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: BMW M3 caught with new LED taillamps]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/spy-shots-bmw-m3-caught-with-new-led-taillamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/spy-shots-bmw-m3-caught-with-new-led-taillamps/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/spy-shots-bmw-m3-caught-with-new-led-taillamps/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 BMW M3 -- Click above for image gallery

Just a couple of years into its run, this is your slightly revised BMW M3, free of camo save for the taillights. The photog on the scene said there is nothing we should expect from the next Munich mauler save for new LED lamps in back and an updated interior. We speculate that cabin changes will include upgraded materials and lines that bring it closer to its recently unveiled siblings higher up the food chain. And that should be enough to keep everyone happy while BMW and M3 mavens focus on the M3 GTS.


Gallery: BMW M3 caught with new LED taillamps


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW M3 caught with new LED taillamps originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 bmw2010 bmw m32010 m32010Bmw2010BmwM32010M3bmwbmw m3BmwM3m3spy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsTue, 01 Dec 2009 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Car and Driver</i> announces 2010 10Best Cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/image-car-and-driver-announces-2010-10best-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/image-car-and-driver-announces-2010-10best-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/image-car-and-driver-announces-2010-10best-cars/#commentsFiled under: ,

Our pals over at Car and Driver, now helmed by our esteemable buddy Eddie Alterman, just released their 2010 10Best Cars. Quite an undertaking. As they put it, "58 contenders. $2.5 million total. 12,000 test miles logged." For those keeping track, this is the 28th time C/D has published their 10Best. Surprises this year? No not really. The BMW 3 Series continues its unabated drive of dominance to 10Best history with an impressive, will-probably-never-be-duplicated 19th straight win. Not to be too outdone, the Honda Accord also makes the cut for a 24th time, though not consecutive.

Also note that while the Audi S4 makes the grade, the run-of-the-mill (so to speak) A4 does not. We're also pleased to see the Ford Fusion Hybrid getting its just dues (again, it's interesting that the gas-only version doesn't). And of course, you've got your yearly appearance by the Mazda Miata MX-5, Porsche Boxster / Cayman and Volkswagen GTI. Falling off the list this year? The Chevrolet Corvette, Infiniti G37, and the Jaguar XF.

Would we have done things much differently? Probably not much, though we must admit we were pulling for the highly impressive Suzuki Kizashi to make its debut and we're a bit surprised to not see one of the new crop of pony cars on the list. Maybe next year. Alphabetical list of winners after the jump.

[Source: Car and Driver | Image Source: R.S. Owens]

Continue reading Car and Driver announces 2010 10Best Cars

Car and Driver announces 2010 10Best Cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 Best10 best cars10Best10best cars10BestCars2010 Audi S42010 BMW 3 Series2010 Cadillac CTS2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid2010 Honda Accord2010 Honda Fit2010 Mazda Miata MX-52010 Mazda32010 Porsche Boxster2010 Volkswagen GTI2010AudiS42010Bmw3Series2010CadillacCts2010FordFusionHybrid2010HondaAccord2010HondaFit2010Mazda32010MazdaMiataMx-52010PorscheBoxster2010VolkswagenGtiBMW M3BmwM3Car DriverCar Driver 10BestCarDriverCarDriver10bestCaymanCDCTS-VFord FusionFordFusionMazdaSpeed3Ten Best CarsTenBestCarsTue, 24 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Valentino Rossi samples the BMW M3 GTS, drives away in M3 sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/valentino-rossi-samples-the-bmw-m3-gts-drives-away-in-m3-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/valentino-rossi-samples-the-bmw-m3-gts-drives-away-in-m3-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/valentino-rossi-samples-the-bmw-m3-gts-drives-away-in-m3-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Valentino Rossi drives the BMW M3 GTS - Click above for high-res image gallery

After securing his record ninth MotoGP title, there's little doubt that Valentino Rossi is the fastest man on two wheels. And BMW has acknowledged the Italian rider's speed by awarding him a brand-spankin'-new M3 sedan.

The German automaker is a sponsor of the motorbike racing series, providing organizers with safety cars and other vehicles, and even using it to debut the new X6 M crossover earlier this year. And every year BMW gifts a car to the rider who proved the fastest in qualifying over the course of the season. Rossi's won the "M Award" five times now, but before he drove off in his new V8 sports sedan, BMW gave him a rare opportunity to sample the new hardcore M3 GTS.

