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[Pics Aplenty: BMW celebrates 40 years of M]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1978 BMW M1 - dead-on view, red

When we think of the BMW M division, the 1978 M1 comes instantly to mind, followed by the E30 M3 and then the 2001-2002 M Coupe. But the company's in-house hot rod shop actually dates back to 1972, when it was formed as a subsidiary to manage the company's racing operations, dubbed BMW Motorsport.

It was this month 40 years ago that what is known today as BMW M GmbH was launched. So to celebrate its anniversary, BMW has offloaded some 50 lustworthy images celebrating that performance history. See them all in our gallery.

Pics Aplenty: BMW celebrates 40 years of M originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupe1 series m coupebmwbmw mBMW Motorsportmm coupem roadsterm1m3m3 cslm5m6pics aplentyWed, 16 May 2012 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239585/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/20239585/article-detail.xml 20239585 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/40-years-of-bmw-m-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/40-years-of-bmw-m-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The new BMW M5 is taking a one-week, 3,300-mile U.S. road trip, and not only will it tour the skeevy diners, restless rest areas and truck-stop toilets of this fine land, it'll eat up its tires on nine of our nation's finest tracks. If you think that sounds like the Tire Rack One Lap of America, you'd be correct.

In addition to providing the official vehicles for the event, the Munich firm is sending a team of drivers from its BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina to compete in the newly created 'Showroom Stock' category. This year's week-long race begins May 4 in South Bend, Indiana, and as with all the other entries, the M5 will get just one set of tires to test its gumption in various motorsports disciplines and thousands of highway miles. Follow the jump for a press release with more info and be sure to check out One Lap Of America's website for updates when the event kicks off in May.

Continue reading BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America

BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m55 series5-seriesbmwbmw mbmw m5bmw performance centerm5one lapone lap of americaSun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20200268/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/20200268/article-detail.xml 20200268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmwm5oloa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmwm5oloa.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #267]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

BMW M goes Diesel, Ford Focus fleet sales numbers, California 2025 green car mandate

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Episode #267 of the Autoblog Podcast is here with Chris, Dan, Zach and Chris Paukert this week. Topics include the addition of diesel-powered BMW M models overseas, the surprisingly high fleet sales figure for the Ford Focus, and a new green car mandate coming out of California. 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 #267:
In the Autoblog Garage
2012 Mazda3 Skyactiv
2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab
2012 Audi A4
2012 Dodge Durango Citadel

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:15:33
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #267

Autoblog Podcast #267 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a4autoblog podcast 267bmw mfeaturedfocusford focusmazda3silveradoTue, 31 Jan 2012 16:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #267Autoblog01:15:33 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161012/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/20161012/article-detail.xml 20161012 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 M shows off new diesel-powered lineup in motion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



If you'd like to see more of BMW newly unveiled range of M Diesels, here's your chance. To recap, BMW revealed four tri-turboed, diesel-engined, all-wheel-drive M cars for European buyers yesterday: the M550d xDrive (a.k.a. 5 Series) sedan and touring, the X5 M50d and the X6 M50d. All use a 3.0-liter inline-six putting out 376 horses and 545 through an eight-speed auto, and in the case of the M550d sedan it can get to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.

That makes each of the white knights in the promo piece both sporty and powerful, as you'll hear often in the video after the jump.

Continue reading BMW M shows off new diesel-powered lineup in motion

BMW M shows off new diesel-powered lineup in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m dieselbmw m550dbmw m550d touringbmw x5 m50dbmw x6 m50ddieselmm dieseltri-turbovideox5x6Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157098/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/20157098/article-detail.xml 20157098 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmwmdieselsvid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmwmdieselsvid.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Rumors of BMW M launching a diesel model have been circulating for over a year, and confirmation has finally arrived in the form of not one, not two, but four M-fettled oil-burners, each sporting all-wheel drive and the oft-rumored tri-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six. And before you get excited, none of them are slated for sale in the U.S. - this is a Euro-only affair.

So with that unfortunate fact out of the way, let's get to the details.

