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.

BMW M3 Edition Models : 2009

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

E46 BMW M3 CSL - A head turner

Last year, Andrew gave us an enthusiastic article on the E46 BMW M3 CSL, one of these M cars that many BMW fans are still hoping to see in the future.

The M3 CSL was a very low production, one-off model based on the E46 M3 and using its 333 horsepower engine as basis. The CSL stands for Coupe Sport Light and as the name suggests, it came with a lot of carbon fiber parts.

CSL came with a lighter carbon fiber roof and interior paneling, light seats and the buyers had the option to opt-out the radio and air conditioning unit. BMW built the car i only two colors: Silver Gray and Sapphire Black.

BMW made a limited run, less than 1,400 units of the M3 CSL (E46) vehicles between June and December 2003. Unfortunately for those of us in the U.S., due to the short production cycle and the complications and expense of clearing DOT and EPA standards for the North American market, BMW never brought the CSL to the United States.

To somehow satisfy the U.S. consumers’ needs to upgrade their M3, some parts from it were later made available on the regular M3 as part of an optional Competition Package.

In the UK, the BMW M3 CSL cost 20,000 British Pounds more than the regular M3 version, but it also came with a tuned up engine outputting 360 horsepower.

If we recall correctly, the CSL held for a while the BMW road car Nürburgring record of 7 minutes 50 seconds.

The question remains whether BMW will ever built another CSL version of the M3, but for now, these cars remain unique and quite valuable. As you can see in the photos below, there are plenty of reasons why they are so appreciated.

Next generation BMW 1 Series: “Tradition, Sporting for every Lifestyle”

Scott27 from GCZ, a BMW marketing representative released some new info on the next generation 2012 BMW 1 Series. We decided to post it in exactly the same format he did, without any further additions.

But we would like to tell you that we can’t really confirm all the information posted in there, other than a few future 1 Series models we have heard about from other sources as well. Historically, he has been releasing useful information, rather than diversions…..

So, let’s see what BMW has in the pipe for us and pay attention to this exciting part at the end:

“The BMW 1er -BMW performance Concept is something similar to the BMW M3 CSL - more advantage of lightweight materials and specific options aimed at the enthusiast.
Although there will be a similar option for the M3 Coupe including Matt finishes as Glacier Silver , Matt Black and Clay White.”

And the possible new model we talked about yesterday: BMW Y1.

Definitive. Tradition , Sporting and for every Lifestyle.
The BMW 1er.

I am giving you a preview of the finshed article regarding the next generation 1er model , which will go into detail over the new Cost efficient modular platform that will be found under each variant.
I would like to stress this is not the old VW way where very car just shared the same platform without anything to differentate the actual car.
Why BMW will continue to lead the direction of premium small cars.
How the 1er will grow without compromise to weight , efficiency or handling? How a range of engines will continue to offer the best efficiency , performance in the compact class.
And why BMW are wanting to experiment in the segment that will grow larger with new exciting concepts for every level of driver.
And when the curtain goes down , the audience erupts for an encore.

The Backbone : The new modular Chassis.

Efficient Dynamics : Why the BMW 1er will spearhead the first premium line up in the compact segment to offer a hybrid drivetrain for each variant.

Efficient Dynamics Prt 2 : Pioneer to Leader - The first generation of 1er brought many efficient technologies to the compact segment .
The second generation will also bring new options and technology that will be seen across the whole BMW portfolio.

Putting it altogether : How the new 1er will resist the usual jump in weight by using lightweight materials and sophisticated bonding techniques.

Efficiency to Performance : Excitement for enthusiasts at every level.

The Traditional Portfolio .

BMW 1er

BMW 1er Active Hybrid .

BMW 1er Sporthatch.

The Sporting Portfolio.

BMW 1er Coupe

BMW 1er Cabrio.

BMW 1er SuperSports.

BMW Z2.

BMW Z2 Coupe.

The Lifestyle Portfolio.

BMW X1.

BMW X2.

BMW 1er Gran Turismo.

BMW Y1.

The Final Curtain : BMW 135i (E82) Lightweight BMW Performance Concept ., (Lightweight materials , 2 matt paint options)

What the current climate has taught us is that many customers are looking to downsize and we have seen in this time 5er customers becoming 3er customers and 3er customers becoming 1er customers.

Since the introduction of the 1er and the two year cool off stage to see if it binds success before expanding the range. We have learned especially now that people will pay for premium small cars a lesson we learned with MINI and now something we are learning with the BMW 1er.