So what did the fastest man on two wheels think of the fastest Bimmer on four? Quite a lot, apparently, as the multiple world champion said he wants to be first on the list when the M3 GTS goes on sale next year. That's quite a glowing endorsement, and all it cost them was a test drive. Click on the thumbnails below for a high-res image gallery.


Gallery: Valentino Rossi drives the BMW M3 GTS


[Source: BMW M Division]

Valentino Rossi samples the BMW M3 GTS, drives away in M3 sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above to watch the videos after the jump

For a company that earned its reputation years ago as "the Ultimate Driving Machine," BMW's more recent efforts seem to have been based around inherently less sporty vehicle formats - SUVs and wonky looking crossovers, namely. Further, like most everyone else, the automaker's roadsters and sports coupes have been getting bigger and heavier with each passing generation. But now, fans of lighter weight and higher performance have something to look forward to once again.

Last week, the Bavarian automaker released details and photos (and even a short teaser video) of the new M3 GTS. The track-bred, street-legal super-coupe packs an engorged 4.4-liter V8 in a lightweight frame with all the trimmings for serious tail-sliding and hardcore curb-pouncing. And now they've released a pair of videos showing the asphalt-munching street monster doing its thing. Follow the jump to check 'em out.


Gallery: BMW M3 GTS


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW M3 GTS takes to the track

VIDEO: BMW M3 GTS takes to the track originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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

Well that was fast. As well it should be. Because what you're looking at is the most hardcore roadgoing M3 to date. It's called the GTS - not, as had been previously speculated, the CSL, GT or GT4 Street - and after seeing a few spy shots and some speculated details, BMW has just released its first official information on the most extreme machine in its stable.

The eye-catching orange paintjob is a throwback to extreme Bimmers of yore. But after you look past the timely Halloween color scheme, you'll notice a set of exclusive 19-inch competition alloys - coated with 225/35 rubber up front and 285/30 in the rear - protruding out of the bulging bodywork, housing six-piston calipers up front and four in the rear and mounted to yellow springs and an adjustable suspension. You can hardly miss the giant front splitter and rear wing protruding from either end, and the interior's been stripped down with contoured racing buckets, an emergency cut-off switch and a fire extinguisher taking the place of the air-con, nav and radio, along with mounting points for a roll cage and six-point harnesses and a Macrolon rear windscreen to replace the stock glass, helping the M3 GTS tip the scales at just 1490 kg (3285 lbs), some 419 lbs less than the stock M3 coupe's 3704-lb curb weight.

First deliveries are scheduled to begin in Germany next May, carrying a sticker price of 115,000 euros (about $170k) before taxes. Official engine specs haven't been released, but we're still looking at somewhere in the neighborhood of 450 horsepower from an enlarged 4.4-liter V8, driving through the Bavarian automaker's 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. That's about all Munich has given us so far, but we've got a gallery of photos and a video after the jump for your viewing pleasure.


Gallery: BMW M3 GTS



[Source: BMW M division]

Continue reading BMW M3 GTS unveiled!

BMW M3 GTS unveiled! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m3bmw m3 cslbmw m3 gtbmw m3 gt4bmw m3 gt4 streetbmw m3 gtsBmwM3BmwM3CslBmwM3GtBmwM3Gt4BmwM3Gt4StreetBmwM3Gtsbreakingm3m3 cslm3 gtm3 gt4m3 gt4 streetm3 gtsM3CslM3GtM3Gt4M3Gt4StreetM3GtsvideoWed, 04 Nov 2009 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: $170k BMW M3 GT/GT4 Street probably not coming to U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/rumormill-170k-bmw-m3-gt-gt4-street-probably-not-coming-to-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/rumormill-170k-bmw-m3-gt-gt4-street-probably-not-coming-to-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/rumormill-170k-bmw-m3-gt-gt4-street-probably-not-coming-to-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


BMW M3 GT4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

No three letters get Bimmer fans as riled up as CSL. The initials have historically been applied to lightweight, performance-focused versions of BMW's most extreme machinery. But while BMW isn't currently offering any CSL models for public consumption, the emergence of an M5 CSL and spy shots of a potential M3 CSL have Munich's followers frothing at the mouth.