The new M models come in the form of the M550d xDrive sedan, M550d xDrive touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d. Each makes use of a 3.0-liter inline-six common-rail diesel with the aforementioned trio of turbos specifically developed for the M Performance range. Output is rated at 376 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 545 pound-feet of torque available from 2,000 to 3,000 revs. If you're keeping track at home, that's a bump of 80 hp and 103 lb-ft over the 535d and 74 hp and 103 lb-ft more than the 3.0-liter mill fitted to the diesel X5 and X6.

Each model comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard xDrive AWD, allowing the M550d sedan to hit 60 mph in 4.6 seconds - just four tenths of a second off the all-new M5's 0-60 run. You read that right. The M550d Touring hits 60 in 4.9 seconds, with the X5 M50d and X6 M50d passing the mark in 5.4 and 5.3 seconds, respectively. All models are limited to 155 mph and fuel consumption ranges between 6.4 liters/100km and 7.7 liters/100km.

Interestingly, the M-ified diesel 5ers ditch the standard electromechanical steering for a hydraulic system that's derived from the M5, and both the X5 and X6 variants uses systems similar to those on the X5 M and X6 M.

And if you're wondering why we won't see these M diesels here in the States, blame the necessity to reengineer the SCR (selective catalytic reduction) systems to make them comply with emissions standards across the country. We'll be seeing all four live from the Geneva Motor Show in March, but you can get the first batch of details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d

BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m550dbmw m550d touringbmw x5 m50dbmw x6 m50ddieselmm dieselx5x6Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156972/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/20156972/article-detail.xml 20156972 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-m-performance-diesels-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-m-performance-diesels-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M Performance

We just wrapped up the Detroit Auto Show, but BMW has already moved on to Geneva. The German automaker announced today that it's going to be showing a new line of what it's calling "M Performance Automobiles" at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

These vehicles will sit between standard Bimmers and M vehicles in the lineup, and apparently offer more than just cosmetics. While BMW has offered M Sport appearance packages over the past two decades, today's announcement specifically mentions "exclusive engine variants" and suspension tweaks among the upgrades M Performance models would offer. Given the mention of both all-wheel drive and diesel models in the announcement, it seems like the new line is specifically geared towards both of those features that BMW likely believes would tarnish the original M line or just wouldn't be appropriate for an M3 or M5.

We're awaiting a reply from BMW on what this announcement means for the U.S. market, but we imagine the M Performance cars sold here might resemble something like the 2003-2006 ZHP performance package sold on the E46 3 Series. These cars carried M badging, a unique interior, sport fascias, upgraded wheels and tires, a six-speed manual, 10 extra horses, a higher redline, revised gearing, and a stiffer suspension. There's also the possibility that the first recipient of the new designation could be the diesel variant of the X6 M that's already been teased by the Bavarian automaker.

To read the full release, click past the jump.

Continue reading BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles

BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m performancem performancem3m5x6 mx6mThu, 12 Jan 2012 10:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/20147117/article-detail.xml 20147117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-m-power-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-m-power-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW and K2 team up for promotional skis]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/#commentsFiled under: ,

K2 LTD. BMW M Design Edition

Despite the arrival of performance crossovers like the X5 M and X6 M, the BMW M range is still one bound largely to the road. Racing circuits too, of course, but the ski hill? Maybe not, but that's where K2 comes in. The sporting goods manufacturer has teamed up the the Bavarian automaker's performance division to produce a special set of downhill skis.

Based on the K2 SideShow, the K2 LTD BMW M Design Editions skis are designed to perform on any of a variety of hill conditions. They'll also got a special paintjob to highlight the collaboration, and a tire-tread pattern on the underside.

So is this just another opportunity for an automaker to cash in on its brand recognition with a merchandising effort? Well, yes and no. You can't actually go out and buy these skis, but BMW is giving all 500 pairs of them away as part of a promotional campaign at European ski resorts that has enthusiasts collecting "badges" they can redeem for a chance to win a pair, so to speak.

Follow the jump to read more about 'em, but unless you're planning on spending your winter carving up the slopes of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy, the images in the gallery we've put together are about as close as you're likely to get.

