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 debuts 560-hp twin-turbo M6, manual option under consideration]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 BMW M6

What's the new M6 made of? Just like the last generation, it takes all the best bits from the M5 and distills them into two door form. And this time, the convertible comes first.

At its heart, the M6 Coupe and Cabriolet are all about the engine, and as expected both models use the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (ironically codenamed S63) to output 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, the latter of which peaks between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. Those figures should sound familiar, as they're almost exact duplicates of the M5's specs (the sedan makes an additional two lb-ft of torque), including the 7,200 rpm rev limiter and Valvetronic system.

Mated to the same seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox as the M5, BMW claims the M6 Coupe will run from a rest to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds, with the cabrio taking an additional tenth of a second to hit the same mark. According to our sources, a six-speed manual option is under consideration, but it won't be available at launch. And again, just like the M5, fuel consumption has been reduced by 30 percent while power has increased by around 10 percent.

Also included is BMW's Active M Differential, an electronically controlled multi-plate limited slip diff that works in conjunction with the DSC and the new Dynamic Damper Controls that electro-hydraulically tweak damping force on-the-fly depending on the settings and the situation.

Inside the subtly blistered wheel arches are massive 16.1-inch carbon ceramic rotors in front, gripped by six piston blue calipers, with equally impressive 15.6-inch rotors out back held by a single-piston caliper. The standard wheels are M-specific 19-inch alloys with 265/40 R19 ultra-high performance summer tires in front and 295/35 R19 rubber in the rear, with 20-inch lightweight hoops available as an option.

BMW isn't citing exact curb weights for either the coupe or cabrio yet, but assures us that they're notably less than the previous E63/E64, and the double-bubble carbon fiber roof on the coupe is a visual testament to that.

Sales of the convertible will start this June, with the coupe arriving later this summer as a 2013 model. And we hear we'll get to see the drop top in person at the New York Auto Show, with the coupe debuting in Geneva. Hit the jump for all the tech-laden details.

Continue reading BMW debuts 560-hp twin-turbo M6, manual option under consideration

BMW debuts 560-hp twin-turbo M6, manual option under consideration originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m62013 bmw m62013 bmw m6 convertible2013 bmw m6 coupe6 series6-seriesbmwbmw m6bmw m6 convertiblebmw m6 coupem6Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169588/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/20169588/article-detail.xml 20169588 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-bmw-m6-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-bmw-m6-628.jpg <![CDATA[Three-cylinder BMW 3 Series on its way?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series

Peter Nefischer, head of engine development for BMW, has said the automaker is currently working on developing three-cylinder engines to be used across the company's vehicle line. The powerplants would likely be different than the one found in the BMW i8 and wouldn't be partnered with an electric motor. Instead, engineers would turn to forced induction to maintain acceptable power levels. Nefischer said engineers have gone as far as possible with current engine technology, and the next step is smaller, more powerful variants.

So, when can we expect to see a three-cylinder 3 Series hit the streets? According to the report, the vehicle could be here in two years. BMW has already demonstrated the sort of gains that can be made by dropping cylinder count. Just look at the F30 328i with the vehicle's impressive power and fuel economy as an example. Will BMW bring 3 Series to the table with half the cylinders of the tried-and-true I6? Stranger things have happened.

Three-cylinder BMW 3 Series on its way? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesrumormillthree cylinder 3 seriesthree cylinder engineFri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166986/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/20166986/article-detail.xml 20166986 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe priced at $76,895]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe

BMW has slapped a sticker onto the latest addition to the 6 Series lineup, and the all-new 2013 640i Gran Coupe will carry at sticker of $76,895 (including the $895 destination charge) when it goes on sale this summer.