The former turned out to be a one-of-a-kind special. But details on the latter are beginning to circulate, and they look promising. Firstly, sources suggest that the model won't wear the CSL designation at all, and instead be labeled either M3 GT or M3 GT4 Street, in reference to the homologated racing version.

First, the good stuff: the engine is tipped to be tuned in the neighborhood of 450 horsepower, give or take, driven exclusively through the 7-speed dual clutch transmission with no manual expected to be on offer. Stopping power is anticipated to come from Brembo 6-piston calipers up front and 4-pots in the rear gripping slotted steel discs, and while carbon-ceramics may be on the options list, the jury's still out on when BMW will roll out the production version of its F1-derived Kinetic Energy Recovery System, a.k.a. regenerative braking. Recaro buckets and the removal of the rear seats should help the M3 GT (or whatever it will be called) shed some 220 lbs of weight, sitting 25mm lower on BBS alloys mounted to a Sachs suspension with standard roll bars.

The prototype is said to have already lapped the Nurburgring in 7:40, with testing still underway in France. Targeting the Porsche 911 GT3, the hard-core M3 will be extremely limited in production - possibly as few as 25 examples annually - available directly from BMW Motorsport but certified for road use - at a price point hovering around 110,000 euros ($172k). Unfortunately, the signs suggest that it won't be making the transatlantic voyage Stateside. Thanks to Tim for the tip!

[Source: M3Post.com]

Rumormill: $170k BMW M3 GT/GT4 Street probably not coming to U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw cslbmw mbmw m3bmw m3 cslbmw m3 gtbmw m3 gt4bmw m3 gt4 streetbmw motorsportBmwCslBmwMBmwM3BmwM3CslBmwM3GtBmwM3Gt4BmwM3Gt4StreetBmwMotorsportcslm cslm3m3 cslm3 gtm3 gt4m3 gt4 streetM3CslM3GtM3Gt4M3Gt4StreetMCslTue, 03 Nov 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW resurrecting the M3 CSL?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/bmw-m3-csl-spy-shots-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/bmw-m3-csl-spy-shots-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/bmw-m3-csl-spy-shots-1/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We're not sure what to believe anymore. A bit over a year ago, reports surfaced that BMW was planning a successor to the E90-generation M3 CSL, a highly coveted, track-focused version of its legendary sports coupe. Within a month, the Bavarian automaker had announced that it was canceling the program. And then these photos show up.

This M3 test mule was seen lapping the Nürburgring with a host of modifications and little in the way of camouflage. Knowing full well that the Nordschleife is swarming with more papparazi than Lindsay Lohan's front lawn, the Bavarians had to know we'd start asking questions. The car in question appears to be sporting a big front splitter, giant rear wing, a wider track housing bigger wheels and semi-slick tires. Underneath, reports suggest the 4.0-liter V8 benefits from new valves and a carbon-fiber airbox to deliver some 470 horsepower.

Call it an M3 CSL or a roadgoing M3 GT4, but with Audi's upcoming RS5 just around the corner, the smart money's on BMW putting up a fight of some kind.

[Source: NextAutos]

Spy Shots: BMW resurrecting the M3 CSL? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw cslbmw m3bmw m3 cslbmw m3 gt4bmw m3 gt4 streetBmwCslBmwM3BmwM3CslBmwM3Gt4BmwM3Gt4Streetcslm3m3 cslm3 gt4m3 gt4 streetM3CslM3Gt4M3Gt4StreetNordschleifeNurburgringNurburgring nordschleifeNurburgringNordschleifespiedspyspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsTue, 20 Oct 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: V10-powered E30 M3 vs. V8-powered E92 M3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/video-v10-powered-e30-m3-vs-v8-powered-e92-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/video-v10-powered-e30-m3-vs-v8-powered-e92-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/video-v10-powered-e30-m3-vs-v8-powered-e92-m3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

E30 M3 V10 vs. V8-powered E92 M3 -- Click above to view the video after the jump

Ah, the Swedes, with their eye for tuning and their wide open spaces to run in. A gent named Johan stuck an M-Division S85 V10 in an E30 M3, and the results look nothing short of devastating. No surprise when you add Big Power + Light Car. Stack it up against a current M3 on a runway, and what you have is a cameraman trying to film a black speck in the distance. According to and M5Board forum user the M3 V10 got up to 288 km (179 mph) during the run. Follow the jump to watch the video and see it happen.

