auto Start Stop function, in turn, switches off the engine even during a short stop in traffic, avoiding any unnecessary consumption of fuel while idling. The gearshift point indicator on the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition, to mention yet a further example, tells the driver in good time when to shift gears in the interest of optimum efficiency. And like the detachable climate compressor, EPS Electronic Power Steering operates only when needed, again in the interest of maximum efficiency.

The electric motor featured within the EPS system therefore takes up energy only when really needed for power assistance or when required by the driver. Active cooling through air flap control and tyres with reduced roll resistance also serve to enhance the car’s efficiency, and the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition is likewise fitted with a diesel particulates filter close to the engine. It almost goes without saying, finally, that the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition fulfils the EU5 emission standard in full.

The fuel economy and emission management also featured in the other models in the BMW 3 Series are combined in the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition with additional innovations, which, together with the decrease in engine power on the BMW 320d by 10 kW or 14 hp, serve to reduce fuel consumption and emissions to an even lower level, below the CO2 standard of 110 grams per kilometre relevant to taxation in many countries.

These additional features include a longer final drive ratio and the lower chassis and suspension of the car. Newly developed Aero wheel rims in turbine wheel design - the only optical sign of distinction on the car to be seen from outside - improve the level of aerodynamics to an even higher standard, giving the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition a drag coefficient of just 0.26.

Within the BMW 3 Series the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition is the so far most consistent implementation of the BMW ­EfficientDynamics development strategy, offering the motorist who really appreciates the premium character and sporting driving qualities of a BMW 3 Series and at the same time attaches utmost significance to superior economy exactly the right choice in the midrange market segment.

Comparing the efficiency of all models in this segment, BMW, introducing the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition, is once again moving a step ahead of the competition. And following BMW’s general policy, the improvement of efficiency offered by this innovative technology does not even require the payment of a higher price for the BMW 320d ­EfficientDynamics Edition, which therefore comes at the same price as the “regular” BMW 320d, which naturally is still included in BMW’s model range.

BMW Group at the IAA 2009

The highlight of BMW�s 2009 motor show presentation is a circuit of several hundred meters length that encloses the entire exhibition space and on which the BMW EfficientDynamics fleet and the world premieres will be presented.

BMW 7 Series : 2010

Following its successful introduction into the market, the new BMW 7 Series is further expanding its position in 2010 as the most innovative model series in the luxury segment.

BMW's Worldwide Supply of Parts for Their Classics

The name says it all: Mobile Tradition. More than 200,000 enthusiasts the world over have joined forces within approximately 600 brand clubs ensuring that the history of BMW lives on - a world record.

BMW 2002 Turbo : 1973

The BMW 2002 Turbo came painted in either chamonix white or polaris silver and was never officially sold in the United States.

BMW Museum and Welt

The BMW museum complex offers sufficient space for presenting around 120 exhibits. The concept is based on an idea by

BMW Z4 wins renowned IDEA design award in the USA

The new BMW Z4 draws attention to itself not just on the road but also among internationally renowned design experts. Just a few weeks after its market launch, the Roadster has now received the International Design Excellence Award (IDEA) 2009 in the USA.

BMW 7 Series High Security : 2010

A new definition of maximum security: The new BMW 7 Series High Security. With the launch of a new generation of high-security sedans based on the BMW 7 Series, the leading supplier of premium vehicles meets the most stringent safety requirements for persons at risk while travelling in their vehicles.

BMW 3.0 CSL : 1975

On it's first racing season, the BMW 3.0 CSL took the European Championship title. Five more where to follow, and both factory and private teams won a large number of national and international races.

BMW 328 : 1939

For long-distance race entries, the Carrozzeria Touring company of Milan was asked to build an exceptionally lightweight coupe body on the BMW 328 chassis.

BMW ActiveHybrid X6 : 2010

BMW announced today the production version of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6. The BMW ActiveHybrid X6 will make its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in September and will reach US BMW Centers in fourth-quarter 2009.

BMW X1 : 2011

The BMW X1 is planned to debut in the United States in calendar year 2011. The X1 has been conceived with the flexibility to offer traditional rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive configurations, as well as a wide variety of gasoline and diesel powertrain choices.

BMW 700 : 1960

To set off this dismal end of the motorcycle market, BMW built the prototype of a new small car in 1950, taking up the lines of the pre-war BMW 327 and the 600-cc fl at-twin engine so popular at the time. But the project was subsequently discarded for economic reasons.

