Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BMW 1 Series sedan detailed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/bmw-1-series-sedan-detailed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/bmw-1-series-sedan-detailed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/bmw-1-series-sedan-detailed/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The engorged dimensions of the BMW 3 Series have been a source of enthusiasts' ire for years now. The 3er's growth isn't all that shy, especially of late: the sedan is 10.6 inches longer and 8.3 inches wider than it was in 1975, or for a more modern perspective, the brand new 3 Series is 6.5 inches longer than it was in 2002. It took 27 years to gain 4.1 inches, but only 10 years to stretch another 6.5. To address the size and heft, a report in Autocar says BMW is planning a rear-wheel-drive 1 Series sedan to be "the spiritual successor to the E30-generation 3 Series four-door."

Talk of 1 Series models being spiritual successors to 3 Series models isn't new - part of the clamor around the 1 Series M was that it channeled the light flickability of the first M3s. A 1 Series sedan would serve three purposes: get a light, small, RWD model back in the lineup, give the company a clear competitor to the upcoming Audi A3 sedan and Mercedes-Benz CLA, and help BMW get closer to its sales target of two million cars in 2020.

The sedan would sit on a derivative of the platform used in the current 3 Series, and be different from the front-wheel-drive platform underpinning the forthcoming 1 Series GT. Four- and six-cylinder engines and BMWs xDrive AWD system are in the planning mix, as is an electric version. Autocar says 2015 is a potential sale date for the sedan, which would put it one year after the next-generation coupe and convertible officially bow.

BMW 1 Series sedan detailed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1 series sedan3 seriesa3audiaudi a3 sedanbmwbmw 1 series sedanclamercedes-benzmercedes-benz claThu, 24 May 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20244483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/24/bmw-1-series-sedan-detailed/20244483/article-detail.xml 20244483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw1sedan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw1sedan.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mini Cooper gets mellow in yellow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Mini Cooper Spy Shots

Given the spate of new models Mini has introduced in the past few years, from the Clubman to the Countryman to the Coupe to the Roadster, it sometimes seems like BMW has forgotten about the original model, the plain old Mini Cooper hardtop. It was last redesigned for the 2007 model year, which seems like a long time ago because, well, it is. Which is why Mini will shortly introduce an all-new hardtop Cooper, which our camera spies have captured testing in Europe.

We're told that the new model is codenamed F56, but more importantly, its underpinnings are said to be shared with the next-generation BMW 1 Series. While Mini will continue to put four-cylinder engines underhood, there's presumably a three-cylinder in the works as well, though we're not sure whether that model will make it to our shores.

While we've seen some spy shots of the 2014 Mini Cooper before, these seem to confirm that the car will grow a bit in size, both length and width. We are told that the longer hood and greater front overhang may be the result of fake front body panels, but the new front and rear glass appears to accurately represent the forthcoming production car, which will have a more raked angle to its windshield and rear window.

BMW is expected to start production of the 2014 Mini Cooper early next year.

2014 Mini Cooper gets mellow in yellow originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2014 mini cooperbmwcoopercooper sminispy shotsWed, 16 May 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239287/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/20239287/article-detail.xml 20239287 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2014-mini-cooper-spy-shots-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2014-mini-cooper-spy-shots-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #282]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Carroll Shelby's passing, BMW 3 Series Wagon, Porsche sub-Boxster/Pajun, Google car in public, BMW 2 Series
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Episode #282 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Chris, Dan and Zach chat about the passing of industry legend Carroll Shelby, the BMW 3 Series Wagon that's coming soon, Porsche and its rumored small five-door, Pajun (along with plans for a baby Boxster), Google's self-driving car getting the go-ahead to roam Nevada's streets, and the coming BMW 2 Series. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #282:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Chrylser 300 AWD
2012 Honda Fit Sport
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:23:51
Get the podcast
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #282