Continue reading BMW and K2 team up for promotional skis

BMW and K2 team up for promotional skis originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw skisk2skiskisWed, 04 Jan 2012 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20139667/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/20139667/article-detail.xml 20139667 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web-bmw-k2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web-bmw-k2.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[Remember the BMW supercar that M Division wanted to build? Not gonna happen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M1 Hommage concept

For at least two years, BMW has been teasing the idea of making a supercar, the kind that would glare with laser headlights at the Audi R8 and say, "Yeah, I'm lookin' at you." Way back in early 2008, the car was rumored to be a twin-turbo V10 with 625 horsepower. A year later, it was going to be the gentler, greener two-seat Z10 ED with a twin-turbo six cylinder and 400 hp. A year later still, the 1.5-liter, three-cylinder, hybrid i8 inherited the green supercar mantle.

But just two months ago, the head of product development at BMW's M division said he wanted a car to fight the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, a pure M-car developed totally in-house (as was the case with the AMG). But an interview given by M's North American product manager Matthew Russell points to the door having closed on that when he said, "We've discussed these possibilities. But ultimately, we didn't feel the need to make a very exclusive high-end supercar and we still don't." So there.

Perhaps more importantly, in reference to the M3 and M5, Russell believes that M already makes supercars, albeit of a certain type: "we like to build two cars in one: this is what M does. Nobody offers that perfect combination of a driver's car and an executive car that you can use everyday. So technically, we already build supercars." As fellow Autoblog contributor Matt Davis noted, however, we're of the mind that while those are super cars, they're not supercars.

Click the link for the rest of Russell's thoughts, though not before sparing a moment to say auf wiedersehen to the M1 Hommage. It will always live on in our high-res image gallery...

Remember the BMW supercar that M Division wanted to build? Not gonna happen originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw mbmw m divisionbmw m1 hommagebmw supercarm divisionm1m1 hommagematt russellmatthew russellTue, 20 Dec 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131632/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/20131632/article-detail.xml 20131632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/msupercardead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/msupercardead.jpg <![CDATA[The BMW M table is too good for coffee]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/#commentsFiled under: ,



We aren't typically ones to geek out on furniture, but this warrants an exception to the rule. Phillips Collection has worked up a coffee table perfect for any BMW fan. From the side, the piece simply looks to be three tilted boxes, but view the table from above and it becomes clear that it's actually a physical manifestation of the BMW M logo. Made from cold-pressed steel and powder coated in the exact hues used by the BMW go-fast division, the table is sure to last for years and years. If you want one as badly as we do, you'll have to contact Phillips Collection for more information.

Designer Jason Phillips is based in Greensboro, North Carolina and has crafted a number of innovative tables and chairs. You can check out his full portfolio by heading over to his Behance page.

The BMW M table is too good for coffee originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m tablebmw tablemm tablephillips collectionTue, 29 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20116482/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/20116482/article-detail.xml 20116482 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m-table-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m-table-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW reveals M3 Competition Edition in Frozen Silver for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

m3 competition edition

BMW is celebrating 40 years of M with a special edition M3 Competition Edition that is about as rare as they come. BMW is only shipping 40 of the coupes to the U.S., and each will be identical save for a few options.

The M3 Competition Edition will feature Frozen Silver exterior paint, black M3 GTS 19-inch wheels, dark chrome exterior trim and dark exhaust tips. The interior will be complemented with Black Novillo leather upholstery with Palladium Silver accents, an Alcantara M steering wheel and M logos throughout.

This limited edition car will feature the same 414-horsepower V8 engine as other M3s, but the 0-60 time drops from 4.7 seconds to 4.5 seconds. The Competition Edition M3 is 10 mm lower than the standard M3, has wider-offset wheels, and higher-threshold programming for the M mode.

It's also more expensive than the standard M3. The Competition Edition M3 cost $81,060 with destination and handling, or a hefty $20,000 more than the base car.

Since BMW is has dubbed this M3 the "Competition Edition," the automaker is also encouraging its U.S. dealer body to compete for the chance to sell one of them. The first 40 dealers to receive M Certified Center certification get first crack at the car. Hit the jump to read over the press release.