2011 BMW 5-series

New mid-size sedan, wagon taking cues from the latest 7-series.

Caught in wagon form wrapped in plastic camo, spy images of BMW’s new 5-series show the mid-sizer is taking shape with a broader snout and a larger twin-kidney grille similar to that of the new 2009 7-series. A rounded tail also alludes to a more conservative familial resemblance as the German automaker continues to tone down the controversial flame-surfaced styling of the current 5-series.

Keep Reading: 2011 BMW 5-series – Spied

2011 BMW X3 – Spied

The next X3 will be tailor-made for (and in) the U.S.

BMW’s smallish X1 crossover hasn’t even been launched yet, but here we are moving on to the German automaker’s next suburban wagon. We’ve noted before that the current X3 is aging rapidly, and to keep buyers from moving down-market to the fresh-faced X1, the company is rushing the second-generation model towards production.

Slightly bigger than the current X3, the next model will put some distance between itself and the cutesy X1. Our spy photography, taken during hot-weather testing in the Southwest, reveals a sloping front hood and aggressive front air intakes. The side view resembles the X1, with a thicker C-pillar and BMW’s characteristic surfacing with concave elements.

Keep Reading: 2011 BMW X3 – Spied

2011 BMW X1 – First Drive Review

Just call it a really tall 3-series wagon.

BMW is an expert at filling niches that buyers probably never even thought existed. Witness vehicles such as the
5-series Gran Turismo, the upcoming Mini SUV, and the smallest member of the X family, the X1.

This new BMW baby ute is 175.4 inches long, 70.8 inches wide, and 60.8 inches high. That makes it 2.8 inches shorter than a 3-series wagon and 4.5 inches shorter than an X3. Although this may suggest it’s based on the 1-series, the X1 is actually closely related to the 3-series wagon, down to axles, powertrains, and identical all-wheel-drive systems.

Keep Reading: 2011 BMW X1 – First Drive Review

2010 BMW 760i / 760Li – First Drive Review

BMW launches its latest twelve-cylinder luxury missile.

Despite rising fuel prices and environmental consciousness, the power race in the luxury segment goes on. While Europeans prefer their luxury cars with diesel power, the V-12 gasoline engine continues to see strong support in the U.S. and China—and Russia seems to have the fever, too. BMW feels that maintaining a presence in the segment is important for its brand image.

Indeed, BMW is the company that jump-started the V-12 wars in 1987 with the E32 750i/iL, which produced 296 hp from 5.0 liters. It was a huge success, selling 48,600 total units and sending shockwaves through the Mercedes-Benz headquarters in Stuttgart. But it all went downhill from there. Of the last-generation 7-series V-12, the E65/E66 “Bangle Butt” car, BMW sold just 910 in 2007 and a mere 466 in 2008. Compare that to the more than 14,000 V-12–powered 7-series models built in 1988 alone, and the extent of the decline becomes even more stark. Now BMW hopes to reverse the slide with the all-new 2010 760i and long-wheelbase 760Li.

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW 760i / 760Li – First Drive Review

2010 BMW 760Li Pricing and Options Announced

For the longest, most powerful new 7-series, pricing starts at $137,425—before you add any options.

The options list is fairly short. A night vision system adds $2600, active cruise control is $2400, interior wood trim (three varieties are available) commands $1080, and a wood-inlayed steering wheel is $800. Tack on another $200 for a massaging rear seat and $150 for Bluetooth phone integration. Four metallic paint colors add an extra $1800 to the bill.

Just three packages are offered for the 760Li, since most items offered on lesser 7s are standard here. Individual Composition adds 20-inch V-spoke wheels, an Alcantara headliner, Merino leather, and interior wood trim for $6500. The $3900 M Sport package includes 20-inch double-spoke wheels with stickier tires, an M steering wheel, and an aerodynamic body kit. Finally, the rear-seat entertainment pack goes for $2200 and includes two 8-inch video screens.

The 760Li’s V-12 engine also scores with a $3000 gas guzzler tax. All of which reminds us: aren’t we in a recession?

Read our review of the 2010 V-12 7-series: 2010 BMW 760i / 760Li – First Drive

Read more about the new 7-series: 2010 BMW 760i / 760Li – Auto Shows

BMW Quits Formula One

Nine years after BMW’s return to Formula One with Williams, and four years after the formation of the BMW Sauber F1 Team, the Bavarian carmaker is pulling the plug. With the end of the 2009 season, the team will cease operations.

