Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Next generation BMW 3 Series pops up swathed in swirlies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/bmw-3-series-spy-shots-2011-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/bmw-3-series-spy-shots-2011-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/bmw-3-series-spy-shots-2011-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 BMW 3-series prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

This morning we get our first "clear" look at the next generation BMW 3 Series as one of our intrepid spy photographers captured one sitting on a trailer somewhere in Germany. The newest version of BMW's mainstream model is expected to debut sometime in 2011 as 2012 model. Judging from these shots, it does not appear that the size of the new 3 will change much, although we can expect BMW to implement some weight reduction measures in order to help meet new fuel efficiency and emissions standards. The overall proportions look pretty similar to today's car, but the profile shot indicates a more upright grille stance similar to the new Z4 and 5 Series GT.

The next 3 is also expected to adopt some new powertrains including a new turbocharged and direct-injected three-cylinder engine. When the new 3 arrives here in the U.S., it will likely also mark the return of four-cylinder engines to the brand's U.S. lineup, to which we say, bring on the fuel savings. Thanks to Annie and Andrus for the tips!


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 3 Series


[Photos: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Next generation BMW 3 Series pops up swathed in swirlies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 bmw 3 series2012Bmw3Series3 series3SeriesbmwBMW 3BMW 3 Seriesbmw 3-seriesBmw3Bmw3-seriesBmw3Seriesspyspy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsWed, 04 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[German tuner builds V10-powered BMW M3 wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/german-tuner-builds-v10-powered-bmw-m3-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/german-tuner-builds-v10-powered-bmw-m3-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/german-tuner-builds-v10-powered-bmw-m3-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Manhart Racing BMW M3 E91 5.0 V10 SMG - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Wedging BMW's V10 into an M3 is nothing new, but what if you want the convenience of a wagon? Manhart Racing has the answer. The German tuner has converted an E91 to look like the M3, then stuffed M5's V10 into the engine bay complete with its seven-speed SMG. To quote Manhart Racing..."Attention all sporty, family men!"

The transformation from a standard E91 3-Series Estate to super wagon begins with the exterior, where the car gets the front fascia, front fenders, side skirts, and the powerdome hood from the M3. Manhart Racing then adds their own rear wheel arches and rear fascia that makes room for a stainless steel exhaust system sporting quad exhaust tips. Next, the 5.0-liter V10 gets stuffed into the engine bay along with the the gearbox, and a limited slip differential is mounted out back.

Manhart claims a 0-100 km/h time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of just over 200 mph. You can buy your own turnkey version for a mere €120,000 or Manhart will gladly upgrade your current E91. Hit the jump for full details.


Gallery: Manhart Racing BMW M3 E91 5.0 V10 SMG


[Source: Manhart Racing]

Continue reading German tuner builds V10-powered BMW M3 wagon

German tuner builds V10-powered BMW M3 wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWBMW 3-SeriesBMW 3-series wagonBMW E91 3-SeriesBmw3-seriesBmw3-seriesWagonBmwE913-seriesManhart RacingManhart Racing BMW M3 E91 5.0 V10 SMGManhartRacingManhartRacingBmwM3E915.0V10SmgTue, 13 Oct 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: People get all jumpy when it comes to their new BMWs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/video-people-get-all-jumpy-when-it-comes-to-their-new-bmws/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/video-people-get-all-jumpy-when-it-comes-to-their-new-bmws/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/video-people-get-all-jumpy-when-it-comes-to-their-new-bmws/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to view the video after the jump

Question for BMW owners: Have you ever been so excited about your Bavarian beauty that you went all Tom Wopat and dove into the driver seat without opening the door? We've been in quite a few Bimmers ourselves, and while the driving experience is usually pretty damn good, we've always just opened the door.