Continue reading BMW reveals M3 Competition Edition in Frozen Silver for U.S.

BMW reveals M3 Competition Edition in Frozen Silver for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m33 series3-seriesbmwbmw mfrozen silverm3m3 competitionSun, 06 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20099612/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/20099612/article-detail.xml 20099612 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m3frozensilveraussen2-1320520989_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m3frozensilveraussen2-1320520989.jpg <![CDATA[New BMW M3 to come in sedan form first]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/new-bmw-m3-to-come-in-sedan-form-first/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/new-bmw-m3-to-come-in-sedan-form-first/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/new-bmw-m3-to-come-in-sedan-form-first/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series M Sport

Typically, when BMW releases a new M3, it launches it in coupe form first. (In fact, sales of the M3 sedan have, in North America at least, slowed to such an extent that BMW NA was tempted to stop bringing it here altogether.) But not the new model - according to the latest intel, the next-gen M3 will arrive in four-door guise first.

Sources indicate a couple of reasons for that: First, the new 3 Series (pictured above in M Sport guise) on which it'll be based has so far has only come out in sedan form. Second, because the next-gen M3 is anticipated to lose some of its edge. Which would be a shame, but there's a far more straightforward reason than either of those two: there will be no coupe or convertible M3 from here on out.

Well, sorta. There will be, only it won't be called the M3. It'll probably be called the M4, since BMW is said to be spinning the two-door version of the 3 Series off into a 4 Series - more closely mirroring the 5 Series sedan and its coupe/convertible counterpart, the 6 Series. Since BMW has yet to unveil the 4 Series, we're likely to be looking at an M3 sedan first.

We expect it'll have a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine in place of the outgoing model's naturally aspirated V8, but the jury's still out on whether those pistons will be arranged in a V or a straight line.

New BMW M3 to come in sedan form first originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series4 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 4 seriesbmw mbmw m3bmw m4m3m4Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20090391/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/new-bmw-m3-to-come-in-sedan-form-first/20090391/article-detail.xml 20090391 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0064-2012-bmw-3-series-1318619332-1319577192_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/0064-2012-bmw-3-series-1318619332-1319577192.jpg <![CDATA[BMW product head says M division would like to develop own car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/bmw-product-head-says-m-division-would-like-to-develop-own-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/bmw-product-head-says-m-division-would-like-to-develop-own-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/bmw-product-head-says-m-division-would-like-to-develop-own-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Inside Line reports that BMW's M division wants to play with the other kids and develop its own car, but it's got to wait on parent BMW to say Alles klar. This isn't new; they've been public about the desire for at least two years. The holdup, naturally, is that bean-and-spreadsheet wielding boogeyman named The Business Case: any in-house M offering has to feed the profit motive before getting the okay.

Sure, Audi has its R8, but that was made easier because of the Lamborghini link. The real template for this is Mercedes-Benz's AMG, which created the SLS on its own, and on its own chassis. The sales success of that car must surely have the folks at M anxious to fabricate a proper challenger.

When we talked to former M Division head Dr. Kay Segler, he spoke about pushing the 1 Series M through without dilution in spite of frequent reservations about its business case. We haven't heard the same talk yet from the department's current head, so, using a different template, it could be time for M engineers to start turning wrenches in their spare time: the IS-F began as an after-hours project, and in effect so did the Pagani Zonda. Give us the M1 Hommage, guys. Or feel free to do even better...

BMW product head says M division would like to develop own car originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw mbmw m1bmw m1 homagebmw m1 hommagebmw motorsportsm divisionm1Sun, 23 Oct 2011 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20088007/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/23/bmw-product-head-says-m-division-would-like-to-develop-own-car/20088007/article-detail.xml 20088007 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/bmw1homagem_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/bmw1homagem.jpg <![CDATA[Six Things We Learned at BMW M]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/six-things-we-learned-at-bmw-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/six-things-we-learned-at-bmw-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/six-things-we-learned-at-bmw-m/#commentsFiled under:



We recently sat down with Albert Biermann, Head of Product Development for BMW at the German automaker's high performance M division, to get a taste of what's going on behind the scenes. We had a lot of questions, and Biermann did his best to answer them without giving his PR minders heart palpitations.

