Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BMW M3 gets the video retrospective treatment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/bmw-m3-gets-the-video-retrospective-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/bmw-m3-gets-the-video-retrospective-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/bmw-m3-gets-the-video-retrospective-treatment/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW E30 M3 parked in garage - front view - video screencap

With BMW on the cusp of pulling back the sheets on its next-generation M3 (or should we say, M4?), the crew from Electric Federal has taken it upon themselves to give us a generation-by-generation look at the evolution of the most renowned of BMW's sports coupes. The video below features plenty of beautiful shots of each generation of M3, starting with the ever lust-worthy E30 before finishing up with the current iteration. BWS Motorsport's Mark Norris provides the narration, complete with a brief synopsis of what makes each generation so special.

As usual, the clip is fit for big-screen viewing. You can watch the action below for yourself. Meanwhile, we'll be busy figuring out which vital organs we can sell to get our hands on our own E30 M3.

Continue reading BMW M3 gets the video retrospective treatment

BMW M3 gets the video retrospective treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw 3 seriesbmw m3m3retrospectivevideoMon, 10 Jun 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20605745/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/10/bmw-m3-gets-the-video-retrospective-treatment/20605745/article-detail.xml 20605745 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bmw-m3-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bmw-m3-628.jpg <![CDATA[Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Employing complex scientific formulas and methodologies probably best described as "Whatever we felt like choosing," Automobile has named its All-Stars for the 2013 model year. The 11 vehicles earned their trophies for being "the best and most significant" offerings to the mag's staff and contributors, and while we were surprised to see a couple of them on the list, none of them were shocking. In no particular order, they are: Random notes: The least expensive vehicle on the list was the Ford Focus at $16,995 however, it was the $24,495 Focus ST that was actually driven; the least expensive vehicle as-tested, when such indication was given, was the $28,265 BRZ; the most expensive vehicle as-tested was the $75,615 Porsche Boxster S, hurdling the price of the A7 by nearly $4,000; the greatest disparity between base and as-tested price was the Ram, from the $24,395 skin-and-bones truck to the $54,335 Laramie Longhorn Crew Cab; the GTI was viewed through the history of its birthplace, Wolfsburg.

There you have it. Head on over to Automobile for the full story and the adventures they created to test each winner.

Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi a7automobileautomobile magazineautomobile magazine all-starsbmw 3 serieschevrolet camaro zl1ford focushonda accordmazda cx-5porsche boxsterram 1500scion fr-ssubaru brzvolkswagen golf gtiWed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/20578483/article-detail.xml 20578483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1.jpg <![CDATA[Beverly Hills road rage incident ends with BMW driver ramming bicyclist]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/beverly-hills-road-rage-incident-ends-with-bmw-driver-ramming-bi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/beverly-hills-road-rage-incident-ends-with-bmw-driver-ramming-bi/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/beverly-hills-road-rage-incident-ends-with-bmw-driver-ramming-bi/#commentsFiled under: , ,



An instance of road rage turned mortally dangerous in Beverly Hills, CA, recently, when an incident between a cyclist and a BMW driver took a scary turn in front of a rolling security camera.

LA Weekly reports that the person on the bicycle and the driver of the 2008 BMW 328i in the video had some kind of altercation, resulting in the cyclist punching the driver. The driver then followed the biker to an alley on the 9000 block of Wilshire Blvd and, according to the Beverly Hills Police Department, "Intentionally rammed the bicyclist with his vehicle pinning him to a metal rolling trash bin."

That the act was intentional is clearly evident in the video footage below, captured on a security camera. Police have published the video in the hopes of tracking down the driver, who is said to be in his mid-30s with dark hair, dark eyes and a thin build. BMW owners across the country can thank him - for reinforcing certain stereotypes - by helping to turn him in. Do your part, Bimmer Nation.