[Source: M5Board]

Continue reading VIDEO: V10-powered E30 M3 vs. V8-powered E92 M3

VIDEO: V10-powered E30 M3 vs. V8-powered E92 M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above to enlarge

Autoblog reader Conor sent us this photo of Santa Monica Blvd. in Southern California where a billboard advertising the new Audi A4 has apparently been up for months. The ad throws down a gauntlet at the feet of BMW with an image of the new A4 and the statement, "Your move, BMW." Whether by design or by happenstance, the Munich-based brand recently made its move, hoisting up a billboard across the street that displays the high-performance M3 and the word "Checkmate." Ouch. We're sure Audi will have more to say when the RS4/5 arrives sometime in the near future, but for now, BMW appears to have the final word in this billboard chess match.

As you'll likely remember, these two brands are no strangers to duking it out with each other in advertisements, having gone toe-to-toe with each other and Subaru in late 2006 over which brand had the most prestigious "Of the Year" award. Thanks for the tip, Conor.

Audi, BMW ad war taken to the streets of SoCal originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3-SeriesadvertisingaudiAudi A4AudiA4bmwbmw audibmw audi ad warBMW M3BmwAudiBmwAudiAdWarBmwM3Mon, 13 Apr 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: CARnage - How not to get your M3 back on the track]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/19/video-carnage-how-not-to-get-your-m3-back-on-the-track/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/19/video-carnage-how-not-to-get-your-m3-back-on-the-track/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/19/video-carnage-how-not-to-get-your-m3-back-on-the-track/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

Ouch. After taking an off-track excursion and narrowly missing major guardrail contact, the driver of this BMW M3 tries to just power back onto the track. Not so fast says the berm as it totally tears up the undercarriage. The driver's miscalculation leaves this high-performance 3-series high centered and in need of a push, and the car likely sustained more damage before its wheels were once again solidly on tarmac. Check it out after the jump. Thanks for the tip, Fred!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: CARnage - How not to get your M3 back on the track

VIDEO: CARnage - How not to get your M3 back on the track originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m3BmwM3m3 damage videom3 videoM3DamageVideoM3Videooff track m3OffTrackM3video m3VideoM3Thu, 19 Mar 2009 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: BMW M3 Touring wagon by Jon Sibal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/19/rendered-speculation-bmw-m3-touring-wagon-by-jon-sibal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/19/rendered-speculation-bmw-m3-touring-wagon-by-jon-sibal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/19/rendered-speculation-bmw-m3-touring-wagon-by-jon-sibal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view more BMW M3 Touring renderings by Jon Sibal

Some of us live in the real world, while other spend time in Fantasyville. Jon Sibal falls into the latter, and we're happy for it. The talented illustrator had given us glimpses of upcoming supercars - including the Ferrari Scuderia Spider, Mercedes SLR Speedster (later revealed as the Stirling Moss edition) and Aston Martin One-77 - before the manufacturers have released official pictures. So what would Sibal drive himself? Well, needless to say, it doesn't exist (yet), but while you might think it'd be some fantastic derivative of an upcoming supercar, what Jon has picked out for himself is a BMW M3 Touring wagon.

The current-generation M3 is currently made in three bodystyles: the E90 sedan, E92 coupe and E93 convertible. If you were high astute enough to follow the psychedelic pinball counting cartoon on Sesame Street as a child, you'll have noticed that the E91 is missing from the equation. That's the designation for the current 3 Series station wagon. BMW's anticipated to roll out an M3 wagon sometime in the next few months, but Sibal's not waiting around, and has given us these renderings to hold us over. While he was at it, he dropped the ride height down to the floor with a KW coil-over suspension, fitted a titanium exhaust, AC Schnitzer spoilers front and back, BBS mags coated in Yokohama rubber and Brembo eight-pot brakes, then added a supercharger to the M3's V8 and painted it satin white for good measure. Not too shabby, and not too far-fetched, either. Who knows, if Sibal earns what he deserves, maybe this fantasy can become reality when BMW unleashes the latest M3 Touring on the world.

