2012 BMW 3-series Adds a Turbo Four, Hybrid, and Hatchback to the Range - Car News

BMW is planning to dramatically expand the number of offerings within its various model ranges, especially the strong-selling 3-series that is the backbone of the brand. All eyes are on the next 3, due for 2012.

Aside from the usual body styles—sedan, station wagon, coupe, and retractable-roof convertible—BMW will also build a five-door hatchback version featuring an aggressive design that will combine station-wagon practicality with coupelike style. In other words, the 3-series range will get its own version of the 5-series GT concept, BMW’s attempt to cross-pollinate an SUV and a station wagon. Like the 5-series GT, the 3-series GT will offer two adjustable seats with a center console in the rear and straddle the fine line between BMW SUV and BMW wagon in regard to overall height.

BMW E1 Concept - Car News

BMW was close to bringing electric cars to market once before. At the 1991 Frankfurt auto show, the E1 concept car was unveiled to showcase electric-vehicle technology—and its styling, powertrain, and packaging was controversial within and outside the company.

But the E1 turned out to be not much more than a styling and engineering exercise. BMW says it had been planning instead to bring a fully electric version of the 3-series to market. The most optimistic scenario: to build up capacity over 10 years, to 40,000 units annually. While the maximum power output of the E1 was not impressive, charging cycles—just a few hours—were short even by today’s standards, and the range was impressive at more than 150 miles.

BMW 7 Series M Sport images arrive on web

BMW 7 Series M Sport

We're not sure where they came from, but official-looking images of the upcoming BMW 7 Series M Sport just popped up on the interwebs today. The car you see here is identical to the one we saw in spy photos just a few weeks ago. Since the M6 will reportedly remain the brand's top dog in terms of big performance cars, the 7 Series M Sport will be to the standard 7 Series what all M Sport models are. That is, it gets more aggressive fascias front and rear, unique wheels, an M steering wheel, M shifter and M footrest. Rumor also has it that the 7 Series M Sport will be powered by the brand's newly updated 3.0-liter, twin-turbo diesel engine producing 306 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. No, it's still not an M7, but if you want a lightning quick 7 Series, you can go buy an Alpina B7 Biturbo for now.

2010 BMW 7-Series gets 306-hp 740d diesel and M Sports Package

The current 2009 BMW 7-Series, known as the BMW F01, went into production in September 2008 so we don’t expect any changes coming to the model anytime soon. Nonetheless, there will be may additions and facelifts before BMW decided to completely redesign its flagship sedan. For the 2010 model year, the BMW 7-Series is getting a new diesel choice and an M Sports Package - a first for the 7-Series.

Later this autumn, the European market will get a BMW 740d featuring BMW’s new straight 6-cylinder diesel engine with TwinPower Turbo Technology that pumps out 306-hp and a peak torque of 422 lb-ft. 0 to 62 mph comes in just 6.3 seconds with a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.

For the first time ever, the BMW 7-Series is getting its own M Sports Package that provides the 7-Series with an Aerodynamics Package, additional chrome trim on the front and rear aprons, illuminated M entry trim and BMW Individual High-Gloss Shadow Line. Other features include exclusive Carbon Black Metallic paintwork, 19 to 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, electronically controlled BMW Dynamic Drive, an M leather steering wheel and much more.

The BMW M Sports Package is available for all models in the BMW 7 Series with both normal and extended wheelbase.

Next 2012 BMW 1 Series five-door hatchback

Last week, the first spy photos of the next generation BMW 1 Series popped up on almost all the car websites out there. As usual, we reported on it and gave you more details on what to expect from the new 1 Series line-up.

While the initial photos showed what we believe is the shooting brake variant of the 1er, these new shots are giving us the overall shape of the new five-door hatchback, a model not yet available in the U.S.

As seen across the BMW future line-up, the 2012 BMW 1 Series will have a slightly longer wheelbase and wider track than the current model. Some auto publications speculate that this will allow BMW to introduce it in the U.S. market as well, but take it with a grain of salt, in our opinion, it is still too early to commit to such plans.

Future BMW 1 Series variants also include a Coupe and Convertible model, 3-door hatchback, shooting brake variant and also, the highly-wanted/expected BMW 135i Supersports car, an “M-like” vehicle without the M badge and still developed by the Motorsport division.

Due to the new 1 Series platform which can be extended and used across several bodystyles, BMW is looking into more 1er variants, 3-door touring, 3 and 5-door GT and even a 3-door Sports Activity Coupe. Those models are still in the research phase, so no decision has been made.

What we did hear recently are the talks around a new BMW series, codename Y, which apparently it will use the same 1 Series platform. No other details at this time, but you’ll be the first to know once we hear more.

As far as the engine line-up in the upcoming 1 Series, a large range of powerplants will be offered, from turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, to new 3 cylinder powerplants and hybrids.

[Source: Carmagazine ]

2008 BMW 123d - Short Take Road Test

We imagine rampant chest thumping at BMW’s U.S. headquarters as its product planners finalized the scheme to sell the obscenely torquey 335d here. But BMW sells many powerful four-cylinder diesels in Europe. Wouldn’t the larger fuel-economy payoff of a smaller engine, and its lower price, be worth a sacrifice in the performance of the 3-series diesel?