After the jump, a new commercial gets creative by showing BMW owners of all walks of life getting physical with their German wheels. If a Golden Girl jumping through the X5's moonroof and a guy leaping off a roof into a 1 Series makes you want to perform stupid stunts with your BMW, please reconsider, and if you still must, kindly make sure to have cameras rolling. We're sure Tom Bergeron is anxiously awaiting your video.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading VIDEO: People get all jumpy when it comes to their new BMWs

VIDEO: People get all jumpy when it comes to their new BMWs originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw 3-seriesbmw commercaialbmw x5Bmw3-seriesBmwCommercaialBmwX5commercialvideoWed, 30 Sep 2009 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: BMW to release 3 Series hatch similar to 5 Series GT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-bmw-to-release-3-series-hatch-similar-to-5-series-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-bmw-to-release-3-series-hatch-similar-to-5-series-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-bmw-to-release-3-series-hatch-similar-to-5-series-gt/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

Wagons are apparently so outre that we're now seeing mish-mash vehicles like crossovers hiding the truth that, at their core, they're just wagons. BMW is no stranger to this - witness the recent 5 Series GT. Looking to build on the Grand Turismo variants of its wares, BMW is reportedly developing a 3 Series GT, expected to launch for 2011. The details haven't changed since the last time we posted about this vehicle, but BMW is nodding its corporate head that ja, there will be such a car.

The 335 Grand Turismo will bridge the gap between the 3 and 5 Series cars, a narrow one at that. The tailgate should be a two-position affair, like the 5er, and it's possible that four- and five-place configurations may be offered. If it happens, diesel and gasoline engines are expected, though any M3 version is probably not going to happen. Why this might be any more successful against such competition as the Audi A4 Avant than would a traditional 3 Series wagon is a mystery, but maybe BMW has struck on the magic formula that makes ungainly cars a hot commodity.


Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo


[Source: Channel 4]

REPORT: BMW to release 3 Series hatch similar to 5 Series GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series335 gt335 i335Gt335i3Seriesbmwbmw 3bmw 3 seriesbmw 3 series gtbmw 3-seriesbmw 335 grand turismobmw 335 gtbmw 335dbmw 335iBmw3Bmw3-seriesBmw335dBmw335GrandTurismoBmw335GtBmw335iBmw3SeriesBmw3SeriesGtfalseFri, 25 Sep 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: The future of the BMW 3 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/report-the-future-of-the-bmw-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/report-the-future-of-the-bmw-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/05/report-the-future-of-the-bmw-3-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The next generation BMW 3-series is set to get some major revisions when it arrives in two year's time. The new model is expected to be the first in the range to get a line of turbocharged three-cylinder engines in both gas and diesel variants, and will likely be 1.5-liter units -- essentially halved versions of the latest generation inline-sixes.

BMW's current six-cylinder diesels use a sequential dual turbo setup with small and large blowers to provide quick response and better top-end power. The new engines may use an electric motor to spin up the turbo more quickly allowing the use of a single turbo for reduced weight and complexity.

Aerodynamics will also be a major focus of the new 3 with the expected inclusion of front wheel air curtains. Ducts in the lower front bumper will route air out just ahead of the front wheels, creating a virtual wheel skirt. The high velocity over the wheels will prevent air coming around the sides and spilling around the wheels, one of the major sources of drag.

Other areas of improvement will include weight reductions, the incorporation of hybrid drive technologies, low-power climate control systems and eight-speed automatic transmissions. All that and more could be in showrooms as early as 2012.

[Source: AutoCar]

REPORT: The future of the BMW 3 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aerodynamicsautobloggreenbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 3-seriesBmw3-seriesBmw3Seriesdownsizinghybridweightweight reductionWeightReductionWed, 05 Aug 2009 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW recalling 2008MY 1- and 3-Series; plus 2009MY X5 and X6 models over safety concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/bmw-recalling-2008my-1-and-3-series-plus-2009my-x5-and-x6-mode/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/bmw-recalling-2008my-1-and-3-series-plus-2009my-x5-and-x6-mode/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/bmw-recalling-2008my-1-and-3-series-plus-2009my-x5-and-x6-mode/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


BMW 135i Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

A potential fault with the side airbags fitted to 2008 BMW 1- and 3-Series cars has lead to a recall notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Apparently, possible fitment of the wrong crimp connector can cause the airbag not to properly deploy.

In a separate recall, 2009 model year BMW X5 and X6 crossovers are also being called back to dealers, as they may have been fitted with rear brake discs that don't meet specifications. In extreme cases, the flaw could cause the rear disc to break, which would obviously then hurt the vehicle's ability to stop.

