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 says current M3 sold out, no new AWD M models planned]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Car and Driver asked the head of BMW M, Friedrich Nitschke, a few questions about what the go-fast division had in mind for the future, and was rewarded with some enlightening answers. The best news to purist ears is that Nitschke said customers don't want all-wheel drive on their M cars, so it's the rear wheels alone that will propel new product into the future. If you want both an M badge and four driven wheels, it's the X5 M, X6 M and M Performance models you're looking for in the catalog.

"Mixed bag" is the phrase you're looking for regarding the other answers. Nitschke said that future M engines "at the core of their architecture" would "be closer to BMW AG engines" that are optimized for M cars, instead of following in the line of unique marvels like the V10 and naturally aspirated V8. They will keep the high redlines, however, with Nitschke saying "there is room beyond" the 7,000 rpm mark in BMW's current V8 turbos.

Managing weight will keep the same priority for M that it is for every other brand, so electrically assisted power steering is coming, as is an "unconventional" materials mix. At the smaller end of the M scale, Nitschke described three-cylinder engines as "attractive," saying that the brand can produce more than 310 horsepower from a three-pot.

As for the current M3, it's all gone. Nitschke said the company has about six more months of coupe and convertible production, but the units to come already have customers "on principle."

BMW says current M3 sold out, no new AWD M models planned originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m3friedrich nitschkeMon, 06 May 2013 08:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20558342/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/20558342/article-detail.xml 20558342 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-m-future-details_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-m-future-details.jpg <![CDATA[BMW creates exclusive polo shirt for 1 Series M Coupe owners]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/bmw-creates-exclusive-polo-shirt-for-1-series-m-coupe-owners/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/bmw-creates-exclusive-polo-shirt-for-1-series-m-coupe-owners/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/27/bmw-creates-exclusive-polo-shirt-for-1-series-m-coupe-owners/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW 1 M polo

So you are one of the 6,309 lucky drivers to own the terrifically excellent BMW 1 Series M Coupe, but don't feel like it sets you apart enough from the rest of us? Well first, we have the tiniest violin in the world, ready to play a sad song. Once that is out of the way, BMW has some very unique gear for you. Pierre Leclercq, the Manager of Design for M Automobiles, has come out with a polo shirt that will be available only to 1 Series M Coupe owners. Each shirt will have the owner's name embroidered on the left sleeve, and the silhouette of their car will be emblazoned on the back of the shirt. It is is even stitched in the color of the owner's car!

The shirts are limited to one per vehicle, and owners are able to order a shirt by entering their VIN when placing the order online. Each shirt is produced as a one-off, specifically designed for the owner of said 1 M Coupe, making the act of wearing one a sort of 'secret handshake' for 1 Series M Coupe owners. Nice.

Continue reading BMW creates exclusive polo shirt for 1 Series M Coupe owners

BMW creates exclusive polo shirt for 1 Series M Coupe owners originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupebmwbmw 1 m coupebmw mbmw motorsportPierre Leclercqpolo shirtTue, 27 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20389486/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/27/bmw-creates-exclusive-polo-shirt-for-1-series-m-coupe-owners/20389486/article-detail.xml 20389486 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-1-m-coupe-t-shirt-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-1-m-coupe-t-shirt-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M1 successor still on track, to be called M8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/24/bmw-m1-successor-still-on-track-to-be-called-m8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/24/bmw-m1-successor-still-on-track-to-be-called-m8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/24/bmw-m1-successor-still-on-track-to-be-called-m8/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Automobile has taken a look into the medium-term future product plans of the German automakers, and one of the interesting nuggets is that BMW is still working on an M8. An updated BMW M1 has been a fantasy since the last of the 456 original M1s rolled off the line in 1981, and we're told that the coming M8 will finally be the proper successor.

Apparently there's still some conflict to be worked through: company CEO Norbert Reithofer isn't exactly sold on it, whereas M Division president Friedrich Nitschke "doesn't take no for an answer." If you'll remember, the 1 Series M Coupe had to leap the same hurdles, the BMW brass not smitten with the business-case numbers, but Kay Segler, M Division president at the time, pushed it through. And we saw how well that worked out.

