Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo refresh spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-refresh-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-refresh-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-refresh-spotted/#commentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

Although there have been plenty of rumors about the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo being canceled, it looks like BMW might be planning some visual tweaks to the odd hatchback as a possible last-ditch effort to improve sales. Judging by these spy shots, BMW is updating the front and rear fascias of the 5 Series GT, but the camouflage does a good job of preventing us from seeing what changes are in store.

This could also be some sort of performance version of the car after checking out the stylish wheels wrapped in Pirelli Sottozero 245/50R18 winter performance rubber. On the other hand, this wouldn't be the first time a company has updated an odd-looking, poor-selling model only to kill it off... we're looking at you 2013 Acura ZDX.

Still, with more than one report indicating that this model is being dropped in lieu of a station wagon version of the new 5 Series, we'll just have to wait to see what BMW has planned for the 5GT.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo refresh spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series gran turismo5 series gtbmwspy photosspy shotsMon, 05 Nov 2012 17:16:00 EST

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Drivers of 2010-2011 Rolls Royce Ghost models and several BMW models with turbocharged engines need to get their vehicles to their dealers. The cars are being recalled for a potentially hazardous defect that could turn their high-end autos into smoldering hunks of less luxurious melted plastic and steel.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the circuit boards on the cars' water pump could overheat and possibly catch fire.

The 2011 BMW models affected are the 5 Series and 5 Series Gran Turismo. 2012 models are the 6 Series, 7 Series, X5 and X6. All affected models have either the turbocharged V8 or V12. NHTSA says the number of BMWs affected is 2,846. About 60 Rolls Royce Ghosts will be recalled.

The recall is nearly identical to one announced last November that recalled 2010 Rolls Royce Ghosts. This campaign seems to address the same problem that plagued 2011 models.

Continue reading BMW, Rolls-Royce issue recall over smoldering circuit boards

BMW, Rolls-Royce issue recall over smoldering circuit boards originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20216669 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/rrghost-recall-2011-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/rrghost-recall-2011-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW recalls over 32,000 cars and CUVs over fire risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/bmw-recalls-over-32-000-cars-and-cuvs-over-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/bmw-recalls-over-32-000-cars-and-cuvs-over-fire-risk/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/31/bmw-recalls-over-32-000-cars-and-cuvs-over-fire-risk/#commentsFiled under: Sedan, SUV, Recalls, Safety, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

BMW has issued a recall of five different model lines covering the years 2008-2011 due to a fire risk. Turbocharged eight- and twelve-cylinder engines in the 5 Series, 5 Series Gran Turismo, 7 Series, X5 and X6 could suffer from overheating circuit boards that control the electric auxiliary water pump.

The overheating board could cause the pump to smoulder, and in extreme cases among the 102 failures, BMW has found there were two engine compartment fires. BMW will send recall notices for 32,000 vehicles and dealers will replace the pump free of charge. The NHTSA report detailing the recall is after the jump.

Continue reading BMW recalls over 32,000 cars and CUVs over fire risk

BMW recalls over 32,000 cars and CUVs over fire risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20094149 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/bmwfirerecallpump_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/bmwfirerecallpump.jpg <![CDATA[BMW considering bringing 5 Series Touring back to U.S., V12 to soldier on with hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/bmw-considering-bringing-5-series-touring-back-to-u-s-v12-to-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/bmw-considering-bringing-5-series-touring-back-to-u-s-v12-to-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/bmw-considering-bringing-5-series-touring-back-to-u-s-v12-to-s/#commentsFiled under: Wagon, BMW

2011 BMW 5 Series Touring

The 5 Series Gran Turismo hasn't met its lofty sales expectations in the United States, so BMW is considering bringing the 5 Series Touring back to our shores.

Although nothing is set in stone, Autoblog has learned that the possibility of the wagon making a reappearance on U.S. soil is back on the table. While sales of the 5 Series GT haven't been particularly robust, the model has managed to outsell the previous 5 Series Touring since its arrival last year - this, despite its lukewarm reception and controversial appearance.