Autoblog Podcast #282 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2 series3 seriesautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 282bmw 2 seriesboxstercarroll shelbycarroll shelby diescarroll shelby passesfeaturedpanameraporsche pajunTue, 15 May 2012 16:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #282Autoblog01:23:51 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20238805/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/20238805/article-detail.xml 20238805 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[BMW launches 2013 135is coupe and convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/bmw-launches-2013-135is-coupe-and-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/bmw-launches-2013-135is-coupe-and-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/bmw-launches-2013-135is-coupe-and-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 BMW 135is - blue - front three-quarter studio view

Let's get one thing straight: We'll never complain about a new BMW 1 Series performance model, and on paper, this new-for-2013 135is sure seems like a total hoot. But you have to understand, we're still mourning the loss of the 1 Series M Coupe, a one-year model that we absolutely fell in love with when it debuted last year. To quote BMW, the 135is is the "top performance model 1 Series for 2013," and awesome as it may be, it just makes the 1M's death seem all the more permanent. Le sigh.

Still, there's plenty to be excited about with this new 135is. Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, the hotter 1 Series uses a more powerful version of the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six from the 135i, boosted to 320 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque here - upgrades of 20 and 17, respectively, over the standard car. Both a six-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission are available.

A revised sport suspension comes standard, as do visual upgrades like new 18-inch alloy wheels, a blacked-out grille and black mirror caps, in addition to all of the usual M Sport cosmetic changes.

The 135is is available to order as you read this, with the first deliveries taking place in the fall. Pricing starts at $44,195 for the coupe and $44,895 for the convertible, including the $895 destination charge. Give the 1 Series M a final wave goodbye and scroll down to take in all of the details about the 135is in BMW's press blast.

Continue reading BMW launches 2013 135is coupe and convertible

BMW launches 2013 135is coupe and convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1-series135i135is2013 bmw 1 series2013 bmw 135isbmwTue, 15 May 2012 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20238485/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/15/bmw-launches-2013-135is-coupe-and-convertible/20238485/article-detail.xml 20238485 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2013-bmw-135is-1337099018_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2013-bmw-135is-1337099018.jpg <![CDATA[320-horsepower BMW M135i headlines new three-door 1 Series range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/320-horsepower-bmw-m135i-headlines-new-three-door-1-series-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/320-horsepower-bmw-m135i-headlines-new-three-door-1-series-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/320-horsepower-bmw-m135i-headlines-new-three-door-1-series-range/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M135i in blue - dynamic front three-quarter view

We can now take an official, in-depth look at the new BMW M135i and the accompanying three-door 1 Series range - and there's much to see. Starting from the beginning, the Bimmer's styling has inclined some people to grab their hatchets. Yes, there's a whole lot of intensity and a slumgullion of deeply incised polygons mixed together in that little upright face, but we have no doubt there'll be a whole lot more people grabbing their wallets when they see it.

Along with the 320-horsepower M135i, fresh engines and features are among the new treats, as well as Sport Line, Urban Line and M Sport Package trims. The new 102-hp 114i model establishes the base, followed by the 136-hp 116i, 170-hp 118i and 218-hp 125i on the gasoline side, the 116-hp 116d, 143-hp 118d, 184-hp 120d and 218-hp 125d on the diesel side. Six-speed manuals are the go-to, with two eight-speed automatic transmissions in the options column. The M135i and 120d can be had with xDrive all-wheel drive, a first-time application on the 1 Series.

The new body is 85 mm longer, 17 mm wider, with a 30-mm longer wheelbase and wider track front and rear. The enlarged dimensions mean more cargo and legroom in the back, and buyers will get the option of having either two or three rear seats. And the comfort and safety systems lists read like someting out of the Papa Bear 7 Series, from Internet access to Lane Departure Warning and auto-braking cruise control.

Hop into the high-res gallery or head for the press releases below that details everything you could want to know about the new three-door 1 Series.