The 1er was a very different direction for BMW had the Rover experiment succeeded we would never of had the 1er. Now with expansion the Coupe , Sporthatch and Cabrio have expanded BMW sales in many markets.

With the next generation which begins with the BMW X1 we are looking at expanding the range of 1er models as many customers who will return to BMW might take advantage of something smaller , more efficient but with the same level of luxury.

The list regards some concepts that are undertaken as competition exercises that have made it to the final stage , Although some ideas might not happen , it shows the commitment BMW have to making the 1er one of the key profit making models for the BMW Group.

The BMW 1er -BMW performance Concept is something similar to the BMW M3 CSL - more advantage of lightweight materials and specific options aimed at the enthusiast.
Although there will be a similar option for the M3 Coupe including Matt finishes as Glacier Silver , Matt Black and Clay White. But do not think of them as CSL’s.

BMW X5 M: Real life photos

BMW North America is hosting their complimentary M Power Tour street drive in different locations across United States. Yesterday, the M Power Tour stopped in the beautiful San Francisco where  people attending had the opportunity to do a 25-minute street drive in a 2009 BMW M3.

Part of M Power Tour events, BMW will display their first xDrive Motorsport models ever built: the BMW X5 M and X6 M. Courtesy of Rboosted717, a member of Xoutpost, we have some real life photos X5M/X6M photos to share with you. Also, in a conversation with a BMW M specialist, he learned that the X5M/X6M models will have three special colors: red, blue and black, but the standard color pallet will also be available.

The next M Power Tour event will take place this Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7, at the BMW Designworks USA headquarters in Newbury Park, CA.

There is also another thing we would like to share with you. Last month, BMW’s European Delivery desk informed us that for those U.S. customers interested in taking delivery of a BMW at the Welt Center in Munich, they will automatically receive a free M track day behind the X5M/X6M models in Salzburg, Austria.

The first U.S. xDrive M models will be available in October. The BMW X5 M has a base price of $85,400 while the X6 M is priced at $88,900.

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 ]

G-Power BMW M3 Tornado gets 500-hp

G-Power has given the world some outstanding modified BMW vehicles including the M6 Hurricane, X5 Tycoon, M5 Hurricane and G4 EVO III Z4. Now, G-Power has set its sights on the new BMW M3 and has introduced, what they call, the G-Power M3 Tornado.

G-Power used a soft charging with just 0.3 bar boost, which increases output of the M3 to 500-hp with a maximum torque of 354 lb-ft. The boost of extra power comes from a G-Power supercharger system, the T1-518 ASA centrifugal supercharger. That very supercharger is also used by Alpina on the B5S, B6S and the B7.

All that extra power allows the M3 Tornado to go from 0 to 124 mph in 13.5 seconds and lets you keep going above 200 mph.

 

Press Release:

Supercharger system provides the BMW M3 with 500 hp and a top speed of more than 320 km/h

For the current BMW M3, G-POWER offers an exquisite supercharger system that sets new standards in regards of design, quality and performance. Using gentle soft charging with just 0,3 bar (relative) boost, the output of the V8 engine is pushed from 420 hp to 500 hp and the torque increases from 400 Nm up to 480 Nm.

After 9 months of intensive development, starting with the CAD design, followed by prototyping and completed with test drives and hot climate tests in the United Arab Emirates, the result is awesome.

500 hp and 480 Nm of torque, achieved through gentle soft charging with just 0,3 bar (relative) boost, let the BMW M3 appear completely changed. Already from 3.000 rpm on the supercharged G-POWER M3 TORNADO pulls like the standard BMW M3 revving twice as much, but than the G-POWER M3 TORNADO really starts to flex its muscles: from 5.000 rpm on until redline the G-POWER M3 TORNADO provides constantly about 20 % more torque than the factory car, this provides an acceleration that feels like being dragged by a bungee cord.

This output explosion is based on the heart of the G-POWER supercharger system, the all new T1-518 ASA centrifugal supercharger. By the way the ASA superchargers are being used in the ALPINA models B5S, B6S and B7 as well, just like the ALPINA B6 GT3 race car, in witch the chargers could state there impressive quality and reliability during 3.500 km in the “Green Hell” of the Nürburgring at the 24th hour race on may 23rd and 24th!

The exclusive use of components meeting OEM standards is one of the basic elements of the G-POWER philosophy and one of the secrets for the extraordinary quality, reliability and performance of the G-POWER products.

