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[REPORT: BMW, Mini to let Mercedes-Benz inspect, prep its vehicles at port]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-bmw-mini-to-let-mercedes-benz-inspect-prep-their-vehic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-bmw-mini-to-let-mercedes-benz-inspect-prep-their-vehic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/report-bmw-mini-to-let-mercedes-benz-inspect-prep-their-vehic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz Baltimore vehicle process center has secured a five-year contract to inspect, process, and repair pre-delivery BMW and Mini vehicles arriving in the United States. It's a deal that makes economic sense for both companies, say that automakers. BMW models currently arrive in Charleston, South Carolina, and are shipped to nearby Spartanburg (home of BMWs assembly plant) for inspection and pre-delivery work. That plant is "no longer appropriate" once the X3 starts production next year, says Jim O'Donnell, president of BMW North America. O'Donnell says BMW has been looking for an outside contractor, and it was the company's own purchasing department who proposed the deal.

Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, called the deal "a win-win situation." The company has both the manpower and space to service the additional BMW vehicles, and this arrangement may create additional opportunities for the two companies down the road. The Baltimore vehicle process center, on track to process 70,000 vehicles this year, currently handles Mercedes-Benz and Smart vehicles. The arrangement with BMW will not begin until March 1, 2010.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: Max Nash/Getty]

REPORT: BMW, Mini to let Mercedes-Benz inspect, prep its vehicles at port originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrangmentassemblyBaltimoreBMWcontractdealernst liebErnstLiebinspectionJim odonnellJimOdonnellmercedesmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMiniportpre-deliveryprocessrepairSpartanburgTue, 15 Dec 2009 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[CTS-V Challenge driver and M3 owner Michael Cooper gets pat on the back from BMW]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/cts-v-challenge-driver-and-m3-owner-michael-cooper-gets-pat-on-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/cts-v-challenge-driver-and-m3-owner-michael-cooper-gets-pat-on-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/cts-v-challenge-driver-and-m3-owner-michael-cooper-gets-pat-on-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Michael Cooper and his Cadillac CTS-V-challenging BMW M3 - click above for high-res image gallery

This guy. So, some of you no doubt remember the Cadillac CTS-V Challenge. If you don't, here's a refresher: General Motors vice-chairman Maximum Bob Lutz challenged any journalist to bring a CTS-V competitor to California's Laguna Seca where the 77-year-old Lutz would mop the floor with he/she and whatever fancy-pants, Euro sedan they done brung. Of course, the event got moved to New York's Monticello Motor Club, and to guarantee that the Cadillac didn't lose, GM brought in a backup pilot, John Hienricy, the company's noted hot shoe engineer and race car driver. And then every other manufacturer (Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar) decided not to play into GM's marketing ploy, and withdrew their cars' support.

To be frank, we here at Autoblog toyed with the idea of throwing our hoon-hat in the ring, but after Heinricy became Cadillac's ace in the hole, we figured the whole challenge was unwinnable (we've driven with Mr. Heinricy - he's that good). While it would no doubt have been fun, totally playing into General Motor's hands like that (by also losing), well, not so much. Luckily, privateer Michael Cooper and his BMW M3 wasn't in on our conference call.

Mr. Cooper showed up to the Caddy Challenge and laid down a 2:50.424, beating not only Bob Lutz's 2:56.321 in the way more powerful CTS-V, but our pals Lawrence Ulrich (2:53:026) and Jack Baruth (2:51:153), both of whom were driving the big supercharged Caddy. Not surprisingly, Heinricy blew the doors off of every single person, ripping off a 2:46.560. Probably while flossing. But let's not overlook young Michael Cooper, who with 142 less horsepower and a boatload less torque to work with came in less than four seconds behind John (ringer *cough* ringer) Hienricy.

BMW was so taken by Mr. Cooper's feat of good driving that they reportedly invited him down to their North American headquarters in New Jersey and gave him a BMW Performance Multifunction Steering Wheel. How else to thank the guy that tossed such an effective monkey wrench into GM's marketing plans? BMW installed the wheel in Cooper's M3 while he was given a ride in a special BMW Performance enhanced 335i Sedan. So, one more time, a hearty Autoblog congratulations to Michael Cooper and his Cadillac CTS-V challenging BMW M3. The one with the fancy new steering wheel.


