Autoblog

Spy Video: 2012 BMW 3 Series running at the 'Ring

Steven J. Ewing — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 18:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Videos, BMW

2012 BMW 3 Series at the Nürburgring - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The 3 Series is BMW's bread-and-butter volume model, so with each new generation, the folks at Bayerische Motoren Werke have to be extra careful to keep the car's intrinsic goodness intact. Even though the all-new 3er isn't due to drop for a couple of years, we've already seen various prototypes out on the road in both sedan and wagon form, and when it comes time to do extensive track testing, a trip to the Nürburgring is always in order.

Instead of the usual gallery of spy shots, our friends over at E90Post.com have snagged video of the new 3 hitting the 'Ring, and it's nice to see that even in its development stages, the test drivers are showing the car no mercy at The Green Hell. It's still unclear what the new 3 Series will offer once it hits the road, but we're sure that the usual range of naturally aspirated and turbocharged sixes will be under the hood, as well as a rumored return of a four-cylinder mill in the U.S.

Follow the jump to see the spy video for yourself, and stay tuned for future spy shots as the new 3 Series strips away more of its swirly camouflage.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 3 Series

[Source: E90Post, YouTube]

Continue reading Spy Video: 2012 BMW 3 Series running at the 'Ring

Spy Video: 2012 BMW 3 Series running at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 BMW 335i Sedan is what we've been missing

Zach Bowman — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Europe, BMW, New Car Reviews, Luxury

2010 BMW 335i Sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery

We like to think of ourselves as a voice of the people - a place for the proletariat of the interwebs who clamor for an honest take on the latest automotive hardware. To that end, we've always viewed the constant stream of fawning over BMW with something of a jaundice eye. We get it. The company builds good products, but does it really deserve wave after wave of gushing prose in every car magazine? Even more troubling, does the 3 Series deserve its honored position as the benchmark against which all other mid-sized sports sedans must be measured?

In a word, yes. We say that almost against our plebeian nature, but if you've come searching for a scathing tear-down of the bread-and-butter 3, best point your clickers elsewhere. After a full week with the 2010 BMW 335i sedan, we've come to understand why the bastions of auto-journodom have spent the last 10 years drinking the BMW Kool-Aid. It's just that good. Read on to find out why the latest 3 Series continues the tradition.

Gallery: Review: 2010 BMW 335i Sedan

Continue reading Review: 2010 BMW 335i Sedan is what we've been missing

Review: 2010 BMW 335i Sedan is what we've been missing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Touring closer to hauling into showrooms

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 25 May 2010 15:28:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Wagon, BMW

BMW 3 Series Touring spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 3 Series is perhaps the most important vehicle in BMW's lineup, and though the automaker has given it a few minor tweaks for the 2011 model year (fascia nip/tuck, new N55 single-turbo mill), an all-new version is in the works for 2012. We've seen photos of the next-generation sedan all covered in BMW's signature swirly paper, but our spies have just caught the ~~wagon~~ Touring version of the new 3er roaming around European streets, as well. Aside from the obvious addition of a more capacious boot, not much should differ between the 3 Series sedan and wagon when it hits showrooms, which figures to feature a range of new engines and a design more akin to that of the F10 5 Series and new Z4.

We're sure that the new 3 Series Touring will fare well in European markets, but it's unclear how the wagon will be received here in the States, especially since BMW is rumored to be working on a 3 Series Gran Turismo - similar to the 5 Series GT that launched earlier this year. However, the 5GT's slow initial sales numbers may cause BMW to rethink its product planning, and the new 3 wagon will be perfectly poised to do battle with the likes of the Audi A4 Avant and Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon, as well as the new TSX Sport Wagon from Acura which will be arriving in early 2011.

No word yet on when we'll see the production version of the next-generation 3 Series, though we certainly won't rule out a possible debut at this year's Paris Motor Show. For now, click through the gallery below to see the 3 Series Touring showing off its new rump.

Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Touring

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Touring closer to hauling into showrooms originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 May 2010 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Confirmed, Again: Next BMW 3 Series to gain hybrid version

Zach Bowman — Tue, 18 May 2010 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Europe, Japan, Technology, BMW, Luxury

When we first saw the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 Concept and its conceptual 5 Series sibling, we immediately got the sneaking suspicion that the car wouldn't be the last Bavarian with a battery pack. Now it looks like the 3 Series will be the next in the company's stable to get the electric motor treatment. While speaking with shareholders, BMW head-honcho Norbert Reithofer let it slip that we'll be seeing a hybrid version of the company's bread and butter 3 Series fairly soon. When is that, exactly? It's hard to judge from Reithofer's statement, but given that the 5 Series hybrid is slated for sale next year, we would guess the tech-laded 3 will pop up in 2012.

