BMW has released a few official photos of the upcoming X1 draped in camouflage.
According to TimesOnline there will be three engine choices in Europe: a 177hp diesel and 204hp diesel, and a gas powered 272bhp 3.0L V6. The US is likely to only receive the V6 when the X1 is released here.
We can expect to see the official production version of the X1 at the Frankfurt Motor Sow this September.
We’re getting close to wrapping up the day here at egmCarTech but we’re not calling it quits without our daily ‘Miscellaneous Thoughts’ post.
Another BMW X1 teaser released: Joining all the spy shots, teasers and videos, BMW has released yet another teaser for the upcoming BMW X1 compact SUV. Click her for more details on the BMW X1.
Chrysler and GM bankruptcy fixes may cause problem for Ford in the future: Ford is currently the American automobile industry’s pride and joy. However, with Chrysler already out of bankruptcy and GM possibly coming out in six weeks, Ford may soon find itself in weakest position of the traditional Big 3 according to CNNMoney. Ford, which built its cash reserves buy mortgaging company assets before the credit crisis in 2008, is left with about $32 billion in debt on its books. - CNNMoney
GM urged to make small-car in Michigan: As GM continues to narrow down its plant choices to produce a new small-car in North America, members of Michigan’s congressional delegation signed a letter to Fritz Henderson urging him to take the state’s economic crisis and produce the car at a plant in Michigan. - Free Press
BMW's equivalent of Deep Throat has divulged a host of information on the marque's coming plans for its premium entry level range incorporating the 1-Series and Z2, and a new line of Y vehicles. According to the mole, Scott26, the 1 will break into three different levels: Traditional, Lifestyle, and Sporting. They will be underpinned by a modular platform that could be differentiated among models and also serve as the basis for the next MINI.
The Traditional line will include the 1-Series along with Active Hybrid and Sport Compact versions. Sporting will comprise the 1-Series and Z2 coupe and cabriolet, plus a Supersports version of the 1 and a 135i Lightweight Performance Concept. Lifestyle counts the 1-Series Gran Turismo, the X1, X2, and the Y1.
As Scott27 breaks it down, the full lineup will advance the capabilities of Efficient Dynamics, and a hybrid version of each car will be offered. As well, the cars will "resist the usual jump in weight by using lightweight materials and sophisticated bonding techniques." What would be weighty at that point is the number of BMW's offerings, with 12 cars alone mentioned here, not counting the hatch models.
And what is the Y1? Strictly a proposal at this point, the line would be for those who want more "identity and creativity" in their Sports Activity Vehicles. A "dynamic , lighter and more personal" SAV than the X6, the Y1 is laid out as a 2-door, 2-seat "hybrid of an X with the aura of a Z." Think of a de-Bangled X Coupe. Thanks for the tip, Andrew!
[Source: 1 Addicts]
Seems like BMW is still waiting on releasing official images and videos of the full production X1. Nonetheless, the German automaker keeps us entertained with the release of official spy shots, teasers and now, this video of a camouflaged BMW X1 in action.
Refresher: The BMW X1 will hit markets next year and will be available with three engine choices. Kicking of the lineup is the xDrive20d, which is powered by a 177-hp diesel engine. Second is the xDrive23d, which is powered boy 204-hp turbodiesel. The xDrive28i gasoline model is powered by a 3.0 6-cylinder making 231-hp and a 199 lb-ft of torque. It will be the only model offered in North America.
What started last week as a simple rumor, it turned out today to be more than just that. According to sources close to BMW, the company is indeed exploring this idea and looking to vizualize where such model will fit in. The Y models could become a hybrid of two other popular series: the sports activity X vehicles and the sporty, dynamic Z roadsters.
Since many of you left comments yesterday inquiring more about this rumored Y1 model, we had to do some digging and once again, Scott from GCZ, comes to shed some light. After reading his short description of “what, where and why”, the Y Series sounds pretty damn good to us. Sure, it’s still a long shot and the project might get squashed as many other before, but hey…allow us to be excited for a moment. And that excitement also comes from the fact that the auto industry is changing, evolving and innovating.