Gallery: Michael Cooper's BMW M3


[Source: BMW Blog]

CTS-V Challenge driver and M3 owner Michael Cooper gets pat on the back from BMW originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 BMW M32009 M32009BmwM32009M3BMWBMW M3BMW M3 SedanBmwM3BmwM3SedanBob LutzBobLutzCadillacCadillac CTS-VCadillac CTS-V ChallengeCadillacCts-vCadillacCts-vChallengeJohn HienricyJohnHienricylutzMaximum Bob LutzMaximumBobLutzMicahel CooperMicahelCoopermonticellomonticello motor clubMonticelloMotorClubMon, 14 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy New Year! BMW rings in 2010 with price increases across the board]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/happy-new-year-bmw-rings-in-2010-with-price-increase-across-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/happy-new-year-bmw-rings-in-2010-with-price-increase-across-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/happy-new-year-bmw-rings-in-2010-with-price-increase-across-the/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW X6 ActiveHybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Normally we can think of some cute little anecdote to kick these here posts off with, but today... can't do it. BMW is raising their prices by 0.4 percent across the board on vehicles sold in North America. This price increase takes effect on January 1, 2010. Why? BMW isn't saying. And while less than a percent may not sound like much, if you're buying a stripper 760Li ($136,600), that's like $600!

There is a tiny sliver of good news. The three vehicles that just got introduced to this continent in December -- the ActiveHybrid X6, ActiveHybrid 7 and the 550i Gran Turismo -- are unaffected by this price increase. Of course as all three of those vehicles haven't proved themselves in the marketplace yet, so that sliver is even tinier upon second glance.

But it's not just the base prices that are going up. Destination & Handling fees are on the rise as well. Every new BMW is coming with an additional $50 tacked onto the 2009 $825 price, for a total of $875. And yes, this fifty dollar increase applies to the two new hybrids and the Gran Turismo as well. Happy New Year!


Gallery: BMW X6 ActiveHybrid Concept

bmw-x6-hybrid-large_7bmw-x6-hybrid-large_6bmw-x6-hybrid-large_2bmw-x6-hybrid-large_1bmw-x6-hybrid-large_3
[Source: BMW]

Happy New Year! BMW rings in 2010 with price increases across the board originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>550i550i Gran Turismo550iGranTurismoActiveHybrid 7ActiveHybrid X6Activehybrid7ActivehybridX6BMWMon, 14 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[G-Power takes the BMW X6 M, X5 M to 600 hp and beyond]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/g-power-takes-the-bmw-x6-m-x5-m-to-600-hp-and-beyond/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/g-power-takes-the-bmw-x6-m-x5-m-to-600-hp-and-beyond/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/g-power-takes-the-bmw-x6-m-x5-m-to-600-hp-and-beyond/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

G-Power Typhoon X6 M - click above for hi-res image gallery

We all know what the biggest problem with the BMW X6 M is, right? Not nearly enough power. Sure, 555 hp from a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 is 5 hp more potent than a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, making the X6 M the most powerful production SUV on earth. Still, 600 hp is the new black, so a stock X6 M just ain't going to cut it. Thank heavens, then, for G-Power.

Meet the G-Power Typhoon. Thanks to 15% increased airflow to the intercoolers, G-Power was able to wrangle an additional 45 hp out of the Bimmer's motivator. Torque's up a bit, too. From 500 lb-ft to 516. G-Power claims the 0-62 mph dash is lowered to 4.5 seconds, too. One issue with that, however: Inside Line ripped off a 4.3 second 0-60 mph blast in a stock X6 M, meaning this here Typhoon should be three flavors of bonkers.

Then there's the matter of looks, always a sticking point when discussing modern Bimmers. Here's what we recommend. Go down to your friendly neighborhood BMW dealer with a folding chair. Locate an X6. Sit down in front of it and start staring. Meditate, let everything else you've ever known or thought about cars and car design melt out of your mind. This should take between five and seven hours. The salespeople won't mind -- honest. When you snap out of your trance with your doors of perception suddenly nailed open, the X6 will appear to you as it truly is -- pretty okay-looking.