Continue reading 320-horsepower BMW M135i headlines new three-door 1 Series range

320-horsepower BMW M135i headlines new three-door 1 Series range originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1-series135i2013 bmw 1 seriesbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw m135im135iMon, 14 May 2012 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237314/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/320-horsepower-bmw-m135i-headlines-new-three-door-1-series-range/20237314/article-detail.xml 20237314 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/04bmw1series_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/04bmw1series.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 1 M Coupe gets 521-horsepower lift from Tuningwerk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/bmw-1-m-coupe-gets-521-horsepower-lift-from-tuningwerk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/bmw-1-m-coupe-gets-521-horsepower-lift-from-tuningwerk/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/bmw-1-m-coupe-gets-521-horsepower-lift-from-tuningwerk/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Tuningwerk BMW 1 Series M Coupe

There is a point at which the amount of money poured into any aftermarket-tuned vehicle becomes entirely insane. Heck, that's half of the appeal of tuner cars - that the best ones show such fanatical devotion to a specific model that you must respect the inspiration and effort even when the result is utterly unimaginable. Which brings us to this: A $156,000 BMW 1 Series.

Now granted, it's not just any 1'er that German übertuner Tuningwerk is selling for more than a Porsche 911 Turbo. There's a 1 M Coupe in there somewhere, one that's been fitted with 19-inch wheels and some of the widest tires we've ever seen on a compact BMW: 245/35R19 up front and 285/30R19 in the rear. Available 15-inch carbon ceramic rotors from Mov'it provide stopping power for the 521-horsepower, 453 pound-foot of torque upgrade to the twin-turbo inline six. The car also carries a whole host of carbon fiber body parts, from hood to trunk to even optional carbon fiber doors.

The bottom line is that Tuningwerk says its 1 M RS will do 186 mph. Scroll down to read the full press release and be sure to check out all the photos in our gallery.

Continue reading BMW 1 M Coupe gets 521-horsepower lift from Tuningwerk

BMW 1 M Coupe gets 521-horsepower lift from Tuningwerk originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupe1 series1 series m coupe1 series m rs1 series rs2011 bmw 1 series m coupebmwtuningwerkWed, 18 Apr 2012 15:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20218011/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/18/bmw-1-m-coupe-gets-521-horsepower-lift-from-tuningwerk/20218011/article-detail.xml 20218011 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/tuningwerk-bmw-1-series-m-coupe-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/tuningwerk-bmw-1-series-m-coupe-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 1 Series M Coupe is sold out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/bmw-1-series-m-coupe-is-sold-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/bmw-1-series-m-coupe-is-sold-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/bmw-1-series-m-coupe-is-sold-out/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe

We knew this was coming, but the BMW 1 Series M Coupe is now history. While BMW is still building out the model run, it has closed ordering and "all cars are spoken for," according to Car and Driver.

The report comes from the magazine's European correspondent, so we assume any remaining cars are destined to remain in Europe, meaning that our friends across the Atlantic are just now catching up to our situation here. Perhaps this news should come as no surprise, as the 1 Series M Coupe was sold in the U.S. for just a single model year, 2011.

Of course, if your heart is set on owning one of fewer than 1,000 1 Series M Coupes that were offered in the States, the only thing standing between you and your dream is money. We imagine values of these cars will not depreciate much (the only used example on eBay Motors at the moment has been essentially bid up to MSRP), though whether the 1 Series M Coupe will achieve the cult status of the 2001-2002 BMW M Coupe remains to be seen.

BMW 1 Series M Coupe is sold out originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1 series m coupe1-series1m1m coupe2011 bmw 1 series m coupe2012 bmw 1 series m coupebmwm coupeTue, 03 Apr 2012 15:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20207354/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/03/bmw-1-series-m-coupe-is-sold-out/20207354/article-detail.xml 20207354 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2011-bmw-1-series-m-coupe-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2011-bmw-1-series-m-coupe-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M Performance Parts continue to expand the brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW M Performance Parts

The relentless expansion of M-engineered and branded wares doesn't just stop at the M diesel quadruplets and the M135i. Here in Geneva, BMW announced the latest line of M performance parts that spans the spectrum from appearance bits to powertrain upgrades.

M Performance exhausts will be available for the new 1 Series (in Europe), along with the 3 Series and 5 Series. Carbon fiber front splitters join black kidney grilles in the catalog, as does a new version of the M Performance steering wheel. BMW also claims to have some suspension components are in the works, and all this kit will be on sale and ready for installation at BMW dealers in the United States this summer.