We know that changes are tough, harsh on people and most of the time rejected, but we have to look forward to the future and the way we look at cars, or even how we use them.
BMW X Coupe Concept featured here
The X series identifies the range of Sport Activity Vehicles , such as X5 , X3 , X6 and very soon the X1.
The Z series identifies the range of Sporting Roadsters namely the Z4 but in the future the Z2.
Where does Y come into play.
It has been identified that certain customers were looking for something more sporting with their SAV’s, Which although the liked the X5 there was something missing in regards to how the X5 was anonymous in concept along with the X5’s competitors. One shape for each marque which brought the question for the purpose of the X6 The Worlds first Sport Activity Coupe.
Even after the introduction of the BMW X6 some customers have been identified who might want a bit more identity and creativity with a Sport Activity Coupe. Something with two doors rather than three an interesting new concept of Sport Activity Coupe which would be dynamic , lighter and more personal as a smaller Sport Activity Coupe.
Identified as a Concept and a creative idea. The Y series aims to be the hybrid of an X with the aura of a Z model. By being based within the the 1er portfolio BMW can be very cost efficient with an entirely new concept of car . First proposals showcase a small sedan like coupe shape with a raised driving position but not to much ground clearence. The Glasshouse is very shallow with a glass solar roof that will in theory retract down to the rear windshield offering a wide open Targa style roof.
Solar technology will be introduced on the next generation 1er as an Efficient Dynamics feature.
When it was shown , many recoiled in horror but in truth the DNA of the BMW Xcoupe Concept can be found in not only both incarnations of the Z4 Roadster but also the BMW X6. The idea of a combination of an X vehicle with the looks of a small coupe or roadster has been very much on the agenda since the Xcoupe was unveiled. Strictly billed as a niche model , not a volume model would help the Y create a key market as a unique unconventional choice as seen with the X6.
Although strictly as a two seater , the interior will be very sport orientated and feature such materials such as neoprene and synthetic shark skin type stretched materials like a zepplin shell over an all aluminum dashboard and the structure of the two seats..
In the future BMW will set out to gain focus on such a idea with a design concept in the near future, Ii the idea is well received then expect to see the Y on the roads in a few years time. For now it is a proposal of creativity.
And more thoughts on this:
We have identified customers who are interested in the Sports Activity Coupe Concept with more attention to compact and sportyness rather than a large coupe. It is here the Y1 will succeed because of it’s intentions it’s a hybrid of the X and Z series it wont be as raised as a conventional BMW SAV but it will have the looks of a Z series meaning strictly for two but with a very dynamic looking appearence.
Many have always liked the idea of a Xcoupe , but marketing were pushing for a larger premium models. The Y will strictly become a member of the 1er family .
BMW have now seen the need for expansion in your smaller , compact segment , because we are at the stage certainly in the current economic climate where downsizing is frequent and after the economic climate passes customers both old and new will be look for exciting more compact cars.
We have to think about the future and what will happen to the SAV? Y1 is an interpretaion of how we can think along those lines , new customers will evolve and want more versatility in their cars , these are future customers that today are being instructed on the environmental effect in regards to hybrids and electric powered automobiles.
Y1 will be a very dynamic car to drive and is purely aimed at young customers. As part of the next phase of Efficient Dynamics - Solar roofs will be featured to enable areas of the car to be regenerated. The Y1 will get a unique sliding Targa roof that will provide maximum exposure for the passenger compartment .
There are customers for every type of vehicle BMW offers . Even though the media claimed the X6 was a step too far we have proven them wrong and have outfooted our competitors but we know that in Design studios at Audi , Porsche and Mercedes-Benz they have there own interpretations of a Sport Activity Coupe ready to go and when things get clearer economically they will come to light.
There are customers for the 5er GT as there will be a customer base for the X1 plus there will still be customers for core models such as the 3er , 5er and so on.
