2010 BMW X1 Officially Revealed

After many spy photos and teasers, BMW has finally released the official photos of the 2010 X1.

In Europe the X1 will be offered mainly offered with diesel engine choices with the most powerful model being the xDrive23d with 201-hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque. The most powerful gas powered engine will be the xDrive28i with 258-hp and 228 lb-ft. of torque.

The X1 is expected to be launched by the end of this year with sales starting in the US early next year. Expect more details once the official US press release is available.

2010 BMW 7 Series to Offer xDrive AWD This Fall

BMW has announced that the 2010 BMW 7 Series will be offered with the xDrive AWD system for the first time ever.

The 2010 BMW 750i and 750Li will be offered with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. In addition the 2010 model year also sees the introduction of the V12 powered 760Li model, which brings the total to five variants of the 7 Series.

A new M Sport package is also available on the 2010 7 Series. The package includes an M steering wheel, lift-reducing aerodynamic kit, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), Shadowline trim, Anthracite headliner and 19″ wheels with ultra-high performance tires. 20" wheels are also available.

BMW Confirms the X1 for the US in 2011

After all the photo leaks yesterday, BMW has officially released more photos of the X1 and released a brief press release which states that the X1 will be offered in the US, sometime in 2011.

The X1 will debut this fall in Europe with a choice of either three diesel engines or a gas engine. It will also be available in either rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations.

BMW hasn't officially announced which configurations the US will receive in 2011.

A BMW Isetta With a Meter - Interview

Who: Chuck Miller, 66, custom-car guru
What: Isetta taxicab
Where: New Boston, Michigan

This is not the first of your cars to appear in Car and Driver, right?
Right. I built the Corvette Sportwagon that was on the cover in July 1972.

That design was by Harry Bradley?
That’s right. I built the prototype and then built six more of them. I still have one in my shop.

How long have you been building custom cars?
My first custom—my first car—was a 1950 Ford coupe that I bought for $35. I was 16 and still in high school [Lincoln Park, Michigan]. When it was finished,Rodding and Restyling magazine did a feature on it. May of 1961.

When did you open your own shop?
Actually, I worked at my shop through high school, before it was my shop. It was Dick’s Collision then. In 1963, the owner wanted to retire, so I took it over, renamed it Styline Customs, and operated there for 36 years. I sold out in 1999. The shop’s still there and still operating in River Rouge. I’m semiretired, but I still do little projects like this, and I work with the Autorama show people in Detroit.

2010 BMW 750i / 750Li xDrive - First Drive Review

Among folks fortunate enough to live outside of the Snow Belt, all-wheel drive is usually only brought up in conjunction with pickup trucks and Jeep Wranglers. For those of us that have to deal with snow and freezing conditions for months every year, though, an all-wheel-drive car can be the difference between getting to work and getting stuck at the end of your driveway. Indeed, here in Michigan, just about every luxury ride on the road wears an “x” or “4Matic” or “Quattro” badge on its rump, signifying four-wheel power, with the BMW 7-series being one of the only cars in its competitive set not to offer all-wheel drive. Until now.

Fitting all-wheel drive to a big, rear-drive car, however, can run the risk of upsetting driving dynamics. Take the current BMW 535i xDrive. With its power distribution tightly set at 40 percent front and 60 percent rear, it understeers like a baseball player barreling headfirst into home plate. Now imagine if the 7-series, which in short-wheelbase form has over seven inches more between the axles and at least 600 pounds on the 535i xDrive, was fitted with the same system. Dynamic disaster. So the engineers at BMW took that previous version of xDrive—currently used in the 3-series as well as the 5-series—and reengineered it in such a way that the all-wheel-drive 7er handles just as well, if not better, than its rear-drive sibling.

BMW Adds Real-Time Fuel Prices, Weather, and Stock Quotes to BMW Search

Starting this month, BMW will offer a BMW Assist Convenience Plan, an updated version of its BMW Search service, which will include real-time fuel prices, weather forecasts and major stock indices. Currently, BMW assist can be used to make calls, get directions and traffic information, and to signal one’s location in the event of an emergency. This updated system will search for nearby gas stations and let the user know current prices and the distance to each station. Three-day weather forecasts are available, and any weather advisories or warnings are announced to the user. Bloomberg supplies continuous updates of the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and NASDAQ indices.
Ford recently started offering a similar service for its Sync system that includes traffic, directions, information, and emergency assist. This $95-per-year service takes advantage of Sync’s excellent functionality and intuitive voice commands.
The BMW Assist Convenience Plan will be available on all BMW Assist-equipped 2010 models, and select 2009 models (including 1-, 3-, and 7-series). The cost will be $199 per year for BMW Assist subscribers.