In all those years, BMW has not managed to win the world championship—a major disappointment for the Bavarians. Instead of pushing the brand’s sporty image (Munich engineers cultivate an attitude of unquestioned superiority), Formula One saw BMW as the eternal runner-up, and at times worse. While the company’s executives enjoy hanging out at F1 events, the disappointing performance of the team amounted to a loss of face.

Perhaps even more important, quitting Formula One will save BMW an estimated $350–400 million every year. That’s a very welcome relief given the company’s weak financial performance of late.

Unsurprisingly, BMW attempts to play the well-worn “green” card: “More and more, premium is defined by sustainability and environmental consciousness. We want to serve as a model in this area” submits BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer, adding: “The commitment to Formula One does not reflect our goals any more.”

This explanation strikes us as somewhat disingenuous, given that Formula One, under the guidance of the controversial FIA head Max Mosley, has successfully pushed for the hybridization of the race cars. But BMW was unhappy with Mosley for several reasons, not least his goal to limit the racing teams’ budgets in order to keep cost under control. This would have favored smaller teams.

Mario Theissen, one of BMW’s most promising top executives, and responsible for Formula One since 1999, is deeply disappointed: “We would have liked to carry on,” he admits, adding: “But from a corporate perspective, I understand the decision.”

So do we. That said, it’s a major loss for Formula One—and we are happy to report that BMW’s commitment to motorsports remains unchanged in other racing series, such as Formula BMW, ALMS, and the Superbike championship.

2010 BMW X6 Hybrid

The power of a large dump truck, with the fuel economy . . . of a slightly smaller dump truck.

On the scale of political incorrectness, the BMW X6 contends for the top slot with such behemoths as the Porsche Cayenne, Hummer H2, and Cadillac Escalade. All of them will draw the attention of your local Earth Liberation Front chapter, but the bad-boy BMW makes its case by being not only huge, but loud, thirsty, unconscionably fast, and the least practical of the bunch, too.

But BMW may be the tiniest bit embarrassed by the X6’s brash manners. A few years ago, BMW teamed with GM and DaimlerChrysler to form the Global Hybrid Cooperation, headquartered in Troy, Michigan, the three jointly developed the two-mode hybrid system already available in the General’s full-size Tahoe/Yukon/Escalade SUVs. Mercedes-Benz, now separated from Chrysler, will debut the two-mode system in the 2010 ML450 hybrid at the end of this year, and BMW has already shown the technology on the X6 ActiveHybrid concept. Now spy photos confirm that the concept is nearing production.

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW X6 Hybrid – Spied

BMW 7-series High Security is the Ultimate Protection Machine

It used to be that high rollers needing protection from the proletariat would ride in big SUVs clad in bullet-resistant steel. But climate change and high gas prices make that seem so un-PC. Enter the 7-series High Security.

Like the 740iL Protection we drove almost a decade ago, the High Security is an armored variant of the BMW 750Li and 760Li. The cars are certified to BRV 2009 and VR7 standards, which means they’re resistant to lots of bullets and bombs. The BMW’s underside and all body panels around the passenger compartment are reinforced with special high-strength steel, and the windows are layered with 2.4 inches of polycarbonate that’ll stop glass shards—or bullets—from harming passengers.

An intercom lets the chauffeured chat with the chaff outside, without the risk of opening doors or windows. There’s also an assault alarm and an automatic fire-extinguisher system for the engine compartment and car underside. If a special monitoring system detects an irritant gas, it locks the doors and windows and pumps fresh air into the cabin until the threat has passed.

Other features that will never be listed at your local BMW dealer include holders for ambassadors’ flags, two-way radios, lights and sirens for the outside, and a cubby in the center console that can hold two machine guns. Y’know, just in case. Finally, BMW adds a beefed-up suspension to carry the extra weight added by all the reinforcements.

Cadillac ATS Being Developed to Fight BMW 3-series

In the flood of news from General Motors today, Cadillac has announced a few details for a future sub-CTS-sized sports sedan called ATS. Clearly aimed at top dogs like the Infiniti G37 and BMW 3-series, Caddy promises “high-tech engines” for this rear-drive/all-wheel-drive sedan. Cadillac promises it will have competitive driving dynamics, which it calls “the price of entry” for the segment.