Unusually, the number of vehicles possibly covered under the actions has not been released, and BMW has not yet released the protocol for either repair. In any case, you can contact the company or NHTSA for more information. Complete information can be found in the NHTSA notices after the jump.


Gallery: BMW 135i Official Shots


[Source: NHTSA -- 1-Series / 3-Series, X5 / X6]

Continue reading BMW recalling 2008MY 1- and 3-Series; plus 2009MY X5 and X6 models over safety concerns

BMW recalling 2008MY 1- and 3-Series; plus 2009MY X5 and X6 models over safety concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The BMW 3 Series is one of the most fun cars to drive for under $50,000, and if you live near Toronto, Montreal or Vancouver, you may be eligible to try out the entire lineup at no cost to you. BMW is inviting select Canadian registrants to drive all flavors of the 3 Series for two hours and compare them to the competition from Lexus, Audi and Mercedes. The fun won't be relegated to yourself, either, as BMW encourages you to bring a friend along, as well. The goal, obviously, is to sell more BMWs, so the German automaker will pick only registrants that are found worthy (or able to afford) a fine piece of German engineering. In other words, if you're 19 and currently driving a Dodge Neon, don't wait by the mailbox.

The BMW train stops in Vancouver from April 17-19, in Montreal from May 8-10, and in Toronto from May 29-31 and June 5-7. More information, including registration information, can be found on the BMW Canada website.

[Source: BMW via AutoNorth]

Attention, Canadians: BMW wants you to drive 8 of its cars in 120 minutes... for free originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>328i335ibmw 3-seriesBmw3-seriescanadafree 3-series driveFree3-seriesDriveM3Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Early BMW 3-Series mule spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/spy-shots-early-bmw-3-series-mule-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/spy-shots-early-bmw-3-series-mule-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/09/spy-shots-early-bmw-3-series-mule-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Global Motors just posted some spy pics of what is believed to be a next-generation BMW 3-Series mule. The taped up rear and chunky fender flares distinguish it from a stock 3.

If you're scratching your head thinking we just got a new 3-Series from the Bavarians, you're right. The E90 debuted in 2006 and just received a freshening for '09, so we don't expect anything to come of this project until 2011 at the earliest (which goes some way toward explaining why there's no new production bodywork in evidence). Click over to Global Motors for more visuals of the mule in all its fender-flared glory. Thanks for the tip, Andrus!

[Source: Global Motors]

Spy Shots: Early BMW 3-Series mule spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 3-Series2011 BMW 3-Series20113-series2011Bmw3-seriesbmw 3bmw 3 seriesbmw 3-seriesBmw3Bmw3-seriesBmw3Seriese90E90 replacemente90 sedanE90ReplacementE90SedanFri, 09 Jan 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Automobile Magazine Announces 2009 All-Stars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/automobile-magazine-announces-2009-all-stars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/automobile-magazine-announces-2009-all-stars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/automobile-magazine-announces-2009-all-stars/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Chevy Corvette ZR1

After what we're sure are thousands of miles driven and some undoubtedly heated round table debates, Automobile Magazine has chosen its 2009 All-Stars. The ten winners were chosen based upon attributes that include design, driving enjoyment, performance and value, with vehicles taken from a wide range of segments. This year's winners range from the econobox Honda Fit to the Audi R8, with the spaciously rectilinear Ford Flex somewhere in between. The Chevrolet Malibu was one of four vehicles to make the list for the second straight year, joined by the Corvette (this year in ZR1 trim), Volkswagen GTI and the trophy darling BMW 3-Series. With it's nod from Automobile, Jaguar's XF continues to bring home the hardware, with one tester calling it the best Jaguar sedan he's ever driven (not a stretch in our book). Other winners included the Porsche 911 and the stonking Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

Just like with Car and Driver's 10 Best list, the Nissan GT-R didn't make Automobile's All-Stars team - an interesting ommission considering that it was recently crowned their Automobile of the Year. (Note: no price cap got in the way of victory this time). In fact, the only Japanese model to make the cut was the Fit, while the Germans took home five spots. In all, we'd call the All-Stars a solid list, but we're more interested in hearing what you think. What's missing and what vehicle(s) need the boot?