2009 BMW X6 xDrive50i - Short Take Road Test

Maybe it was an Oktoberfest-fueled decision, or maybe it came after a particularly trying meeting, but the volks at BMW seem to have said to themselves, “The gents at AMC really got it right in the early ’80s. Herr Bangle, make the X5 look more like a 1983 AMC Spirit, bitte, and we’ll call it the X6.”

At least when you’re driving the X6, you don’t have to look at it. And after driving the X6, it’s likely that the styling will be forgotten or, at the very least, forgiven.

It’s a prettier picture, mechanically. Despite its rhino-like 5241-pound weight, the X6 drives like a much smaller sports sedan. Steering effort is heavy and requires a deliberate hand, but the X6 responds quickly and without drama. Part of the credit goes to the xDrive all-wheel drive and a torque-vectoring system that can vary the power between each of the rear wheels to stabilize the X6—or engage in lurid power slides if you turn off the stability control. Grip from the wide Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires registers 0.89 g on the skidpad, which will send passengers reaching for overhead grab handles that aren’t there. That the X6 achieves these numbers with a supple ride is even more remarkable considering the stiff and heavy run-flat tires on 20-inch wheels.

BMW X1 German pricing announced

One of the main concerns we had regarding the new BMW X1 was the pricing. For the new entry-level compact SAV to be successful, it was imperative that the pricing will be set accordingly to the current market conditions and most important, relevant to the other models in the BMW line-up.

BMW chose the gasoline powered X1 sDrive18i as its entry level model and set a base price of 27,200 euros. In Germany, the base price for the bigger X3 model, xDrive20i, is 35,300 euros. Going even further, the X1 xDrive18d will sell for 31,550 euros, while the X3 xDrive18d 35,550 euros.

The most expensive X1 is the all-wheel drive gasoline xDrive28i which has a base price of 41,500 euros. The top X3 model is the xDrive35d at 53,000 euros.

Bottom line is that there are no surprises here, BMW has played this safe and priced the X1 accordingly, setting it apart from the X3 line-up. When the second generation X3 will launch next year, we expect this pricing gap to become even bigger, making the X1 an even more attractive choice.

 

Here are the base prices for all the other X1 models:

• BMW X1 sDrive18i - 27.200€
• BMW X1 sDrive18d - 29.550€
• BMW X1 xDrive18d - 31.550€
• BMW X1 sDrive20d - 32.400€
• BMW X1 xDrive20d - 34.400€
• BMW X1 xDrive23d - 38.800€
• BMW X1 xDrive28i - 41.500€

BMW X1 Press Release

Description in Brief.
• With its agile, versatile and modern character, the BMW X1 guarantees a new driving experience in the premium compact segment. It expands and enhances the range of BMW X models by yet another innovative vehicle concept.

• Through its body design the BMW X1 demonstrates self-confident elegance, a versatile and sporting character, as well as spontaneous agility. For the first time the features and characteristics of a BMW X model are carried over in modern style into a unique vehicle in the premium compact segment.

• The interior of the BMW X1 is characterised by clear function and trendsetting, modern style. The driver orientation so typical of BMW is additionally accentuated by the forward pushing lines within the cockpit area. Sophisticated materials and natural colours accentuate the youthful and dynamic flair of the vehicle.

• The elevated seating position, a generous feeling of space, the wide range of storage options and the variable interior offer ideal conditions for enjoying the BMW X1 both in an urban environment and beyond, with agility, spontaneity and versatility of the highest calibre. Three full-sized seats at the rear offer generous space and freedom of movement. The rear-seat backrest is adjustable for angle and folds down in a 40/20/20 split. Luggage compartment capacity may be increased from 420 litres/14.7 cu ft to a maximum of 1,350 litres/47.3 cu ft. An electrically operated Panorama glass roof is available as an option.

• Modern drivetrain technology gives the BMW X1 superior performance and supreme efficiency all in one. Depending on the model variant, the driver benefits from powerful, economical and low-emission gasoline and diesel engines, BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics features including Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, and a gearshift point indicator. The BMW X1 sDrive18d with rear-wheel drive and average fuel consumption to the EU standard of 5.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 54.3 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 136 grams/ kilometre offers the highest standard of efficiency all round.