BMW M Performance Parts continue to expand the brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series3 series5 seriesbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 3 seriesbmw 5 seriesbmw m performancegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showm performance partsWed, 07 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20187599/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/20187599/article-detail.xml 20187599 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-m-performance-parts-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-m-performance-parts-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M135i Concept is a behatched successor to our favorite 1er]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m135i-concept-is-a-behatched-successor-to-our-favorite-1er/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m135i-concept-is-a-behatched-successor-to-our-favorite-1er/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m135i-concept-is-a-behatched-successor-to-our-favorite-1er/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW M135i Concept

If BMW isn't willing to give us an authentic M-ified 1 Series, we'll have to settle for the next best thing, and that's the M135i, the latest performance package from the marque's motorsport division.

Based off the three-door F20 variant of the Euro-only 1 Series, the M135i isn't quite the 1er/M3 lovechild of the dearly beloved 1 Series M Coupe, but it's still packing BMW's tried-and-true-and-tunable turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, putting out more than 300 horsepower presumably through a six-speed manual gearbox.

Beefed-up brakes, tweaked suspension bits and 18-inch M-branded wheels are fitted at each corner, while restyled front and rear fascias round out the rest of the exterior mods.

We've heard through the grapevine that the M135i has already been approved for production, both in rear-wheel-drive and xDrive trim for Europe (except the UK), but considering the F20 still hasn't come Stateside, don't expect the M135i to make the trek... yet.

BMW M135i Concept is a behatched successor to our favorite 1er originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 seriesbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 135ibmw 135i conceptbmw m135ibmw M135i conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showWed, 07 Mar 2012 06:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20187582/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/bmw-m135i-concept-is-a-behatched-successor-to-our-favorite-1er/20187582/article-detail.xml 20187582 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-m135i-concept-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-m135i-concept-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M135i will be produced, offer xDrive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/26/bmw-m135i-will-be-produced-offer-xdrive/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/26/bmw-m135i-will-be-produced-offer-xdrive/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/26/bmw-m135i-will-be-produced-offer-xdrive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



BMW hasn't announced it yet, but sources familiar with BMW's production plans have told Autoblog that the M135i concept, which will be shown at the Geneva Motor Show, will go into production.

The 1 Series hatch with M Performance modifications and a gas-powered, turbocharged inline six will send 300+ horsepower to its 18-inch wheels in either rear-wheel drive or xDrive configurations. According to Autoweek it will perform much like the 1M Coupe, getting from standstill to 62 mph in under five seconds.

Continental Europe will get it for sure, but markets like the UK won't since xDrive isn't yet compatible with right-hand-drive. The UK market has been told that only the X models will have all-wheel drive until the next-gen 5 Series arrives. We're probably out in the cold as well, but we'll know more in Geneva.

BMW M135i will be produced, offer xDrive originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 seriesbmw 1 seriesbmw m135ibmw m135i conceptm135im135i conceptSun, 26 Feb 2012 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20179502/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/26/bmw-m135i-will-be-produced-offer-xdrive/20179502/article-detail.xml 20179502 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmwm135iproduction_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmwm135iproduction.jpg <![CDATA[BMW goes blurry (again) in 1 Series M Performance parts teaser]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/bmw-goes-blurry-again-in-1-series-m-performance-parts-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/bmw-goes-blurry-again-in-1-series-m-performance-parts-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/bmw-goes-blurry-again-in-1-series-m-performance-parts-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



BMW apparently set a precedent when it teased its trio of M-fettled diesels. That video showed a speeding X6 with all the tell-tale bits of kit blurred out. Now, BMW is ready to give us a taste of its new 1 Series fitted with an assortment of M Performance baubles and it's taking a similar tact to tease us.

In the video after the jump you'll see the 2012 BMW 1 Series hatch running around the paddock and the track with all the "important" M stuff - fascias, mirrors, etc. - strategically blurred out.

