BMW releases Japan-only 120i Performance Unlimited

Noah Joseph — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Japan, BMW

2011 BMW 120i Performance Unlimited - Click above for high-res image

Typically, JDM-only models are made by Japanese automakers. Someone apparently forgot to tell BMW, however, as the German automaker has just launched the third in a recent line of Nippon-specific special editions.

Following in the footsteps of the X6 Performance Unlimited and the Mini Savile Row comes the new 120i Performance Unlimited. The special 1-Series comes equipped with the 170-horsepower 2.0-liter four with a six-speed automatic and a variety of M-Sport components, from bumper caps and and a blacked-out grille to a set of 18-inch split-five-spoke alloys and carbon fiber spoiler and mirror housings.

The cabin is similarly decked out in M-Sport extras, like sport seats, leather-covered steering wheel and shift lever and aluminum pedals. Exterior colors are limited to blue or white, and only 30 examples will be built. If you want to get your hands on one, first of all, you'll have to relocate to Japan and then stand in line with ¥4,350,000 (about $50,300).

[Source: BMW]

BMW releases Japan-only 120i Performance Unlimited originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW considering four-cylinder 3-series for U.S.

Chris Shunk — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Europe, Green, BMW, Rumormill

Four-cylinder BMWs are commonplace in Europe, but here in the States you can't buy anything Bavarian with less than six pistons. Inside Line is reporting that the German automaker may change that by adding the direct-injected 2.0L four-pot from Europe to the 3-Series. The 170-hp engine powers the 320i and 120i across the pond. The models are well-received there, and for good reason, too. The ultra-efficient powerplant averages over 38 mpg in the European combined test cycle while still providing the razor-sharp handling that is BMW's trademark.

BMW project director Oliver Friedmann said that a four-cylinder petrol Bimmer would have a "desirable effect" here in the U.S., but didn't commit any concrete plans for a U.S. four-banger. He did say that the U.S. probably isn't ready for a diesel four-cylinder, but we beg to differ. Our friends at AutoblogGreen had a blast in the twin-turbo 123d and managed 37 mpg while thoroughly testing the oil-burner's limits. We think the petrol 2.0L would be well received as well. While four-cylinder luxury cars were taboo just a few years ago, high fuel prices have given Americans plenty of motivation to welcome a 2.0L Bimmer with open arms.

[Source: Inside Line]

Rumormill: BMW considering four-cylinder 3-series for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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