Gallery: 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1


[Source: Trading Markets]

Continue reading Automobile Magazine Announces 2009 All-Stars

Automobile Magazine Announces 2009 All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMGAudi R8AudiR8Automobile all-starsAutomobile MagazineAutomobileAll-starsAutomobileMagazineBMW 3-seriesBmw3-seriesC63corvette zr-1CorvetteZr-1ford flexFordFlexHonda FitHondaFitMalibuMercedesMercedes-benzWed, 17 Dec 2008 11:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: BMW Performance releases 3-Series teaser]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/video-bmw-performance-releases-3-series-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/video-bmw-performance-releases-3-series-teaser/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/video-bmw-performance-releases-3-series-teaser/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We're always up for a new 3-Series, and a performance variant straight from the manufacturer is even better. It looks like a new Bimmer is forthcoming from BMW performance, and the post-jump YouTube video shows just enough to keep us intrigued. We can catch a few details, and from what we can see and hear, this new performance Bimmer sedan will likely be faster and lighter than the standard 3. What it doesn't look like is an upgraded M3, as the front air dam isn't as large or aggressive as its M-powered sibling and it's lacking the M's quad-tip exhausts. What we do see is BMW Performance badging, carbon fiber side mirrors, and plenty of plastic molding to keep the souped-up 3-Series closer to the ground. BMW did mention that we'd see the new Performance 3-Series in its entirety some time in November, and we'll be first to show it to you when it hits the Internets. Hit the jump to view BMW's 40 second teaser video, and make sure to turn up your speakers.

[Source: eGMCarTech]

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW Performance releases 3-Series teaser

VIDEO: BMW Performance releases 3-Series teaser originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw 3-seriesBmw3-seriesperformance bmwPerformanceBmwTue, 11 Nov 2008 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW 335d will be released in November as 2009 model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/06/bmw-335d-will-be-released-in-november-as-2009-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/06/bmw-335d-will-be-released-in-november-as-2009-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/06/bmw-335d-will-be-released-in-november-as-2009-model/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for more high-res images of the 2009 BMW 3 Series

Rest easy, torque-lovers, BMW will be releasing the diesel version of its uber-popular 3 Series sedan in the United States later this year, exactly on schedule. Because it's so late in the year, the Bavarian automaker will be labeling it as a 2009 model, leading some to believe that the 335d was not going to be coming until next year. Not so, according to BMW spokesman Tom Plucinsky, who confirmed to KickingTires that both the 335d and the X5 35d will be making it Stateside sometime in November after production begins in September.

Both upcoming diesel models from BMW will use a 3.0-liter twin turbo oil-burner rated at 265hp and 425 lb-ft of torque. That's plenty of stump-pulling torque, but the best news could be the expected fuel mileage of 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway when paired with the six speed automatic.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 3 Series


[Source: Kicking Tires]

BMW 335d will be released in November as 2009 model originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For those fond of delving deep into E90 minutiae, these are the best shots yet showing off the subtle changes coming to the BMW 3-series. For the rest of us, the tweaks are largely inconsequential. World Car Fans has unearthed some of the clearest shots yet, and the change that most people will notice are the taillamps, which look to get a slightly different shape. It even appears that the cutlines between the taillamp pieces on the trunklid won't line up with the rest of the cluster mounted in the quarter panel - asymmetry. The mirrors look to gain large repeaters for the blinkers, possibly just a camouflage ruse, and minor updates likely go on inside and underhood, too. Also likely to be quite noticeable once the wraps come off is a reshaped front fascia, which appears to place foglamps next to the license plate. Overall, a mild refreshing until a new 3-series can be whipped up. In the meantime, the new 7 will set the template for BMWs to come.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Spy Shots: BMW 3-Series facelift originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 May 2008 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3 series facelift3 series update3Series3SeriesFacelift3SeriesUpdatebmw 3bmw 3 seriesbmw 3-seriesbmw 330ibmw 335ibmw faceliftbmw spy shotbmw spy shotsBmw3Bmw3-seriesBmw330iBmw335iBmw3SeriesBmwFaceliftBmwSpyShotBmwSpyShotsspyspy picsspy shotsspypicsspyshotsSat, 31 May 2008 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Hyundai Genesis Super Bowl ads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/31/video-hyundai-genesis-superbowl-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/31/video-hyundai-genesis-superbowl-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/31/video-hyundai-genesis-superbowl-ads/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above image to view Hyundai's Super Bowl commercials

The Super Bowl is this Sunday, and that means we get to see the best commercials that money can buy, and perhaps some football, as well. Hyundai was unsure whether it wanted to spend $2.5m a pop for two :30 spots (a voice over by the Dude doesn't come cheap), but in the end the South Korean automaker decided the Genesis sedan was a big-time product, and it deserved a spot on the world's biggest stage. We loaded both of Hyundai's ads after the jump, and we like what we see.