• The cutting-edge suspension technology featured in the BMW X1 comprises a double-joint thrust bar or, respectively, an aluminium double-joint tiebar axle at the front and a five-arm rear axle in lightweight steel, high-precision power steering, high-performance brakes, Dynamic Stability Control including Dynamic Traction Control and, as an option, Performance Control acting on the brakes for particularly dynamic driving behaviour.

• The BMW X1 features a special body structure designed from the outset for maximum occupant safety. Standard features include three-point inertia-reel seat belts all round, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, adaptive Brake Lights and daytime driving lights. Xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and a High-Beam Assistant are all available as an option.

• In conjunction with the optional Business and Professional navigation systems, the BMW X1 is equipped with the latest generation of BMW iDrive including a Controller and direct selection buttons on the centre console, a Control Display harmoniously integrated in the instrument panel, and favourite buttons beneath the control panel for the air conditioning featured as standard. The most sophisticated HiFi systems are available as an alternative to the audio system fitted as standard and the AUX-In port likewise featured as standard may be supplemented by a USB interface. Numerous driver assistance systems and the wide range of BMW ConnectedDrive services are also available.

2011 335i GT confirmed by BMW

What started as a rumor nearly two years ago, it has became reality: BMW will introduce a new model in the 3 Series family: 335i GT, short for Gran Turismo. Following the steps of the recent released BMW 5 Series GT and the newly confirmed 1 Series GT, the BMW 335i GT will hit the showrooms in 2011.

Internally dubbed as V3 or Progressive Activity Coupe, the 335i GT is based on the new, slightly longer and cost efficient modular platform that will be used in the new  3 Series models, a platform that can be stretched or shrunk based on the vehicle.  335i GT sports a rear-end combination between a touring and a shooting brake model. The 3 Series GT will not feature the flexible trunk arrangement, but instead settling for a traditional trunk which provides increased  flexibility. The customer 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.

The BMW 335i GT will provide increase personal luxury, something we’re currently seeing in the 5 Series GT. It will also offer back seat personalization, an optional bench or individual seating. 3 Series GT will receive the full Panoramic roof stretch from the front windscreen to the rear screen increasing the space.

Sources talk about the 335i GT as being a very dynamic car that could be considered an alternative to the Touring model, but with a more personal feeling attach to it.

The 3 Series GT vehicles will be powered by the award winning 3.0 liter six cylinder turbo gasoline and diesel engines, but additional powerplants will be offered in different markets. BMW’s upcoming four cylinder turbocharged petrol engine is expected to be offered as an option as well.

The BMW 335i GT will be competing with the upcoming 2010 Audi A5 Sportback, a five-door configuration concept much sleeker than traditional Audi Avant wagons.

The first prototypes will start the testing on public roads in September and even though not confirmed at this time, rumors say that BMW might showcase the 3 Series GT as a concept at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: Edmunds | Photo Rendering: Modtor ]

BMW threatening to oust Lexus as #1 luxury automaker in U.S.

2010 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

Life is hard at the top, whether that precipice happens to be at the zenith of the overall sales chart or of a specific market niche, such as Lexus' position as the best-selling luxury automaker in the United States. Toyota's posh brand has held the top spot since the year 2000, with BMW perpetually trailing in second place. Could 2009 finally be the year that BMW breaks through to number one?
So far this year, Automotive News is reporting that BMW's 76,819 total sales in the States puts the German brand slightly ahead of Lexus, which has moved a total of 73,186 units thus far in '09. Both brands are down somewhat from 2008, though BMW's 30.5% decline is not quite as severe as Lexus' 37.2% fall. Neither automaker is interested in boasting of its successes in this market, though BMW will gladly accept the extra market share. Speaking to Automotive News, Jan Ehlen, a spokesman for BMW of North America,