Like the M diesels, we're hoping this is more than just an assortment of tacked-on body mods and more of a comprehensive, factory-approved upgrade path. We'll find out soon enough, as there's a solid change we'll see the M Performance 1 Series in Geneva next month.

Continue reading BMW goes blurry (again) in 1 Series M Performance parts teaser

BMW goes blurry (again) in 1 Series M Performance parts teaser originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 seriesbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 1 series m performancemm performancem performance partsWed, 15 Feb 2012 19:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172608/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/15/bmw-goes-blurry-again-in-1-series-m-performance-parts-teaser/20172608/article-detail.xml 20172608 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/m-per-1-series-vid-cap_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/m-per-1-series-vid-cap.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 1 Series GT tipped for Parisian debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-1-series-gt-tipped-for-parisian-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-1-series-gt-tipped-for-parisian-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-1-series-gt-tipped-for-parisian-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW 1 Series

We know what you're thinking: Another day, another BMW bodystyle. Except this one's different.

The Bavarian automaker, much like its fellow German marques Audi and Mercedes-Benz, has exploded its product offerings with spinoffs of its established models. So the two-door 6 Series has bred a four-door GranCoupe version. The 5 Series, in addition to the sedan and wagon, has given us the oddly proportioned 5 Series Gran Turismo. But the upcoming 1 Series Gran Turismo is another kettle of fish in that it is not expected to share the small rear-drive platform with its recently revised namesake, but rather pack a new front-drive platform.

According to BMW Blog, the long-rumored 1 Series GT will finally make its debut next fall at the Paris Motor Show. When it does, the tall hatchback will be targeted directly at the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, slotting (in form at least) in between the existing 1 Series hatchback (pictured above) and X1 crossover. But if front-wheel drive isn't how you picture your BMW channeling its power, an all-wheel xDrive version is also tipped to be in the cards, as well as a hybrid model.

BMW 1 Series GT tipped for Parisian debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2012 paris auto salon2012 paris motor showbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 1 series grand turismobmw 1 series gtparisparis auto salonparis motor showWed, 01 Feb 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162166/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/bmw-1-series-gt-tipped-for-parisian-debut/20162166/article-detail.xml 20162166 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/3012012-bmw-1-seriesurb-ext_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/3012012-bmw-1-seriesurb-ext.jpg <![CDATA[BMW ActiveE enrollment process now open in test markets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

bmw activee

It isn't every day that BMW offers an electric vehicle, but the ActiveE is just that. The German luxury car maker is now accepting applications for 700 ActiveE "Electronauts" in the test markets of Boston, Hartford, New York, Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego and San Francisco.

The hand-raisers will need to complete a charging station consultation with BMW Partner AeroVironment to make sure the house of the perspective lessee can handle a charger. The meeting will also serve as a teaching session to make sure the user understands the charging and maintenance of an electric vehicle.

Once the perspective lessee meets those criteria, they will be given the opportunity to lease the
4,000-pound, electrified 1 Series Coupe for 24 months at $499 per month, plus $2,250 down. Hit the jump to look over the BMW press release, and head over to BMWActivateTheFuture.com if you're interested in learning more about the ActiveE.

Continue reading BMW ActiveE enrollment process now open in test markets

BMW ActiveE enrollment process now open in test markets originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1 series ev1-seriesactive eactiveebmwbmw activeebmw evbmw ielectricEVMon, 23 Jan 2012 18:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20153759/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/23/bmw-activee-enrollment-process-now-open-in-test-markets/20153759/article-detail.xml 20153759 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0000-bmw-activee-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0000-bmw-activee-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW adds Exclusive and Sport editions to 1 Series coupe/convertible range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/bmw-adds-exclusive-and-sport-editions-to-1-series-coupe-converti/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/bmw-adds-exclusive-and-sport-editions-to-1-series-coupe-converti/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/bmw-adds-exclusive-and-sport-editions-to-1-series-coupe-converti/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW 1 Series Convertible Edition Exclusive and Coupe Edition Sport

With 2012 now upon us, BMW has released a series of updates across its ever-expanding range, but the most noteworthy among them are a pair of special editions in the 1 Series.