For its mission in the G-POWER M3 TORNADO the ASA T1-518 has been literally been tailor-made, to provide the giant need for fresh air of the up to 8.300 rpm revving 4.0 litre V8 engine. But the ASA supercharger, flanged to the engine using a CNC-milled high-strength mount, is not the only high-tech component of the G-POWER M3 supercharger system. The engineers did not spare any cost or efforts during the development of this supercharger system. Amongst others they even did a sophisticated, computer aided simulation which analyses the conditions of the air-ducting engine parts. The defined goal of this extensive research is to improve the efficiency of the G-POWER supercharger system to the best possible performance. And the result proofs us right. The G-POWER supercharger system is capable of reducing the specific fuel consumption of the engine. This shows that we do not only care about performance but are concerned of the sensitive use of restricted resources like fuel, as well.

A further key figure, next to the supercharger, in the G-POWER supercharger system is the complete aluminium cast, large volume air box, including 8 lightweight integral resonance induction pipes, that is responsible for the perfect throttle response and optimal torque curve. The G-POWER M3 supercharger system is completed by the large air-to-air intercooler that is located in the vehicles front, which cools the boost temperature down to an output optimal level under all circumstances.

Of course the performance figures benefit from this huge output improvement. The figure from stand still to 200 km/h improves from 15,8 seconds (stock, 6-speed manual) to 13,5 seconds (SKI).

On demand we can enable an unlimited top speed according to the capacity of the tyres. In combination with the 20 inch G-POWER SILVERSTONE DIAMOND wheels and the MICHELIN Pilot Sport tyres in the dimension 255/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 20, a top speed of more than 320 km/h can be achieved. Especially designed for the BMW models, the G-POWER SILVERSTONE Alloy Wheel forms a contrast to the great mass of other aftermarket wheels, due to the successful combination of double spokes and the “concave design” typical of G-POWER. The G-POWER “diamond cut” provides for the fascinating dynamic appearance of the G-POWER SILVESTONE rim, in contrast to the silver-graphite coated rim body and the bolt applications of stainless steel. An additional feature of the G-POWER SILVERSTONE rim is its weight-optimised design that allows a low rim weight with the same stability, compared to other standard wheels. A perceptibly improved impression of convenience and a considerably increased agility accompany the minimisation of the unsprung mass: advantages of the G-POWER SILVERSTONE rim, which you can factually experience above all in connection with low-profile tyres. Further improvement of the road handling is realized through the continuously height-adjustable G-POWER coil-over suspension G3M-RS with nine selectable settings each for bound and rebound.

Next to the output and the suspension of the BMW M3, G-POWER has taken care of the sound, as well. The G-POWER 4-trim sport rear muffler with its 4 x 83 mm tailpipes gives the BMW V8 a deep, throaty sound that turns heads but is at now time annoying. The G-POWER M3 rear muffler is available made from stainless steel or completely out of Titanium which is 14,5 kg lighter than the factory part.

The interior is upgraded by G-POWER with precious carbon panels, a speedometer with G-POWER logo scaled to 360 km/h, a sporty aluminium pedal set and on demand a tailor-made leather interior. The exclusivity of each G-POWER M3 TORNAD is documented with a special badge in the interior and on the supercharger system that features the G-POWER serial number.

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”.

500 Horsepower BMW M3 Coupe from G-Power

The German tuner G-Power returns with a new super-tuned up version of the popular BMW M3 Coupe. Marketed under the Tornado name, the G-Power M3 Coupe is a beast. The regular 4.0 liter V8 420  horsepower was turned into a 500 horsepower and 354 lb-ft engine, thanks to a new intercooler and performance exhaust system.

The G-Power BMW M3 Coupe when operated through a 6-speed gearbox, can accelerate from 0 to 124 mph in only 13.5 seconds, at least 2 seconds faster than the “regular” M3. The M3 Tornado can reach a top speed of 199 mph.

G-Power M3 Tornado runs on a set of Michelin Pilot Sport tires, 55/30 ZR20 in front, 295/25 ZR20 in the rear, mounted on lightweight 20-inch Silverstone alloy wheels. To reduce the weight while increasing the overall performance, a new four-pipe exhaust pipes package is offered, either made out of stainless steel or titanium which is 32 lbs lighter than the original part.

The new G-Power kit is mostly an engine performance upgrade, but the German tuner also included some new interior elements: carbon-fiber trim, new speedometer and new set of aluminum pedals.