BMW's M8 Is on the Way, Come Hell or High Water

Another German supercar in the making is the BMW M8. Previously known as the M1, this car is believed to be the halo model that BMW will pull out of the bag to celebrate its centenary in 2016. Chairman Norbert Reithofer, who is not known as a sports car aficionado, views this project with mixed feelings. Having recently decided that the next-generation 1- and 2-series will be built on a new front-/all-wheel-drive matrix, the big boss is reluctant to give a green light to a V-8-powered tarmac peeler.

But Friedrich Nitschke, who runs the M division, doesn't take no for an answer - even if it means tweaking the project so that the M8 can share the carbon-fiber-and-aluminum underpinnings of the super-frugal i8. This approach could kill two birds with one stone by creating significant economies of scale and by giving the 600-hp sports car a weight advantage over its more conventional rivals.

On a lesser scale, Reithofer has personally sealed the fate of the on-off-on Z2 roadster. Apparently the numbers did not work out, and there is not much time left for a compact, rear-wheel-drive platform, which will be mothballed in 2021. If a small, open-top BMW does materialize, it will be front-wheel drive and pooled with an open-top Mini. The Z4 will get a new lease on life, but since the segment is in free fall, the third-generation version needs to combine the existing folding hardtop with a redesigned body and interior.



Read more: Deep Dive: Mercedes, BMW, and Volkswagen Group All Expand Upmarket - Rumor Central http://rumors.automobilemag.com/deep-dive-mercedes-bmw-and-volkswagen-group-all-expand-upmarket-186231.html#ixzz2Ct9ByEE9
Follow us: @AutomobileMag on Twitter | AutomobileMag on Facebook

BMW's M8 Is on the Way, Come Hell or High Water

Another German supercar in the making is the BMW M8. Previously known as the M1, this car is believed to be the halo model that BMW will pull out of the bag to celebrate its centenary in 2016. Chairman Norbert Reithofer, who is not known as a sports car aficionado, views this project with mixed feelings. Having recently decided that the next-generation 1- and 2-series will be built on a new front-/all-wheel-drive matrix, the big boss is reluctant to give a green light to a V-8-powered tarmac peeler.

But Friedrich Nitschke, who runs the M division, doesn't take no for an answer - even if it means tweaking the project so that the M8 can share the carbon-fiber-and-aluminum underpinnings of the super-frugal i8. This approach could kill two birds with one stone by creating significant economies of scale and by giving the 600-hp sports car a weight advantage over its more conventional rivals.

On a lesser scale, Reithofer has personally sealed the fate of the on-off-on Z2 roadster. Apparently the numbers did not work out, and there is not much time left for a compact, rear-wheel-drive platform, which will be mothballed in 2021. If a small, open-top BMW does materialize, it will be front-wheel drive and pooled with an open-top Mini. The Z4 will get a new lease on life, but since the segment is in free fall, the third-generation version needs to combine the existing folding hardtop with a redesigned body and interior.



Read more: Deep Dive: Mercedes, BMW, and Volkswagen Group All Expand Upmarket - Rumor Central http://rumors.automobilemag.com/deep-dive-mercedes-bmw-and-volkswagen-group-all-expand-upmarket-186231.html#ixzz2Ct9ByEE9
Follow us: @AutomobileMag on Twitter | AutomobileMag on Facebook


Automobile posits that Nitschke could put the M8 on the same carbon fiber and aluminum platform as the BMW i8, saving money on the architecture and getting a head start on weight reduction. It's taken 30 years of dreaming to get us this close, and along the way and only recently we've seen concepts like the BMW M1 Hommage (above), and before that a rumored twin-turbo V10 with 625 horsepower, as well as a gentler, greener two-seat Z10 ED with a twin-turbo six cylinder and 400 hp. Just one year ago BMW told us, "We've discussed these possibilities. But ultimately, we didn't feel the need to make a very exclusive high-end supercar and we still don't." Let's hope that this time Nitschke can close the deal.