We've also been informed that the twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 currently fitted to the 760Li won't shuffle off this mortal coil anytime soon. Instead, BMW is considering fitting the massive mill with its ActiveHybrid system to boost fuel economy and performance. We could see this electrically augmented 12-cylinder unit within the next three years in both the 7 Series flagship and future Rolls-Royce vehicles.

BMW considering bringing 5 Series Touring back to U.S., V12 to soldier on with hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20020236 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw5touring_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/bmw5touring.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to dress up 5 Series Gran Turismo with M Sport package?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/bmw-to-dress-up-5-series-gran-turismo-with-m-sport-package/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/bmw-to-dress-up-5-series-gran-turismo-with-m-sport-package/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/bmw-to-dress-up-5-series-gran-turismo-with-m-sport-package/#commentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo M Sport spy shots

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo M Sport spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

You may think that adding an M Sport pack to the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is the equivalent of putting lipstick on a pig, but let's be honest: BMW has to do something to broaden the 5GT's appeal and try to boost sales. BMW had projected that it would sell between 4,000 and 8,000 of its Gran Turismo range annually in the United States. Yet in 2010, the company only managed to move 2,848. Ouch.

Our spy photographers caught this prototype of a 5 Series GT out in Germany, dressed up in what appears to be traditional M Sport kit. Notice the revised front fascia, larger M-style wheels, revised side skirts and ever-so-slightly touched-up rear bumper. Like all other M Sport models, don't expect a boost in power output, and that's just fine - one thing we've always enjoyed about the 550i model is its twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8.

Look for the 5 Series Gran Turismo M Sport to debut at this fall's Frankfurt Motor Show.

BMW to dress up 5 Series Gran Turismo with M Sport package? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19973529 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-m-sport-spy-shots630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/01-bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-m-sport-spy-shots630opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 5GT sales disappointing, has execs rethinking 5 Series wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/bmw-5gt-sales-disappointing-has-execs-rethinking-5-series-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/bmw-5gt-sales-disappointing-has-execs-rethinking-5-series-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/23/bmw-5gt-sales-disappointing-has-execs-rethinking-5-series-wagon/#commentsFiled under: Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

Automotive News is reporting that the BMW 5 Series GT has been having some unintended and rather unfortunate sales consequences for the German automaker. While the company originally believed that buyers of the old 5 Series Touring would be drawn to the oddball crossover, the truth is that those customers have fled to rival Mercedes-Benz for their wagon needs. Meanwhile, the 5 Series GT has stolen buyers from the more expensive 7 Series line. In Florida, for example, up to 10 percent of 7 Series owners have exchanged keys for the less-expensive GT, which isn't exactly great news for the Bavarians, either.

Of course, overall sales of the 5 Series GT have failed to trend as BMW projected. The company originally said that it intended to move between 4,000 and 8,000 of the models each year, but 2011 has seen only 720 deliveries in the first four months of the year. BMW sold 2,848 examples last year after admitting that they probably incorrectly judged the model mix early on.

While speaking with Automotive News, BMW North America CEO Jim O'Donnell said that he wishes that his company hadn't stopped selling the 5 Series wagon here in the States. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean that the big fiver will return to the Land of the Free, at least not in this generation, but the issue will likely be revisited.

