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 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 hooks DTM up with new M3 safety car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-hooks-dtm-up-with-new-m3-safety-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-hooks-dtm-up-with-new-m3-safety-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/bmw-hooks-dtm-up-with-new-m3-safety-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M3 DTM Safety Car

Choosing a safety car to pace a racing series is tricky business that almost invariably results in either a constant flux of vehicles called into duty or playing favorites between the manufacturers taking part in the series. NASCAR changes its pace cars about as quickly as it changes tires. Formula One sticks with Mercedes-Benz machinery, and nobody seems to complain very much. But DTM bridges the gap with a slightly different approach.

In the German touring car series, each of the participating automakers provides safety cars to the series organizers, which alternate between them from one race to another. That was simple enough when it was just Audi and Mercedes-Benz, but now that BMW has thrown its proverbial hat into the ring, DTM is putting a third car into the rotation. And this is our first look at it.

Revealed with a handful of crude snapshots on the BMW Motorsport fan page on Facebook, the BMW M3 DTM Safety Car looks closer to the standard, roadgoing M3 than the DTM racer, but with some extra modifications. Those include special wheels, an emergency light bar and a stripped-out cockpit with full roll cage and Recaro buckets. But there could be something special going on under the hood as well, where a bright orange engine cover lurks under a unique louvered hood. That could mean a more powerful version of the outgoing M3's high-revving V8 engine to help it stay out in front of all that racing machinery.

We'll have to wait for BMW to release additional information to find out, but for now you can check out the low-res images in the gallery above.

BMW hooks DTM up with new M3 safety car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m32012 bmw m3 dtm safety car3 seriesbmwbmw m3bmw m3 dtmbmw m3 dtm safety cardtmm3pace carsafety cartouring carMon, 23 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20154032/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/23/bmw-hooks-dtm-up-with-new-m3-safety-car/20154032/article-detail.xml 20154032 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/m3-dtm-safety-web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/m3-dtm-safety-web.jpg <![CDATA[2012 BMW 3 Series configurator powers up [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/2012-bmw-3-series-configurator-powers-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/2012-bmw-3-series-configurator-powers-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/19/2012-bmw-3-series-configurator-powers-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series configurator screencap

The all-new 2012 BMW 3 Series is scheduled to hit U.S. BMW dealerships in February, which makes now a good time to option up our dream Bimmer. The 3 Series configurator reveals 15 different 3 Series models from which to choose, including coupe, convertible, sedan and Wagon variants, plus a choice of a four- and six-cylinder gas engines, along with a diesel model and available all-wheel drive. However, only the 328i and 335i rear-wheel-drive sedans are new 2012 models, while the coupes, diesel-powered 335d, any all-wheel-drive model and the M3 are all still based on the prior generation 3 Series and listed as 2011 models.

The all-new for 2012 328i Sedan starts out at $34,900 (plus $895 destination), but just a few options sends the MSRP skyward. Buyers can choose from the Luxury Line model ($2,100), Modern Line ($2,100) or Sport Line ($2,500), plus six option packages that offer everything from enhanced safety technology to an upgraded sound system.

Step up to the 335i Sedan and expect to pay $42,400 (plus $895 destination). The 335i also comes with the choice of Sport Line, Modern Line and Luxury line, but the price tag for those trim levels falls to $1,700, $1,400 and $1,400, respectively. The diesel-powered 335d starts out at $44,150, and the 328i and 335i coupes (still based on the outgoing model generation) start at $38,700 and $45,100, respectively. Head over to the BMW website to price out a new 3 Series for yourself.

UPDATE: Clarification added about which 3 Series models are all new for the 2012 model year.

2012 BMW 3 Series configurator powers up [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw 3 series3 series3-series328i335d335i335isbmwm3Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149001/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/19/2012-bmw-3-series-configurator-powers-up/20149001/article-detail.xml 20149001 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-bmw-3-series-configurator_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-bmw-3-series-configurator.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 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[<i>Car and Driver</i> reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



Each year, the scribes at Car and Driver go through every new vehicle on sale and pick the ten best cars available here in the United States. And while some major automotive awards are only shelled out to vehicles that are all-new or significantly updated for a certain model year, C/D's approach is to look at the full scope of cars currently on sale. After all, there are some cars that are simply perennial favorites, even if they haven't changed year over year.

For 2012, the Chevrolet Volt and Hyundai Sonata have fallen off the list to make room for the Audi A6/A7 and Ford Focus. The other eight vehicles that round out the 10Best list have carried over from the 2011 winners, but we can't say we're surprised. These ten cars indeed represent some of the best vehicles on sale today.