BMW M1 successor still on track, to be called M8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Nov 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mi8m1m1 hommagem8Sat, 24 Nov 2012 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20386214/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/24/bmw-m1-successor-still-on-track-to-be-called-m8/20386214/article-detail.xml 20386214 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/m1comingm8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/m1comingm8.jpg <![CDATA[How to make art prints with your BMW M6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/how-to-make-art-prints-with-your-bmw-m6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/how-to-make-art-prints-with-your-bmw-m6/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/22/how-to-make-art-prints-with-your-bmw-m6/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Matt Mullins has done everything from stunts in movies to driving with the United States secret service, but the BMW Performance Driving School chief instructor has never done this before. "This" in this case is creating postcards using a BMW M6 as the printing press.

A pressurized ink system was mounted in the trunk, which spayed ink up at the rear tires. It was controlled via a switch in the cabin of the turbocharged BMW coupe. Mullin then took the M6 out onto the track at Blackhawk Farms Raceway, where pieces of paper were placed in straight lines. Matt just had to spray the ink and drive over the paper, but keeping a high-powered machine such as the M6 in a perfectly straight line is still a little challenging. You'll just have to check out the video to see how he did.

When it was all over, the results of this little experiment were cut up into one-of-a-kind postcards, which BMW is sending out to M enthusiasts across the country. Sure you could create another BMW art car, or use the rear tires to do your best Jackson Pollock, but this way a great many fans will get to own a piece of yet another great intersection of BMW life and the art world.

Continue reading How to make art prints with your BMW M6

How to make art prints with your BMW M6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Nov 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw m6 coupeart carbmwbmw art carbmw mbmw motorsportm6m6 coupeThu, 22 Nov 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20384593/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/22/how-to-make-art-prints-with-your-bmw-m6/20384593/article-detail.xml 20384593 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/m6-postcard_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/m6-postcard.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M6 Gran Coupe caught ahead of official debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-ahead-of-official-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-ahead-of-official-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-ahead-of-official-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M6 Gran Coupe caught testing - subtle camouflage

When it comes to the M version of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, we've already seen spy photos and video of the car testing, but we've yet to see any shots of it in production trim until now. The new M6 Gran Coupe has done plenty of testing on the Nürburgring, but Car Magazine snapped a picture of the car sitting idle at the 'Ring, which was reportedly on hand for a BMW event.

Differing from the 640i Gran Coupe, this new four-door M6 looks to have the same aggressive body kit as its coupe counterpart, including the massive front air intakes and vented front fenders. The M6 GC does appear to be getting a unique design for the 20-inch wheels not currently available on other M6 models. Also like the recently released M6, key differences inside the M6 Gran Coupe include an M-exclusive steering wheel that has been completely redesigned from the 640i Gran Coupe and gets the signature red and blue stitching, a different shifter and bezel for the seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission ,and we can also see that this M6 will be equipped with the Auto Stop-Start feature.

Keeping with the M6 similarities, power will almost certainly come from BMW's 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that is currently rated at 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. No word yet on pricing, but like the 640i Gran Coupe, the M6 Gran Coupe will likely be positioned between the M6 Coupe ($106,100) and M6 Convertible ($113,100). BMWBlog says that the M6 Gran Coupe will make its big debut in January at the Detroit Auto Show before going on sale next summer. To see full shots of the undisguised M6 Gran Coupe, head on over to Car Magazine.

BMW M6 Gran Coupe caught ahead of official debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6 series gran coupebmwbmw mm6m6 gran coupespy photosspy shotsThu, 08 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20373693/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/08/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-ahead-of-official-debut/20373693/article-detail.xml 20373693 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/02bmwgrancoupespies_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/02bmwgrancoupespies.jpg <![CDATA[Next BMW X5 M snapped storming the Nürburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/14/next-bmw-x5-m-snapped-storming-the-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/14/next-bmw-x5-m-snapped-storming-the-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/14/next-bmw-x5-m-snapped-storming-the-nurburgring/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Next-gen BMW X5M

BMW is getting ready to launch the third-generation X5 next year, and not wanting to make performance-minded customers wait too long, the X5 M is expected soon after the standard models. As seen in the video we posted last week, the new M-powered X5 is putting down some punishing laps at the Nurburgring. Now we're happy to supplement that video with some new spy photos of that test car.