Continue reading Beverly Hills road rage incident ends with BMW driver ramming bicyclist

Beverly Hills road rage incident ends with BMW driver ramming bicyclist originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 bmw 328ibeverly hillsbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 328ibmw rams bicyclistFri, 26 Apr 2013 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549984/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/beverly-hills-road-rage-incident-ends-with-bmw-driver-ramming-bi/20549984/article-detail.xml 20549984 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/bmw-bike-hit-and-run-security-camera-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/bmw-bike-hit-and-run-security-camera-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW 328d ready to burn oil in just four cylinders]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 BMW 328d

Despite showing off the new 328d sedan in New Jersey yesterday, BMW though it only fair to bring the first four-cylinder diesel it will ever sell in the US to the New York Auto Show today as well. Unfortunately, the company remains vague about pertinent details like fuel economy and price, but we did hear again that the oil-burner will be capable of getting 45 miles per gallon on the highway. BMW's Oliver Ganser told AutoblogGreen, "We do not want to give out" the city or combined mpg ratings quite yet, but The New York Times got someone to estimate a fuel economy of mid-30s in the city.

The two-liter TwinPower turbocharged and direct injected engine and eight-speed automatic transmission (sorry, no manual will be available) put out 180 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque and should get the 328d up to 60 miles per hour in just over seven seconds. As we noted earlier, the 328d will be available with every option and trim level - like all-wheel drive - that other 3 Series models have in the US (transmission excepted) and should start at under $40,000 when it goes on sale this fall.

Officially, the 328d will be able to accept biodiesel blends up to B5 (or, just maybe B7), which is standard diesel with five (seven) percent biofuel. Read more about that and other aspects of the 328d here.

Continue reading 2014 BMW 328d ready to burn oil in just four cylinders

2014 BMW 328d ready to burn oil in just four cylinders originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 new york auto showbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 328d sedanfour-cylindernew yorknew york auto showThu, 28 Mar 2013 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20519992/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/20519992/article-detail.xml 20519992 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-bmw-328d-new-york_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-bmw-328d-new-york.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 3 Series wagon configurator up, priced from $41,450]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/bmw-3-series-wagon-configurator-up-priced-from-41-450/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/bmw-3-series-wagon-configurator-up-priced-from-41-450/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/bmw-3-series-wagon-configurator-up-priced-from-41-450/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW 3 Series Wagon Configurator

If you're still smarting from the shock of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, we have good news for you. BMW has just fired up the configurator for the 2014 3 Series wagon. Prices start at $41,450, excluding an $895 destination and handling fee. The price tag will buy you a 328i xDrive Sports Wagon with a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine boasting 241 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. The automaker's xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive is also standard, as is a fuel-saving auto start/stop function and 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-season run flat rubber.

Buyers can step up to Sport Line trim for $2,600, and doing so graces the 3 Wagon with 18-inch wheels, high-gloss black accents outdoors as well as a sport leather steering wheel, high-gloss or aluminum interior trim and a black signature key fob. Luxury Line trim will set you back $2,300 abd features chrome trim accents outdoors and wood trim inside along with other goodies. Buyers can also opt for Modern Line trim at $2,300, complete with a turbine-design 18-inch alloy wheel, matte chrome trim bits outdoors and a range of interior trim options.

Our favorite of the bunch? That would be M Sport trim. While the tweaks are largely aesthetic, we dig the notion of 8-way power adjustable sport seats indoors and exclusive M Estoril Blue paint outside. Expect to pay $3,950 for the pleasure. Head over to the BMW site to build your own.

BMW 3 Series wagon configurator up, priced from $41,450 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw 328i xdrive sports wagon3 series wagonbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 3 series wagonconfiguratorxdriveMon, 25 Mar 2013 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20516916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/25/bmw-3-series-wagon-configurator-up-priced-from-41-450/20516916/article-detail.xml 20516916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-3-series-wagon-configurator-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/bmw-3-series-wagon-configurator-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #302]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/02/autoblog-podcast-302/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/02/autoblog-podcast-302/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/02/autoblog-podcast-302/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Paris Motor Show highlights, Nissan 240Z, BMW 3 Series vs. Cadillac ATS, Acura NSX-lite autoblog podcast logo