Check back later today for updates.

BMW X6 xDrive50i

We’re trying out a new feature wherein you tell us what you want to know about the cars we drive. The first Ask C/D specimen is our long-term X6, a car that poses its own set of questions as to why it exists and how it drives as well as it does.

Questions have been collected, and our answers are below.

Questions from Redwood:

• How tall of a person can fit in the back seat?
We put someone 6’4” back there, and he didn’t complain. We put someone 6′7″ back there and he did. We asked someone 6′5″ to get back there, but he was busy. So 6′4″ and maybe a little taller.

• What kind of real world mileage does it get?
In our fake world of free gas, lead feet, and urban commutes, we are getting 15 mpg with the twin-turbo V-8. But one staffer who took it on a 4000-mile trip to Colorado saw more than 19 mpg indicated by the onboard computer, and that still included occasional forays into triple-digit speeds.

• Does it have the cooled seats and if so, how effective are they?
It does. They’ll curb back and gluteal sweat on the hottest days and are cold enough that we have actually used them on settings lower than high—a rarity with lesser-performing units. However, they still fall below the best from Ford and GM in the cooled-seat hierarchy.

• If you’ve driven the xDrive35i version, how do they compare? Is the V-8 version that much better?
The inline-six is competent, but feels a little strained at times hauling around the hefty X6. No such concerns with the V-8, but both are startlingly agile and graceful.

Question from Adam Mull:

•  Why does it exist?
No doubt it is an exercise by BMW engineers to prove that it doesn’t matter what they build, it will be perform awesomely. We look forward to further verifying this hypothesis with the second project in this series, the 5-series GT.

Question from Dan George:

•  How in the world can BMW design something that looks similar to a Pontiac Aztec? See answer above.

Question from Samual:

•  How many bodies (human) could fit in the rear cargo area? Intact or dismembered.
We’re assuming the rear seat is up and occupied. Dismembered figures depend on how finely chopped the bodies are. If they are processed into a slurry, figure on eight or so. Intact bodies will be more compact if you fold them. We’d say at least four. Also, if you prop them up and put hats and sunglasses on them, you can belt your bodies in and chauffeur them around like live passengers.

Question from Bazi:

•  Would you drive an X5 or X6 for the daily driver/everyday practicality????
No. Why would we drive an SUV daily? If someone else is paying, though, of course we would. We love our long-term X6.

Question from Dan:

•  Do you guys think this car will sell well even though it really fills no niche whatsoever?
Nothing is selling well right now, and pointless luxury SUVs are moving particularly slowly. When the economy recovers, though, in a country that loves SUVs and believes more powerful is more better, the X6 will sell.

Read more about our experience with the X6 so far: 2008 BMW X6 xDrive50i – Long-Term Road Test Update

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 – Official Photos and Info

It’s called BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and makes 480 hp. What, did you expect the X6 to start making sense now?

Just when we thought BMW’s “Sports Activity Coupe” couldn’t make any less sense, BMW announces official details on the 2010 ActiveHybrid X6, proudly proclaiming it “the most powerful hybrid vehicle in the world.” Um, okay? Seems a bit like striving to be the most foul-mouthed nun in the world—it’s not really the point.

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 – Official Photos and Info

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 – Official Photos and Info

Using hybrid technology to . . . go faster?

If you’ve ever thought that perhaps the combination of a 5000-plus-pound luxury sedan and hybrid technology seems a bit counterintuitive, we’re with you. Blame CAFE regulations—and blame Lexus. The luxury-car game is a nonstop arms race, with every big-ticket manufacturer rushing to make sure they don’t fall behind in the technology department, and the 2008 LS600hL hybrid could be considered the snowball that started the avalanche that continues with this car, the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 7. (Mercedes-Benz is rolling out the S400 BlueHybrid for 2010, too.)

Keep Reading:  2010 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 – Official Photos and Info

2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d – Short Take Road Test

The X5 remains sporty even with a diesel engine.

There’s love at first sight, and then sometimes it can take a second. With this diesel BMW X5, it was the latter, since that’s the amount of time required to overcome the lag of the twin-turbo setup, and for the big ute to go from a standstill to full-bore acceleration.