The 640i is the first variant of the segment-splitting "4+1" sedan, which gets power from the ubiquitous TwinPower turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter inline-six putting out 315 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8-powered 650i Gran Coupe will be on offer later this year in both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive guise, although BMW is holding off on pricing those two 445 hp models until closer to launch. Full details in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe priced at $76,895

2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe priced at $76,895 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe price2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe pricing6 seriesbmwgran coupegran coupe priceThu, 09 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168471/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/20168471/article-detail.xml 20168471 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-6-series-gran-coupe-028-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-6-series-gran-coupe-028-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is the difference between a sports sedan and the GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

m5 versus gtr

Okay, this is an easy one. If we told you to pick a performance winner between the Nissan GT-R and the BMW M5, we're guessing the vast majority of you would pick Godzilla to come out on top. Both vehicles feature over 500 horsepower, but the BMW weighs over 400 pounds more, and the GT-R counters with one of the world's most impressive all-wheel-drive systems.

That didn't stop the Autocar team from pitting the M5 against the GT-R in a test of acceleration, cornering, braking, G-force and general feel. Given the GT-R's 0-60 time of 2.8 seconds and its reputation for otherworldly handling, you know how this one is going to play out. But will the Nissan super coupe take all five tests? To be honest, a few of the tests were a bit closer than we would have thought. Hit the jump to check it out.

Continue reading This is the difference between a sports sedan and the GT-R

This is the difference between a sports sedan and the GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autocarbmwgt-4gt-rm5nissanvideoThu, 09 Feb 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/this-is-the-difference-between-a-sports-sedan-and-the-gt-r/20167771/article-detail.xml 20167771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/m5-v-gtr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/m5-v-gtr.jpg <![CDATA[BMW nixing 335d in favor of new 3 Series Hybrid?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



According to a number of reports, BMW has given up on diesel power for the 3 Series in the United States. Why would BMW turn its back on the torquey and efficient 335d? The reason is supposedly two-fold. It's no secret the automaker is bringing an ActiveHybrid 3 Series to market in the fall of this year. Given America's insatiable, if not illogical, thirst for hybrids, reason would have us believe BMW has switched sides in the diesel versus hybrid fight. Then there's the fact that the turbo four-cylinder gasoline engine in F30 328i now nearly matches the outgoing 335d in both efficiency and power. Those circumstances seem to be a curtain call for any return of the 335d in America.

When we spoke to BMW about the supposed demise of the 335d, the automaker made it clear the ActiveHybrid 3 Series is in no way meant to replace the diesel. While the automaker doesn't plan to release a new 335d during 2012, the company is currently evaluating the case for a successor. Odds are, that means finding a way to make the vehicle a worthwhile investment for both consumers and the automaker.

When asked if that meant a turbo 2.0-liter diesel was an option, Tom Plucinsky, BMW product communications manager, said, "The F30 328i has the same EPA rating as the 335d. We need to up our game if we're going to continue to offer a 3 Series diesel in the U.S. It's a possibility."

So, don't go throwing dirt on the 3 Series diesel's coffin just yet.

BMW nixing 335d in favor of new 3 Series Hybrid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 335d3 series335dactivehybridbmwbmw 3 series activehybridbmw 335ddieseldiesel 3 seriesTue, 07 Feb 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165107/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/bmw-nixing-335d-in-favor-of-new-3-series-hybrid/20165107/article-detail.xml 20165107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw-335d-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmw-335d-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to produce, sell long-wheelbase 335Li in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series

In China, it's common for managers in various levels of the corporate hierarchy to have personal drivers, hence the proliferation of long-wheelbase sedan variants that we don't see in North America. Audi sells the A4L and A6L there, and now BMW is following up the 535Li it currently offers in China with a elongated version of the new 3 Series sedan.

Likely dubbed the 335Li, the long-wheelbase 3 will be produced in China alongside the regular 3 Series. We're interested in seeing how well the long-wheelbase 335 handles compared to its standard-length sibling.

BMW to produce, sell long-wheelbase 335Li in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>335Libmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 335LichinalimousinestretchSat, 04 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161434/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/20161434/article-detail.xml 20161434 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/0044-2012-bmw-3-series_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/0044-2012-bmw-3-series.jpg <![CDATA[BMW entering Super Bowl fray with two spots for new 3 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/bmw-entering-super-bowl-fray-with-two-spots-for-new-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/bmw-entering-super-bowl-fray-with-two-spots-for-new-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/bmw-entering-super-bowl-fray-with-two-spots-for-new-3-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Super Bowl Commercial

In crafting its Super Bowl strategy, BMW cribbed a page from the Suzuki playbook. (Have we ever been able to say that before?) The Bavarian brand will be airing two regional commercials on Sunday, one in New York and the other in the Los Angeles area, both promoting the new 2012 3 Series.