BMW says that its biggest motivation for spreading hybrid tech amongst its models isn't emissions standards. Instead, the German manufacturer said that demand in Japan spurred the move. According to Reithofer, most Japanese consumers won't take the time to look at a brand unless there are multiple hybrid options on the showroom floor.

While the move is mostly sales based, it won't hurt the company's goal of cutting CO2 emissions by 25 percent between now and 2020.

[Source: Autocar]

Confirmed, Again: Next BMW 3 Series to gain hybrid version originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 May 2010 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mirror In The Bathroom: BMW Canada starts sexy new ad campaign to promote 3 Series Coupe [w/video]

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 13 May 2010 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Marketing/Advertising, Technology, BMW, Canada, Luxury

Imagine this: You're in a public restroom, tidying up in front of the mirror, and you notice a message (written in red lipstick, of course) that says, "I'll make your heart pound," or, "My body is absolutely stunning." You'd want to learn more, right? BMW of Canada is hoping that men between the ages of 25 and 45 will agree, as the automaker will be launching a new ad campaign for the 3 Series Coupe using AddMirror technology that will display these risqué messages in public restroom mirrors across the country.

So, how does it work? As a patron approaches the mirror, motion detectors sense the person's movement and displays a sequence of messages urging readers to send text messages for photos of the subject leaving the flirtatious notes. When BMW receives the text, a link is sent back, leading readers to a landing page with downloadable beauty shots of the 3 Series Coupe, under the headline, "We were made for each other." Ooh la la!

The marketing campaign runs until May 16th in different venues throughout Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. For the full listing, BMW's press release is available after the jump, as is a video that shows the AddMirror technology at work.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Mirror In The Bathroom: BMW Canada starts sexy new ad campaign to promote 3 Series Coupe [w/video]

Mirror In The Bathroom: BMW Canada starts sexy new ad campaign to promote 3 Series Coupe [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 May 2010 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GSR Autosport BMW 350R: Part IV - Our inaugural event begins with a drift, a snap and a shatter

Michael Harley — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, BMW, Specialty, Racing

GSR Autosport 350R - Click above to watch the progress of the season

Formula DRIFT is recognized as the North American professional drifting championship series. Autoblog has been invited behind-the-scenes with GSR Autosport, and their driver Michael Essa, as the team builds, tests and campaigns an all-new V10-powered BMW 350R during the 2010 racing season. This is the fourth installment in our series (see Part I, Part II and Part III) as we follow the team throughout the development, testing and race season.

The wail of BMW's V10 bouncing off the limiter at redline is deafening - especially coming out of two straight pipes - so it's unlikely that anyone heard the steel lower control arm on the front right of the 350R shatter. Michael Essa, manning the M5-powered 3 Series, certainly didn't. The run had been going well, just like the ones before it, when all of a sudden the BMW unexpectedly snapped off its line and careened directly into the tire barrier at speed. The incident would wreak havoc on our debut weekend at Formula Drift.

Gallery: GSR Autosport BMW 350R

Continue reading GSR Autosport BMW 350R: Part IV - Our inaugural event begins with a drift, a snap and a shatter

GSR Autosport BMW 350R: Part IV - Our inaugural event begins with a drift, a snap and a shatter originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2011 BMW 335is - Munich finally builds a special one for U.S.

Chris Paukert — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, BMW

2011 BMW 335is - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's fair to say that few automobiles have ridden atop their segment for as long as the BMW 3 Series has managed. Admittedly, there have been occasional frights from other German automakers or the odd Asian upstart, but it's as if Munich's engineers long ago brokered some sweetheart deal with the devil, so total has been the range's dominance. All of which has made it particularly tough for U.S. enthusiasts, as we've seen seemingly dozens of tempting higher performance specials and intriguingly efficient offerings pop up over in Europe and elsewhere, yet these models never seem to make their way into U.S. showrooms. Forgive us, then, for being slightly giddy at the prospect of this 335is, the first North American exclusive 3 Series in, well... eons.

Based on the freshly facelifted sixth-generation 3 Series, the 2011 335is will be available in both coupe and folding hardtop convertible forms beginning this spring - but we just couldn't wait that long to get behind the wheel. Thankfully, BMW was kind enough to slip us the keys to a pre-production example on Portugal's Estoril raceway as a dessert course of sorts at the launch of their new 5 Series sedan. Follow the jump to read our full slate of impressions.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 BMW 335is

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 BMW 335is - Munich finally builds a special one for U.S.