The good news is that the automaker may have learned its lesson. Despite the fact that a smaller 3 Series-based Gran Turismo model has been spotted testing (rumored to be called 4 Series), the 3 Series Touring apparently isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

BMW 5GT sales disappointing, has execs rethinking 5 Series wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 May 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19947392 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/5-series-gt-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/5-series-gt-630.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Italy teams up with Trussardi for special edition 5 Series Gran Turismo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/15/bmw-italy-teams-up-with-trussardi-for-special-edition-5-series-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/15/bmw-italy-teams-up-with-trussardi-for-special-edition-5-series-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/15/bmw-italy-teams-up-with-trussardi-for-special-edition-5-series-g/#commentsFiled under: Wagon, Europe, Crossover, BMW, Design/Style, Luxury

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo by Trussardi

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo by Trussardi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Typically when a fashion house and an automaker team up on a collaborative effort, the result comes in the form of a premium hatchback. The Fiat 500 by Gucci unveiled recently in Geneva serves as one example, the Diesel edition that preceded it, another. Yves St Laurent and Kenzo have each applied their talents to the Citröen DS3, and countless designers have created special edition Minis for the annual Life Ball event.

The latest, however, comes in a decidedly larger form. And given the Italian roots of the designer in question, it should come as no surprise that they've turned to a Gran Turismo - the BMW 5 Series GT, to be specific - for this special edition.

Celebrating the centennial of Italian fashion house Trussardi, this special 5GT is being released by BMW's Italian subsidiary. It's distinguished by such special touches as a unique metallic brown paint job with matte gray trim replacing much of the brightwork, 20-inch split-spoke alloys, an interior decked out in special beige glove leather with contrasting stitching, and of course, the requisite Trussardi logos abound.

If your Italian is up to snuff you can read all about it in the press release after the jump, but the gallery of high-resolution images below needs no translation. Thanks for the tip, David!

Gallery: BMW 5 Series GT by Trussardi

[Source: BMW via High Snobiety]

Continue reading BMW Italy teams up with Trussardi for special edition 5 Series Gran Turismo

BMW Italy teams up with Trussardi for special edition 5 Series Gran Turismo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series gran turismo5 series gt5gtbmwbmw 5 gtbmw 5 seriesbmw 5 series gran turismobmw 5 series gtbmw italiabmw italytrussardiTue, 15 Mar 2011 09:19:00 EST

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19878571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/web630-trussardi5gt.jpg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/web630-trussardi5gt.jpg.jpg <![CDATA[Review: 2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo is the Ultimate Passenger Machine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/28/2010-bmw-550i-gran-turismo-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/28/2010-bmw-550i-gran-turismo-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/28/2010-bmw-550i-gran-turismo-review/#commentsFiled under: Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, New Car Reviews, Luxury

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW recently launched a new marketing campaign titled "BMW is Joy." The new tag line is explained as, "Part of a big-media strategy the company is doing to raise its profile worldwide with a more emotional, optimistic voice." Raising a company's profile is never a bad thing, however, we question if anything is more high-minded than "The Ultimate Driving Machine," one of the very best auto-related taglines ever concocted. BMW says it isn't moving away from its TUDM slogan, but we can't help but wonder, is BMW is trying to tell us something? What if instead of appealing to those who actually might value the ultimate driving machine, they're looking instead for other customers?

Our man Paukert sampled the 535i Gran Turismo last September and came away impressed by the combination of packaging and driving dynamics offered up by BMW's curious new kinda-wagon. The party piece of the cynically-named Gran Turismo is a slick, trick two-way tailgate that opens either as a tiny trunk or as a cavernous hatch. Or maybe it's not such a stretch, name-wise. After all, translated the moniker simply means "grand touring," and after a hard day of driving, being able to easily unload your luggage and get checked into your hotel is its own kind of luxury. Is it possible that the even more potent BMW 550i Gran Turismo is an even better proposition than its slightly weaker sibling? What about compared to a 5 Series Wagon or even an X5? And what about competition from other brands? Given its unconventional form and unique packaging, is there any competition to speak of? More importantly, is it joyful, the ultimate driving anything or a bird of an entirely different feather?

Make the jump to find out.