The east coast ad promotes the Bimmer's heated steering wheel, of all the mundane features. But the SoCal spot showing off BMW Connected Drive's e-mail-reading ability is pretty darn funny, even if it is stereotypical mother-in-law humor. BMW has also created four additional commercials that it says will soon be appearing online on streaming sites like Hulu.

What's most notable here is that in none of the clips do we actually see The Ultimate Driving Machine driving, though we do see kids, a dog and twin babies.

Click past the jump to see all the videos and read the press release.

Continue reading BMW entering Super Bowl fray with two spots for new 3 Series

BMW entering Super Bowl fray with two spots for new 3 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw 3 series3 seriesbmwbmw adbmw advertisementbmw commercialbmw super bowlconnected drivesuper bowlFri, 03 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20164069/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/03/bmw-entering-super-bowl-fray-with-two-spots-for-new-3-series/20164069/article-detail.xml 20164069 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmwspot-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bmwspot-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BMW Finally Builds A Serious Full Hybrid

2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5

After having us over to drive its raging new M5 last September, BMW is now aiming to show just how efficient their F10 5 Series can be with the occasionally silent and rage-free ActiveHybrid 5. Whereas the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 750i arrived somewhat lacking in state-of-the-art hybrid credentials, the ActiveHybrid 5 carries a true and undeniable full parallel hybrid powertrain starting with all the goodness you find in a 535i.

This ActiveHybrid 5 is essentially a 535i sedan that pollutes less, travels farther on each of its 17.7 gallons of fuel, is painted BMW's alternative-propulsion color of choice, Bluewater Metallic, and weighs 330 pounds more due to its electric motor, electric power unit motherboard and lithium-ion battery pack. Both CO2 emissions and range are said to improve by roughly 16 percent in a car that performs up to par with a 535i, so it's a likeable proposition. Sticking with the standard 17-inch wheel/tire setup and setting the Driving Dynamics Control to Eco Pro mode, that'd make the CO2 rate 240 grams per mile - an impressive stat that most Americans still don't care about - and an average EPA city/hwy combined fuel economy score of around 31 miles per gallon.

Continue reading 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5

2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw activehybrid 55 series5 series hybridactivehybridactivehybrid 5bmwbmw activehybrid 5bmw hybridfirst driveFirstDriveFri, 03 Feb 2012 11:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20163356/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/03/2012-bmw-activehybrid-5-first-drive-review/20163356/article-detail.xml 20163356 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-activehybrid-5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-activehybrid-5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[BMW sharpens its Edge with first M3 DTM livery]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-sharpens-its-edge-with-first-m3-dtm-livery/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-sharpens-its-edge-with-first-m3-dtm-livery/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-sharpens-its-edge-with-first-m3-dtm-livery/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M3 DTM (Castrol/Aral livery)

With six cars joining the grid this year in the DTM series, BMW is sure to present wildly different liveries - largely determined by the sponsors brought on board - for each one. And this is the first.

Based on a sponsorship deal with BP, this particular M3 DTM is decked out in the bright green color of Castrol Edge motor oil and the light blue of German gas station network Aral. This car's unveiling is the first time we're seeing the new touring car in anything but flat black or BMW's trademark striped white color scheme.

To pull of its entry into the competitive German racing series and take on its rivals at Mercedes-Benz and Audi, BMW is bringing in four of its proven factory drivers (including three-time World Touring Car Championship winner Andy Priaulx) and has poached longtime Mercedes AMG driver Bruno Spengler and Audi's reigning DTM champ Martin Tomczyk.

All eyes will be focused on Hockenheim where the season kicks off in late April.