[Source: Carscoop ]

2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid

The first all-wheel-drive hybrid vehicle ever developed by BMW is in the final testing stage. The BMW X6 ActiveHybrid made another appearance, but this time on U.S. soil near the Spartanburg plant, South Carolina.

The BMW X6 Hybrid is a two-mode hybrid based on an 8-cylinder gasoline engine which has been custom-made to meet the requirements of an SAV.

The newer, greener X6 will utilize the dual-mode ActiveHybrid system, which has discrete modes for high-torque, low speed driving as well as for high-speed cruises.

The two-mode hybrid uses about 20 percent less fuel than than a comparable vehicle with combustion engine. BMW is using a nickel metal hydride battery for the initial applications and unlike the other car manufacturers, the BMW hybrid engine will not be using cylinder deactivation. The system is also rumored to feature regenerative braking and start/stop technology.

X6 ActiveHybrid has a nearly identical body as the high-end X50i model, one of the only distinctive elements is the slightly larger M3-style bonnet found on the hood.

The model will go on sale at the end of this year together with the BMW 7 Series Hybrid.

[Source: LeftLaneNews | Photo Credit: Palbay & Brenda Priddy ]

The BMW M3 Edition Models

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

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

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

Press Release BMW M3 Edition Models

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Source: BMW ]

2010 BMW X1 - Car News

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

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

Smaller than X3, but Only Slightly

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

Keep Reading: 2010 BMW X1 - Car News

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

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

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

But let’s see what MotorTrend has to say:

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

BMW 330d xDrive Sedan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2009 RDSport BMW RS35 Biturbo

For those wishing to increase the performance of an already stellar platform, RDSport offers BMW RS35 Biturbo.
The first impression you get of the car is its lower, more aggressive stance courtesy of a Chassis Kit consisting of new custom-valved Bilstein struts, stiffer springs and anti-roll bars. The vehicle now sits 25 mm lower in the front and 20mm lower in the rear with a decidedly more stable ride. Filling the fenders are lightweight, 20 RD2 Monoblock wheels or the optional 20 RS2 multi-piece wheels, shown. Tires are P Zero Neros supplied by Pirelli, our development partner.
Engine performance includes electronic modifications to increase boost and optimize fuel and timing. A free-flowing intake and a larger, more-efficient intercooler help supply enough air. Exhaust gasses run through a larger exhaust that terminates in stainless sport silencers with quad tips. These modifications result in an increase in horsepower and torque to 414 bhp and 404 lb/ft more than the V8 powered M3!
The under hood area is finished with a blue engine cover with RDSport crest. These numbers are merely the result of a long development period including TUV homologation. Any tuner can offer a black box upgrade for the vehicle, but how many can say that their modification has been tested and can include the upgraded speedometer and wheels and tires that the homologation requires.
Bodywork is an evolution of RDSports signature Tornado aerodynamics. The revised carbon front bumper offers larger openings for better engine and brake cooling with an exposed carbon housing for fog lights. Deeper side skirts and revised rear apron with quad exhaust cut outs add to the aggressive look while a roof and trunk spoiler smooth out the airflow over the car. Interior upgrades include the RS Pedal Set in machined aluminum, aluminum hand brake cover, logo carpet set, the aforementioned upgraded speedometer with logo and RDSport crests in the steering wheel and shift knob. Each complete vehicle built by RDSport includes a vehicle ID badge and VIN specific build sheet.
© Source: seriouswheels

Rahal Letterman Racing BMW ALMS Team

Martin Birkman, Motorsport Managet at BMW North America, goes on camera and share with us some technologies found in the BMW M3 ALMS model. I met Martin for the first time in 2008 at the Chicago Auto Show where he introduced the Rahal Letterman M3 and also more recently at the New York Motor Show where he was once again present at the introduction of the first all-wheel drive BMW Motorsport vehicle.

Having the opportunity to speak with him in New York, I was fortunate to learn more about the current M models and future plans for the Motorsport division. We have also talked about the innovative solutions brought into the twin-turbo V8 engine and touched base on the rumors of a future V6 engines. But that’s another story, for now let’s hear what Martin has to share with us about the amazing M3 ALMS.

MWDesign tunes the BMW E92 M3 Coupe, calls it ‘Darth Maul’

MWDesign, a tuning firm based in Vancouver, Canada, has just unveiled their modification program for the BMW E92 M3 Coupe, codenamed “Darth Maul.” The Darth Maul sports a gorgeous Jerez Black exterior with a beautiful Fox Red interior trim.