Gallery: Review: 2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo is the Ultimate Passenger Machine

Review: 2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo is the Ultimate Passenger Machine originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 550i Gran Turismo2010 550i Gran Turismo Review2010 BMW 550i GT2010550iGranTurismo2010550iGranTurismoReview2010Bmw550iGt5 series gt550i Gran Turismo550i GT550iGranTurismo550iGt5GT5SeriesGtBMWbmw 5 series gtBMW 550i GTBmw550iGtBmw5SeriesGtfeaturedReviewreviewsWed, 28 Apr 2010 11:58:00 EST

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19456510 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/lead1bmw550igtreview2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/lead1bmw550igtreview2010.jpg <![CDATA[Beijing Preview: BMW adding all-wheel drive to Gran Turismo line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/15/beijing-preview-bmw-adding-all-wheel-drive-to-gran-turismo-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/15/beijing-preview-bmw-adding-all-wheel-drive-to-gran-turismo-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/15/beijing-preview-bmw-adding-all-wheel-drive-to-gran-turismo-line/#commentsFiled under: China, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Beijing Motor Show, Luxury

BMW 5-Series xDrive Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW has just announced that its 5-Series Gran Turismo will soon be available with the company's xDrive all-wheel drive system. The Bavarian automaker plans to show off the new running gear at the Beijing Motor Show at the end of this month. Eventually, you'll be able to order the xDrive option with any engine combination your heart so desires.

Starting in June, European buyers will have a shot at the 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and the 530d xDrive Gran Turismo. Shortly thereafter, in September, the 535i xDrive Gran Turismo and the 535d xDrive Gran Turismo will follow suit. BMW has also announced that its diesel-powered 740d sedan will receive available xDrive, but that particular model is confined to markets outside of North America, and it's likely to stay that way.

From where we sit, the all-wheel drive option will likely appeal to American buyers. As a population, we just can't seem to give up habits instilled by the SUV era, including the notion that you can't go anywhere without all four-wheels pulling. So far, BMW hasn't said exactly how much specifying xDrive will add to the Gran Turismo's price tag, or when such models will come to the North America. Judging by the company's current price structure, we're guessing the new models will check in at around $3,000 over the rear-wheel drive variants. Check out our high-res gallery below and the official press release after the jump

Gallery: 2011 BMW 5-Series xDrive Gran Turismo

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Beijing Preview: BMW adding all-wheel drive to Gran Turismo line

Beijing Preview: BMW adding all-wheel drive to Gran Turismo line originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19440945 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01-xdrive-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01-xdrive-630.jpg <![CDATA[AC Schnitzer decks out the BMW 5 Series GT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/01/ac-schnitzer-decks-out-the-bmw-5-series-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/01/ac-schnitzer-decks-out-the-bmw-5-series-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/01/ac-schnitzer-decks-out-the-bmw-5-series-gt/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Diesel, Luxury

BMW 5 Series GT by AC Schnitzer - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Schnitzer boys have waved wands over the BMW 530d GT, giving it a little more power and a lot more cosmetics. Under the hood is a modest power bump from 245 horsepower to 286, but torque numbers have been omitted so we're supposing there's no change there. If that is indeed the case, color us a wee bit surprised that no more twist was extracted from the torque-tastic oil-burner from Bavaria.

Outside and inside, though, changes abound: an AC Schnitzer engine cover and hood vents, skirts and spoilers everywhere, new rear silencer and chrome trim, aluminum pedals and footrest, plus AC-branded velours for the floor mats and trunk. And to keep you from ridin' dirty there's an AC Schnitzer spring kit and the firm's trademark wheels. Follow the jump for the complete specs, and take in the full view in the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer BMW 530d GT

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Continue reading AC Schnitzer decks out the BMW 5 Series GT

AC Schnitzer decks out the BMW 5 Series GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19377766 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/bmwac5gt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/bmwac5gt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW confirms 5 Series Touring reveal for Leipzig]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/bmw-confirms-5-series-touring-reveal-for-leipzig/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/bmw-confirms-5-series-touring-reveal-for-leipzig/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/bmw-confirms-5-series-touring-reveal-for-leipzig/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Wagon, BMW, Misc. Auto Shows, Luxury

Current-generation BMW 5 Series Touring

BMW has announced the debut of the company's latest generation 5 Series Touring, so rumors of the Touring's demise may have been exaggerated. To be fair, the BMW 5 Series Touring was never going to go away altogether - not when it sells in big numbers in European markets. That said, BMW foresees its new double-hinged hatchback 5 Series Gran Turismo as cannibalizing the wagon's already tiny sales in the U.S., so we don't expect to see the new Touring model in American showrooms. The rest of the world can look forward to a new wagon that is lower, lighter and more of a looker than the hunchback on the other side of the showroom.