What did we learn? Plenty. But here are the highlights: The M wagon is dead, all-wheel drive won't be coming to the current M5, the M6 is due to hit in the summer, and offering a manual transmission on BMW's twin-turbocharged sports sedan is a massive headache thanks to us pesky Americans.

Continue reading Six Things We Learned at BMW M

Six Things We Learned at BMW M originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mfeaturedTue, 18 Oct 2011 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20084454/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/18/six-things-we-learned-at-bmw-m/20084454/article-detail.xml 20084454 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/p90074205-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/p90074205-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW M5 makes North American debut at Laguna Seca]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW M5

The 2012 BMW M5 has finally landed on U.S. shores and BMW has trotted out its oldest sibling - the same E28 we drove last year - at California's Laguna Seca raceway to mark the occasion.

After its debut at the Nürburgring early this year, BMW boxed up its latest M machine for the festivities here in Monterey and will be shuffling it around to various events throughout the week.

Our first in-the-flesh impressions are beyond favorable, with an exterior that's far less gauche than its predecessor, finally putting the "executive" back in "executive sports sedan." Inside, the professional demeanor carries over, with less flash and a more driver-focused interior.

As if you need a reminder, the M5 now packs a modified version of the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 fitted to the X5 M and X6 M, putting out 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque - the latter of which is available from 1,500 to over 5,750 rpm. Redline is a decidedly un-M-like 7,250 rpm, but the blast to 60 mph happens in claimed 4.2 seconds when fitted with the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

And what about a manual option? BMW officials delivered the standard "we're looking into it" line, but we suspect they're already testing a six-speed 'box that could be an option after the M5 goes on sale in the U.S. this February. Check out our high-res gallery above and let us know what you think in Comments.

2012 BMW M5 makes North American debut at Laguna Seca originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 m55 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m5laguna secam5Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020374/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/17/2012-bmw-m5-makes-north-american-debut-at-laguna-seca/20020374/article-detail.xml 20020374 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/03-2012-bmw-m5-live-laguna-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/03-2012-bmw-m5-live-laguna-630op.jpg <![CDATA[BMW confirms M-tuned 5 Series diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 in motion

As part of the buildup to this weekend's Pebble Beach Concours weekend, Autoblog senior editor Damon Lavrinc is in Monterey with BMW, where he has been able to confirm that the 5 Series will receive a diesel model tuned by the automaker's M performance division.

Interestingly, the much-rumored high-performance model will probably not be badged as an M5 variant. Instead, it will likely adopt a nomenclature similar to that of the 1 Series M Coupe. Further, because of the diesel's expected high torque output, the M-tuned diesel 5 Series is likely to be offered exclusively with all-wheel drive. Following traditional BMW naming guidelines, that means the vehicle is likely to get an ungainly moniker like BMW 550d xDrive M or something similar (TheDetroitBureau.com suggests 550dM or 550dXM as other possibilities).

The 3.0-liter tri-turbo's torque output is likely to be prodigious - perhaps in the neighborhood of 650 pound-feet (the conventional gas M5 makes 500 lb-ft), a figure more commonly associated with heavy duty pickups. Even if you've managed to wrap your gray matter around that torque surplus, you're probably still pondering the idea of a triple-turbo engine. According to TheDetroitBureau.com, the new powerplant will be based on the current 3.0-liter diesel we've come to know and love, albeit significantly modified, including a unique cylinder head. The engine will make use of a single, small turbo to help avoid lag at launch, coupled with a pair of larger twin-scroll units to augment power at speed. We hear that peak ponies will be down from the M5's 560-horsepower output, though it is still likely to stay about 500.

Predictably, the new engine is also expected to find its way into high-performance versions of BMW's X5 and X6 crossovers, both of which already offer physics-defying M models of their own.