That settled, we'll admit to liking the G-Power's mods. For instance, you can't say the new front clip looks worse than the old one, can you? And who amongst you doesn't love 25mm profile tires riding on 23-inch wheels? There's all sorts of carbon fiber this and kevlar that available as well. The best part just might be that G-Power isn't leaving the X5 M -- the X6 M's ugly duckling sibling -- out in the cold, as there's a Typhoon kit for it, too. You know what word comes to mind? Nifty, all of it. Highly entertaining press release after the jump.


Gallery: G-Power X6 M and X5 M


[Source: G-Power]

Continue reading G-Power takes the BMW X6 M, X5 M to 600 hp and beyond

G-Power takes the BMW X6 M, X5 M to 600 hp and beyond originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWBMW X5 MBMW X6 MBmwX5MBmwX6MG-PowerG-power TyphoonG-Power Typhoon X5 MG-Power Typhoon X6 MG-powerTyphoonG-powerTyphoonX5MG-powerTyphoonX6MX5X5 MX5MX6X6 MX6MSat, 12 Dec 2009 12:23:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: More details on BMW's rumored M1(s)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/report-more-details-on-bmws-rumored-m1-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/report-more-details-on-bmws-rumored-m1-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/report-more-details-on-bmws-rumored-m1-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW 1 Series Tii Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has the mid-engined R8 (now available with a 525-horsepower V10). Mercedes-Benz now has the AMG SLS (with more power than the R8 - 563 horses). BMW has... a 500-horsepower V10 in a 4,000 pounds M6. Not exactly competitive in the supercar department these days. Well, according to everyone's favorite British Buff Book (EVO), BMW will be releasing a new supercar. Probably something resembling a mashup between the M1 Homage Concept and the Vision EfficientDynamics Hybrid Concept. However, it might not be called M1. Or, it might be.

Here's the thing - BMW is also believed to be working on a buffed out, super version of the 135i (based on the Tii Concept) that semi-logically could be called the M1. Check out the supposed stats on this little puppy: a reworked twin-turbo 3.0-liter motor good for 400 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque, a 150 pound weight reduction, seven-speed dual-clutch tranny, the M3's suspension and torque-vectoring rear end. Where do we sign up?

The issue is that some people within BMW feel the semi-sacred M1 moniker should be reserved only for a car that replaces the 1978 M1, the first car BMW's Motorsports Division ever made (even if Lamborghini played a roll). They do have a point, as among us gearhead types the M1 is a pretty reverential piece of machinery. However, what would you call an M-caliber 1 Series?

Autoblog's advice is this: nothing's sacred. Call the hopped-up 135i the M1. No one cares except for a few old timers within BMW and a few fanatics on the outside. Besides, the aforementioned old timers have sat idly by as the fabled M Division has arguably diluted its once lofty rep by releasing the X5 M and X6 M. It's all water (and money) under the bridge anyhow. And by freeing themselves from this false dilemma (because really, who cares?), BMW is free to name the new supercar the M8.

Failing that, just name the mighty 1 Series the Tii (confusing almost everyone) and reserve M1 for a proper supercar. We don't really mind, as long as both cars go on sale. And no matter the name, it sounds like the range-topping 1 Series should see the light of day in 2011 and the new supercar - which will pair BMW's 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with two electric motors - should come online around 2012. Color us excited.


Gallery: BMW Concept 1 Series tii


Gallery: BMW M1 Hommage


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics


[Source: EVO]

REPORT: More details on BMW's rumored M1(s) originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 Series1 Series Tii Concept135i1Series1SeriesTiiConceptBMWM1M1 homageM1HomageM3M8TiiTii ConceptTiiConceptvision efficientdynamicsVision EffienetDynamics ConceptVisionEfficientdynamicsVisionEffienetdynamicsConceptX5 mX5MX6 MX6MTue, 08 Dec 2009 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[DTM cars to run in Japan's SuperGT series?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/dtm-cars-to-run-in-japans-supergt-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/dtm-cars-to-run-in-japans-supergt-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/dtm-cars-to-run-in-japans-supergt-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Germany's DTM series is presently contested by just two automakers, Mercedes-Benz and Audi. In an effort to increase manufacturer participation, global reach, and television audiences, Autosport reports that DTM's overseers to be talking to Japan's Super GT series organizers about a tie-up. The GT500 class includes Honda, Lexus, Nissan, and a single Aston Martin DBR9.