Continue reading BMW sharpens its Edge with first M3 DTM livery

BMW sharpens its Edge with first M3 DTM livery originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aralaral ultimatebmwbmw m3bmw m3 dtmbpcastrolcastrol edgedtmgerman touring carm3m3 dtmtouring carWed, 01 Feb 2012 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160323/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/bmw-sharpens-its-edge-with-first-m3-dtm-livery/20160323/article-detail.xml 20160323 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/m3-castrol_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/m3-castrol.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 i3 caught winter testing again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Spy photographers have picked up yet another batch of photos of the BMW i3. This time, the pint-sized Bimmer was spotted during some winter testing in Norway. When we last saw the awkward-looking hatchback, it was whirring about under the power of 600cc two-cylinder range-extending engine back in November. This looks to be the same i3 REx, complete with its "Hybrid Test Vehicle" stickers slathered on both doors. That means the model you see here likely boasts a range of significantly longer than the 100 miles quoted for the pure EV. How much longer? That's a question BMW isn't likely to answer until the production model debuts.

From what we've heard, the BMW i3 is slated hit the market in 2013 with the i3 REx surfacing sometime shortly thereafter. We'll be interested to see whether the production model rides on the same super-skinny tires as the test ride pictured above. Click through our attached image gallery for a host of snowy i3 photos.

BMW i3 caught winter testing again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw i3bmw i3 RExbmw i3 spy shotsi3i3 spy shotsnorwaryspy photosspy shotswinter testingWed, 01 Feb 2012 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162026/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/bmw-i3-caught-winter-testing-again/20162026/article-detail.xml 20162026 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-bmw-i3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-bmw-i3-628.jpg <![CDATA[New BMW 328i actually more fuel efficient than old 335d diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/new-bmw-328i-actually-more-fuel-efficient-than-old-335d-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/new-bmw-328i-actually-more-fuel-efficient-than-old-335d-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/new-bmw-328i-actually-more-fuel-efficient-than-old-335d-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series

Saying automotive journalists like diesel sedans is like arguing the color pink is going to do well with the 5-year-old-girl demographic this quarter. You're not going to find too many dissenting voices. So, it should be no surprise that we love ourselves some BMW 335d. With plenty of power and impressive fuel economy, the outgoing diesel is a mechanical wonder child. And yet, thanks to the new F30-generation BMW 328i, with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, there's some competition for the title of most fuel efficient 3 Series.

Admittedly, the 328i's numbers are a far cry from the 265 ponies and 425 lb-ft of torque cranked out by the diesel-fueled 3.0-liter inline six in the 335d. Even so, the 2012 328i is considerably lighter and more aerodynamic. It also boasts a next-generation transmission, which helps the car get to 60 mph one tenth of a second quicker than the old 335d. That's surprising, but not nearly as surprising as the fact that the 328i manages 1 mpg better than the diesel in the combined cycle. According to the EPA's just-released figures, the 328i nets 24 miles per gallon in the city and an impressive 36 mpg on the highway. The 335i? 23 mpg city and 36 highway.

We'll give you a moment to pick up your jaw from the floor. Now all BMW needs to do, as Automobile points out, is drop a diesel four-cylinder behind the headlights of the 3 Series to go after even bigger green credentials. Fingers crossed.

New BMW 328i actually more fuel efficient than old 335d diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw 328i3 series3-series328i335dbmwbmw 328ibmw 335dbmw dieselbmw f30dieself30Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161938/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/new-bmw-328i-actually-more-fuel-efficient-than-old-335d-diesel/20161938/article-detail.xml 20161938 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-first-drive-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-first-drive-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Senner Tuning BMW Z8

The 2001-2003 Z8 is one of the more graceful designs to slip from the BMW design studios in recent memory. With the droptop's classic roadster lines and plenty of performance on tap, the Z8 may not have sold like gangbusters when it was in production, but its slow-burn appeal has ensured that it has plenty of fans and impressive resale value. Despite a very limited production run of just 5,703 units, Senner Tuning has belatedly turned its attention toward modifying this convertible, which is quickly becoming a classic.

The company's engineers got started with a new sports air filter and easy breathing exhaust, including low-restriction catalytic converters. Throw in a mild ECU reflash and the vehicle is good for 450 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. Senner Tuning says those figures should be good enough to get the Zed to around 186 mph.