Episode #302 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Chris Paukert talk about the highlights from the 2012 Paris Motor Show, the possibility of a new Nissan 240Z, The BMW 3 Series and Cadillac ATS duking it out for Motor Trend, and a sub-NSX still on the table from Acura. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #302:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Fiat 500 Abarth
2013 Dodge Dart
2012 Subaru Impreza sedan

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Chris Paukert


Runtime: 01:17:05
Get the podcast
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Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #302

Autoblog Podcast #302 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Oct 2012 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acura nsxautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 302bmw 3 seriescadillac atsfeaturedparis motor showpodcast 302Tue, 02 Oct 2012 18:20:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #302Autoblog01:17:05 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20339828/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/02/autoblog-podcast-302/20339828/article-detail.xml 20339828 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[BMW allowing dealers to re-program start/stop]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/bmw-allowing-dealers-to-re-program-start-stop/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/bmw-allowing-dealers-to-re-program-start-stop/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/13/bmw-allowing-dealers-to-re-program-start-stop/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The start/stop feature in the current BMW 3 Series is, by default, activated every time you get in and start the car. If you don't like it, you can deactivate the feature by pressing a button on the dash; however, the next time you turn the car off and start it again (with the key), the start/stop system will kick in.

This is too much hassle for some drivers, who wish start/stop to remain off unless they decide otherwise. To accommodate them, BMW has given dealers permission to activate the system's Last User Mode, which will start the car with stop/start in the same mode as when the car was shut down. Of note, BMW M models come with Last User Mode enabled automatically. There's a service bulletin below with the particulars.

Continue reading BMW allowing dealers to re-program start/stop

BMW allowing dealers to re-program start/stop originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Aug 2012 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesstop startstopstartMon, 13 Aug 2012 10:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20298729/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/13/bmw-allowing-dealers-to-re-program-start-stop/20298729/article-detail.xml 20298729 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bmw328reprogram_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bmw328reprogram.jpg <![CDATA[BMW dealer sends armed tracker team with helicopter backup to recover loaner car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/bmw-dealer-sends-armed-tracker-team-with-helicopter-backup-to-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/bmw-dealer-sends-armed-tracker-team-with-helicopter-backup-to-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/01/bmw-dealer-sends-armed-tracker-team-with-helicopter-backup-to-re/#commentsFiled under: , ,



BMW dealers in South Africa put Dog The Bounty Hunter to shame - they've got support from Airwolf.

According to IOL Motoring, when a dealer's attempts to get back a BMW 325 loaner car were rebuffed by a customer, Ravindra Jainarain, the dealer took matters into his own hands. He hired an armed team of professional repo men complete with helicopter backup. The group stormed the customer's place of work in Durban, South Africa, guns drawn, demanding he surrender the keys to the loaner car as a Netstar helicopter hovered overhead.

The man quickly handed over the keys and then called his lawyer.

A judge ruled almost as quickly that the dealer had to give the car back to the customer, who was waiting to hear if his 320d would be replaced (as requested) or fixed because of inoperable air conditioning. (He was appealing the first decision.) Both sides now have another 30 days to prepare their cases for court.

In the meantime, Airwolf will remain grounded.

BMW dealer sends armed tracker team with helicopter backup to recover loaner car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 325icar repodealershipdurbannetstarravindra jainarainreporepossessionsouth africaWed, 01 Aug 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20290301/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/01/bmw-dealer-sends-armed-tracker-team-with-helicopter-backup-to-re/20290301/article-detail.xml 20290301 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/airwolf6-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/airwolf6-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac sets sights on No. 1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Don Butler

Don Butler, Cadillac's vice president of marketing, says Cadillac will to return as the No. 1 luxury brand in the United States, some day.

"It's my goal that we're the No. 1 luxury brand in the U.S.," Butler said. "I'm not going to say when we hope to achieve that, yet, but there's no reason to aim for anything less."

Cadillac certainly has reason to think it's moving up. The all-new 2013 ATS arrives next month to directly compete with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C300. The larger Cadillac XTS launched last month, and next year, the third generation CTS arrives and new Escalade will also roll into dealerships.