BMW confirms M-tuned 5 Series diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Aug 2011 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 series535d550dm550dxmbmwbmw mbmw m5diesel m5xdriveWed, 17 Aug 2011 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020206/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/17/bmw-confirms-m-tuned-5-series-diesel/20020206/article-detail.xml 20020206 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-bmw-m5-blue-moving_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2012-bmw-m5-blue-moving.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW M5 configurator comes alive, threatens bank accounts everywhere]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/2012-bmw-m5-configurator-comes-alive-threatens-bank-accounts-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/2012-bmw-m5-configurator-comes-alive-threatens-bank-accounts-ev/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/2012-bmw-m5-configurator-comes-alive-threatens-bank-accounts-ev/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 Configurator

John Milton had some pretty strong views on temptation. The famous poet and author of Paradise Lost wholeheartedly believed that one could not truly know one's goodness without facing genuine temptation on a regular basis. After all, how could you know whether you're straight-laced as a saint or crooked as the devil's own claws if you circumnavigated the world's vices? Fortunately for us, BMW has been so kind as to pull back the sheets on the company's 2012 M5 configurator. If ever there was a reason to fall into lust, this is it.

Right now, you can only pick from a handful of exterior colors and a pair of wheel options, but the German automaker says that more choices will arrive soon. For the moment, you can spend a few sacred moments meditating on whether your menacing sedan would look better in Monte Carlo metallic or Alpine White and what sort of peril you'd have to endure in order to secure the funds necessary to buy this beast for yourself. Don't worry, your secret's safe with us.

2012 BMW M5 configurator comes alive, threatens bank accounts everywhere originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 m55 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m5configuratorm5m5 configuratorvisualizerMon, 20 Jun 2011 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19971800/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/20/2012-bmw-m5-configurator-comes-alive-threatens-bank-accounts-ev/19971800/article-detail.xml 19971800 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/bmw-m5-configurator_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/bmw-m5-configurator.jpg <![CDATA[BMW opens the floodgates on 2012 M5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/bmw-opens-the-floodgates-on-2012-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/bmw-opens-the-floodgates-on-2012-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/bmw-opens-the-floodgates-on-2012-m5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW M5
2012 BMW M5 - Click above for high-res image mega gallery

The moment we've all been waiting for is upon us. Well, actually, it came last night when the first batch of images leaked out showing the new BMW M5. But just as it did with its last new vehicle - the new 1 Series hatchback - the Bavarian automaker has followed up with a very full batch of official photos and the details to go along with it.

Since its inception in 1985, the M5 has stood as the definitive European super-sedan. But while the newest iteration may have ditched a couple of cylinders from the model it replaces, it has gained a couple of turbochargers in their stead and a commensurate increase in output to go along with 'em. The 4.4-liter twin-scroll twin-turbo V8, complete with direct injection and variable valvetrain, offers up a whopping 560 horsepower and 502 lb-ft of torque - about 10 percent more than the outgoing V10, accessible from lower revs to boot. It also does so using less fuel and emitting fewer carbon molecules into the atmosphere, aided by such features as regenerative braking and stop-start ignition.

Driving the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission complete with launch control and all the electronic do-dads you'd expect from a modern German performance sedan, BMW figures it's good for a 4.4-second sprint to 60, with top speed limited (as many German automobiles are) to 155 miles per hour, though the governor can be relaxed with the optional M Driver's Package for a 190-mph top end. Of course, the M5 isn't all about straight-line speed, packing an Active M electronic multi-plate limited-slip differential and stability control to help get the power down coming out of the corners.

A welcome change from the overly complicated system on the outgoing M5 is the presence of two little buttons on the steering wheel, allowing drivers to pre-program parameters from accelerator response and shift program to chassis control and head-up display, to be recalled at the touch of a button, instead of having to fiddle through an endless array of iDrive menus and options each time. And of course, as you can see from the high-resolution images in our extensive gallery, BMW has given the new M5 all the visual cues - both inside and out - it needs to stand apart from more ordinary 5 Series models. Click on past the jump to peruse the full press release for more.