Thankfully, the folks at Senner haven't messed with the Z8's aesthetics too much. A set of slick 19x9-inch Work Schwert SC1 wheels ride up front while 19x10-inch rollers out back take care of putting power to the pavement. Senner also spent some time with the vehicle's suspension. A new coilover suspension with adjustable rebound, new strut bar and reinforced shock mount are all part of the package. If you like the sound of this recipe, Senner Tuning will rework your Z8 for the princely sum of just under $25,000 at current conversion rates. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning

BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2001 bmw z82002 bmw z82003 bmw z8bmwbmw z8sennersenner tuningsenner tuning bmw z8z8Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160053/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/bmw-z8-freshened-courtesy-of-senner-tuning/20160053/article-detail.xml 20160053 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-senner-tuning-bmw-z8-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/01-senner-tuning-bmw-z8-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo coming next March]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo spy shot - CarPix

In spite of the near-Pavlovian howling that commences anytime the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is mentioned, and in spite of the 5GT falling so short of its sales target that BMW has been forced to consider bringing back the 5 Series Touring, the ungainly hatch has outsold that wagon during its time on our shores. And that was before it got dressed up with an M Sport package.

It shouldn't be a surprise then that the 3 Series GT is still rushing our way, with a report on BMW Blog (not connected to the company) declaring it will be here in March 2013. BMW is promoting the hatchback 3 as "the alternative to alternatives, a style conscious car with the dynamic prowess to match its looks," which smacks of PR-speak veering dangerously close to Newspeak.

We'll find out soon enough, nevertheless, for the moment, the 3GT is claimed to offer the cargo capacity of the 5 Series sedan but with even more room for everyone's legs. It is predicted to wear a slightly different face than the rest of the 3 Series line and have frameless windows (the rendering on BMW Blog has frames). Power should be from the current 3 Series lineup of turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines.

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo coming next March originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3 series gran turismo3 series gt3gtbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 3 series gtgran turismoMon, 30 Jan 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/20159879/article-detail.xml 20159879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/3-seriesgtthisyear_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/3-seriesgtthisyear.jpg <![CDATA[Updated BMW X6 M previewed in videos]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/updated-bmw-x6-m-previewed-in-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/updated-bmw-x6-m-previewed-in-videos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/28/updated-bmw-x6-m-previewed-in-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 BMW X6 M front-end

BMW has released two promo videos of its revised-for-2013 X6 M. From the looks of things, Team Bavaria has opted for a very subtle facelift that includes new headlights and a lightly tweaked grille. Otherwise, the mighty performance utility looks much as it did last year. Word has it the interior will receive similarly slight changes, with the option sheet getting a few more leather choices and little else. Likewise, the freshened BMW X6 M is expected to make use of this year's 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine.

Buyers can expect to relish the same 547 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque as last year, which should be good enough to scoot the beast to 62 mph in a scant 4.7 seconds. Hit the jump to take a look at the two videos for yourself.

Continue reading Updated BMW X6 M previewed in videos

Updated BMW X6 M previewed in videos originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 19:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw x6 mbmw x6 m teaserteaser videovideox6x6 mx6 m teaserx6mSat, 28 Jan 2012 19:53:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20158314/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/28/updated-bmw-x6-m-previewed-in-videos/20158314/article-detail.xml 20158314 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-x6-m-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-x6-m-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW planning to slot i5 minivan into new range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW i3 and i8

Imagine you're an auto exec launching a new line of cars. One's a sportscar, the other a city car - pretty much opposite extremes on the spectrum of automotive bodystyles. Do you give them alphanumeric nameplates close to one another? Of course not. You assign them disparate numbers to make room for more models to slot in between.

That's just what BMW is doing with its upcoming "i" range, with an i3 at one end and the i8 (star of the recent Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol). So what does it have planned to fit in the middle? According to Autobild out of Germany, an i5.

The third model in the range is tipped to come in as a compact MPV in a similar mold as the Toyota Prius V - only probably significantly more expensive. Underpinnings would likely be borrowed from the i3, but stretched out a bit to make extra room for people and stuff. For that matter, we wouldn't be surprised to see an i2 come in as a two-door version of the i3 with the Smart ForTwo in its sights, or an i6 or i7 electric sedan, either.