The talks are centered around letting the cars race together, not DTM and Super GT actually coming together. The hurdles would be rationalizing the specifications: GT500 racers employ a different construction, as the series doesn't mandate spec electronics, tire, gearbox, differential, fuel, and brake suppliers as in DTM. However, Super GT does have its own way of creating parity and close racing, using restrictor plates and pit stop regulations.

If the two can find a way to come together, it might encourage BMW to join the series and bring its American Le Man M3 to the party. The Munich marque has resisted DTM, saying it isn't interested in a series so heavily focused on Germany. Don't get any hopes up, though - the Super GT management said they don't see the link-up as "a matter for the very near future."

[Source: Autosport | Image: Alex Grimm/Bongarts/Getty]

DTM cars to run in Japan's SuperGT series? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwdtmgermanyjapanjapan super gtJapanSuperGtmotorsportssuper gtSuperGttouring cartouring car challengeTouringCarTouringCarChallengeTue, 08 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Autotechnik + Tuning brings the rain with its Thunderstorm BMW M3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/autotechnik-tuning-brings-the-rain-with-its-thunderstorm-bmw-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/autotechnik-tuning-brings-the-rain-with-its-thunderstorm-bmw-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/autotechnik-tuning-brings-the-rain-with-its-thunderstorm-bmw-m/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Autotechnik + Tuning Thunderstorm BMW M3 -- Click above for image gallery

Autotechnik + Tuning has done a job on the BMW M3, but if you don't look closely, you might miss it. Echoing a sentiment we love, they declare "At first glance you cannot estimate the scope of retrofitting." However, while we appreciate their tuning philosophy, we're not so sure about their tuning math.

ATT adds a supercharger and remaps the engine software, all of which bumps the M3's horsey count from 414 to a nice, round 500. To get that bad boy in your engine bay will cost you a tear-shedding €11,749 ($17,455 U.S.). But that's not all: a new exhaust, KW coilovers, and ATT-TEC Le Mans wheels on 20-inch rubber will add more than €7,000 ($10,399 U.S.) to the line at the bottom of the invoice. Those are the kind of numbers that'll give you a concussion, especially when we're talking about an 86-horsepower improvement.

Either way, you can read about it in ATT's own words in the presser after the jump, or check it out in the gallery of photos below, and if nothing else, at least that's free.


Gallery: Autotechnik Tuning Thunderstorm BMW M3


[Source: Autotechnik + Tuning]

Continue reading Autotechnik + Tuning brings the rain with its Thunderstorm BMW M3

Autotechnik + Tuning brings the rain with its Thunderstorm BMW M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 BMW2010 BMW M32010Bmw2010BmwM3aftermarketATT-TECautotechnikautotechnik tuningAutotechnik Tuningbmwbmw m3BmwM3m3tuner carTunerCartuningMon, 07 Dec 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Vikings RB Adrian Peterson flagged for going 109 mph]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/vikings-rb-adrian-peterson-flagged-for-going-109-mph/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/vikings-rb-adrian-peterson-flagged-for-going-109-mph/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/vikings-rb-adrian-peterson-flagged-for-going-109-mph/#commentsFiled under:

Minnesota Vikings All-Pro running back Adrian Peterson - or "Purple Jesus" as he's known to Vikings fans - is one of the fastest men in the NFL. Turns out, he's also one of the fastest men on a certain suburban Minnesota freeway, where police clocked him and his (model unknown) BMW going 109 mph in a 55 mph zone. Oops!

For his part, Peterson claims it was just, "A little ticket" and that he was not going as fast as the cops said he was. However, Minneapolis police spokeswoman Molly Anderson said that Peterson was indeed pulled over after police recorded him going 109 mph. Anderson states that Peterson was given a citation and allowed to drive away after what she described as a "routine traffic stop." Must be nice being the savior for an entire state. Go Pack, go!