Hyundai deliberately shied away from any sort of pizazz or funny gimmicks, instead focusing on the virtues of its 375-hp rear-wheel-drive sedan. The silver Genesis on center stage, which is actually the Korean market model (note the winged "Genesis" hood badge and home-market grille), looks great in motion, and Hyundai didn't waste any time needling the luxury car competition. The two spots reference the Genesis having 7-Series and S-Class size with a price tag closer to that of the 3-Series or C-Class. Both spots knock the fact that most Super Bowl ads are about entertainment instead of great products, and both :30 ads drive home the point that Hyundai has a potential game-changer on its hands. We're not advertising experts, but we'd consider this $5m well spent. Follow the jump to preview the ads. Thanks for the tip, Alex!

[Source: Hyundai]

Gallery: 2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan

Continue reading VIDEO: Hyundai Genesis Super Bowl ads

VIDEO: Hyundai Genesis Super Bowl ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>375 HP375Hp4.6L V84.6lV8BMW 3-SeriesBmw3-seriesCommercialsgenesisHyundaiHyundai Genesis Sedanhyundai super bowl adHyundaiGenesisSedanHyundaiSuperBowlAdMercedes C-ClassMercedesC-classSuper BowlSuperBowlThu, 31 Jan 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy shots: Facelifted BMW 3-series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/26/spy-shots-facelifted-bmw-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/26/spy-shots-facelifted-bmw-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/26/spy-shots-facelifted-bmw-3-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Now that all of its siblings have been introduced over the past two years, the plain Jane BMW 3-Series sedan has slipped off for a nip/tuck rejuvenation session. Not much will change, but the car is expected to get new headlights with more prominent "angel eyes," a higher hood, LED tail lights, and a revised interior. It will also get a wider grill, a feature from the CS Coupe that's been finding its way on BMW concepts and redesigns.

Under that higher hood will be a new selection of engines that won't include BMW's start/stop technology just yet, but should up the stakes in the frugality department in terms of gas and CO2. Expect a variable twin turbo 204 bhp 4-cylinder diesel that puts out 138g of CO2 per km.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Spy shots: Facelifted BMW 3-series originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Sep 2007 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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For eons, the image of a Cadillac ingrained into our minds was that of an XL cruiser wafting down the highway consuming asphalt and small rodents without complaint. That perspective is set to change, as Cadillac plans to drop the slow-selling STS and DTS models, and instead focus its efforts on creating another CUV, a new mid-sized sedan and an entry-level RWD offering.

The plans to redesign the SRX crossover have been nixed due to poor sales, and in its place a new V6-powered, five-passenger CUV, likely to be dubbed the BRX, will go on sale in 2009. More importantly, Cadillac plans to focus its sporting credentials by expanding the CTS lineup to include both a wagon and a coupe, all in an effort to sway consumers interested in the segment-leading BMW 3-series.

Going after the Bavarian boys won't be easy, so in addition to the expansion of the CTS line, Cadillac's replacement for the STS and DTS will take aim at the BMW 5-series, with a high-performance RWD sedan. That, coupled with a proposed entry-level sedan will round out the new Cadillac lineup.