The 2012 Car and Driver 10Best winners are:
Head over to Car and Driver to read the full 10Best roundup, and follow the jump to see a video of this year's winning fleet, then check in to Comments to share your thoughts on C/D's list.

Continue reading Car and Driver reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video]

Car and Driver reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best10best2012 10best3 seriesa7accordaudibmwboss 302boxstercadillaccar and drivercts-vfitfocusfordgolfgtihondam3mustangporscheten bestvolkswagenTue, 06 Dec 2011 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121966/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/20121966/article-detail.xml 20121966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/cd10best628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/cd10best628.jpg <![CDATA[Six-cylinder BMW M3 caught on and around Nürburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/11/six-cylinder-bmw-m3-caught-on-and-around-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/11/six-cylinder-bmw-m3-caught-on-and-around-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/11/six-cylinder-bmw-m3-caught-on-and-around-nurburgring/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 BMW M3 Testing

That Roundel-obsessed crew over at F30post.com has laid its paws on a quick clip of the next-generation BMW M3 turning a few hot laps at the Nürburgring. The video gives us the best look and listen yet to the performance 3 Series under duress, and it certainly sounds as if the vehicle has finally shed its high-winding V8 for six-cylinder power. That feeling? It's just the universe re-aligning itself. Don't worry about it. BMW hasn't said exactly what sort of power the next-generation M3 will produce when it arrives, but we'd guess that the number will land north of the 414-horsepower available from the current model.

The only question is whether or not BMW has abandoned its tried-and-true inline six for a more blasphemous V6 configuration. The automaker has publicly said that it wouldn't embrace the V, but there's a growing tied of rumor that would suggest otherwise. Either way, we'll find out when the M bows in mid-2012. Hit the jump to check out the full video for yourself.

Continue reading Six-cylinder BMW M3 caught on and around Nürburgring

Six-cylinder BMW M3 caught on and around Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw m32013 bmw m3 video2013 m3bmwbmw m3m3videoFri, 11 Nov 2011 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20103977/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/11/six-cylinder-bmw-m3-caught-on-and-around-nurburgring/20103977/article-detail.xml 20103977 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-bmw-m3-testing-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2013-bmw-m3-testing-628.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[Here's what the 2014 BMW M3 could look like]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/heres-what-the-2014-bmw-m3-could-look-like/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/heres-what-the-2014-bmw-m3-could-look-like/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/20/heres-what-the-2014-bmw-m3-could-look-like/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's been less than a week since BMW dropped the first images of its redesigned 3 Series sedan on us, but already the imaginations are running wild about what the next M3 might look like. Automotive manipulator Theophilus Chin has given us his take on the F30-based M3, and it's about what you might expect.

With enlarged air ducts in the front fascia to feed the intercoolers for a rumored twin-turbo V6 setup, Chin's M3 is more aggressive, but retains the marque's penchant for subtlety. Around the back, Chin's M3 sedan has just a bit of a lip on the decklid and the telling quad exhaust pipes, but is thankfully devoid of boy-racer cues.

With the sixth-generation 3 Series sedan styling serving mostly to clean up the E90's lines, the next M3 will likely be treated similarly when it finally reaches our shores in 2014. While there will be plenty of M3 news to come, if the end product turned out much like these images, we wouldn't be surprised.

Here's what the 2014 BMW M3 could look like originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw m33 seriesbmwf30m3theophilus chinThu, 20 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20086604/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/20/heres-what-the-2014-bmw-m3-could-look-like/20086604/article-detail.xml 20086604 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2014-bmw-m3-theophilus-chin-opt-1319141578_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2014-bmw-m3-theophilus-chin-opt-1319141578.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M3 Sedan being worked out on the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Now that we have a clear glimpse of the 2012 BMW 328i and 335i, it's time for us to set our sights on the next chapter of the 3 Series story: the M3. Our trusty spy photographers caught this prototype doing its thing on the Nürburgring, and though there's still lots of swirly camouflage, it's pretty easy to see how the new 3 Series' design will adapt to the bulgier M shape.

What's still unknown, however, is exactly what's powering the next M3. It's no secret that BMW will be dropping the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 in favor of a turbocharged six-cylinder setup, but we've heard reports that the automaker's traditional inline-six may be nixed in favor of a brand new V6 configuration. Either way, expect the new M hotness to pack somewhere around 450 horsepower, and by using a forced induction setup, there should be substantially more torque on tap than the current car's seemingly puny 295 pound-feet.