The shots show more detail of the souped-up crossover, such as the cross-drilled rotors, the blue brake calipers and the signature quad exhaust. We can't tell much about the new X5 M's design, but we expect the front fascia to have massive intakes to feed air to the twin-turbo V8 that's likely to be found underhood. Figure on least 560 horsepower - the power rating of this engine in the new M5.

Next BMW X5 M snapped storming the Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Oct 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw x5 mbmwbmw mspy photosspy shotsx5x5 mSun, 14 Oct 2012 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20348504/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/14/next-bmw-x5-m-snapped-storming-the-nurburgring/20348504/article-detail.xml 20348504 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/bmw-x5m-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/bmw-x5m-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[BMW debuts M Performance add-ons for 3 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/bmw-3-series-m-performance-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/bmw-3-series-m-performance-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/bmw-3-series-m-performance-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BMW 335i with M Performance accessories - Live on show floor at 2012 Paris Motor Show

The next-generation M3 is indeed coming, but if you simply can't wait for the hardcore M model, BMW will now sell you new M Performance add-ons for the 3 Series sedan, a whole host of which have been fitted to one of the show cars here in Paris. And don't worry - these optional extras aren't all show and no go.

BMW's show car started as a 335i M Sport sedan, but was upfitted with 20-inch light alloy wheels, an M Performance braking system, upgraded suspension and an aero package. Other bits of visual flare include a rear spoiler, carbon fiber mirror caps and blacked-out grille kidneys. And while BMW's release only details power upgrades for four-cylinder diesel models, the 335i shown here uses the catalog's engine silencer system which, contrary to its name, is said to deliver a decidedly sportier sound to both the engine and exhaust notes.

Inside, there's an M Performance steering wheel with Race Display (a small screen that displays some of the vehicle's vital stats), stainless steel pedals and Alcantara trim found throughout the cabin. And of course, there's plenty of "M Performance" badging. You know, to really drive the point home.

But these upgrades aren't just for 3 Series owners. Oh, no. BMW will offer these specific parts on other models, including the 1 Series, 5 Series and 6 Series. See the hotted-up 3er for yourself in the gallery above, and click below for a whole smattering of details in BMW's press release.

Continue reading BMW debuts M Performance add-ons for 3 Series

BMW debuts M Performance add-ons for 3 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3 series m performance328i335ibmwbmw mm performanceparisparis 2012paris motor showFri, 28 Sep 2012 15:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20336179/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/28/bmw-3-series-m-performance-paris-2012/20336179/article-detail.xml 20336179 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-bmw-3-series-m-performance-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-bmw-3-series-m-performance-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Motorsport turns 40, celebrates with old home movies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/bmw-motorsport-turns-40-celebrates-with-old-home-movies/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/bmw-motorsport-turns-40-celebrates-with-old-home-movies/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/17/bmw-motorsport-turns-40-celebrates-with-old-home-movies/#commentsFiled under: , ,

40 Years of M-Power

Is there anything that gets better with age more than wine? Why yes, motorsports fans, that would be racing footage. BMW has gone down to the cellar to create this four-and-a-half minute video chronicling the history of its Motorsport division as part of BMW M's 40th anniversary celebration.

From the seminal 3.0 CSL race car to the M1 and the original M3, the first two-thirds of the video is devoted to the good stuff before it devolves into a typical branding commercial.

Scroll down to watch.

Continue reading BMW Motorsport turns 40, celebrates with old home movies

BMW Motorsport turns 40, celebrates with old home movies originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40 years of mbmwbmw mmotorsportsvideoFri, 17 Aug 2012 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20303340/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/17/bmw-motorsport-turns-40-celebrates-with-old-home-movies/20303340/article-detail.xml 20303340 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bmw-m-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bmw-m-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW banking on carbon fiber costs to broaden M range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/bmw-banking-on-carbon-fiber-costs-to-broaden-m-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/bmw-banking-on-carbon-fiber-costs-to-broaden-m-range/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/bmw-banking-on-carbon-fiber-costs-to-broaden-m-range/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW M Power

There once was a time when BMW only produced a handful of its models in high-performance M guise. There was the M3, the M5, and that was pretty much it. Now, however, it offers M models based on the 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, X5 and X6. And that's only expected to grow.