Gallery: BMW M3 Touring renderings by Jon Sibal


[Source: JonSibal.com via BMW Blog]

Rendered Speculation: BMW M3 Touring wagon by Jon Sibal originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw e91bmw m3bmw m3 e91bmw m3 estatebmw m3 touringbmw m3 touring wagonbmw m3 wagonBmwE91BmwM3BmwM3E91BmwM3EstateBmwM3TouringBmwM3TouringWagonBmwM3Wagone91jon sibaljon sibal bmw m3 touringJonSibalJonSibalBmwM3Touringm3m3 touringM3TouringsibalMon, 19 Jan 2009 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW M division asks "What downturn?"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/bmw-m-division-asks-what-downturn/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/bmw-m-division-asks-what-downturn/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/bmw-m-division-asks-what-downturn/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



So in case you haven't heard, a few economies are having a few hiccups, money isn't easy to get as it used to be, and consumer belt-tightening is turning into fastening the rope more securely around sackcloth robes. That is, unless you're looking for a BMW M-car. BMW's M division sold more cars worldwide through the end of August of this year than it had in all of 2007. But the economic world didn't end until September, you say? Well, that didn't stop the moneyed from showing up at the M division's door: it sold another 6,000 cars through the end of November, which already puts the branch up fifty-percent over last year's total sales. You can check out the press release after the jump, and walk away knowing that no matter what, there is always enough sun somewhere for people to make hay.

[Source: Driver's Republic]

Continue reading BMW M division asks "What downturn?"

BMW M division asks "What downturn?" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m3bmw m5bmw m6BmwMBmwM3BmwM5BmwM6car salesCarSalesearningsfinancialsm divisionMDivisionSat, 13 Dec 2008 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[CNET announces nominees for Tech Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/cnet-announces-nominees-for-tech-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/cnet-announces-nominees-for-tech-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/cnet-announces-nominees-for-tech-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



About this time last year, Cadillac's CTS added CNET's Tech Car of the Year to its increasingly crowded trophy case. Its entertainment system's recording capability was one of the things that impressed us, and, presumably, the voters. This year, CNET asks its readers to choose between three imports and two domestics, none of which are Cadillacs.

BMW's M3 Convertible DCT gets a spot on the ballot with its dual-clutch transmission. We wonder if the car's recent recall for transmission problems will affect its standing. The Nissan GT-R shows up again, as you might expect with its cabin full of g-whiz electronics, from the in-dash performance computer to the quick-loading navigation. Lincoln makes the list for its THX-equipped MKS and Infiniti's EX35 Journey gets recognized for its lane-departure warning system and park-assist cameras.

The biggest surprise, though, is the Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie. The pachyderm-sized pickup impressed the CNET judges with its UConnect multimedia system which includes a 30GB hard drive, Bluetooth hands-free system, SIRIUS TV and rear seat DVD player.

The winner will be announced the second week of January to coincide with the Consumer Electronics Show in Vegas.

[Source: CNET]

CNET announces nominees for Tech Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw dctbmw m3BmwDctBmwM3cadillac ctsCadillacCtscnetcnet tech carCnetTechCardctdodge ramdodge ram 1500DodgeRamDodgeRam1500gt-rinfiniti ex35infiniti ex35 modelo 2008InfinitiEx35InfinitiEx35Modelo2008lincoln mksLincolnMksm3 convertiblem3 dctM3ConvertibleM3Dctmksnissan gt-rNissanGt-rskyline gt-rSkylineGt-rtech car of the yearTechCarOfTheYearFri, 12 Dec 2008 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW switching to turbocharged M cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/27/bmw-switching-to-turbocharged-m-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/27/bmw-switching-to-turbocharged-m-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/27/bmw-switching-to-turbocharged-m-cars/#commentsFiled under: , ,

After two decades of normally-aspirated high-revving engines shoehorned under the hoods of its M cars, BMW is changing direction and will begin to offer direct-injection turbocharged powerplants in its future high-performance flagships. The German automaker is blaming tough environmental emission standards and the soaring manufacturing costs of the specialty-built V8 and V10 engines found in today's M3, M5, and M6 models for its decision. We also suspect the fact that both Audi and Mercedes-Benz have successfully offered torque-laden forced-induction powerplants for years on their performance models may have something to do with it (also keep in mind that an aftermarket-tuned version of BMW's own twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 can easily match the power output of the M3's normally-aspirated 4.0-liter V8). The first new M model to carry the turbocharged honor will be the X6 xDrive M, with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 reportedly making 500 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. That same engine is reportedly going into the next F10-chassis M5 due in late 2010.