BMW M3 Sedan being worked out on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwm3sedanspy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20085755/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/20085755/article-detail.xml 20085755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-bmw-m3-spy-shots628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-bmw-m3-spy-shots628.jpg <![CDATA[Is this BMW M3 prototype powered by an inline or V6?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/30/is-this-m3-prototype-an-inline-or-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/30/is-this-m3-prototype-an-inline-or-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/30/is-this-m3-prototype-an-inline-or-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



It started with a four-cylinder, graduated to six and then eight cylinders, and now might be settling back down to six. The next-generation F80 BMW M3, caught testing around the homeland, has let its voice be heard, and the suspicions are that a V6, not a BMW-traditional inline six, rumbles through those pipes.

Bimmerfile posits that a V6 could be "loosely based on the M5′s S63 twin-turbo V8, but with even greater high-end power and efficiency." Whatever is under that hood - and whatever is handling that lightning-quick gear change, don't quite sound like anything that's come straight from the factory before, at least to our ears. Follow the jump to watch and listen for yourself and make a guess in Comments.

Continue reading Is this BMW M3 prototype powered by an inline or V6?

Is this BMW M3 prototype powered by an inline or V6? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m3bmw v6f80 bmw m3f80 m3m3videoFri, 30 Sep 2011 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20070262/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/30/is-this-m3-prototype-an-inline-or-v6/20070262/article-detail.xml 20070262 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmwm3sixcylinder_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmwm3sixcylinder.jpg <![CDATA[CLP Automotive gives your BMW M3 race-ready looks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/clp-automotive-gives-your-bmw-m3-race-ready-looks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/clp-automotive-gives-your-bmw-m3-race-ready-looks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/clp-automotive-gives-your-bmw-m3-race-ready-looks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

CLP Automotive BMW M3 GT

Modifying a high-performance vehicle like the BMW M3 is a tricky feat. With all the engineering prowess of one of the world's most successful manufacturers behind every nut and bolt on the car, tweaking the recipe can easily lead to diminished performance. Even so, CLP Automotive has turned out a new widebody kit for the M3 Coupe that the aftermarket company is calling the M3 GT. According to our trusty Google Translator, the total package includes a front apron, hood, front fenders and side skirts. A set of 19-inch wheels are also part of the get up.

But the M3 GT isn't all about looking pretty at the prom. Under the hood, the engine has been tweaked up to around 600 horsepower thanks to the miracle of forced induction, and a set of Bilstein shocks give the vehicle a little more precision on the track. CLP Automotive says the whole conversion will set you back around €69,000, or $97,034 at current conversion rates.

CLP Automotive gives your BMW M3 race-ready looks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m3bmw m3 gtclp automotiveclp automotive bmw m3m3m3 gtTue, 06 Sep 2011 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20035659/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/06/clp-automotive-gives-your-bmw-m3-race-ready-looks/20035659/article-detail.xml 20035659 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/01-tuv-m3-gt-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/01-tuv-m3-gt-630.jpg <![CDATA[Next M3 will get new twin-turbo six-cylinder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/next-m3-will-get-new-twin-turbo-six-cylinder/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/next-m3-will-get-new-twin-turbo-six-cylinder/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/16/next-m3-will-get-new-twin-turbo-six-cylinder/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

bmw m3

We've heard for a while that the next-generation BMW M3 will lose its 4.0-liter V8. In fact, back in July, AutoExpress claimed that the next M3 would feature three turbochargers. Not so, says Autocar. Instead, the Brits claim that "insiders" tell them that the high-performance 3 Series will feature a twin-turbo inline-six. This mill reportedly will be all-new, and not based off the N54 twin-turbo or the N55 twin-scroll engine.

But while the two British mags disagree about the number of turbos under the M3's bonnet, the consensus is that power will be increased to 450 horsepower. What's more, the next M3 mill will boast significantly more torque, up from 295 pound-feet in the current generation to somewhere in the vicinity of 400 lb-ft.

We don't know about you, but 450 hp and 400 lb-ft sounds mighty fine to us. We're trying to table that enthusiasm for now, though, so we'll keep this information in the rumormill category for now. After all, the next M3 probably won't hit newsstands until the 2014 model year.

Next M3 will get new twin-turbo six-cylinder originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Aug 2011 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw m3bmwinline sixm3m3 rumortwin-turboTue, 16 Aug 2011 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20018370/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/16/next-m3-will-get-new-twin-turbo-six-cylinder/20018370/article-detail.xml 20018370 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web630-03-bmw-m3-crt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web630-03-bmw-m3-crt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW M3 caught packing new turbocharged inline six]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/spy-shots-2014-bmw-m3-caught-packing-new-turbocharged-inline-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/spy-shots-2014-bmw-m3-caught-packing-new-turbocharged-inline-si/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/11/spy-shots-2014-bmw-m3-caught-packing-new-turbocharged-inline-si/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 BMW M3

As we reported earlier this year, the current E90/E92 BMW M3 will be the last of the naturally aspirated M cars, and if recent rumors are to be believed, BMW will adapt the single-turbo N55 inline-six for duty in our favorite 3 Series. But how many turbos?