First up is the Edition Exclusive, which packages a chrome grille, exhaust tips and window frames to contrast with the special grey metallic paint (or one of five standard colors), along with unique wheels and an interior decked out in special black or grey top-stitched leather with aluminum trim, anthracite headliner, chrome-trimmed steering wheel and handbrake and special sill plates and floor mats.

The Edition Sport, meanwhile, includes the M Sports suspension, wheels and aero kit, offset by high-gloss black exterior trim. The interior likewise benefits from some M touches, and grippy textile upholstery with contrasting blue stitching and aluminum trim.

Both packages are available on either the 1 Series Coupe or Convertible, and with a broad range of engines, with deliveries beginning in March. Follow the jump for the full press release and check out the high-res images in the gallery for a closer look.

Continue reading BMW adds Exclusive and Sport editions to 1 Series coupe/convertible range

BMW adds Exclusive and Sport editions to 1 Series coupe/convertible range originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2012 bmw 1 seriesbmwconvertiblecoupeedition exclusiveedition sportFri, 13 Jan 2012 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147509/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/bmw-adds-exclusive-and-sport-editions-to-1-series-coupe-converti/20147509/article-detail.xml 20147509 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webbmw-1-exclusive-sport_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webbmw-1-exclusive-sport.jpg <![CDATA[BMW still has "no plans" for 1 Series hatch in States, X6-like X3 variant in the cards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/bmw-still-has-no-plans-for-1-series-hatch-in-states-x6-like-x/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/bmw-still-has-no-plans-for-1-series-hatch-in-states-x6-like-x/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/bmw-still-has-no-plans-for-1-series-hatch-in-states-x6-like-x/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2012 BMW 1 Series five-door

We've just returned from a Detroit Auto Show media roundtable with Klaus Draeger, member of the Board of BMW AG, Development, and he's helped shed some light on both some near- and far-term developments for BMW in the States.

Draeger confirmed that BMW has absolutely no plans to expand the 1 Series lineup in the U.S. with a hatchback variant like the new generation F20 range sold in Europe. While Draeger says that the 1 Series has done a "wonderful job" for BMW, he notes that the model is positioned very differently in the U.S. and Europe. In the States, the 1 Series is a car for hardcore driving enthusiasts, but in Europe, with its fuller range of (primarily lower-power) engines and bodystyles, the 1 Series is positioned as more of a family car - an entry point to the brand (70 percent of European 1 Series buyers are new to BMW).

Klaus Draeger, BMW Board, DevelopmentIn the short-term, Draeger confirmed that the 740i six-cylinder model will receive the company's xDrive all-wheel drive system before the end of the year. The system is currently available on the V8-powered 750i, but with the biggest market for the 7 Series being the New York tri-state area, not having the additional foul weather performance of xDrive in the I6 has left a vacuum in the model lineup.

In more general terms, Draeger says we can expect to see electric power steering and start/stop systems in all BMWs, and indeed, a number of models in the company's portfolio already feature the fuel-saving technologies.

Also on the fuel-saving front, Draeger says that X5 diesel sales are going well in the States, accounting for roughly one-third of sales. Despite that, the X6 will not get a diesel variant, as the current model only has two or three years left in its life and it wouldn't make sense to introduce one this late in life. However, he wouldn't rule one out for the next-gen X6, nor was he willing to preclude a diesel's inclusion in the new X3. The new generation 3 Series and current 5 Series are also likely candidates for oil burning motivation, but they won't happen this calendar year.

When asked if BMW is happy with X6 sales, Draeger said "Yes. Absolutely." As a followup question, Draeger was asked if it then made sense to do a similar variant on the X3, and he said "Yes. Yes." Unfortunately, he wasn't at liberty to elaborate.

Finally, BMW officially announced yesterday that its smallest crossover, the X1, will go on sale here soon (likely not before a mid-cycle refresh), but Draeger maintains that there is "no real synergy" to justify bringing production to the U.S.