"We've gone nearly three years without new product," Butler said. "Now we're bringing in some great vehicles."

Currently, Cadillac would need to add more than 100,000 units to take the top spot from Mercedes-Benz, which sold 261,573 units in 2011. Cadillac sold 152,389 vehicles in 2011. And that's just to top Mercedes. Lexus, which lost its top spot last year, has vowed to recapture it and Audi recently said it plans on becoming the No. 1 luxury brand in the world.

Cadillac sales are currently down 18.6 percent for the year, according to Autodata Corp. though that number will likely change dramatically when the ATS hits showrooms. Luxury vehicle sales are up 12.8 percent and luxury car sales are up 16.8 percent.

Butler readily admits that Cadillac has a lot of work to do to get back on top. The brand's name used to be synonymous with luxury; it was the Cadillac of luxury brands. But it hasn't been that for decades.

"We used to be up on a pedestal," he said. "Now, we're not."

Cadillac sets sights on No. 1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jul 2012 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atsbmw 3 seriescadillacctsdon butlerescaladeluxurymercedes c300top luxury brandxtsSat, 21 Jul 2012 16:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20282392/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/21/cadillac-sets-sights-on-no-1/20282392/article-detail.xml 20282392 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/don-butler-cadillac-ats-07202012_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/don-butler-cadillac-ats-07202012.jpg <![CDATA[BMW recalling 7,600 3 Series models over faulty head restraints]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/bmw-recalling-7-600-3-series-models-over-faulty-head-restraints/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/bmw-recalling-7-600-3-series-models-over-faulty-head-restraints/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/08/bmw-recalling-7-600-3-series-models-over-faulty-head-restraints/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series

BMW is recalling certain 2012 3 Series models for head restraints that can be raised beyond the federal limit. As a result, in a collision, the head rest could move down slightly, increasing the risk of a neck injury. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall covers 7,600 vehicles manufactured between October 18, 2011 and March 18, 2012.

BMW plans to notify owners this month, and dealers will address the problem by installing a small clip to limit the head rest's travel. The work will, of course, be done for free. For more information, head over to the NHTSA website or scroll down or the full recall bulletin.

Continue reading BMW recalling 7,600 3 Series models over faulty head restraints

BMW recalling 7,600 3 Series models over faulty head restraints originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 May 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 3 series recall2012 bmw 3 series3 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallTue, 08 May 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20233654/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/08/bmw-recalling-7-600-3-series-models-over-faulty-head-restraints/20233654/article-detail.xml 20233654 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-bmw-3-series-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2012-bmw-3-series-628.jpg <![CDATA[Automotive April Fools' joke roundup [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/02/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Mini April Fools Campers

It's that time of year again. April Fools' came and went over the weekend, and a handful of the world's automakers joined in on a little Spring time fun. From intelligent anti-theft devices and TSA-inspired driver aids to automated NASCAR racers and high-performance hybrids, this year's raft of pranks were as good as any we've seen in past years. With April 1 falling on a Sunday, we saw fewer wise-cracking creations than before, but that didn't spoil the fun, so we thought we'd recap them for your enjoyment.

Mini took the cake this year with the company's Cowley Caravan and Swindon Roof Top Tent. The automaker went through the trouble of working up a full press release, complete with 20 photos and translations into a wide range of languages. We'll admit to being a little disappointed when we discovered the add-ons were a clever rouse. We'll just have to scrap our plans for a Mini safari. For now.

Hit the jump to see more April foolishness.

Continue reading Automotive April Fools' joke roundup [w/video]

Automotive April Fools' joke roundup [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesapril foolsapril fools daybmw 3 seriescallawaychevrolet voltcooperdarth vadergooglegoogle nascarhondahypervoltmininascarsubaru xv crosstrektomtomtribecavoltMon, 02 Apr 2012 19:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20206434/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/02/automotive-april-fools-joke-roundup-w-video/20206434/article-detail.xml 20206434 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/mini-april-fools-campers-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/mini-april-fools-campers-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW South Africa shows off first F30-based 3 Series racer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/bmw-south-africa-shows-off-first-f30-based-3-series-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/bmw-south-africa-shows-off-first-f30-based-3-series-racer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/bmw-south-africa-shows-off-first-f30-based-3-series-racer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW of South Africa and ADF's F30-based race car

The BMW 3 Series and racing go together like slicks and dry asphalt, so it's no surprise that the world now has its first competition-prepped version of the new F30. According to BMWBlog, BMW South Africa has partnered up with ADF Motorsport to create the 335i racer you see above. The sedan is set to debut at the Wesbank Super Series at Killarney in Cape Town on March 31. All told, the vehicle took less than two months to build with a price tag of $260,000.