[Source: Autoweek]

BMW switching to turbocharged M cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 09:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw m3bmw m3 sedanbmw m5bmw m6BmwM3BmwM3SedanBmwM5BmwM6Engineforced inductionForcedInductionm engineMEnginesuperchargingturbochargingThu, 27 Nov 2008 09:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Rahal Letterman Racing tests new M3 racer at Road Atlanta, Sebring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/rahal-letterman-racing-tests-new-m3-racer-at-road-atlanta-sebri/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/rahal-letterman-racing-tests-new-m3-racer-at-road-atlanta-sebri/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/rahal-letterman-racing-tests-new-m3-racer-at-road-atlanta-sebri/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a gallery of the BMW M3 Racing Version

Motorsports fans are eagerly anticipating the 2009 ALMS season where Ferrari, Porsche, Panoz, Ford, Dodge, Chevrolet and now BMW will be competing for the GT2 title. BMW Motorsport unveiled the new M3 racing program back in February of this year and have been developing the car in Europe since then. They recently handed off the car to Rahal Letterman Racing who tested the car this past week at Road Atlanta and are currently running laps at Sebring International Raceway. BMW also announced the first two drivers for the program, Bill Auberlen and Joey Hand, both of whom have extensive experience driving previous versions of the M3. Auberlen first drove for BMW in 1996 and won titles in 1997 and 2004. The M3 will make its 2009 racing debut at the 12 Hours of Sebring on March 21.

Gallery: BMW M3 racecar testing at Road Atlanta

[Source: ALMS via SpeedHunters and AutoFiends]

Continue reading Rahal Letterman Racing tests new M3 racer at Road Atlanta, Sebring

Rahal Letterman Racing tests new M3 racer at Road Atlanta, Sebring originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWBMW M3bmw m3 racing versionBmwM3BmwM3RacingVersionRahal Letterman RacingRahalLettermanRacingRoad AtlantaRoadAtlantaSebring RacewaySebringRacewayMon, 24 Nov 2008 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW M3 recalled over new double-clutch gearbox]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/bmw-m3-recalled-over-new-double-clutch-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/bmw-m3-recalled-over-new-double-clutch-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/bmw-m3-recalled-over-new-double-clutch-gearbox/#commentsFiled under: ,

Dual clutch transmission... sounds complicated. And it is. Case in point: BMW's new DCT on its latest-generation M3. This new transmission from Munich is so complicated that apparently even BMW couldn't get it right the first time, so they're issuing a recall. The problem, as concluded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is that under hard braking the transmission's software is prone to initiate a multi-stage downshift, which could cause the car to stall. The solution, however, should be fairly simple, as BMW is asking all owners of 2008 or 2009 M3s equipped with the DCT (about 2,500 in the United States) to come in for a software update, free of charge, at their local dealership. After the software update, M3 owners can perform all the panic stops they want in smooth-shifting bliss.

The official recall notice can be viewed on the NHTSA website. Thanks for the tip, TKE!

Gallery: 2009 BMW M3 Facelift


[Source: Good Car Bad Car]

BMW M3 recalled over new double-clutch gearbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Earlier this year Rahal Letterman Racing announced its partnership with BMW to bring M3s back to ALMS GT2 in 2009. The Rahal Letterman deal is a new venture for BMW, putting its ALMS race operations in the hands of an unfamiliar crew. While Rahal Letterman is a proven open wheel race team, they are not one of the existing ALMS teams with prior BMW sports car racing experience. It is an interesting match-up that will be exciting to watch next year.