Our friends at Robert Bosch Corporation loaned us a 123d, which houses the most powerful of BMW’s diesel fours. Surpassing the 100-hp-per-liter benchmark—virtually unheard of in the diesel world—this sequentially turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 201 horsepower. Just as shocking is its 295 pound-feet of torque, equaling that of the M3’s V-8.

Specifications

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 3-door hatchback

BASE PRICE (GERMANY): $40,900

ENGINE TYPE: twin-turbocharged and intercooled diesel DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct
fuel injection

Displacement: 122 cu in, 1995cc
Power (SAE net): 201 bhp @ 4400 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 295 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 104.7 in Length: 166.9 in Width: 68.8 in Height: 55.9 in
Curb weight: 3337 lb

C/D TEST RESULTS:
Zero to 60 mph: 6.7 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 19.1 sec
Street start, 5–60 mph: 7.2 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 15.3 sec @ 92 mph

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving (C/D est): 31/42 mpg
C/D observed: 36 mpg

Keep Reading: 2008 BMW 123d - Short Take Road Test

Alpina B3 BiTurbo

The Alpina B3 BiTurbo, the “hotter 335i Coupe” as many people named it, it’s one of those cars that you just fall in love from the moment you see it.

Now, we all know that the E92 Coupe is a an extremely good looking car and the biggest seller in the 3 Series line-up, but the Alpina B3 BiTurbo just takes it to another level.

B3 BiTurbo uses the same 3.0 liter six-cylinder twin-turbo engine as the 335i, but as expected, it receives an upgrade: the boost pressure for the sequential twin turbos has been dialled up to 1.1 bar, with toughened Mahle pistons bolted inside to cope with the extra strain.

The result, peak specific values of 121 hp per liter.

The result: 355 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Plenty for everyone, if you ask us. The B3 runs from 0-62 mph in only 4.8 seconds, keeping with the more powerful BMW M3. The B3 features steering wheel mounted buttons shifts -SWITCH-TRONIC- reprogrammed to respond even faster than the auto-transmission in the regular 335i.

Alpina B3 BiTurbo features optimised front and rear aerodynamics, along with a set of gorgeous wheels.

Since the point of this article was mostly to share with you these stunning photos, we’ll write less and let the photos do the “talk”.

2009 BMW Z4 has 3 Series Convertible to thank

Our friend Richard Aucock is back with another interesting and detailed article on the new 2009 BMW Z4. Some of you might recall his previous article on the Z4 chassis and some of the secrets behind the development of it, but this time, Richard talks a little about the new hardtop available on the Z4.

As a quick introduction, the new BMW Z4 uses the same technology as the one found in the new 3 Series Convertible which introduced the hardtop.

The Z4 features an aluminum retractable hardtop (20 seconds to deploy or retract) and the vehicle concept has been made larger to feature a new level of comfort, better storage space.

LEARNING how to do folding hard-top roofs with the 3 Series Convertible served BMW well.

It meant it could launch a folding hard top Z4 relatively easily – simply because it had acquired so much knowledge.

What’s more, the shift over to the folding tin top is another reason for the car’s production relocation to Germany.

The Regensburg plant where it’s built has now become BMW’s official ‘centre of excellence’ for folding hard-top roofs.

It’s so well geared up, the supplier is even located there on site, an engineer insider told me.

‘This gives us the best possible means of achieving high quality levels.’

Engineering a folding hard top isn’t the work of a moment. Even one such as the Z4’s, whose lower 2-panel count reduces the number of joins and joints to worry about.

The problem come in areas you probably don’t even think about. Such as?

2009 BMW Z4 has 3 Series Convertible to thank - Continued

BMW X1 xDrive23d first drive

Another BMW X1 test drive came out, this time, the UK based Autocar published their X1 review. As we mentioned earlier today, last week, several auto publications were invited for press preview of the X1 before the official launch in June.

So far, most of the X1 reviews we’ve seen were quite positive and Autocar gives the X1 a passing grade, even more, their last statement is quite powerful: “In simple terms, it takes all the likeable qualities of the 3-series and wraps them up in a higher-riding estate style body, also allowing you to head off-road when the need arises.”

Before we let you read the entire review, we would like to applaud BMW for offering this press preview test drive, which turned out to be an effective marketing method so far.

What is it?

BMW’s new junior off-roader – the X1. UK sales are slated to get underway around October, with local BMW officials hinting at a starting price of £25,000 for the entry-level xDrive18i and rising to around £35,000 for the range topping xDrive28i.

BMW is going for a broad reach with the X1, which will come with the option of three petrol and three diesel engines from the outset. The petrols include two 2.0-litre units with 141bhp and 168bhp, and a 254bhp 3.0-litre six-cylinder unit. On the diesel side there is a trio of 2.0-litre common rail fours producing 141bhp, 175bhp and 201bhp. We’re testing a prototype of the 201bhp xDrive23d here.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on all but the xDrive30i and xDrive23d, both of which receive a six-speed automatic with remote shift buttons on the steering wheel.

BMW X1 xDrive23d Full Review

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 ]

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 ]

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.

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 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.

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.

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?