Autoblog

2013 BMW 750Li [w/video]

Matt Davis — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, BMW, First Drives, New Car Reviews, Luxury

Bavarian Hustler Gets Solid Update Including Stunning New iDrive

For a while now, the absolute and rather uncontested king of big luxury executive sedan sales worldwide has been the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Among the obvious competition, there has been an almost unspoken agreement that this is so, and that it shall remain so for our lifetimes. Clearly, this is regardless of the fact that the motoring press - i.e. we the so-called "experts" - have generally preferred this generation of Audi A8/S8, or the sporting BMW 7 Series in its various trims. But hey, what do we know?

Deliveries of this midlife-update BMW 750Li to US dealers began back at the end of September, and we waited deliberately until now to delve deeply into it. Visually, aside from some small aesthetic changes, there is little difference on the surface between this 2013 model and the 2012 model it replaces, the main change being that it gets the latest edition of BMW's iDrive system, which in software terms is version 4.2.

We'll get to that, but there have actually been upgrades to the twin-turbocharged V8 ("N63B44" to those in the know) that renders this big Bimmer more of a sports car in its class, even in the long-wheelbase form tested here. Output is up by over eleven percent to 443 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, torque now stands at 479 pound-feet for a more modest gain of just under seven percent between 2,000 and 4,500 revs. Acceleration to 60 miles per hour is claimed at 4.7 seconds using the eight-speed Steptronic automatic, a time that seems almost freakishly quick for a 4,660-pounder that stretches 17.1 feet from bumper to bumper.

Continue reading 2013 BMW 750Li [w/video]

2013 BMW 750Li [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW adds iDrive Touch and 3D maps to latest generation infotainment system [w/video]

John Neff — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, BMW, Luxury, Infotainment

BMW claims to have been the first carmaker to offer an in-dash navigation system all the way back in 1994 on its 7 Series. It was also arguably the first automaker to experience the backlash that comes with poor user interface design when it introduced the iDrive system in 2001. Nav systems today have trickled down to cars costing a fraction of the 7 Series these days, and iDrive has matured to become a competitive infotainment platform among the luxury set. This week, BMW is unveiling the latest generation of its infotainment platform that includes so much more than just navigation and a clever master knob to control to it all.

Called BMW ConnectedDrive, the new system is marked by two big improvements. The first are new graphics for the entire system that feature black backgrounds and atmospheric lighting effects, as well as a new view option for maps called "3D City Models" for select locations.

The second improvement is the introduction of iDrive Touch, which is a touchpad interface like those first used on some Audi models that's embedded on the top of BMW's familiar iDrive rotary knob controller. Measuring 45mm in diameter, the touchpad can be used not only for inputting characters, but also features a pinch-to-zoom function when viewing maps and will soon have the ability to control a cursor when BMW makes a browser function available. iDrive Touch will launch this month in China, where the input's gesture control method works particularly well with that language's thousands of characters, and then go on to appear in all other markets a year later.

Continue reading BMW adds iDrive Touch and 3D maps to latest generation infotainment system [w/video]

BMW adds iDrive Touch and 3D maps to latest generation infotainment system [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Getting intimate with Mini Connected

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Videos, Hatchback, Mini, Long-Term Garage, Infotainment

We've being living with our long-term Mini Countryman Cooper S All4 for a little over two months, but we haven't spent much time on one of the most often used - and complex - bits of the car.

Mini Connected is essentially a reworked version of BMW iDrive for the Mini line-up. The system uses the same architecture and a tweaked user interface to provide drivers with a range of entertainment, connectivity and infotainment functionalities. Some components from iDrive have carried over, most notably a multidirectional joystick in place of the standard knob found in most BMWs, while others have been completely redone for both the Mini aesthetic and the circular display mounted in the central speedometer.

Drivers can connect their iPhone to the system over either Bluetooth or USB to take phone calls, stream Internet radio stations, play locally-stored music or listen to Pandora, along with using their data connection to see timelines on Twitter, Facebook and customizable RSS feeds. Include Google search and send-to-car functionality, and it's a pretty compelling package. But it's pricy.

If you opt for Mini Connected by itself, it's a $2,000 option, with the navigation functionality commanding an additional $750. That's a lotta scratch, but after using the system day-to-day, we're just about sold.

There's plenty going on with Mini Connected, so rather than assault you with a few thousand words, hit the jump for a detailed video review of the system in action.

Continue reading Getting intimate with Mini Connected

Getting intimate with Mini Connected originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: BMW's iDrive gets improved iPod functionality

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Videos, BMW

BMW's iDrive features for the iPod - Click above to watch video after the jump

One of the next steps to evolve BMW's iDrive into Connected Drive is increasing the communication the car has with peripherals. In this case, work is nearly complete on you being able to control your iPod Touch (and, we're guessing, your iPhone) and all of its applications using the same Apple interface on the car's console screen.