But the turbo lag we mention might be more specifically described as big-turbo lag. Unlike the equal-size twin turbos on BMW’s gas six- and eight-cylinder engines, the inline-six diesel—a newly available engine option for 2009—uses two differently sized turbos in an attempt to actually minimize lag. The smaller turbo spools up first, when exhaust flow is minimal, and the larger one takes over once exhaust flow is sufficient to spin it.

Keep Reading: 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d – Short Take Road Test

2009 Audi A6 3.0T vs. 2009 BMW 535i, 2009 Infiniti M45, 2009 Jaguar XF, 2010 M-B E350

Five at fifty: We gather a quintet of $50,000 execuliners—luxo-sports sedans that really haul in the hills.

On comparison tests, the cars with genetically ingrained faults—sometimes glaring, sometimes subtle and varied—will usually have confessed their sins by cocktail hour on Day One. The editors often won’t say anything initially—each man is free to vote without persuasion or influence from his obviously ignorant peers—but we individually already know who won’t be spraying the Dom Pérignon on the podium.

This time ’round, that didn’t happen. It wasn’t until late on Day Three in the Hocking Hills of southern Ohio that various of us ceased saying, “I don’t know who’s gonna win—I like ’em all.”

Keep Reading: 2009 Audi A6 3.0T vs. 2009 BMW 535i, 2009 Infiniti M45, 2009 Jaguar XF, 2010 M-B E350 – Comparison Tests

2010 BMW X6 M – Road Test

Ironmein: We subject BMW’s latest M-spawned monster to a triathlon and find that 555 horsepower can change opinions about fat SUVs.

When folks first happen upon BMW’s peculiarly proportioned X6, they can’t get over its skyscraper butt. Many can’t get around it, either. Were you to walk into the X6’s liftgate at midnight outside the Sidetrack Tap, the thing would nail you not in the gut but in the Adam’s apple. But we’re not here to dissect styling. The proposition before us is power. One would have thought that the 400 horses under the hood of the X6 xDrive50i might have been sufficient. BMW’s M division didn’t think so. And thus we have the X6 M depicted here, which is to the evolution of SUVs sort of what the appendix is to the evolution of Homo sapiens.

To the 4.4-liter V-8, the ever-tinkering Bavarians have added new pistons, cylinder heads formed of the same material used in their diesel engine, a new intake manifold, a crossover exhaust manifold that connects both cylinder banks, a finned aluminum oil pan, altered cam timing, and two new twin-scroll turbos that provide max boost of 17.4 psi, which ought to Chernobyl just about anything made of aluminum. And there are even larger intercoolers in the grille, which look like the air inlets for the Pentagon’s backup generator. This particular recipe yields 555 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque rolling out as early as 1500 rpm. Which should be fun. On the other hand, Frisbee golf is fun. But does anyone take it seriously?

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW X6 M – Road Test

New info on BMW 6 Series GT and future 6er models

The breaking news spy photos posted yesterday created a lot of marketing buzz around this new BMW concept. Initially we believed that we’re looking at the new BMW Sportscar Hybrid version, then we fell into the “trap” of believing that this could be indeed the longtime rumored Vision Z Concept, but in the end, sources close to BMW imply that this concept might be the precursor of the new addition to the 6 Series family: BMW 6 Series GT.

Scott27, who is part of a BMW’s “Creative Marketing” online machine, has just posted some new information regarding the 6 GT and future 6 Series products.

Here are his thoughts, unedited:

Rendering - not the actual 6 GT

The car is extremely important not as only in Efficient Dynamics but also in design as traditional BMW design elements are interpreted further and they will make it to production cars.
The first car you will see with an upturned grille will be the next generation BMW 1er Coupe and followed by the BMW Z2 Roadster and Coupe.

The car is a four door and you are looking at a further addition to our progressive series the GT.

The Sports GT in Progressive Movement :
The BMW 6er .

Taing an almighty leap from the much maligned by the media BMW Concept Z9 Gran Turismo at the IAA in September 2009.
BMW simplified the styling , smoothing out the proportions , and liposuction the fat and adding conventional typical everyday features such as eliminating the concept door openings to present the first 6er Coupe since the successful , popular E24 6er at the IAA in 2003.

Unveiling the 6er Coupe presented it’s audience with a striking highly modern design , muscular proportions , a typical sports car feel with the driver placed way back and a (at launch) powerful V8 engine - 645i and eventually followed by a six cylinder 630i , with progressive changes involving the upgraded V8 (650i) and as an addition recently to boost it’s intentions the highly proper 635d.