The N55 turbo straight six is bereft of power-adding tweaks due to series regulations thta include a restrictor plate on the turbo and limited boost. ADF and friends have worked over the turbo, exhaust, and ECU, however, so the powertrain is still good for over 400 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque - a tidy increase over the 300/300 ratings of the standard production cars.

In addition, the car's curb weight has been trimmed down to 2,998 pounds. Much of that savings was realized using carbon fiber components from the M Performance catalog. The team also borrowed a set of 14.5-inch front brake discs and 18 inch wheels from the minds at M. ADF Motorsport says this is the first example of a production-based direct-injected racecar.

BMW South Africa shows off first F30-based 3 Series racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3-series335iadfadf motorsportbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 335ibmw f30f30f30 race carrace carsouth africaMon, 26 Mar 2012 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20200925/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/26/bmw-south-africa-shows-off-first-f30-based-3-series-racer/20200925/article-detail.xml 20200925 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-bmw-f30-race-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-bmw-f30-race-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M Performance Parts continue to expand the brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW M Performance Parts

The relentless expansion of M-engineered and branded wares doesn't just stop at the M diesel quadruplets and the M135i. Here in Geneva, BMW announced the latest line of M performance parts that spans the spectrum from appearance bits to powertrain upgrades.

M Performance exhausts will be available for the new 1 Series (in Europe), along with the 3 Series and 5 Series. Carbon fiber front splitters join black kidney grilles in the catalog, as does a new version of the M Performance steering wheel. BMW also claims to have some suspension components are in the works, and all this kit will be on sale and ready for installation at BMW dealers in the United States this summer.

BMW M Performance Parts continue to expand the brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series3 series5 seriesbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 3 seriesbmw 5 seriesbmw m performancegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showm performance partsWed, 07 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20187599/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/20187599/article-detail.xml 20187599 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-m-performance-parts-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmw-m-performance-parts-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Three-cylinder BMW 3 Series on its way?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesrumormillthree cylinder 3 seriesthree cylinder engineFri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166986/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/20166986/article-detail.xml 20166986 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to produce, sell long-wheelbase 335Li in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>335Libmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 335LichinalimousinestretchSat, 04 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161434/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/04/bmw-to-produce-sell-long-wheelbase-335li-in-china/20161434/article-detail.xml 20161434 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/0044-2012-bmw-3-series_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/0044-2012-bmw-3-series.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo coming next March]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo spy shot - CarPix

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3 series gran turismo3 series gt3gtbmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 3 series gtgran turismoMon, 30 Jan 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/30/bmw-3-series-gran-turismo-coming-next-march/20159879/article-detail.xml 20159879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/3-seriesgtthisyear_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/3-seriesgtthisyear.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 3 Series gets together for family portrait]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/bmw-3-series-gets-together-for-family-portrait/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/bmw-3-series-gets-together-for-family-portrait/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/bmw-3-series-gets-together-for-family-portrait/#commentsFiled under:

BMW 3 Series family portrait

Ask anyone in the know what the quintessential sports sedan is, and nine times out of ten they'll tell you it's the BMW 3 Series. It's the benchmark against which all others are measured, the target that every other luxury automaker has in its sights, and the very icon of what a luxury sports sedan should be. What's more, it has been all those things for three and a half decades, from the first model introduced in 1975 to the new sixth-generation model just rolled out last month.

With a hyphen or without, the 3 Series has come a long way, so to illustrate the fact, BMW has lined up all six generations for a family portrait or four, which you can check out in the high-resolution image gallery above, along with the detailed press release after the jump.