Stage 1 of the MWDesign’s tuning program includes an Amuse Ericsson front bumper with custom orange highlights, Amuse Ericsson trunk, a carbon fiber rear diffuser, side vents, side mirrors and Modular M6 20-inch wheels, which are available with matte black centers and center caps. MWDesign also added H&R sports springs.

MWDesign says that there is a Stage 2 of the tuning program in the works. We’re guessing that will include power upgrades.

Axles of Evil: BMW M3 vs. Mercedes C63 AMG vs. Lexus IS F

From time to time we come across interesting BMW related articles on the web and since we’re so into our bimmers, we have no choice but to share them with you. Now, the comparison below is something we have seen on here many times before and it is probably one of the most popular compact sports sedans standoff that there is out there.

Three beautiful, high performance cars, that bring out the best features and technologies available within each company: BMW M3, Mercedes  Benz C63 AMG and Lexus IS F.

BMW was probably ready for this. After all, it’s been building ripper rear-drive compacts going back to the early ’70s and the 2002tii, and no doubt wondering why others didn’t get in on the act. Along with Mercedes, they should have been ready, of course, for the likes of Lexus to branch out from super-silent, super-soft luxury stuff into the realms of hardcore performance. Ready for the snorting IS F to start trampling all over the world’s favourite German turf. Question is, can it?

The current compact kings of performance are the M3 and the C63 AMG, at least while Audi pauses a moment between the outgoing RS4 and the next. That gap has been filled neatly by the IS F because, make no mistake, this is far more than a warmed-over IS250. Four years in the making, fitted with a brawny 5.0-litre V8, big Brembo brakes and a version of the LS460’s eight-speed auto, the IS F comes across as pure, rear-drive muscle-car exhilaration. Significantly, it’s also the first car of this ilk to come out of Japan.

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This impression is confirmed on the racetrack where the M3 easily overcame its power and torque inferiority to post quicker lap times than its more hairy-chested rivals. But it also continues to be a precision tool on the road. If the sedan has lost any torsional rigidity compared with the 20kg-lighter M3 coupe, you’ll never pick it. The combination of rapid-action steering, a tremendously grippy rear end, sensibly linear torque delivery and perfectly controlled body movement make it a joy to drive. The dual-clutch manual gearbox reacts quickly to manual shifts, or smoothly and intuitively if left in drive. If anything, the manual variant’s combination of sheer speed and refinement has only been enhanced by this very clever gearbox.

That’s not to say a good auto is left in the M3’s wake, as evidenced by the C63. The torque delivery of that monster V8 is dominating, and is the almost overwhelming aspect of the driving experience, but the seven-speed is never caught out. If you need to find a lower gear manually, it reacts relatively quickly; left to its own devices, it’ll do a better-than-average job. Throttle inputs need to be judicious if the ESP is switched off, but apart from progressive rear-end slip under power, there are no surprises here. The C63 reacts with all the big-engined brutality it can muster, although tempered by particularly pleasant steering and just a smidge of the understeer displayed on the circuit.

BMW X6 Hybrid caught undisguised

The final production version of the first all-wheel-drive hybrid from BMW, the X6, was spotted in the beautiful Munich. While the concept was officially unveiled at the L.A Auto Show last year in November, the production model has been seen around still carrying some minor camouflage. We already learned that the BMW X6 Hybrid along with 7 Series Hybrid will be launched at the end of this year.

The BMW X6 Hybrid is a two-mode hybrid based on an 8-cylinder gasoline engine which has been custom-made to meet the requirements of an SAV. The newer, greener X6 will utilize the dual-mode ActiveHybrid system, which has discrete modes for high-torque, low speed driving as well as for high-speed cruises.

The system uses a modular hybrid system which can be adapted to many different engine/vehicle combination, as opposed to a design-specific petrol engine/hybrid combination, which sees wider use in the automotive industry.

The two-mode hybrid uses about 20 percent less fuel than than a comparable vehicle with combustion engine. BMW is using a nickel metal hydride battery for the initial applications and unlike the other car manufacturers, the BMW hybrid engine will not be using cylinder deactivation. And second, if our sources are correct, then the BMW X6 Hybrid will feature the Start/Stop technology.

The body style is almost identical to the petrol versions, except the slightly larger M3-style bonnet, a funky feature that has been lightly criticized by some bimmer fans.

Even though no recent announcement has been made but judging from past spy photos, we expect to see  a hybrid version of the BMW X5 as well, most likely next year.

[Photos courtesy of Christian Wimmer at CWPhotography ]