The world premiere of the new 5 Touring will take place at the 2010 Auto Mobil International (AMI) in Leipzig. Although no photos or details have been released, this fourth generation 5 Series station wagon will share a lot in common with the recently introduced F10 2011 5 Series sedan that we sampled in Spain last month. That means new engines, gearboxes, suspension architecture, rear-wheel steering, user-selectable adaptive drive settings, brake energy regeneration and another generation of iDrive, for better or for worse. We'll get you more details and photos as they become available, in the meantime, make the jump for the official press release.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 BMW 535i

Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW confirms 5 Series Touring reveal for Leipzig

BMW confirms 5 Series Touring reveal for Leipzig originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series5 series gt5 series touring5Series5SeriesGt5SeriesTouringAMIauto mobil internationalAuto Mobil International LeipzigAutoMobilInternationalAutoMobilInternationalLeipzigbmwBMW 5 seriesbmw 5 series gran turismobmw 5 series gtBMW 5 Series TouringBmw5SeriesBmw5SeriesGranTurismoBmw5SeriesGtBmw5SeriesTouringleipzigstation wagonStationWagonwagonMon, 22 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST

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19368177 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/bmw-5-touring-official-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/bmw-5-touring-official-580.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo caught swirling around?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/08/spy-shots-bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-caught-swirling-around/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/08/spy-shots-bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-caught-swirling-around/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/08/spy-shots-bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-caught-swirling-around/#commentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Performance, Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

If you love the idea of the 5 Series Gran Turismo but don't want a vehicle quite that large, BMW's got something baking in the oven that you may very well be interested in: a 3 Series Gran Turismo. Just like its larger sibling, this wagon that's masquerading as anything other than a wagon will sport a fastback-like rear roof design that covers up a larger cargo hold than the standard 3's trunk.

It appears that the upcoming 3 Series Gran Turismo will be both longer and wider than the current 3, and that size advantage may carry over to the rest of the 3 Series line as well. Expect a predominantly aluminum chassis underneath the slinky new bodywork to help keep weight from escalating out of control.

BMW has made no mention of when the 3 Series GT might hit the market, but if it makes an appearance before the expected sedan, coupe and wagon versions of the next 3 - as was the case with the latest BMW 5 Series - we might see the fastback wagon sometime in 2012.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo caught swirling around? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3 series gran turismo3 series gt3Series3SeriesGranTurismo3SeriesGt5 series5 series gran turismo5 series gt5Series5SeriesGranTurismo5SeriesGtbmwBMW 3 Seriesbmw 3 series gran turismobmw 3 series gtbmw 5BMW 5 seriesbmw 5 series gran turismobmw 5 series gtBMW 5-seriesBMW 5-Series GTBmw3SeriesBmw3SeriesGranTurismoBmw3SeriesGtBmw5Bmw5-seriesBmw5-seriesGtBmw5SeriesBmw5SeriesGranTurismoBmw5SeriesGtFri, 08 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST

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19307774 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/bmw-3-gt-spy-crop_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/bmw-3-gt-spy-crop.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: BMW looking at cheaper 5 Series Gran Turismo, rules out M model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rumormill-bmw-looking-at-cheaper-5-series-gran-turismo-rules-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rumormill-bmw-looking-at-cheaper-5-series-gran-turismo-rules-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rumormill-bmw-looking-at-cheaper-5-series-gran-turismo-rules-o/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Wagon, Europe, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Rumormill, Diesel

BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

The famed automotive pot-stirrers at Autocar are at it again. According to two blurbs from the UK publication, BMW's new 5 Series Gran Turismo may spawn at least one less costly, less powerful variant, but a high-performance M version is apparently off the table.