Continue reading BMW 3 Series gets together for family portrait

BMW 3 Series gets together for family portrait originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesFri, 13 Jan 2012 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148250/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/bmw-3-series-gets-together-for-family-portrait/20148250/article-detail.xml 20148250 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web3-series-family_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web3-series-family.jpg <![CDATA[Long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series spotted in the wild]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/long-wheelbase-bmw-3-series-spotted-in-the-wild/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/long-wheelbase-bmw-3-series-spotted-in-the-wild/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/long-wheelbase-bmw-3-series-spotted-in-the-wild/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW 335Li

A few images of the new Chinese-market long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series have made their way to the web. The vehicle's profile clearly shows a few extra inches of room for rear passengers, though the additional space between the front and rear wheels doesn't infringe too heavily on the sedan's design.

With a slightly longer rear door and expanded rear cabin, the BMW 335Li is designed for buyers who would rather be driven than drive. That's a big plus for the chauffeur-oriented Chinese luxury vehicle market. From what we hear, the vehicle is headed toward an official debut at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show in April.

In addition to more rear legroom, the BMW 335Li will likely feature a new 8.8-inch freestanding control display mounted atop the vehicle's dash. An auto start-stop system is expected to debut on the vehicle to help increase fuel economy, and a blind-spot awareness system is expected to be standard equipment, as well. Head over to the F30Post.com forums for a better look at the elongated 3 Series.

Long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series spotted in the wild originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series335libmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 335lichinalong wheelbaselong wheelbase 3 serieslong-wheelbase bmw 3 seriesWed, 11 Jan 2012 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146243/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/long-wheelbase-bmw-3-series-spotted-in-the-wild/20146243/article-detail.xml 20146243 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-335li-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-335li-628.jpg <![CDATA[A little story about a runaway BMW 3 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/01/a-little-story-about-a-runaway-bmw-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/01/a-little-story-about-a-runaway-bmw-3-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/01/a-little-story-about-a-runaway-bmw-3-series/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BMW E21 Turbo Metal video

If you've ever had an old vehicle get away from you, be it due to a stuck throttle or failing brakes, you know just how exciting the moment of realization that accompanies limited control can be. In our not-inconsiderable experience in this area, the mind clicks from denial to acceptance in a heartbeat before allowing you to come up with a solution. A group of old-metal-obsessed Hungarians have taken the time to craft a video detailing exactly what happens when a 1981 BMW 3 Series decides to get up and go all on its own.

The result is plenty of gravel-slinging E21 action in glorious slow-motion. The whole clip is well-shot, if not a little anti-climactic. We're just glad no BMWs were harmed in the filming. Hit the jump to check out the brief video for yourself.

Continue reading A little story about a runaway BMW 3 Series

A little story about a runaway BMW 3 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The ordering guide for the 2012 BMW 3 Series has made its way to the internet courtesy of eGMCarTech, giving us all a better idea of what to expect from the U.S.-spec car when it arrives on our shores next year.

For starters, both the 328i and 335i will boast forced-induction powerplants and an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard driveline equipment, though opting for a six-speed manual won't cost buyers anything extra. In addition, each 3 Series will come with automatic start/stop to conserve fuel. Larger 17-inch wheels are now standard across the line, as well.

Inside, a new 6.5-inch LCD screen is now standard equipment as is Bluetooth and an iPod interface. Three trim levels will be available at launch, but buyers looking to sink their teeth into the M Sport package will have to wait a spell. According to eGMCarTech, the M goodies won't surface in U.S. dealers until July 2012. Remember, kids: patience is a virtue.

2012 BMW 3 Series U.S. order guide leaked, M Sport coming late originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw 3 series3 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesThu, 10 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20103417/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/10/2012-bmw-3-series-u-s-order-guide-leaked-m-sport-coming-late/20103417/article-detail.xml 20103417 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/0000-2012-bmw-3-series-1318619011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/0000-2012-bmw-3-series-1318619011.jpg -1 2