First Drive: 2011 BMW 335is - Munich finally builds a special one for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 BMW 3 Series M-Sport images surface

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, BMW, Luxury

2011 BMW 3 Series M-Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Bimmerfile has snagged shots of the M Sport package available on the 2011 BMW 3 Series coupe and convertible, and similar to the recent refresh, the changes are subtle, but even more effective. The lines on the front bumper follow the same form as on the current M Sport package, but are notably sharper, and the lower opening appears slightly larger. Out back, the current vehicle's single exhaust pipe at each corner gets switched to a dual pipe on the left side, and a new wheel design is fitted at each corner. Inside will be the usual M-badged steering wheel and shifter, along with an anthracite headliner. All the details are due to be revealed soon, likely at the Geneva Motor Show.

Gallery: 2011 BMW 3 Series M-Sport

[Source: Bimmerfile]

2011 BMW 3 Series M-Sport images surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #162 - Paukert Redux

Dan Roth — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:17:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Podcasts, BMW, Bugatti, Chevrolet, Ford, GM, Ferrari, Design/Style

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

He won't admit it, but Editor Paukert is fully addicted to joining us on the Podcast. He sat in again with Chris, Sam and Dan for Episode #162 of the Autoblog Podcast, and there was much rejoicing. First up, Ed Whitacre's somewhat inscrutable claims about the Chevrolet Volt's pricing and profitability. Staying with talk of prices, we move on to mooted pricing figures for the 2011 Ford Mustang. Staying in Dearborn, we touch on the likelihood that a version of the Ford F-150 will replace the severely aged Ford Ranger. Adding some spice, we head to the Mediterranean to discuss Ferrari 458 Italia pricing, and stay on the Continent to consider Bugatti Veyron operating costs. Updates round it out, with the updated-for-2011 BMW 3 Series and SMax/Galaxy tweaks bookending some talk of the just-unveiled 2011 Shelby GT350. We wrap it all up with some of your questions and tie a bow on it at an hour-and-a-half. See you next week!

Until then, fill in with Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #162 - Paukert Redux

Autoblog Podcast #162 - Paukert Redux originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 13:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: BMW to launch 335iS coupe to slot in above new 335i, below M3

Noah Joseph — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, BMW, Luxury

2011 BMW 335i - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now that BMW has replaced the twin-turbo 335i with the new twin-scroll, direct injection model, the question everyone's been asking - and by everyone, we mean Bimmer fanatics - is what will happen to the outgoing N44 engine? The new N55 produces the same power and the same torque, but with a flatter curve that makes the grunt more accessible. Yet as every BMW tuner knows, the outgoing N44 has more potential. So the answer, according to reports, is BMW's plan to offer a new model dubbed the 335is.

Like the almost-an-M Z4 sDrive35is that debuted at the Detroit Auto Show last week, the new 335is is tipped to get a revised version of the twin-turbo inline-six, producing 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque (with overboost unleashing 369 lb-ft). Coupled with an M-Sport appearance package with a blacked-out grille and matching mirrors, and a choice of either six-speed manual or (for the first time outside of the M range) seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and you're looking at the hottest dreiwagen this side of an M3. The run from 0 to 60 is expected to be dispatched in five seconds flat, with a top speed limited to 149 mph instead of 130.

The best part, however, is that - according to reports and some leaked documents - the 335is is slated to launch in the North American market before being considered for anywhere else. Finally some payback for all those hot European models we've been longing for from the opposite shore.

Gallery: 2011 BMW 335i coupe and convertible

[Source: Autocar, E90Post]

Report: BMW to launch 335iS coupe to slot in above new 335i, below M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jan 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 BMW 3 Series coupe and convertible get refreshed, 335i gets single turbo

Sam Abuelsamid — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, BMW, Luxury

2011 BMW 3 Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

The next-generation BMW 3 Series isn't that far off, with the sedan expected to debut sometime in 2011 as a 2012 model. Yet the Munich brand isn't sitting on its hands in the meantime - the current 3 Series coupe and convertible are getting a mild refresh and updated powerplants this spring for the 2011 model year. The most immediately noticeable change are headlamp clusters that get a subtle reshaping to go along with a wider grille and reworked lower front fascia. At the rear, the taillamps retain the same shape, but the reflectors are redesigned with some of the light-pipe styling found in other recent Bimmers.

The 3 Series coupe will now be offered with xDrive all-wheel drive, while the 3 Series convertible gets a new solar reflective leather upholstery that BMW claims helps keep seat temperatures down when the lid is open.

The most significant updates come underhood, where the much lauded twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six is being replaced by a new single turbo version. The revised engine, dubbed N55, has recently been launched in the 740i and the 535i Gran Turismo. The twin scroll turbo has dual exhaust inlets that allow the engineers to better balance the pulses coming in to spin up the turbine faster. This is expected to reduce the turbo lag that some drivers complained about with the outgoing twin turbo setup.