Although the Automotive News article doesn't cite a timeframe for this somewhat radical proposal, we'd expect to see some of Cadillac's new wares popping up in quick order, beginning in Detroit next year.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Cadillac nixing the barges, introducing new BRX CUV and RWD sedans originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw 3-seriesbmw 5-seriesBmw3-seriesBmw5-seriesbrxcadillaccoupectsdtssrxstsMon, 30 Jul 2007 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW 3-series to come equipped with HD radio?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/23/bmw-3-series-to-come-equipped-with-hd-radio/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/23/bmw-3-series-to-come-equipped-with-hd-radio/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/23/bmw-3-series-to-come-equipped-with-hd-radio/#commentsFiled under: ,



OK, we admit that this might be more appropriate on Engadget than Autoblog, but it is about BMW audio, so here goes. HD Radio technology is said to be one of the most significant advances in radio broadcasting history. Their words, not ours, but it's probably true. Just like HDTV, which gives viewers an unprecedented amount of visual sharpness and clarity, HD Radio gives listeners crystal clear, noise-free reception.

HD Radio can also multicast and display text information like station name, or track and artist info. Multicasting allows FM stations to broadcast multiple channels of programming on one frequency. Imagine your favorite station pumping alt-rock, hip-hop and country through one dial setting and you can see how cool this technology can be. And unlike satellite subscription services like XM or Sirius, HD Radio is free to anybody with an HD receiver. Not a huge group right now, but with 1,000 HD stations out there broadcasting HD programming, we expect it to be a hot sector in the near future.

BMW was the first to offer an OEM HD Radio on its 2006 7-series models. They added it to the 6-series in '06, and then announced that HD Radio would appear on the 5-series models in '07. Well, that group will soon include BMW 3-series owners as well. Starting with the Hardtop Convertible, HD will start showing up in 3s in 2007 as well, for around $500. For a list of HD stations, check out www.hdradio.com.

[Source: MWerks]

BMW 3-series to come equipped with HD radio? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 Dec 2006 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMW 3-seriesBmw3-seriesEngadgetHD radioHdRadioSat, 23 Dec 2006 16:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Night Watch: BMW 3-Series retrospective]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/07/autoblog-night-watch-bmw-3-series-retrospective/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/07/autoblog-night-watch-bmw-3-series-retrospective/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/07/autoblog-night-watch-bmw-3-series-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: ,



The BMW 3-series has been the benchmark sports sedan for over three decades. We're not obsessive Bimmer-philes, but we know a good thing when we drive it and it's a rare occasion when we're let down by BMW's smallest sedan. This 22 minute PR-ified exploration of the 3-series, traces its origins, beginning with the beloved 2002, all the way through the current E90 series. Well worth the watch, but do take certain BMW talking head commentaries with a grain of salt.

Autoblog Night Watch: BMW 3-Series retrospective originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Sep 2006 23:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2002bmw 3-seriesBmw3-seriese30e46e90Thu, 07 Sep 2006 23:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Esquire magazine picks its '10 Most Awesome Autos']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/30/e/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/30/e/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/30/e/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

As Esquire magazine appears to have forgotten to post its "10 Most Awesome Autos" feature from its May issue online, Terry Box at the Dallas Morning News has been kind enough to accommodate list fanatics. The men's magazine actually made a pretty good show of picking its 10 favorite cars under $50,000. No defining criteria other than price and editorial opinion appears to have been employed, so take these for whatever they're worth. In no particular order and without further delay, the envelope, please ...

  • Lotus Elise ($42,990):
  • Chevrolet Corvette ($44,490)
  • Mazda 6 ($19,670)
  • Infiniti G35 coupe ($33,200)
  • Ford F-150 ($19,640 to $37,005)
  • Audi A3 3.2 DSG ($34,700)
  • Subaru Legacy GT ($28,795)
  • BMW 3-Series ($30,900 to $44,900)
  • Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution ($29,149)
  • Chrysler 300C SRT8 ($42,695)

 So, did Esquire get it right, or is it missing something? 

[Sources: Dallas Morning News; Esquire; Lotus]

Esquire magazine picks its '10 Most Awesome Autos' originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Apr 2006 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi A3AudiA3BMWBMW 3-SeriesBmw3-seriesChevroletChevrolet CorvetteChevroletCorvetteChevyChevy CorvetteChevyCorvetteChrysler 300CChrysler300cDSGEsquireFord F-150FordF-150Infiniti G35InfinitiG35Lancer EVOLancerEvoLotusLotus EliseLotusEliseMazda 6Mazda6Mitsubishi LancerMitsubishiLancerSRTSRT8Subaru LegacySubaruLegacySun, 30 Apr 2006 16:59:00 EST