BMW still has "no plans" for 1 Series hatch in States, X6-like X3 variant in the cards originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series3 series5 seriesbmwdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showklaus draegerx1x3x5x6Tue, 10 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20145251/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/bmw-still-has-no-plans-for-1-series-hatch-in-states-x6-like-x/20145251/article-detail.xml 20145251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-bmw-1-series-five-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-bmw-1-series-five-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M5 quicker than 1 M Coupe quicker than M3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 front three-quarter

Autobild recently set out to settle the question of which M vehicle is the fastest in the BMW stable at the moment. Not surprisingly, the German enthusiast publication found the BMW M3 CRT to be the quickest around the Sachsenring, setting the magazine's fastest time around the track with a 1:38.37 minute lap time. That's impressive, but not nearly as astounding as the time drummed up by the new BMW M5. The portly sedan did the same deed in 1:38.90, or just three hundredths of a second slower than the special-edition M3.

And what of the sibling rivalry between the BMW 1 Series M Coupe and the standard M3? As it turns out, the magazine's shoes have given the nod to the smaller of the two coupes. The 1 Series M Coupe barely eked out a win over the M3, though the M3 Convertible took nearly two extra seconds to make it around the course than its hardtop twin.

BMW M5 quicker than 1 M Coupe quicker than M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupe1 series1 series m1 series m coupe1m coupeautobildbmw 1 series m coupebmw mbmw m3bmw m5mm1m3m5Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20136715/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/20136715/article-detail.xml 20136715 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[BMW planning 135i hatch?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/bmw-planning-135i-hatch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/bmw-planning-135i-hatch/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/bmw-planning-135i-hatch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The new 2012 BMW 1 Series is making friends hither and yon, but an unsourced report from the Netherlands suggests it might soon be taking no prisoners with the rumored arrival next summer of a 320-horsepower, 135i hatch. Yes, grab your salt and put on your tinfoil hat, because this appears to be the most speculative sort of speculation.

The redesigned 2012 1 Series is being launched overseas with seven choices of four-cylinder engine, the top-of-the-line being the 2.0-liter, 245-hp 128is which replaces the six-cylinder in the formerly range-topping 130i. The claim in Dutch automotive blog Driving Fun asserts that the hot hatch will get the 3.0-liter turbocharged six and enough horses to put it just shy of the 335-hp 1 Series M. What's more, it goes on further to claim a "four-wheel drive" (read: "all-wheel drive") version will arrive in December 2012.

Even if we liked such an answer, there are probably too many open questions to bother enjoying it at this point. Not that it would matter to us, anyway: were BMW ever to make such a vehicle, it probably would be too expensive to bring to America.

BMW planning 135i hatch? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1-series128i135i2012 1 series2012 bmw 1 seriesbmwWed, 23 Nov 2011 15:06:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20113538/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/23/bmw-planning-135i-hatch/20113538/article-detail.xml 20113538 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/bmw135irumors_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/bmw135irumors.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Jeremy Clarkson pit 1908 V12 Brutus against BMW 1 Series M Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/watch-jeremy-clarkson-pit-a-1908-v12-brutus-against-bmw-1-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/watch-jeremy-clarkson-pit-a-1908-v12-brutus-against-bmw-1-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/watch-jeremy-clarkson-pit-a-1908-v12-brutus-against-bmw-1-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Brutus vs BMW 1 Series M Coupe

The Brutus is a relic from another time. A time when men approached automobile racing with reckless abandon by cramming the largest, most powerful engine available onto a chassis supported by the world's skinniest tires. Suspension, brakes and cumbersome safety equipment were all scrapped for bullet-shaped bodywork and testicles the size of small planetary bodies. The Brutus boasts a 46-liter BMW V12 engine pulled from a post-World War II fighter plane and a chassis from a 1908 American LaFrance. The engine alone weighs 1,124 pounds and puts out a potent 500 horsepower. Now Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson has decided that the creation needs to tango with the latest BMW hot rod; the 1 Series M Coupe in his new DVD, Powered Up.

This is not your typical drag race. The Brutus is a chain-driven, fire-breathing hulk that's happier scaring school children than darting down the drag strip, while the 1 Series M Coupe is as civilized as a sports car gets. How does the competition shake out? Hit the jump to check it for yourself.