Even though the car was green-lighted in 2001 before seeing the light of day in 2003 , The BMW 6er has become a classic BMW in the modern sense. Even by todays standards the 6er looks modern if not very futuristic? even the controversial (to some) rear end and bootlid has successfully been integrated to the cars overall appeal.

Today a 6er has that ability to make you stop and stare as it passes , muscular especially when equipped with the large wheels intended for this car invokes its especially individually tailored bodywork and the right footwear gives it a purpose.
Following the Coupe , BMW went further for it’s intended market and introduced a 6er Cabrio , again beautifully designed , especially with a very unique soft-top design and great proportions and specific design requirements when removing the Coupe hardtop leaving the design intact with a completely flat area stretchering from the bootlid to the A pillar.

Since it’s introduction in early 2004 the 6er Coupe and Cabrio have become successful additions to BMW’s premium market strategy , sales have been especially strong in key areas of Europe , The US market and the UK.

A feat BMW are hoping to repeat with the next generation of the 6er, aiming at the great character and individual design as the current 6er , the next 6er takes an evolutionary approach instead of a completely radical new beginning. But there are elements and many features BMW plan to incorporate into it’s effectively premium Sports car concept.

As well as taking on the role of a Coupe , BMW will follow the lead set from it’s extremely successful integration of a collapsible hardtop in the E93 3er Cabrio by replacing the existing 6er Soft-Top with collapsible hardtop. A Hardtop for this segment indicates premium and BMW aim to capture the attention and premium image the 3er Cabrio inherited in the premium sports car segment.

An additional model currently being developed for decision is an additional model of the BMW “progressive” segment “GT” which will be a Premium Sports car with four doors , not a typical sedan , coupe shape , The GT 6 will be a car that will be a “progression” of a sports coupe - It will also be the first BMW Coupe with a hatchback and four doors which will open hinged from the rear ,strictly a four seater , each passenger position and the driver are separate with a large sweeping console separating the cockpit.

Exterior wise will follow with a different look to the 6er Coupe and Cabrio which take their wide grille opening and headlights which sit above the grille positioned on each corner , similar to the current car from the CS Concept Car , although not direct interpretations there is a resemblance. The headlights when looked side on are heavily raked into the front wings to give a more dynamic sporting look , typical of the 6er flared wheel arches remain intact and will retain the 6ers muscular proportions. at the lower level of the flanks there is more sculpture which gives a connection to the latest 7er and 5er , A strong shoulder line is typical on this car again inverting into the rear lights.

Although forgoing the current cars stepped bootlid . The new car receives an integrated bootlid although design elements integrate an evolutionary look to the rear end with the license plate again relegated to the rear bumper.As the Cabrio forgoes the current car and it’s unique soft-top. The F13 receives a no compromise design related collapsible hardtop.
When we say “No Compromise” it means the same exact formula the designs put forward to the engineers on the E93 that the body had to be completely flat along the boat line and no stepped up rear end to accommodate the hardtop. BMW understanding that in this segment you have to have a beautifully engineered to perfection feel and seeing how the 3er stacks up to it’s competition , especially if you compare the E93 3er to the Lexus IS C you can understand the requirement for perfection especially in the premium sports car segment.

Although the car inherits a 3 piece hardtop , everything that goes against a hardtop is designed and engineered in this car.

Engine choices will remain consistent with the current car with the choice of the Twin-Turbo Six Cylinder and V8 of 326PS(635i) and 407PS(650i) respectively.

Diesel choice will fall on two models the lower Six cylinder diesel (635d) and the indevelopment and destined for this car the Tri-Turbo Six Cylinder diesel delivering a 700Nm and 354PS.

BMW will offer a Hybrid model being a mild hybrid as destined for the X6 and 7er later this year (655i)

The about shift in the 6er project will incorporate the latest 8-speed Transmission as well as a 7 speed DCT Transmission.

To make the 6er appeal more to Sporting enthusiasts a new damping system will offer 4 different sport settings from comfort right through to performance , including an option for efficient performance. Allowing the car to drive frugal and efficient.

BMW “Efficient Dynamics” Will of course be engineered into the car utilizing typical areas as Stop-Start and Brake Energy Regeneration.