Some reports indicate two, while others say three (two traditional snails and an electric turbo). But no matter the configuration, expect output to be up over 450 horsepower and torque to swell to nearly 400 pound-feet.

Regardless of what's under the hood, development of the next M3 is well underway in Germany as BMW gears up for the release of the standard 3 Series successor.

This first batch of M3 spy shots don't show much aside from blacked-out 19-inch wheels, a widened body sans hood bulge and quartet of exhaust pipes. Stylistically, the next 3er is set to take cues from the recently revealed i brand, including new "angle eye" LED daytime running lamps that are flat on the top and bottom, and fitted to a more upright, angular fascia.

The fully redesigned 3 is set to debut later this year, with sales beginning in early 2012. As for the M3, don't expect it to hit until 2013 as a 2014 model.

2014 BMW M3 caught packing new turbocharged inline six originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw m3bmwbmw m3m3spy shotsThu, 11 Aug 2011 19:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20015715/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/11/spy-shots-2014-bmw-m3-caught-packing-new-turbocharged-inline-si/20015715/article-detail.xml 20015715 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2014-bmw-m3-spy-shots-bp-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2014-bmw-m3-spy-shots-bp-630op.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Fifth Gear</i> pits BMW M3 GTS against Porsche 911 GT3 RS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/fifth-gear-pits-bmw-m3-gts-against-porsche-911-gt3-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/fifth-gear-pits-bmw-m3-gts-against-porsche-911-gt3-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/fifth-gear-pits-bmw-m3-gts-against-porsche-911-gt3-rs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BMW M3 GTS

We continue to live in what is arguably the best time for the automobile in history. If you need proof, look no further than German bruisers like the BMW M3 GTS and the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. The high-horsepower, high-performance coupes are equally wicked, and the crew from Fifth Gear decided to sort out which of those racers is the best bang for the buck. In a recent episode, Tiff Needell championed the Porsche and Vicky Butler-Henderson carried the BMW banner.

The two cars were thrown into a series of tests, including a drift-off and a lap battle. Which came out on top? We won't spoil the result for you. Hit the jump to check out the video for yourselves.

Continue reading Fifth Gear pits BMW M3 GTS against Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Fifth Gear pits BMW M3 GTS against Porsche 911 GT3 RS originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911911 gt3 rsbmwbmw m3 gtsm3m3 gtsporscheporsche 911 gt3 rsSun, 24 Jul 2011 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19997784/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/24/fifth-gear-pits-bmw-m3-gts-against-porsche-911-gt3-rs/19997784/article-detail.xml 19997784 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-m3-gts-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-m3-gts-630.jpg <![CDATA[BMW calls M3 DTM Concept to the matte]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/17/bmw-calls-m3-dtm-concept-to-the-matte/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/17/bmw-calls-m3-dtm-concept-to-the-matte/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/17/bmw-calls-m3-dtm-concept-to-the-matte/#commentsFiled under: ,

bmw m3 dtm concept car

BMW has revealed the car that marks the automaker's return to DTM racing. The BMW M3 DTM Concept provides a look at what race fans can expect on the DTM starting grid in 2012. Not every bit of matte-finish cool on display above will be carried over to the ready-to-race version, but as with the majority of its concept cars, BMW's finished product will likely look very close to the car you see here.

The BMW M3 DTM Concept is powered by a 480-horsepower 4.0-liter V8 engine (that's with the required air restrictor in place), mated to a six-speed sequential gearbox. Sprinting to 62 miles per hour takes about three seconds, and the racer's top speed is somewhere around 186 mph. It will be up to British driver Andy Priaulx and Brazilian teammate Augusto Farfus to keep the M3's matte finish looking fresh as they battle for podium spots.

BMW's full press blast is available after the jump.

Continue reading BMW calls M3 DTM Concept to the matte

BMW calls M3 DTM Concept to the matte originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 17 Jul 2011 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy priaulxaugusto farfusbmwbmw m3bmw m3 dtm concept cardtmgerman touring carm3m3 dtmSun, 17 Jul 2011 18:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19992936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/17/bmw-calls-m3-dtm-concept-to-the-matte/19992936/article-detail.xml 19992936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-m3-dtm-concept-car_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmw-m3-dtm-concept-car.jpg <![CDATA[Next BMW M3 to get triple-turbo six]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/next-bmw-m3-to-get-triple-turbo-six/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/next-bmw-m3-to-get-triple-turbo-six/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/next-bmw-m3-to-get-triple-turbo-six/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M3 CRT
BMW M3 CRT - Click above for high-res image gallery

The BMW M3 has grown cylinders over the years like a pubescent pre-teen grows in height. What started out with an inline-four then grew into a straight-six for two generations before packing a V8 into the current model. The next one is expected to set to drop a couple of combustion chambers and go back to a single bank, but don't think for one minute that'll mean a drop in performance.