Continue reading BMW opens the floodgates on 2012 M5

BMW opens the floodgates on 2012 M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m55 series5-seriesbmwbmw mbmw m5m5Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19967635/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/15/bmw-opens-the-floodgates-on-2012-m5/19967635/article-detail.xml 19967635 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web142012-bmw-m5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web142012-bmw-m5.jpg <![CDATA[First official 2012 BMW M5 shots hit the web]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/first-official-2012-bmw-m5-shots-hit-the-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/first-official-2012-bmw-m5-shots-hit-the-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/15/first-official-2012-bmw-m5-shots-hit-the-web/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 BMW M5
2012 BMW M5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Official 2012 BMW M5 images have leaked onto the Internet as the latest iteration of the legendary M model prepares to charge toward showrooms. The F10 M5 is flared and aero-ed up with bodywork that maintains a buttoned-up demeanor even as it radiates aggression. Onlookers can tell the M5 is a special car with its enlarged air intakes in the front fascia, quartet of tailpipes and 20-inch wheels with Z-rated tires, but it doesn't need to be festooned with wings and bling to make its point.

The 2012 M5 is about more than mere surface beauty, after all. The sonorous V10 of the last M5 has been traded out for a twin-turbocharged V8 fist. Power is up, with 552 horsepower (the V10 produced 507 hp) coming on at 6,000 rpm - 1,750 rpm lower than the V10. Torque is hugely boosted from 383 pound-feet to 501 lb-ft, which will be great for shoving this car to 60 miles per hour in a reported 4.4 seconds. That'll route to the rear wheels via a standard dual-clutch transmission, though a proper six-speed stick will reportedly be available here in the United States.

The cost of entry is rumored to be around €100,000 in Germany - about $144,000 based on current exchange rates. We're sure the actual U.S. price won't be anywhere near that high (the€100K number likely includes Europe's lofty value-added tax), but in any case, start saving your pennies.

First official 2012 BMW M5 shots hit the web originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m55 series5-seriesbmwbmw mf10 m5m5Wed, 15 Jun 2011 00:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19967213/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/15/first-official-2012-bmw-m5-shots-hit-the-web/19967213/article-detail.xml 19967213 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-bmw-m5-f10-4-1308110457_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-bmw-m5-f10-4-1308110457.jpg <![CDATA[BMW won't market an M3 GTS sedan... at least, not in the U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/report-bmw-wont-market-an-m3-gts-sedan-at-least-not-in-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/report-bmw-wont-market-an-m3-gts-sedan-at-least-not-in-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/report-bmw-wont-market-an-m3-gts-sedan-at-least-not-in-the/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M3 lightweight sedan
BMW M3 Sedan lightweight concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

You may recall that earlier this month, BMW revealed a unique M3 Sedan that had been stripped of weight and toughened up, packing the same sort of approach applied to the hard-core M3 GTS coupe, albeit with a couple of extra doors. The one-off was made for the M Festival set to take place during the 24 Hours of Nürburgring this coming June, but naturally, speculation on its production potential has ensued.

The good folks over at M3Post pinned down Matt Russell, the guy who handles the M range (along with Alpina) for BMW North America, and asked him about the lightweight M3 sedan's future, and according to him, there are no plans to market such a vehicle in the United States. Naturally, Russell didn't comment on markets outside his purview, neatly avoiding comment on whether the hardcore sedan will be available somewhere. But given the short time remaining in the current M3's lifespan and the stringencies of U.S. regulations, any such vehicle apparently isn't fated for these shores.

Elsewhere in the interview, Russell professed his admiration for the all-wheel drive system developed by Ferrari for the new FF. Could BMW incorporate AWD into future M products? Potentially, but as with the lightweight M3 sedan, the extra heft would be an issue.


Gallery: Lightweight BMW M3 Sedan


[Source: M3Post via Motor Authority]

BMW won't market an M3 GTS sedan... at least, not in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m3bmw m3 cslbmw m3 gtsbmw m3 gts sedanbmw m3 sedanm3m3 cslm3 gtsm3 sedanmatt russellTue, 26 Apr 2011 14:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19924012/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/26/report-bmw-wont-market-an-m3-gts-sedan-at-least-not-in-the/19924012/article-detail.xml 19924012 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/bmw-m3-lightweight-sedan-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/bmw-m3-lightweight-sedan-630.jpg -1 2