Xcoupe always had a future but at BMW we like things to progress slowly we like to understand and we like to showcase creativity for the customer.
Everything begins with a clean sheet of paper but are never rushed , ideas that mature longer . We did say in 2001 that you will see this car on the road sometime in the future. Now almost a decade later that future is almost here.
It seems like automakers are getting the hang of using social media to spread the word about their products. As such, the BMW X1 Facebook page has 926 fans, which is why BMW decided to release teaser shots of the upcoming compact SUV on the people-connecting website to keep fans excited.
When you think of BMW X1, think of Volkswagen’s Tiguan in terms of size. It’s slightly smaller than the X3 and will seat 4 individuals comfortably (although a 5th can be cramped in somewhere in the middle).
While we’re not sure which model year designation the X1 will carry when it hits markets early next year (most likely 2010), we do know that it will be offered in three different variants.
Kicking of the lineup is the xDrive20d, which is powered by a 177-hp diesel engine. Second is the xDrive23d, which is powered boy 204-hp turbodiesel. The xDrive28i gasoline model is powered by a 3.0 6-cylinder making 231-hp and a 199 lb-ft of torque. It will be the only model offered in North America.
We’re expecting BMW to drop all the high-res shots and details very soon.
Source: Facebook
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.
We’re probably just hours away from the full set of the official BMW X1 photos hitting the web, but in the mean time, the BMW marketing machine released some “teaser” photos of the X1 on their Facebook page.
As a refresher, with the X1, BMW offers a new perspective as a compact premium Sport Activity Vehicle. It will be oriented towards younger BMW fans and most important, as an urban vehicle. Even though initially there were no plans to release the car in the U.S., sources close to BMW speak of the possibility of seeing this car sometimes next year.
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-liter models with 141 horsepower and 168 horsepower, and a 254 horsepower 3.0-liter six-cylinder unit. On the diesel side there will be three of 2.0-liter common rail fours producing 141 horsepwer, 175 horsepower and 201 horsepower.
The first models will feature the BMW xDrive system, but in the future, a rear-wheel drive option will be offered as well.
Stay tuned for more photos and information!
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.
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.
If initially we reported that the BMW X1 will only be available for the European market, at the NYC Auto Show, a BMW representative misterously spoke of BMW’s plans to indeed include the X1 in the U.S. line-up as well. So, apparently, BMW has always had plans for the U.S. market and for those of you looking for a smaller SAV model, the X1 might satfisfy your needs.
We arrived with enthusiasm for a drive of a prototype of the BMW X1 sport activity wagon (or SAW — after the cult series of scare-your-date films??), but then we immediately had the stuffing knocked out of us. Because although the BMW X1 starts deliveries in most of the world in October of this year, it won’t come to North America until the middle of 2011. So we’re driving the 2012 BMW X1.
Of course there are reasons for that, of which more later.
After picking ourselves up, dusting off and starting all over again, we stopped our whining long enough to discover in the still-camouflaged BMW X1 a really solid, car-based people/stuff carrier. Over all kinds of milder terrain and on spectacular curvaceous roads on the mostly German- and British- colonized Spanish island of Mallorca, the 2012 BMW X1 actually rips it up pretty darn well for being a new BMW that we don’t remember anyone anywhere asking for.
Continue reading on Edmunds Inside Line
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 ]
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
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:
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 ]
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:
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
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.
We have just learned that the second generation of the smaller Sports Activity Vehicle, BMW X3, will be officially unveiled in December. In a recent interview, Jim O’Donnell, CEO of BMW North America mentioned that the current generation production has been shortened to allow the introduction of the new model early next year. The next BMW X3 will shortly follow the new BMW X1 which will be released at the end of this year and it will represent BMW’s entry level vehicle in the SAV market.
The 2010 BMW X3 will have a roof line slightly lower than the current model and will follow the X5’s steps by getting more round corners and a sportier look. The second generation X3 will be a more dynamic performance oriented Sports Activity Vehicle and it will have larger dimensions than the current model. It will measure 4.65 meters long, 1.85 meters wide and 1.68 meter tall, offering a more spacious cabin and cargo space than the current generation.