[Source: Associated Press | Image: Hannah Foslien/AP Photo]

Vikings RB Adrian Peterson flagged for going 109 mph originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 13:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adrian PetersonAdrianPetersonBMWMinnesotaMinnesota VikingsMinnesotaVikingsPolicePurple JesusPurpleJesusSpeedingVikingsSat, 05 Dec 2009 13:44:00 EST<![CDATA[24 Hours of LeMons announces 2009 Season Champions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/24-hours-of-lemons-announces-2009-season-champions/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/24-hours-of-lemons-announces-2009-season-champions/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/24-hours-of-lemons-announces-2009-season-champions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

24 Hours of LeMons
Another day in LeMons paradise - click above to view hi-res image gallery

In case you missed it, the 2009 LeMons season ground to a halt a few weeks back at Thunderhill after the third running of the Arse-Freeze-A-Palooza (full disclosure -- I work as a Judge for the 24 Hours of LeMons). Filthy 2009 proved to be a pretty hectic season for LeMons, what with ten $500 car races at various mud pits locales around this great country of ours. However, '09 will pale in comparison to the frenzied, property-devaluing idiocy that the 21-race 2010 season is sure to bring. We'd like to apologize to our understanding women-folk and potential home buyers in general in advance.

Still, the 2009 season was filled with all the wonderful elements that make LeMons the fastest growing motorsport in the world: namely, fires, terrible driving, whiny drivers, cheating mechanics and totally excellent BBQ. Oh, and lots of cars blowing the hell apart. You'll learn all about this year's champs after the jump, but we'd just like to point out that the 2009 Deconstructor Championship belongs to Ford. If you don't know, the Deconstructor goes to the manufacturer that builds the cars that blow up the most often.

Why Ford? Mostly for the numerous SHOs that lunched their engines and transmissions all over various LeMons paddocks, coast to coast. To quote LeMons' second banana, Nick Pon, after he strolled through a typical three SHO/three dead cars pit in Louisiana, "Looks like someone tossed a Taurus grenade in here." Just seems to be the Taurus's week for winning awards. OK -- now make the jump.


Gallery: 2009 24 Hours of LeMons Champs plus Thunderhill

Continue reading 24 Hours of LeMons announces 2009 Season Champions

24 Hours of LeMons announces 2009 Season Champions originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 Hours of LeMons24HoursOfLemonsArse-Freeze-A-PaloozaBMWBMW E30BmwE30Coppa di BondoCoppaDiBondoE30FordFord SHOFordShoLeMonsSHOSat, 05 Dec 2009 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: BMW ActiveHybrids get North American debut; 7 Series model priced from $103,125]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/bmw-activehybrid-x6-7-series-vision-concept-los-angeles-2009-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/bmw-activehybrid-x6-7-series-vision-concept-los-angeles-2009-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/bmw-activehybrid-x6-7-series-vision-concept-los-angeles-2009-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


BMW ActiveHybrid X6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW took advantage of California's proclivity for greenwashing to give its ActiveHybrid models their North American debuts at the LA Auto Show. Just for good measure they also brought along the incredible Vision Efficient Dynamics sustainable supercar concept. While we know a great deal about BMW's first true hybrid, the X6 ActiveHybrid, from our first drive, we still had to admire its incredible combination of horsepower and technology, even if the mileage isn't really spectacular enough to warrant a truly green halo.

The BMW 7 Series ActiveHybrid is a mild hybrid with the electric motor filling one of three roles while in motion. It alternates between being a motivator, a generator and a booster depending on load and demand. It can go 37 mph on the motor alone, it gets 20% better overall mileage than the straight gas engine, and it does the 0-60 trot in just 4.7 seconds thanks to its 455 horsepower and 515 lb-ft of torque. BMW's Peter Miles did add one bit of information to the Active 7 equation when he announced pricing. The regular wheelbase model will start at $103,125 while the long-wheelbase "L" model will start at $107,025.

The last car in the BMW eco show was the Vision concept. And never before has the phrase, "last but not least," been more appropriate. This thing looks like it could have come out of Minority Report, yet it has so much real world promise. We'll never see this car in production, of course, but don't be surprised to see many of its elements in future BMW models. We're still trying to decide whether we'd take this or the swoopy e-tron concept next door at Audi's stand, but why not have both?