The first on the docket, says BMW North America CEO (and former M chief) Ludwig Willisch speaking with TheDetroitBureau.com, will be an M7. The Bavarian automaker has long resisted going down the same road as the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG and Audi S8, but that's slated to change in the near future. But while the X5 M and X6 M have been hot sellers, Willisch rules out the possibility of M versions of the smaller X1 and X3 crossovers, as well as bringing the M550d xDrive super-diesel-sport wagon (or presumably its crossover counterparts) to North America.

Of course, BMW could opt to apply a similar sub-M formula to the 7 Series like it's doing with the M135i. Either way, BMW is counting on the reduced cost and labor involved in manufacturing carbon fiber components for the viability of both its performance vehicles and its environmentally friendly i range.

As our compatriots at the Bureau note, the engineers at McLaren needed some 3,000 hours of labor to produce the carbon fiber components for the McLaren F1 over a decade ago. By the time it started building the SLR for Mercedes-Benz, it had cut that down to 400 hours. And with the new MP4-12C, it takes them less than six hours. As a result, costs have come down too, resulting in a lower street price for each successive model: $1 million, $400,000 and $250,000, respectively. And that's a model on which other automakers - like BMW - can seek to capitalize.

BMW banking on carbon fiber costs to broaden M range originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 May 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m7carboncarbon fibermm7Wed, 30 May 2012 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20244456/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/30/bmw-banking-on-carbon-fiber-costs-to-broaden-m-range/20244456/article-detail.xml 20244456 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/13-m-stillborns-live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/13-m-stillborns-live.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: BMW celebrates 40 years of M]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1978 BMW M1 - dead-on view, red

When we think of the BMW M division, the 1978 M1 comes instantly to mind, followed by the E30 M3 and then the 2001-2002 M Coupe. But the company's in-house hot rod shop actually dates back to 1972, when it was formed as a subsidiary to manage the company's racing operations, dubbed BMW Motorsport.

It was this month 40 years ago that what is known today as BMW M GmbH was launched. So to celebrate its anniversary, BMW has offloaded some 50 lustworthy images celebrating that performance history. See them all in our gallery.

Pics Aplenty: BMW celebrates 40 years of M originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupe1 series m coupebmwbmw mBMW Motorsportmm coupem roadsterm1m3m3 cslm5m6pics aplentyWed, 16 May 2012 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239585/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/pics-aplenty-bmw-celebrates-40-years-of-m/20239585/article-detail.xml 20239585 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/40-years-of-bmw-m-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/40-years-of-bmw-m-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The new BMW M5 is taking a one-week, 3,300-mile U.S. road trip, and not only will it tour the skeevy diners, restless rest areas and truck-stop toilets of this fine land, it'll eat up its tires on nine of our nation's finest tracks. If you think that sounds like the Tire Rack One Lap of America, you'd be correct.

In addition to providing the official vehicles for the event, the Munich firm is sending a team of drivers from its BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina to compete in the newly created 'Showroom Stock' category. This year's week-long race begins May 4 in South Bend, Indiana, and as with all the other entries, the M5 will get just one set of tires to test its gumption in various motorsports disciplines and thousands of highway miles. Follow the jump for a press release with more info and be sure to check out One Lap Of America's website for updates when the event kicks off in May.

Continue reading BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America

BMW to field 2013 M5 in One Lap Of America originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m55 series5-seriesbmwbmw mbmw m5bmw performance centerm5one lapone lap of americaSun, 25 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20200268/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/25/bmw-to-field-2012-m5-in-one-lap-of-america/20200268/article-detail.xml 20200268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmwm5oloa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/bmwm5oloa.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #267]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

BMW M goes Diesel, Ford Focus fleet sales numbers, California 2025 green car mandate

autoblog podcast logo

Episode #267 of the Autoblog Podcast is here with Chris, Dan, Zach and Chris Paukert this week. Topics include the addition of diesel-powered BMW M models overseas, the surprisingly high fleet sales figure for the Ford Focus, and a new green car mandate coming out of California. 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. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #267:
In the Autoblog Garage
2012 Mazda3 Skyactiv
2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab
2012 Audi A4
2012 Dodge Durango Citadel