BMW also claims it has reduced cold-start emissions by routing all the exhaust gases through a single, larger catalytic converter that heats up faster. On the intake side, the throttle is eliminated thanks to the addition of BMW's Valvetronic variable valve control system. The N55 also gets direct fuel injection. The end result is the same 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque as before, but with a fatter torque curve that maintains its peak from 1,200-5,000 rpm.

Gallery: 2011 BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading 2011 BMW 3 Series coupe and convertible get refreshed, 335i gets single turbo

2011 BMW 3 Series coupe and convertible get refreshed, 335i gets single turbo originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo caught swirling around?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Performance, Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

If you love the idea of the 5 Series Gran Turismo but don't want a vehicle quite that large, BMW's got something baking in the oven that you may very well be interested in: a 3 Series Gran Turismo. Just like its larger sibling, this wagon that's masquerading as anything other than a wagon will sport a fastback-like rear roof design that covers up a larger cargo hold than the standard 3's trunk.

It appears that the upcoming 3 Series Gran Turismo will be both longer and wider than the current 3, and that size advantage may carry over to the rest of the 3 Series line as well. Expect a predominantly aluminum chassis underneath the slinky new bodywork to help keep weight from escalating out of control.

BMW has made no mention of when the 3 Series GT might hit the market, but if it makes an appearance before the expected sedan, coupe and wagon versions of the next 3 - as was the case with the latest BMW 5 Series - we might see the fastback wagon sometime in 2012.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo caught swirling around? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 BMW 3 Series leaks out ahead of Detroit - special U.S. market performance model mooted

Michael Harley — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, BMW, Rumormill, Luxury

Don't expect an official confirmation from BMW for another week, but some of the automaker's anticipated updates to its 2011 E92/E93 (3 Series Coupe/3 Series Convertible) have already leaked into cyberspace. The team over at Bimmerfile is reporting that the exterior of both models will receive revised "sporty" front fascias, complete with LED lights and minor tweaks to the interior. Turbocharged 335i models optioned with either the M Sport Package or the standard Sport Package will be fitted with 19-inch alloys (a bump up from the current 18-inch offerings). Anthracite Bamboo trim will reportedly be a new interior option that will be joined by a new exterior color, and paddle shifters will be standard fare for vehicles without manual transmissions.

Keeping enthusiasts smiling, BMW will reportedly offer an "is" version of the refreshed two-door models. Exclusive to the U.S. market, the special variants are expected to be configured with either DCT or a Sport Automatic transmission. In addition, unique styling and special aerodynamic bits will differentiate them from the standard models. As expected, the interiors will be fitted with M Sport equipment as well. Best of all, the twin-turbocharged N54 under the hood will likely receive its own set of horsepower-boosting enhancements, much like those found on the recently announced Z4 sDrive35is.

[Source: BimmerFile]

2011 BMW 3 Series leaks out ahead of Detroit - special U.S. market performance model mooted originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Next generation BMW 3 Series pops up swathed in swirlies

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW

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

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

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

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 3 Series

[Photos: CarPix]

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

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REPORT: BMW to release 3 Series hatch similar to 5 Series GT

Dan Roth — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:57:00 EST

Filed under: Hatchback, BMW, Rumormill

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

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

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

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: Channel 4]

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

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REPORT: The future of the BMW 3 Series

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:26:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Sedan, Technology, BMW

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

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

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

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

[Source: AutoCar]

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

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

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Crossover, BMW, Luxury

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

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

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

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

Gallery: BMW 135i Official Shots

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

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

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

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Spy Shots: Early BMW 3-Series mule spotted testing

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW

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

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

[Source: Global Motors]

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

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Google Maps-powered BMW Search added to 1 and 3 Series

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:31:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Etc., Technology, BMW, Lifestyle

BMW Assist -- essentially the Bavarian's version of GM's OnStar -- has made BMW Search using Google Maps available on the 1 and 3 Series. Previously, it was only available on BMW models from the 5 series up. If you subscribe to the BMW Assist Convenience Plan, you can use BMW Search to find businesses, then input the information directly into the navigation system, or call with your Bluetooth phone over the service's AT&T Mobility Network (you don't need to have AT&T, though).

BMW Search joins BMW's MyInfo service, which allowed customers and businesses to send listings and street addresses directly to the car. BMW Assist is standard on 5, 6, and 7 Series, and included in the Premium Package or as a stand-alone option on all other models.

Continue reading Google Maps-powered BMW Search added to 1 and 3 Series

Google Maps-powered BMW Search added to 1 and 3 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW 335d will be released in November as 2009 model

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Green, Crossover, BMW

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

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

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

Gallery: 2009 BMW 3 Series

[Source: Kicking Tires]

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

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