Continue reading Watch Jeremy Clarkson pit 1908 V12 Brutus against BMW 1 Series M Coupe

Watch Jeremy Clarkson pit 1908 V12 Brutus against BMW 1 Series M Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1 series m1 series m coupe1m1m coupebmwbmw 1 series m coupebrutusjeremy clarksonpowered upvideoFri, 18 Nov 2011 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20109783/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/18/watch-jeremy-clarkson-pit-a-1908-v12-brutus-against-bmw-1-series/20109783/article-detail.xml 20109783 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/brutus-vs-1-series-m-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/brutus-vs-1-series-m-628.jpg <![CDATA[Dan Neil calls BMW 1M Coupe ugly... is he right? [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/dan-neil-calls-bmw-1m-coupe-ugly-is-he-right-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/dan-neil-calls-bmw-1m-coupe-ugly-is-he-right-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/dan-neil-calls-bmw-1m-coupe-ugly-is-he-right-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Dan Neil, car critic at The Wall Street Journal and The Car Show presenter, is pretty smitten with the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, at least on most fronts. As a devotee of the E36 M3, Neil is happy to see that the fairly lightweight coupe comes with an honest inline six-cylinder engine under the hood, even with its forced-induction shenanigans. And the six-speed manual transmission with its excellent clutch and solid shifter apparently warranted spilling some ink over as well, but not all is right in the land of baby M models. According to Neil, the 1 Series M Coupe is "one of the ugliest, most disturbingly wrong car designs in modern history."

As the locals are fond of saying; them's some strong words. We won't be caught leaping to the defense of the vehicle's aesthetics, but we will say Neil comes down a bit hard on the smallest of the M clan. Sure the car isn't the prettiest belle at the heel-toe squaredance, but ugliest of them all? That's a big stretch. We would carefully point Neil's attention toward the likes of the the Dodge Caliber, just about any crossover from SsangYong or even the hideous of all hideousness, the Pontiac Aztek as contenders for that title. What do you think?


View Poll

Dan Neil calls BMW 1M Coupe ugly... is he right? [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1 series m coupebmwbmw 1 series m coupedan neilm coupeMon, 24 Oct 2011 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20089105/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/24/dan-neil-calls-bmw-1m-coupe-ugly-is-he-right-w-poll/20089105/article-detail.xml 20089105 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/03-2011-bmw-1-series-m-review-628-1319488201_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/03-2011-bmw-1-series-m-review-628-1319488201.jpg <![CDATA[2011 BMW ActiveE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/2012-bmw-activee-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/2012-bmw-activee-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/21/2012-bmw-activee-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Gets Electrified, But Am I?

2012 BMW ActiveE

For over a year, I've been looking for a way to get into an electric vehicle, but my options have been decidedly limited. I'm either lacking the funds (Tesla Roadster) or the alternatives have lacked character (Mitsubishi i, Focus Electric).

But now there's this: The 2011 BMW ActiveE. It's the next step for BMW in electrification - a bridge between the Mini E and the forthcoming i3 - that takes a standard 1 Series Coupe and adds a brace of batteries and electric motor to create a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe with a 100-mile range. Even better, the price is right.

Unlike the Mini E that required owners to plunk down a hefty chunk of change each month, the ActiveE's outlay is far more palatable: $2,250 down and $499 a month for a 24-month lease - well below what you'd drop on a new (or even used) gas-powered 1 Series.

Now I'm the first to admit to being an early-adopting sucker, but could it be worth my hard-earned Blogger Bucks to become a beta tester for BMW's electrification efforts? I flew 5,800 miles to Munich to find out.

Continue reading 2011 BMW ActiveE

2011 BMW ActiveE originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2011 bmw activee2012 bmw activeeactive-eactiveebmwbmw active e reviewbmw activeebmw activee reviewfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveFri, 21 Oct 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20086418/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/21/2012-bmw-activee-first-drive-review/20086418/article-detail.xml 20086418 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0000-bmw-activee-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0000-bmw-activee-opt.jpg -1 2