According to the rumormongers at AutoExpress, the next-generation M3, due sometime around 2014 after the new 3 Series comes along, will pack - wait for it - a triple-turbo straight-six. The innovative arrangement will reportedly include two conventional spools powered off exhaust gases and a third electric turbocharger. Total output could be around 450 horsepower - a bump over the current V8 model's 414 hp - with even more carbon fiber bits than the CRT edition pictured above to help keep weight down.

Not exciting enough? BMW's M division has plenty more in the cards, potentially including an oft-rumored new M1 supercar and, once the 1 Series M Coupe is done its production run, a lightweight CSL version. An M version of the Z4 is also under consideration, but of course nothing final until the cars make their debuts.

Next BMW M3 to get triple-turbo six originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw m3bmwbmw m3e-turboelectric turboeturbom3tri-turbotriple turboThu, 07 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19985802/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/07/next-bmw-m3-to-get-triple-turbo-six/19985802/article-detail.xml 19985802 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web630-03-bmw-m3-crt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web630-03-bmw-m3-crt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M3 CRT, Frozen Black editions already sold out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/04/the-fastest-thing-about-special-edition-bmw-m3s-is-how-fast-they/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/04/the-fastest-thing-about-special-edition-bmw-m3s-is-how-fast-they/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/04/the-fastest-thing-about-special-edition-bmw-m3s-is-how-fast-they/#commentsFiled under: ,

BMW M3 CRT
BMW M3 CRT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Thinking about dropping your kid's college fund on the new BMW M3 CRT? With about 100 pounds of excess weight stripped out, four doors and the a bored-out 4.4-liter, 450-horsepower V8 under the hood, it's bound to be an instant collector's edition. But don't head down to your local dealership with bearer bonds in hand just yet, as reports indicate that all 67 examples sold out almost as soon as they went on sale.

No problem, you figure. You'll just place your order for the slick Frozen Black edition instead. Well, not so fast, bub. Apparently that one sold out just as fast, with the entire run of 20 cars gone in a scant 34 minutes. Don't worry, though, because with sales moving this fast, you can bet BMW will offer another special or two before the car is phased out later this year. Just be on the ready - cash in hand - when it does.

BMW M3 CRT, Frozen Black editions already sold out originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwm3m3 crtMon, 04 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19982399/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/04/the-fastest-thing-about-special-edition-bmw-m3s-is-how-fast-they/19982399/article-detail.xml 19982399 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web630-03-bmw-m3-crt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/web630-03-bmw-m3-crt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M3 CRT gets first official footage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/bmw-m3-crt-gets-first-official-footage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/bmw-m3-crt-gets-first-official-footage/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/bmw-m3-crt-gets-first-official-footage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW M3 CRT
2012 BMW M3 CRT - Click above to watch video after the jump

BMW has been so kind as to give us all a glimpse at the company's upcoming M3 CRT. The engineers behind the German automaker's M performance arm have taken pains to dip their standard M3 into a vat of delicious carbon fiber, and the result is a lightweight version of the menacing sedan. Designed to show off the manufacturer's new carbon fiber technologies, the M3 CRT wears a CF hood that's as strong as conventional steel but with a quarter of the weight. The same methods were applied to the vehicle's seats.

The old muffler has been scrapped for a titanium unit, and lightweight Y-spoke wheels and brake calipers are part of the recipe as well. In an effort to trim fat wherever possible, the M3 CRT even wears less sound deadening than the standard model. BMW also reworked the vehicle's suspension with a more rigid subframe and adjustable coilovers, which means there's plenty of stick on hand.

That's good given that a 450 horsepower version of the company's naturally-aspirated 4.4-liter V8 sits behind the headlights. The grunt gets channeled to the rear tires via a seven-speed dual-clutch cog box.

We hear the very-limited-edition CRT will cost a mint (on the order of 130,000 Euros including taxes - around $185k U.S.), so don't expect to see any examples at your stateside BMW dealer anytime soon. Even so, you can still hit the jump to check out the walk-around for yourself.

Continue reading BMW M3 CRT gets first official footage

BMW M3 CRT gets first official footage originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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