On the fuel and financial economy front, Bimmer is reportedly considering adding four-cylinder powerplants to the controversial new five-door, including the 175 bhp diesel from the 320d. A twin-turbo diesel may also be in the cards. The fear here is that the premium-priced 5GT may in fact be priced too aggressively, as it stickers above a comparable 5 Series Touring model. In any case, we don't expect to see the less-powerful diesel Stateside, although we wouldn't be terribly suprised if the company chose to shoehorn in something like the twin-turbo 3.0-liter diesel already on offer in the 335d.

On the M side of the equation, Autocar says that the gasoline V8-powered 550i will remain the pinnacle of the range, as BMW has "ruled out" a M-Technik variant. Given that BMW has recently seen fit to move M beyond traditional cars (see: X5 and X6) and that these higher performance models often have thicker margins attached, this strikes us as somewhat curious decision - especially as the 5GT figures to be the most dynamically promising of the bunch. This source also doesn't jibe with what we heard from BMW officials just last month when we drove the car in Portugal. At that time, the official line was that no decision had been made, but knowing glances and meek smiles seemed to indicate that things looked good for the model.

In other words, we'll believe it when we (don't) see it.

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: Auto car]

Rumormill: BMW looking at cheaper 5 Series Gran Turismo, rules out M model originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 Series5 Series GT5-Series5-Series GT5-seriesGt535i535iGT550i550iGT5Series5SeriesGtBimmerBMWBMW dieselBMW Gran turismoBMW Grand TurismoBMW MBMW MotorsportsBMW wagonBmwDieselBmwGrandTurismoBmwGranTurismoBmwMBmwMotorsportsBmwWagondieselGran TurismoGrand TurismoGrandTurismoGranTurismoM-technikMotorsportTue, 27 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST

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19209001 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/325_535i_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/325_535i_opt.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo evolves the wagon with clever packaging, solid dynamics and... a prehensile tail?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/first-drive-bmw-535i-gran-turismo-evolves-the-wagon-with-clever/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/first-drive-bmw-535i-gran-turismo-evolves-the-wagon-with-clever/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/first-drive-bmw-535i-gran-turismo-evolves-the-wagon-with-clever/#commentsFiled under: Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, First Drives, Design/Style, Diesel, Luxury

BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

Evolution is a tough thing to watch - and not merely because it takes millions of years. While the developmental pace of the automobile has proven to be rather quicker than the natural world surrounding it, the car industry's recent house-on-fire rush into new niches and sub-genres has often been similarly challenging to make sense of. Like those primordial fish that beach themselves, drag their bellies on the sand with their fins and eventually mutate into, say, Adriana Lima, you just have to know that the industry's recent diversification efforts will eventually yield a timeless beauty or two. But thus far, you could be forgiven for thinking that the process will take a few hundred millennia - especially where it concerns the industry's nascent call-me-anything-but-a-station-wagon movement.

While the burgeoning four-door coupe segment has already yielded some supermodels, the kinlugger set has yet to work out the same way. This, despite seemingly every automaker downing the midnight Red Bull in an effort to hit upon a package that bundles the functional attributes of a family hauler without their social stigma. Some companies are disguising their efforts as SUVs (traditional square-rigged crossovers); a few have waded in with quasi-minivans, while others are staking their claim to the muddy hatchback middle ground. Enter the latest automotive platypus, BMW's 5 Series Gran Turismo, a distinctive new five-door that aims to meld the practical utility of a CUV and a station wagon without the either genre's dynamic and civil penalties.

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

Continue reading First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo evolves the wagon with clever packaging, solid dynamics and... a prehensile tail?