Check out our gallery of live shots from LA by clicking below, or the official 7 Series pricing press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: BMW Active Hybrids and Vision Concept


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: BMW]

Continue reading LA 2009: BMW ActiveHybrids get North American debut; 7 Series model priced from $103,125

LA 2009: BMW ActiveHybrids get North American debut; 7 Series model priced from $103,125 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 7 series2010 BMW2010 BMW 7 series2010 bmw 7 series activehybrid2010 BMW X62010 bmw x6 activehybrid2010 X620107Series2010Bmw2010Bmw7Series2010Bmw7SeriesActivehybrid2010BmwX62010BmwX6Activehybrid2010X6activehybridBMWbmw active hybirdbmw active hybridBMW Active Hybrid 7bmw activehybrid x6bmw hybridbmw visionBMW Vision Efficient Dynamicsbmw vision efficient dynamics conceptbmw vision hybridBmwActiveHybirdBmwActiveHybridBmwActiveHybrid7BmwActivehybridX6BmwHybridBmwVisionBmwVisionEfficientDynamicsBmwVisionEfficientDynamicsConceptBmwVisionHybridla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA Showla show 2009La2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowLaShow2009Thu, 03 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST<![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[VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/video-bmw-m1-in-mule-style-camo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/video-bmw-m1-in-mule-style-camo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/video-bmw-m1-in-mule-style-camo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Camouflaged BMW M1
BMW M1 in camouflage - Click above to watch the video

For the life of us, we can't figure this. BMWblog has posted a video of what surely looks like an O.G. BMW M1, dressed up in that ubiquitous swirlydelic camouflage du jour and parked on a Munich street. It's either a very clever gag being put on by someone, or something potentially awesome is afoot. Either way, we can dig it. See for yourselves after the jump. Thanks to Mike S. for the tip!

[Source: YouTube via BMWblog]

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo?

VIDEO: BMW M1 in mule-style camo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 10:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer BMW 123d Tune It Safe! police concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

High performance vehicles like Porsche 911s being used for pursuit duty on Germany's autobahn is nothing new. As such, in order order to grab the attention of Essen Motor Show attendees, the Tune It Safe! program's annual police-liveried show car needs to go a step further. Past efforts have included rides such as a police-liveried Brabus Rocket and a TechArt-prepared Porsche 911. This year, AC Schnitzer got the call and it has unwrapped (or perhaps wrapped is the better term, given the side graphics) a police car concept based on the BMW 123d coupe.

Naturally, Schnitzer couldn't leave the stock, 40 mpg 204-horsepower twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel alone, and so it has boosted the show car's engine to 241 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. They've also applied an array of their appearance upgrades including a front splitter, rear spoiler, and a bigger wheel/tire package. The body has been dropped 30 millimeters, which should help compensate a bit for the extra drag of the light bar on the roof. Inside, racing seats and carbon fiber trim are accompanied by a cover for the iDrive knob that matches the wheel design.

We'll pass on the light bar and the graphics, but take the rest of the car, please. Not sure about it yourself? Take a look at the high-res gallery below and a video available after the jump.


Gallery: AC Schnitzer BMW 123d police package


[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Continue reading Essen 2009: AC Schnitzer gives BMW 123d the police package treatment [w/VIDEO]

Essen 2009: AC Schnitzer gives BMW 123d the police package treatment [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The future of Sauber F1 looks a little more secure. After BMW's announcement earlier this year that it would withdraw from its involvement in Formula one at the end of the 2009, the automaker has reached a deal to sell the team back to eponymous founder Peter Sauber.

The new deal comes just days after it became clear that the previously unknown Qadbak investment company that had a deal to buy the team may have in fact been nothing more than a scam. According to previous reports, Qadbak apparently just wanted to collect Sauber's share of the F1 commercial money.