Driving enthusiasts will take well to the new 6er if they believe the current car is too tame for a 6er. BMW want to really set the cat amongst the pigeons and offer a very establishing cross continent GT that goes as well as it looks so as soon as the driver pushes the start button , and presses that accelerator he knows that he is in a very dynamic sports car. To which with a press of button the driver can choose a setting that fulfills their requirements.

The drivers cockpit takes it’s cues from the latest Z4 and replaces the upright look of the current car with a driver integrated fascia , The main centre air ducts are almost flat on the dash with the iDrive screen integrated to the top of the dash but without the current cars separate pod.

As far the M6? There will be an M6 but final suggestion to specification has not been decided. If the M6 does come BMW will offer the M6 in all 3 body styles.

F12 BMW 6er Coupe
F13 BMW 6er Cabrio
F14 BMW 6er Gran Turismo

BMW X5 E70 Facelift

Even though we were led to believe that the BMW X5 facelifted model will be coming out in September, the latest information place the E70 LCI launch next Spring, between March and April. Most of the obvious changes in this Life Cycle Impulse model are noticeable at the front-end where the X6-style headlights will replace the current ones.. A new front bumper similar to the X6 one will be featured on this model.

At the rear, a similar bumper update, but if we were to listen to the rumor mill, then we would say that the 2011 model will feature a one-piece hatch for the first time.

As far as powerplants, the much needed and wanted 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine is rumored to make its way into the current line-up.

A new diesel twin-turbo 6-cylinder diesel engine might also be offered as a replacement to the current diesel powerplant. This new diesel would output 306 horsepower and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm) at just 1,500 rpm. Same engine will be used in the BMW 735d.

Inside, the one upgrade that will satisfy many future BMW owners and fans is the new generation iDrive system which features the hard drive based navigation system, new iDrive knob controls and a larger, crisper LCD screen.

If the launch date is set in stone, we expect the Detroit or Chicago Auto Show to be the host for the X5 facelifted model.

New details on the next generation 2012 BMW 3 Series

With the years before the official launch, details around the next generation BMW 3 Series are still sketchy and guarded well behind the Munich HQ gates.

Let’s recap first what we know about the 2012 BMW 3 Series and then go into the latest details revealed by Autocar UK.

The proportions of a typical 3 Series will remain, meaning squat proportions, short rear overhang and wheels placed to each corner. The overall look is slimmer and more toned than the E90.

Rendering - not the actual design
The front of the car receives a widened, but not too large kidney grille , smaller than the F10 5er with shapely lighting units surround the grille.

The rear of the car offers a typical BMW layout with the classic L shape lighting units the larger part of the L shaped lights that sits on the corner and wraps around the rear of the car dips at the lower edge.

Here is an excerpt from the Autocar article posted today:

BMW is poised to completely reinvent the 3-series family for the low-carbon age.

Talking exclusively to Autocar, a senior BMW source revealed that a ground-up rethink of the company’s biggest-selling model will ensure that the next-generation 3-series will “remain relevant even when it goes off sale in 12 years’ time”.

The new 3-series is expected to make its public debut at the 2011 Paris motor show. In its first incarnation, the new model is expected to offer class-leading aerodynamics, with a Cd figure of 0.24, as well as pioneering the use of three-cylinder engines in premium vehicles.

The 3-series is part of a new BMW strategy in which ‘premium’ is defined in terms of environmental compatibility. It is this strategy that has prompted BMW to pull out of Formula One from the end of this year.

Hilton Holloway blog: Premium sustainability

The reinvention will step up a gear in 2016 when the 3-series undergoes a mid-life revamp. This is expected to represent the biggest technological step-change in car design for decades.

Sources say much of the underskin technology — such as the climate control system — will be completely re-engineered. Many of today’s in-car systems have in principle remained unchanged for decades.

Some details are interesting, but at the same time, remember that many of them could be simple rumors or assumptions. More accurate details will start to be revealed next year as the first full test mules will hit the streets.

Silverstone II BMW E93 convertible by IND

Our friends and longtime sponsors of your bimmer focused blog, IND-Distribution, are back again with a new project. Despite being friends with them, we’ve always objectively analyzed their work, but they managed to impress each and every time.

Their previous Dakar Yellow M3 project made waves within the BMW community and showed everyone that “classy and stylish” modding can still be done.

Today, they are back with their latest Silverstone II BMW E93 convertible project and as usual, we will let them explain the vision behind this new project. As you can see in from their words, passion is needed to create a successful project.