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:15:33
Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

Review the show in iTunes and take our survey

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #267

Autoblog Podcast #267 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a4autoblog podcast 267bmw mfeaturedfocusford focusmazda3silveradoTue, 31 Jan 2012 16:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #267Autoblog01:15:33 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161012/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/31/autoblog-podcast-267/20161012/article-detail.xml 20161012 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 M shows off new diesel-powered lineup in motion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



If you'd like to see more of BMW newly unveiled range of M Diesels, here's your chance. To recap, BMW revealed four tri-turboed, diesel-engined, all-wheel-drive M cars for European buyers yesterday: the M550d xDrive (a.k.a. 5 Series) sedan and touring, the X5 M50d and the X6 M50d. All use a 3.0-liter inline-six putting out 376 horses and 545 through an eight-speed auto, and in the case of the M550d sedan it can get to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds.

That makes each of the white knights in the promo piece both sporty and powerful, as you'll hear often in the video after the jump.

Continue reading BMW M shows off new diesel-powered lineup in motion

BMW M shows off new diesel-powered lineup in motion originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m dieselbmw m550dbmw m550d touringbmw x5 m50dbmw x6 m50ddieselmm dieseltri-turbovideox5x6Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20157098/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/26/bmw-m-shows-off-new-diesel-powered-lineup-in-motion/20157098/article-detail.xml 20157098 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmwmdieselsvid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmwmdieselsvid.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Rumors of BMW M launching a diesel model have been circulating for over a year, and confirmation has finally arrived in the form of not one, not two, but four M-fettled oil-burners, each sporting all-wheel drive and the oft-rumored tri-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six. And before you get excited, none of them are slated for sale in the U.S. - this is a Euro-only affair.

So with that unfortunate fact out of the way, let's get to the details.

The new M models come in the form of the M550d xDrive sedan, M550d xDrive touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d. Each makes use of a 3.0-liter inline-six common-rail diesel with the aforementioned trio of turbos specifically developed for the M Performance range. Output is rated at 376 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 545 pound-feet of torque available from 2,000 to 3,000 revs. If you're keeping track at home, that's a bump of 80 hp and 103 lb-ft over the 535d and 74 hp and 103 lb-ft more than the 3.0-liter mill fitted to the diesel X5 and X6.

Each model comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard xDrive AWD, allowing the M550d sedan to hit 60 mph in 4.6 seconds - just four tenths of a second off the all-new M5's 0-60 run. You read that right. The M550d Touring hits 60 in 4.9 seconds, with the X5 M50d and X6 M50d passing the mark in 5.4 and 5.3 seconds, respectively. All models are limited to 155 mph and fuel consumption ranges between 6.4 liters/100km and 7.7 liters/100km.

Interestingly, the M-ified diesel 5ers ditch the standard electromechanical steering for a hydraulic system that's derived from the M5, and both the X5 and X6 variants uses systems similar to those on the X5 M and X6 M.

And if you're wondering why we won't see these M diesels here in the States, blame the necessity to reengineer the SCR (selective catalytic reduction) systems to make them comply with emissions standards across the country. We'll be seeing all four live from the Geneva Motor Show in March, but you can get the first batch of details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d

BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m550dbmw m550d touringbmw x5 m50dbmw x6 m50ddieselmm dieselx5x6Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156972/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/20156972/article-detail.xml 20156972 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-m-performance-diesels-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-m-performance-diesels-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M Performance

We just wrapped up the Detroit Auto Show, but BMW has already moved on to Geneva. The German automaker announced today that it's going to be showing a new line of what it's calling "M Performance Automobiles" at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

These vehicles will sit between standard Bimmers and M vehicles in the lineup, and apparently offer more than just cosmetics. While BMW has offered M Sport appearance packages over the past two decades, today's announcement specifically mentions "exclusive engine variants" and suspension tweaks among the upgrades M Performance models would offer. Given the mention of both all-wheel drive and diesel models in the announcement, it seems like the new line is specifically geared towards both of those features that BMW likely believes would tarnish the original M line or just wouldn't be appropriate for an M3 or M5.