First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo evolves the wagon with clever packaging, solid dynamics and... a prehensile tail? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19167703 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/325_535i_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/325_535i_opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo may write epitaph for range's wagon bodystyle in America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-may-write-epitaph-for-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-may-write-epitaph-for-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/bmw-5-series-gran-turismo-may-write-epitaph-for-model/#commentsFiled under: Wagon, Crossover, BMW

BMW 5 Series Sports Wagon - Click above for high-res image gallery

Autoblog road test editor Damon Lavrinc is in Spartanburg, South Carolina to drive BMW's new all-conquering X6M, and in between bouts with the monster-motor'd crossover, he has had a chance to bend the ear of Martin Berkmann, manager of product planning for BMW North America, about another new capacious Bimmer - the 5 Series Gran Turismo.

Given the Bayern brand's increasingly crowded stable, it should come as no surprise that the boundary-blurring 5GT may result in the death of the sole 5 Series Sports Wagon model offered here in the States (a 530i model is shown). While the company's Touring variants carry a lot of water for BMW in other markets, the 535i xDrive SW makes up but a sliver of U.S. sales, and apparently BMW officials reckon the 5GT could just about extinguish what little demand there is.

By our measure, that's something of a shame, as the 535i xDrive wagon is a nice package all the way around. Further, the 4,100-pound wagon's more compact form, coupled with what figures to be a lower center of gravity ought to make for significantly better handling than the 4,800-pound 5GT. That said, our man Lavrinc is about to get a bonus preview ride on the company's test track in the Gran Turismo, so perhaps we'll learn otherwise very soon.

In any case, the official word hasn't come down yet, but judging by the fact that top officials are even willing to engage in discussions with us, this strikes us as a likely move.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 5 Series Sports Wagon

Gallery: 2010 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo may write epitaph for range's wagon bodystyle in America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19090835 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/bmw-5-touring-official-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/bmw-5-touring-official-580.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 5-Series GT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/spy-shots-bmw-5-series-gt/#commentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, BMW

A couple of near production-ready 5-Series GTs have been caught on BMW's home turf, and to our eyes they don't hurt the car, but they don't make a case for it either. The last time we were in this situation -- hoping a car's production version would be a huge improvement over it's pre-production form -- was with the Porsche Panamera, and we know how that ended. While we're certain this Progressive Activity Sedan has some purpose, we wonder where are all of these potential buyers are who supposedly demand a little more cargo room than a 5 Series sedan, a little less than a wagon, and one less seat. Check out more photos by clicking the image above.

[Source: 5post]

Spy Shots: BMW 5-Series GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 May 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1541791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/bmw-5-gt-2_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/bmw-5-gt-2_opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo design sketches still confuse us]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/17/bmw-concept-5-series-gran-turismo-design-sketches-still-confuse-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/17/bmw-concept-5-series-gran-turismo-design-sketches-still-confuse-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/17/bmw-concept-5-series-gran-turismo-design-sketches-still-confuse-us/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Crossover, BMW

Click above for high-res gallery of BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo design sketches

No, we can't answer for you what BMW is thinking when it introduces vehicles like this that defy classification. The X6 did it and now the Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo will do it again at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Dubbed the Progressive Activity Sedan during its development, the Concept 5 Series GT is part sedan and wagon, part luxury car and crossover, part BMW and an answer to a question no one asked. Answering unasked questions is BMW's thing these days, so perhaps these design sketches will shed light on what the Concept 5 Series GT is actually supposed to be. We've analyzed each one carefully, and we're still not sure what purpose such a big vehicle that only seats four people could serve. Needless to say, those four people will probably enjoy their time in BMW's latest segment-bending model. Click on over to carbodydesign to read their much more expert opinion of the vehicle's design. Judging by their lengthy analysis, there actually was some thought put into it.

Gallery: BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo design sketches

Gallery: BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo concept

[Source: carbodydesign]

BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo design sketches still confuse us originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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