All the electronic gadgets seen in other recent BMW models will make their way into the 2010 X3 as well, starting with the Night Vision System, Head-Up Display and continuing with Adaptive Headlights. The interior design has been drastically improved, a much needed upgrade requested by the BMW fans.
Two petrol engines will be offered, along with four diesel choices. The petrol engines will most likely be the straight six 3- liter engine and the twin-turbo six that produces 306 hp. The top diesel engine will be same one found in the X5d or 335d sedan.
The new BMW X3 will be facing some tough competition from the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz GLK. The base price is expected to be increased as well due to the introduction of the BMW X1
BMW is increasing their marketing effort in promoting the upcoming BMW X1 official launch. Last week, we showed you a series of videos part of a global communication campaign focused on the “Joy” theme.
But today, BMW launched the X1 minisite where for now, you can see all the viral “Joy” videos and….even more interesting, you can create your own interpretation of joy.
Again, BMW has found a way to engage the audience and that’s an effort that deserves many applause. As someone that is very interested and active in the social medium, I definitely appreciate their online efforts and most important, I applaud their marketing department for thinking outside the box and looking at new ways to reach out to its audience.
BMW X1 has been recently advertised as being an urban vehicle geared towards a younger demographic who enjoy outdoor activities as well and would still like to use a spacious car to transport their surfboards, skis, snowboards or climbing equipment. Most of the people fitting this profile spend a lot of their time online and connected, so reaching out to them by using Twitter, Facebook or Youtube, is just brilliant and…..it can be very cost effective.
With this being said, head over to the X1 minisite and share with us through the comment box below, your “Own Interpretation Of Joy”. May the best man or woman win
Photo: JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP/Getty Images)
BMW Group announced that starting in June, the two shifts a day schedule at the Leipzig plant will resume to normal. Back in November, due to lower sales and decreased demand, the production was reduce to one shift.
As a surprise, BMW executives mentioned that the demand for the 1 Series models impacted the decision to increase the production. The Leipzig plan will also start building the upcoming BMW X1.
The Leipzig plant employs 2,700 people and in 2008 has manufactured 150,000 automobiles. Beside the 1 Series hatch, coupe and convertible, the plant also builds the 3 Series sedans. In the next few months, the BMW X1 production will start as well.
BMW will unveil its Concept X1 at the Paris motor show, a tarted-up version of the production car that will debut in mid-2009. But ahead of the official debut BMW has released this teaser video.
Of course it's a PR stunt, with glimpses of the Concept X1 mixed in with shots of skateboarders and grafftti artists, but it gives us our first look at the new X1 on the move. Except the real thing to arrive in mid-2009, while a 'coupe' X2 version will also be spun from the same platform.
BMW AG has selected GSD&M Idea City, based in Austin TX, as its lead global agency of creative for brand advertising communications. Prior to this decision, the global creative duties were shared among various international marketing agencies, operating independently from several countries across the world. This is the first international account for GSD&M Idea City and BMW represents the highest profile customer at this point.
The Austin based ad agency started working with BMW of North America back in 2005 and the road to this win was quite difficult, several agencies went through extensive competitive reviews.
“We are delighted to have an agency such as GSD&M Idea City with the potential to set further creative benchmarks with BMW global brand communications in the future. We will be working with our partner to continue sharpening BMW’s brand profile through focused and emotional communications,” said Jan-Christiaan Koenders, director brand communication, BMW and group marketing services, in a statement.
The first task for GSD&M is the development of a new global communication campaign focused on the “Joy” theme which was recently mentioned in the new “Expression of Joy” BMW Z4. The marketing campaign will take place worldwide at auto shows, private and public events, print and online media. Even though not confirmed in the press release, we expect GSD&M to organize the campaign around the upcoming BMW X1 which carries the marketing catchy name “This is your world”
The new global communication campaign will be introduced in Europe throughout summer 2009 and is being planned for a US roll-out in early 2010.
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