“Working at IND gives all of us here a unique opportunity- we get to build the car we love over and over again. How many people are fortunate enough to modify beautiful cars for a living? Because offering styling consultation on our Portfolio projects is one of the key components of our Portfolio service, it is critically important for all of us at IND to keep an open mind.

We have to do a fresh, new look for each car, and ensure that the finished project isn’t just a mass produced modified car, but rather a car that is uniquely our client’s.
This Silverstone II E93 convertible was built for a client that loves the E93 M3 for it’s versatility, and it’s tasteful looks. He wanted a beautiful M3 that retained it’s high class appeal. To accomodate our client’s desire for a clean and subtle E93, we chose to mold a Vorsteiner Polyurethane front lip to our bumper, removing any sign of the old OEM reflectors along the way.

Complimenting the classic front lip is the new Challenge rear diffuser, which was also molded to the rear bumper. Nitto Invo tires in 255/30/20 Front and 285/30/20 Rear sit on BBS LM wheels in 20×9.5 Front and 20×10 Rear accent the OEM chrome trim perfectly.
Instead of choosing to black out everything in sight, IND left the chrome trim well enough alone on this E93, prefferring the bright, clean look it and the BBS LMs offer. Coming soon is an Eisenmann Sport exhaust system, Rogue short shift kit, and BMW Performance shift boot and knob.”

BMW Sports Car Concept Spotted

The fellows at Bimmerpost are breaking the news today: the upcoming BMW Sports Car Concept has been photographed for the first time.

Despite the cover, for the first time, we have the opportunity to see rumored BMW Sports Car Concept that will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Now, the question remains whether we’re looking at the M1 Concept Hybrid or the Z Vision Concept.

According to Dr. Draeger, the sports car concept will feature “sustainable design and material elements” and will feature the next generation efficiency technology.

Judging from these photos, we believe we’re seeing for the first time, the new grille style, upturned which was rumored to be featured on the 135i Supersports car. This Sports Car Concept is also a four-door model.

We’ll be back with an update shortly, in the mean time, enjoy these photos since they seem to cover a spectacular new concept from BMW.

Update: According to sources close to BMW. this seems to be the Vision Z Concept. This could also be a case study since it’s on shipping blocks and temporary wheels. Also, the brake calipers and side mirrors are missing.

Hamann gives new wheels to the BMW 5 Series GT

The BMW 5 Series GT hasn’t officially launched yet, but the famous German tuner clearly has some pull. As expected with new models, they dressed up the new 5 Series GT with a new set of wheels and tires.

Even though no official information have been released regarding their 5 GT package, it’s typical for Hamann to start off slowly before unveiling a full blown package. We have seen this on the X6, new 7 Series and Z4.

We can’t say that we’ve been huge fans of their wheels and tires, they seem to match some cars more than others, but in this case, we think we should stick with the standard wheels on the 5 GT, less pimp and more class.

BMW Motorsport Activities in North America for 2010

With all the changes happening in the BMW Motorsport Division (see BMW leaving Formula 1), many of us are wondering how will it affect the Motorsport campaigns in North America.

Courtesy of BMW USA, we have some new information to relate:

• BMW of North America has confirmed the status of several Motorsport campaigns of interest to North American customers and enthusiasts.
• BMW Motorsport today announced that Formula BMW Americas will bid the international motor racing calendar farewell after the 2009 season finale at Mosport (Canada) on 30 August. Since 2004, over 110 drivers have competed for points and victories in the series. Formula BMW will continue to race in Europe and Asia.
• BMW announced on 29 July that the BMW Group will not continue its Formula One campaign after the end of the 2009 season. Resources freed up as a result are to be dedicated to the continued development of new drive technologies and projects in the field of sustainability. BMW will continue to be actively involved in other motorsport series (see below).
• In this context, BMW of North America will continue to support US motorsport activities in 2010, similar to its 2009 effort with the BMW M3 GT2 (www.bmwusa.com/motorsport).
• BMW Motorrad Motorsport racing is gathering momentum with the launch of the all-new S 1000 RR superbike. The S 1000 RR began Superbike World Championship (www.bmw-motorrad.com/motorsport) competition in 2009 and will contest another season in 2010.

We’re glad to see that the BMW Motorsport initiatives in North America continue and we will report more on that next week when we’re schedule to attend the Lexington, Ohio ALMS race.

[Source: BMW North America