BMW planning to slot i5 minivan into new range originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw electricbmw evbmw ibmw i5bmw minivanii5Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/27/bmw-planning-to-slot-i5-minivan-into-new-range/20157879/article-detail.xml 20157879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/043-bmw-i3-i8-press-1327613500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/043-bmw-i3-i8-press-1327613500.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 takes its autonomous 5 Series onto the autobahn]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-takes-its-autonomous-5-series-onto-the-autobahn/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-takes-its-autonomous-5-series-onto-the-autobahn/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-takes-its-autonomous-5-series-onto-the-autobahn/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Last May we went for a high-speed run around Laguna Seca in BMW's Track Trainer, a modified 3 Series that can click of two-minute laps without the driver touching the controls. Now, BMW has packed a 5 Series with the next iteration of the technology and taken it on to the open road.

This latest ConnectedDrive experiment uses much of the same tech, but beyond the radar and camera systems on the 3er, it includes new ultrasonic scanners and lasers to re-read the road surface, lines and surrounding vehicles. We say "re-read" because like the system we sampled at Laguna, this version needs to have the road data downloaded into the car before it can drive sans human intervention.

Still, out on the autobahn it appears to work well, slowing for traffic, accelerating up to speed and performing lane changes when necessary. It's still too early to tell if the system will ever gain widespread adoption - particularly given the need for advance road data - but the 2013 BMW i3 will be equipped with a new Traffic Jam Assistant system that will steer, accelerate and brake the city car up to 25 mph in congestion, so the functionality is on its way, just not at autobahn speeds. Check out the demo in the video below the fold.

Continue reading BMW takes its autonomous 5 Series onto the autobahn

BMW takes its autonomous 5 Series onto the autobahn originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autonomousautonomous vehiclesbmwbmw 5 seriesbmw autonomousThu, 26 Jan 2012 08:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155776/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/26/bmw-takes-its-autonomous-5-series-onto-the-autobahn/20155776/article-detail.xml 20155776 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-autonomous-cap-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-autonomous-cap-628.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 updates 2013 X6, introduces M Performance Package]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-updates-2013-x6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-updates-2013-x6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-updates-2013-x6/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 BMW X6

BMW, which still insists on using the term Sports Activity Coupe to describe its least practical 'ute, has updated its X6 for the 2013 model year. And with good reason - BMW says it has sold over 20,000 X6 crossovers in the States since its launch three years ago and over 150,000 worldwide, making it an important model for the German automaker.

First and foremost, the 2013 X6 offers available power from both the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline six and 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 through its M Performance Package (which is not the same thing as the X6M that carries on for 2013 with its 555-horsepower V8 and six-speed automatic transmission).

By ticking he appropriate box on the order sheet, the X6 xDrive35i is blessed with 315 horsepower (a gain of 15 over stock) and 330 pound-feet of torque (a 30-lb-ft gain). The larger V8-powered model sports up to 440 hp and 480 lb-ft, gains of 40 horses and 30 torques. Models not ordered with the M Performance Package retain the less powerful engines offered in 2012, and all engines are mated to eight-speed automatic gearboxes.

Exterior updates include a slew of subtle revisions to the front fascia that bring the X6 more in line with the latest 3 and 5 Series models, with grilles that are a bit bolder than the outgoing machine. Also new are available adaptive LED headlights in place of the standard Xenon bulbs. LEDs are new additions to the rear lighting system as well, housed in larger enclosures.

A rash of interior treatment options are new for 2013, as are a few new exterior colors that includes a tasty root beer metallic brown. Expect to see the 2013 X6 in dealerships in the spring. For all the details, we suggest checking out the official press release after the break, but not before ingesting our high-res image gallery above.

Continue reading BMW updates 2013 X6, introduces M Performance Package

BMW updates 2013 X6, introduces M Performance Package originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw x62013 bmw x6 m2013 bmw x6mbmwx6x6 mx6mWed, 25 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156973/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/25/bmw-updates-2013-x6/20156973/article-detail.xml 20156973 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-bmw-x6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-bmw-x6.jpg -1 2