Peter Sauber has apparently raised the financing to buy back the team he sold to BMW in 2005 although the announcement does not disclose the purchase price. The team is being restructured in accordance with new F1 rules designed to bring down costs, and the staff at team headquarters will be cut from the current 388 to 250, with the first batch of layoff notices landing in inboxes today.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW reaches agreement to sell F1 team back to founder Peter Sauber

BMW reaches agreement to sell F1 team back to founder Peter Sauber originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwBMW F1bmw f1 withdrawalbmw formula 1Bmw sauberbmw sauber f1bmw sauber f1 teamBMW-SauberBmwF1BmwF1WithdrawalBmwFormula1BmwSauberBmwSauberF1BmwSauberF1Teampeter sauberPeterSaubersauberSauber F1sauber f1 saleSauberF1SauberF1SaleFri, 27 Nov 2009 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW continues curtailing racing programs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/bmw-continues-curtailing-racing-programs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/bmw-continues-curtailing-racing-programs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/bmw-continues-curtailing-racing-programs/#commentsFiled under: ,


BMW 320si WTCC, BMW-Sauber F1.07 and Formula BMW FB02 - Click above for high-res image gallery

What would BMW be without racing? We could be about to find out if recent developments are any indication. The Bavarian automaker competed in F1, the World Touring Car Championship and various sportscar series, while running its own Formula BMW feeder series that has helped breed such talents as Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg and Sebastian Vettel. The automaker announced its withdrawal from Formula One at the end of this year, and reports now indicate that they'll be severely curtailing their participation in the World Touring Car Championship as well.

BMW mounted a concerted comeback effort in the WTCC this year, only to narrowly lose out again to SEAT. Whether the decision is directly related to the upset or not is unclear, but reports out of Europe say that BMW will be reducing the number of its cars in the championship next year from five to two. That means eliminating the national teams system it had in place, consolidating and putting its WTCC-spec 320si in the hands of Team Schnitzer (the erstwhile BMW Team Germany), which gains triple champion Andy Priaulx from BMW Team UK to partner with multiple race winner Augusto Farfus. Two-time CART champion and double amputee Alex Zanardi, who was racing for BMW Team Italy-Spain, is moving to the Superstars Series. (Touring car fans should also note that SEAT's 2008 champion Yvan Muller is moving to Chevrolet to replace the retiring former F1 driver Nicola Larini.)

What remains to be seen is whether BMW will continue cutting its racing activities in other series as well, or if they'll have cut enough expenditures from their F1 and WTCC programs to let its sportscar programs and Formula BMW survive the cutbacks.


Gallery: BMW 320si WTCC


[Source: OmniAuto.it]

BMW continues curtailing racing programs originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex zanardiAlexZanardiandy priaulxAndyPriaulxaugusto farfusAugustoFarfusbmwbmw 320sibmw wtccBmw320siBmwWtccnicola lariniNicolaLariniworld touring car championshipWorldTouringCarChampionshipwtccyvan mullerYvanMullerFri, 27 Nov 2009 15:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: New BMW 6 Series cabrio caught, reveals no more flying buttresses]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/spy-shots-new-bmw-6-series-cabrio-caught-reveals-no-more-flyin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/spy-shots-new-bmw-6-series-cabrio-caught-reveals-no-more-flyin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/27/spy-shots-new-bmw-6-series-cabrio-caught-reveals-no-more-flyin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

It looks like the lakes around Arvidsjaur Sweden have frozen early this year and the engineers from Munich have hit the ice already. The current generation BMW 6 Series has been one of the company's more controversial designs of the past decade, along with the previous-generation 7 Series and Z4. Like most of the rest of the lineup, it will be getting a re-work in the not-too-distant future, and judging from some new photos, it will be following a similar design direction to other recent introductions.

It looks like the bustle back trunk lid (a.k.a. "The Bangle Butt") is being given the heave-ho, although the convertible that was spotted looks like it might be sporting a two-piece rear lid similar to the 5 Series Gran Turismo. It also appears as though there are two cut-lines, the lower one being the one that goes along the side to open for the top to go up and down. The second smaller one higher up might be just for cargo access.

Another element that some will be to see go are the flying buttresses on the top. Thankfully, it appears that BMW has decided to avoid the unnaturally long rear deck that would come with a hard top and retained the fabric variety. At the front, the 6 gets a more vertical grille and headlights that look much like the Z4.