We're awaiting a reply from BMW on what this announcement means for the U.S. market, but we imagine the M Performance cars sold here might resemble something like the 2003-2006 ZHP performance package sold on the E46 3 Series. These cars carried M badging, a unique interior, sport fascias, upgraded wheels and tires, a six-speed manual, 10 extra horses, a higher redline, revised gearing, and a stiffer suspension. There's also the possibility that the first recipient of the new designation could be the diesel variant of the X6 M that's already been teased by the Bavarian automaker.

To read the full release, click past the jump.

Continue reading BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles

BMW to launch toned-down line of M Performance Automobiles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m performancem performancem3m5x6 mx6mThu, 12 Jan 2012 10:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/bmw-to-launch-toned-down-line-of-m-performance-automobiles/20147117/article-detail.xml 20147117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-m-power-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/bmw-m-power-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW and K2 team up for promotional skis]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/#commentsFiled under: ,

K2 LTD. BMW M Design Edition

Despite the arrival of performance crossovers like the X5 M and X6 M, the BMW M range is still one bound largely to the road. Racing circuits too, of course, but the ski hill? Maybe not, but that's where K2 comes in. The sporting goods manufacturer has teamed up the the Bavarian automaker's performance division to produce a special set of downhill skis.

Based on the K2 SideShow, the K2 LTD BMW M Design Editions skis are designed to perform on any of a variety of hill conditions. They'll also got a special paintjob to highlight the collaboration, and a tire-tread pattern on the underside.

So is this just another opportunity for an automaker to cash in on its brand recognition with a merchandising effort? Well, yes and no. You can't actually go out and buy these skis, but BMW is giving all 500 pairs of them away as part of a promotional campaign at European ski resorts that has enthusiasts collecting "badges" they can redeem for a chance to win a pair, so to speak.

Follow the jump to read more about 'em, but unless you're planning on spending your winter carving up the slopes of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy, the images in the gallery we've put together are about as close as you're likely to get.

Continue reading BMW and K2 team up for promotional skis

BMW and K2 team up for promotional skis originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw skisk2skiskisWed, 04 Jan 2012 08:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20139667/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/04/bmw-and-k2-team-up-for-promotional-skis/20139667/article-detail.xml 20139667 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web-bmw-k2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/web-bmw-k2.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M5 quicker than 1 M Coupe quicker than M3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 BMW M5 front three-quarter

Autobild recently set out to settle the question of which M vehicle is the fastest in the BMW stable at the moment. Not surprisingly, the German enthusiast publication found the BMW M3 CRT to be the quickest around the Sachsenring, setting the magazine's fastest time around the track with a 1:38.37 minute lap time. That's impressive, but not nearly as astounding as the time drummed up by the new BMW M5. The portly sedan did the same deed in 1:38.90, or just three hundredths of a second slower than the special-edition M3.

And what of the sibling rivalry between the BMW 1 Series M Coupe and the standard M3? As it turns out, the magazine's shoes have given the nod to the smaller of the two coupes. The 1 Series M Coupe barely eked out a win over the M3, though the M3 Convertible took nearly two extra seconds to make it around the course than its hardtop twin.

BMW M5 quicker than 1 M Coupe quicker than M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m coupe1 series1 series m1 series m coupe1m coupeautobildbmw 1 series m coupebmw mbmw m3bmw m5mm1m3m5Thu, 29 Dec 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20136715/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/29/bmw-m5-quicker-than-1-m-coupe-quicker-than-m3/20136715/article-detail.xml 20136715 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/2012-bmw-m5-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Remember the BMW supercar that M Division wanted to build? Not gonna happen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW M1 Hommage concept

For at least two years, BMW has been teasing the idea of making a supercar, the kind that would glare with laser headlights at the Audi R8 and say, "Yeah, I'm lookin' at you." Way back in early 2008, the car was rumored to be a twin-turbo V10 with 625 horsepower. A year later, it was going to be the gentler, greener two-seat Z10 ED with a twin-turbo six cylinder and 400 hp. A year later still, the 1.5-liter, three-cylinder, hybrid i8 inherited the green supercar mantle.