To keep in step with this fresh-faced approach, Rahal Letterman Racing has now also announced a partnership with Rays Engineering, which will supply wheels to the RLR ALMS program. Widespread use of Rays' wheels has yet to take hold throughout the world amongst the professional ranks, but they have been tried and tested for years in every type of event found in Japan. Rays Engineering is best known for their Volk Racing wheel line and the lightweight TE37 model in particular. They have established a reputation for classic design, combined with a high strength, in featherlight package. Demand for their designs has also garnered them the opportunity to supply the stock wheels for the new Nissan GT-R.

The complete Rahal Letterman, BMW and Rays Engineering package will no doubt be a dynamic force in the next ALMS season. All three organizations have a lot of respective racing history between them, and they all certainly want to prove their worth in the total equation. They have the knowledge to be competitive from the get-go, so no teeth cutting should be necessary. Thanks for the tip Andy!

[Source: MotorWorldHype]

Rahal Letterman BMW ALMS GT2 program gets new shoes from Rays originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ALMSALMS BMW M3ALMS GT2AlmsBmwM3AlmsGt2BMW M3BmwM3Rahal LettermanRahal Letterman RacingRahalLettermanRahalLettermanRacingFri, 24 Oct 2008 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW M3 could campaign in 24 hours of Le Mans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/bmw-m3-could-campaign-in-24-hours-of-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/bmw-m3-could-campaign-in-24-hours-of-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/07/bmw-m3-could-campaign-in-24-hours-of-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above to view more high-res live shots of BMW M3 ALMS race car

When it comes to racing, diversity is key. Who doesn't love to root for their favorite brand to win against its fiercest rivals? We hope that BMW gets its latest M3 certified by the FIA in time for a showdown against with the Corvette and others in Le Mans GT racing, which will institute a new set of rules for the 2010 season. There's more than one way to get horsepower from a V8 engine, as clearly demonstrated by these two diametrically opposed class competitors. Team Corvette's brute strength and low-down grunt would go up against finesse and high-strung reviness from BMW. Kinda reminds us of the classic Ford versus Ferrari feuds of the '60s. In any case, BMW now needs to work with the FIA to get its racer properly sanctioned and approved, as it has already done for the American Le Mans racing series. Git 'r done, folks.

Gallery: BMW Rahal Letterman Racing M3 ALMS car


[Source: AutoWeek]

BMW M3 could campaign in 24 hours of Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Oct 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There were around 1,400 examples of the BMW e46 M3 CSL built, and by all accounts they were exceptionally well received. However, according to Ludwig Willisch, the boss of the automaker's M division, the current e92 M3 won't get the same treatment. He - or perhaps the accountants - feel that "based on current numbers, there is most likely insufficient demand for the M3 CSL."

If a current scorching version of the e92 were to exist, it would have been bumped by anywhere from 36 to 56 horsepower, shed 200 pounds or more, worn some different tires and a set of bigger lungs. In light of the possible volume, though, which would be small, BMW - or again, its accountants - would rather focus on the X6 and X5 for now. Thanks for the tip, Mike!

[Source: Car]

REPORT: BMW cancels development of E92 M3 CSL originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click to view a hi-res gallery of the BMW M3

Ever meet one of those parents who are never satisfied no matter how well their kids do? The child comes home with a 98% on a school exam and the parent asks "How'd you lose two percent?" Dinan is one of those parents. But instead of overstressed children, Dinan produces overachieving performance automobiles.

Take, for example, the latest M3, which BMW unveiled with a V8 derived from the award-winning 5-liter V10 found in the M5 and M6. The eight replaced the inline-six on the previous model, but instead of remaining content to say "good job on the extra two cylinders", Dinan asks what happened to the extra two from the V10. Not that they would have been happy with the V10, either. On that, Dinan pushed and pushed, boring and stroking out the engine's ten cylinders until they got it up to 5.7 liters and 628 horsepower. Pretty sick, but saddled with the heft of a BMW 5 or 6 Series, Dinan couldn't help but ask what would happen to its pride and joy in a more suitable setting. Word has it now that Dinan is preparing to shoehorn in its 628-hp concoction into the M3's engine bay. Thankfully they'll be lightening it up a little after that, removing some of the bulk from the front end in order to keep the weight balance in check. We can't wait to see what it can achieve.

Gallery: 2008 BMW M3


[Source: Modified Luxury & Exotics]

Never Enough: Dinan to shoehorn 628-hp V10 into BMW M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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