Underhood, the current 4.8-liter V8 will probably be replaced by the newer 4.4-liter twin-turbo and the six-cylinder will probably be the new 300-horsepower single turbo unit just announced for the 5 Series.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Spy Shots: New BMW 6 Series cabrio caught, reveals no more flying buttresses originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Piece Brosnan with the BMW Z8 in The World is Not Enough

You wouldn't know it if you weren't a serious film buff or marketing exec, but Propaganda GEM is responsible for a big share of the products you see placed in films. The entertainment marketing agency represents such brands as Audi, Lamborghini, Nokia, Panasonic, Bang & Olufsen and Casio, to name just a few. And it has a new client: the BMW Group.

Following such films as I, Robot and Iron Man, Propaganda has helped Audi significantly increase its profile in Hollywood. But the agency will be terminating its 13-year relationship with Audi (and, we'd expect, Lambo along with them) in order to take on BMW (together with Mini, Rolls-Royce and BMW motorcycles), spearheading a new marketing initiative for the Bavarian automaker.

Having temporarily stolen the James Bond spotlight from Aston Martin and Lotus in the mid-Nineties and launched The Hire film short series in 2001, BMW is no stranger to product placement, but the tie-in with Propaganda promises to take things to the next level. Apparently Munich's marketing budget has increased recently, thanks in large part to the termination of the company's Formula One program this year. BMW's sponsorship of the 2012 Olympic Games in London will only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg, as we can expect to see its products and those of its subsidiaries in more movies, television shows, music videos and video games in the near future. Thanks for the tip, Adam!

[Source: Variety]

REPORT: BMW using money saved from F1 pullout for more product placement originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>007Bimmerbmwbmw product placementBmwProductPlacementJames bondJamesBondmarketingPierce BrosnanPierceBrosnanproduct placementProductPlacementpropagandapropaganda agencypropaganda gemPropagandaAgencyPropagandaGemworld is not enoughWorldIsNotEnoughTue, 24 Nov 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/bmw-5-series-2011-sedan-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/bmw-5-series-2011-sedan-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/bmw-5-series-2011-sedan-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 BMW 5 Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 5 Series is an important model for BMW, particularly in North America where it's the brand's second best seller behind the 3 Series. Heading into 2010, BMW has expanded its mid-size line with the new Gran Turismo body style already on sale. However, the volume leader for the 5 Series is the four-door sedan, which officially debuts today. The 2011 model transitions to a new platform architecture shared with the latest 7 Series as well as the upcoming Rolls-Royce Ghost. The 5 Series sedan gets a four-inch shorter wheelbase than its siblings, but at 116.9 inches, it still stretches well past its competition. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class runs a mere 113.1 inches between its axles and the Cadillac CTS is 113.4 inches.

From a technical perspective, the new 5 Series picks up much of what can be found in the 7 Series and the Gran Turismo. Read on after the jump to learn more about it.

UPDATE: Nine videos added and more images uploaded into gallery.


Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan

Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m3bmw m3 gtsbmw m3 sedanBmwM3BmwM3GtsBmwM3Sedanm awardMAwardmotogprossivalentinovalentino rossiValentinoRossiThu, 19 Nov 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series hybrid spotted in Munich]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-hybrid-spotted-in-munich/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-hybrid-spotted-in-munich/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-hybrid-spotted-in-munich/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW 1 Series Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the launch of the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid, officials acknowledged the automaker would be producing several additional hybrid models in the near future. Rumors have been floating around that the new 5 Series - due to launch in 2010 - will get the same mild hybrid system going into the ActiveHybrid 7 and its crossover counterpart, but what about BMW's smaller offerings?

Testing near Munich, a BMW 1 Series mule was caught wearing "Hybrid Test Vehicle" badging, proving that BMW's hybrid system won't be used exclusively on its larger models. Given the small size of the 1, this will undoubtedly use a version of the same mild hybrid system, a modular setup that has the motor/generator sandwiched between the engine and transmission with a compact lithium ion battery in the rear.

The 1 Series hybrid will take on the production version of the Lexus LF-Ch concept recently shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show when it hits the market in late 2011 or early 2012. The Lexus is similar in size to the 1er, but will only be offered as a hybrid, while the 1 will retain conventional powertrain options. There's no word whether the Lexus or the 1 Series Hybrid will make it onto U.S. shores, but if both automakers plan to recoup development expenses, sales in North America are almost assured.


Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series Hybrid


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series hybrid spotted in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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