But just two months ago, the head of product development at BMW's M division said he wanted a car to fight the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, a pure M-car developed totally in-house (as was the case with the AMG). But an interview given by M's North American product manager Matthew Russell points to the door having closed on that when he said, "We've discussed these possibilities. But ultimately, we didn't feel the need to make a very exclusive high-end supercar and we still don't." So there.

Perhaps more importantly, in reference to the M3 and M5, Russell believes that M already makes supercars, albeit of a certain type: "we like to build two cars in one: this is what M does. Nobody offers that perfect combination of a driver's car and an executive car that you can use everyday. So technically, we already build supercars." As fellow Autoblog contributor Matt Davis noted, however, we're of the mind that while those are super cars, they're not supercars.

Click the link for the rest of Russell's thoughts, though not before sparing a moment to say auf wiedersehen to the M1 Hommage. It will always live on in our high-res image gallery...

Remember the BMW supercar that M Division wanted to build? Not gonna happen originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw mbmw m divisionbmw m1 hommagebmw supercarm divisionm1m1 hommagematt russellmatthew russellTue, 20 Dec 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131632/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/remember-the-bmw-supercar-that-m-division-wanted-to-build-not-g/20131632/article-detail.xml 20131632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/msupercardead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/msupercardead.jpg <![CDATA[The BMW M table is too good for coffee]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/#commentsFiled under: ,



We aren't typically ones to geek out on furniture, but this warrants an exception to the rule. Phillips Collection has worked up a coffee table perfect for any BMW fan. From the side, the piece simply looks to be three tilted boxes, but view the table from above and it becomes clear that it's actually a physical manifestation of the BMW M logo. Made from cold-pressed steel and powder coated in the exact hues used by the BMW go-fast division, the table is sure to last for years and years. If you want one as badly as we do, you'll have to contact Phillips Collection for more information.

Designer Jason Phillips is based in Greensboro, North Carolina and has crafted a number of innovative tables and chairs. You can check out his full portfolio by heading over to his Behance page.

The BMW M table is too good for coffee originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw mbmw m tablebmw tablemm tablephillips collectionTue, 29 Nov 2011 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20116482/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/29/the-bmw-m-table-is-too-good-for-coffee/20116482/article-detail.xml 20116482 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m-table-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m-table-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW reveals M3 Competition Edition in Frozen Silver for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

m3 competition edition

BMW is celebrating 40 years of M with a special edition M3 Competition Edition that is about as rare as they come. BMW is only shipping 40 of the coupes to the U.S., and each will be identical save for a few options.

The M3 Competition Edition will feature Frozen Silver exterior paint, black M3 GTS 19-inch wheels, dark chrome exterior trim and dark exhaust tips. The interior will be complemented with Black Novillo leather upholstery with Palladium Silver accents, an Alcantara M steering wheel and M logos throughout.

This limited edition car will feature the same 414-horsepower V8 engine as other M3s, but the 0-60 time drops from 4.7 seconds to 4.5 seconds. The Competition Edition M3 is 10 mm lower than the standard M3, has wider-offset wheels, and higher-threshold programming for the M mode.

It's also more expensive than the standard M3. The Competition Edition M3 cost $81,060 with destination and handling, or a hefty $20,000 more than the base car.

Since BMW is has dubbed this M3 the "Competition Edition," the automaker is also encouraging its U.S. dealer body to compete for the chance to sell one of them. The first 40 dealers to receive M Certified Center certification get first crack at the car. Hit the jump to read over the press release.

Continue reading BMW reveals M3 Competition Edition in Frozen Silver for U.S.

BMW reveals M3 Competition Edition in Frozen Silver for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m33 series3-seriesbmwbmw mfrozen silverm3m3 competitionSun, 06 Nov 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20099612/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/06/bmw-reveals-m3-competition-edition-in-frozen-silver-for-u-s/20099612/article-detail.xml 20099612 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m3frozensilveraussen2-1320520989_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/m3frozensilveraussen2-1320520989.jpg -1 2