High-res shots of 2010 BMW X1 hit the information superhighway

2010 BMW X1

Although it is isn't slated to be officially revealed until this fall's Frankfurt Auto Show, it feels like we've been seeing the wraps come off BMW's X1 baby crossover for years now. Thanks to a steady stream of spy shots over the last 18 months or so, we feel like we ought to be able to tell you not only the shape and size of the glovebox, but the material its walls are made of. Regardless, these are the first official shots of the X1 that have leaked out on the web, apparently because of German magazine FOCUS online.
As we've already seen almost all elements of the X1 already, the final shape doesn't surprise us, which appears much like a shrunken X5 mixed with styling cues from the bull-nosed 7-Series, 5-Series Gran Turismo, and of course, last year's X1 Concept.
The inside is typical Bimmer fare as well, with a sober but handsome and well-screwed-together look. The usual accoutrements are present in the photo models' driver oriented instrument panels, including iDrive, USB ports, and thumb-shifters for the automatic.
We're already tired of BMW's awkward model naming conventions, but regardless, the CUV is expected to launch in Europe in xDrive18i and xDrive 18d configurations, along with an xDrive20d model whose 177 hp diesel is apparently good for 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, an xDrive23d model with a 204 hp oil-burner (0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds, top speed of 139 mph), as well as the xDrive28i, which is apparently good for 143 mph. No word yet on what models we'll see in the U.S. just yet, but we'd be surprised to see anything less powerful than the xDrive28i in Stateside dealers, and we'll keep our fingers crossed for a diesel variant.
According to current scuttlebutt, the X1 will launch in autumn exclusively paired with all-wheel drive, but rear-wheel drive versions are expected to come on line soon thereafter. Check out the gallery below and keep checking back with us for further details as they become available.

BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models

2010 BMW 7 Series M Sport

BMW introduced its first all-wheel drive 3 Series in the mid-80's, with an all-wheel drive variant of the 5 Series arriving on the scene several years later. Today, BMW has announced that its range-topping full-size 2010 7 Series sedan will finally get the automaker's all-wheel drive "xDrive" treatment. Designed with a rear torque bias to maintain rear-wheel drive handling characteristics, the all-season traction will be available on the turbocharged eight-cylinder models initially, as BMW has not announced any plans to adapt it to the V12-powered 760Li flagship. The standard model will be called the "750i xDrive" while the long-wheelbase model carries "750Li xDrive" nomenclature.
The Bimmer boys also announced the availability of the "M Sport Package" for all 7 Series models. The package includes lift-reducing aerodynamic cladding, shadowline trim, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), anthracite headliner, and 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber. If that isn't enough, BMW is also offering special Carbon Black Metallic exterior paint and 20-inch wheels for the new 2010 7 Series M Sport models.

BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States

2011 BMW X1

As expected after this morning's initial leakage, BMW has released a staggering amount of images of the 2011 BMW X1 showing the brand's new soft-roader in every conceivable environment before it's officially revealed at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.
Along with the pics, BMW put out a brief statement (below the fold) confirming the X1's arrival in the U.S. sometime in 2011 and its plans to offer both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive (xDrive) versions, along with "a wide variety of gasoline and diesel powertrain choices." BMW won't officially confirm what mils will make the trip across the Atlantic, but the automaker says the X1 will use its EfficientDynamics system and that one gasoline engine and three diesels will be available when the X1 launches in Europe this fall. Check out all 183 high-res images in the gallery below and expect official U.S. market information to be released closer to the X1's launch in the States.

BMW 335i Gran Turismo dialed in for 2011

According to a report by InsideLine, BMW is set to expand its wagonesque line-up by one in 2011 with the introduction of the 335i Gran Turismo. The 3 series-based crossover takes its inspiration from the 2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, with a sloping X6-like hatch that will feature the same two-stage tailgate on the 5 series GT, allowing owners to open either the small trunk or complete hatch.
IL's sources say that two-, four- and five-seat configurations will be available, along with a range of diesel and gasoline engines, including at least one petrol-powered turbo version. If the 3 series GT comes to fruition, that would bring BMW's entry-level line-up to five models - coupe, convertible, sedan, wagon and five-door - and provide another competitor to the Audi A4 Avant and Q3, but could cannibalize X1 and X3 sales in the process.
[Source: InsideLine]

2011 BMW 5-Series mule caught in the desert

A year ago, we showed you pics of the next-generation BMW 5-Series doing some high-speed testing on the Nürburgring, but that was pretty much the last we heard about this midsize bahnstormer. Well, intrepid spy photographer Rich Truesdell spotted a similar mule out in the desert last week, and he has filled us in on some additional details. The car he spotted appears to be a 2011 BMW 540i sedan. Rich relates that the car was big enough to have him thinking 7-Series at first, but BMW helped out by having a clearly larger current 7 on hand for comparison purposes. How thoughtful of them.
While not a lot of final detail shows through, Truesdell points out that the heavy rear quarter cladding could be a tip that something is brewing in the recently revamped styling department in Munich. In particular, around the C-pillar, there was a lot of camo, indicating that perhaps there's something worth hiding. Beyond that, the sedan looks like a shortened 7-Series from most angles, and the dual exhausts suggest that this is likely the V8-powered 540i. Follow the source link to read what Rich thought of the vehicle and to see all of the photos in high-res.