Not only might it make navigation of your music files easier, but it would make any application you download for your iPod Touch immediately usable in your Bimmer. BMW doesn't give much away in terms of how this all comes together, but does say that the feature will be available on BMW's as soon as early 2011. Follow the jump to see the vid.

Continue reading Video: BMW's iDrive gets improved iPod functionality

Video: BMW's iDrive gets improved iPod functionality originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2010 BMW X5 M is illogically sound

Jonny Lieberman — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 11:58:00 EST

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

2010 BMW X5 M - Click above for high-res image gallery

No one ever said that evolution is pretty. Take the best-of-breed BMW M Division product: the E30 M3. Little more than a homologated race car, the first generation M3 was potent, nimble, and with its small displacement 2.3-liter inline-four fed by a retweaked M1 intake, it was light, too. Long story short, the OG M3 remains an ideal performance car.

Today, we have the X5 M. Looking at the bright blue truckish thing parked in the driveway, it's difficult - if not impossible - to see any sort of relation to BMW's vaunted and aforementioned M3 beyond its badges. You can't imagine what the missing link between the two might be. However, perhaps even mentioning the E30 M3 is being too puritanical. After all, very few vehicles could compare - let alone compete - with the street version of history's most winning road-race car. And you can bet your Roundel subscription that BMW will never competitively race an X5 M.

What then? It's not a newsflash, but the 2010 BMW X5 M doesn't remind you of sporty BMW products of yore. Of course, going back almost 25 years and looking at the first M3 through 1986-eyes, you would notice the hopped-up street car bears basically no resemblance whatsoever to BMW's hottie 1961 product, the Isetta 600. For those of you not up-to-date on your bubble car history, the Isetta 600 was a stretched, four-seat version of the 297cc, one-cylinder Iso-derived Isetta 300. The 600 featured a two-cylinder 0.6-liter moto engine and semi-trailing arm rear independent suspension. Actually come to think of it, the Isetta 600 and the E30 M3 at least shared a rear-suspension design. The X5 M then, in terms of BMW's history, is truly an alien from another world. A world where family haulers thrash muscle cars for pinks. But does any of that matter? Are companies not free to reinvent themselves, especially here in America, where the X5 M is built? Perhaps most importantly, is the X5 M any good, let alone worthy of the vaunted M badge? Make the jump to find out.

Gallery: Review: 2010 BMW X5 M

Continue reading Review: 2010 BMW X5 M is illogically sound

Review: 2010 BMW X5 M is illogically sound originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Next Big Debate: Hardware or software?

Dan Roth — Fri, 21 May 2010 16:33:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Technology, Audi, BMW, Ford, GM, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz

More tech in your car? Oh, that's inevitable. But automakers are trying to figure out the best way to implement it. There are two main architectures currently; tethered and embedded. Ford's SYNC is an example of a tethered tech-integration system that uses Bluetooth to connect to mobile devices consumers already own and carry with them. General Motors' OnStar system is an embedded setup that builds the technology into the car. Going forward, the consensus seems to be that we're going to see systems that combine elements of both.

A tethered system is typically less costly than an embedded alternative, and it works with equipment you already own and know how to use. Systems like Sync can extend the functionality of your gear and is an attractive option to tech-savvy consumers. The lower cost makes it possible to proliferate these kind of features into more models, instead of just being a high-end feature. However, embedded systems offer advantages of their own. With communications hardware built in to the vehicle, performance is more reliable, and safety can be enhanced by tying in to the vehicle's crash sensors and stability control to automatically call for help if it detects a severe accident.

True to the cliche, it seems that the young'ins are more comfortable with tethered systems, while older generations prefer embedded systems. OnStar is already starting to do this, opening up the system in Chevrolet Volt applications with a mobile app that lets drivers connect to their car even when they're away from it. The future likely holds a system that combines aspects of both, enhancing safety, beating back obsolescence and drawing on the strength of each technology to deliver the best experience as cars continue to become more sophisticated.

[Source: AutoObserver.com]

The Next Big Debate: Hardware or software? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 May 2010 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RIM and BMW collaborate on iDrive-controlled BlackBerry integration [w/video]

Noah Joseph — Tue, 04 May 2010 15:32:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, BMW

BMW iDrive BlackBerry connectivity - Click above to view the video after the jump

Research In Motion has been hard at work bringing new ways to integrate the functionality of its BlackBerry devices into the automobile. We recently brought you news of RIM's acquisition of QNX Software Systems, but before that partnership comes to fruition, several automakers (most recently including Ford, for example) have been working with the Canadian electronics firm - now one of the top five mobile phone-makers in the world - to bring the BlackBerry into the cabin in a distraction-free manner.

The latest collaboration revolves around BMW's iDrive system, which has now been linked up with the BlackBerry to provide limited functionality while behind the wheel. Connecting through Bluetooth, the iDrive controller will now be able to read email messages aloud to the driver and occupants, and initiate calls either from the email sender or from the phone's contact list, displayed on the dash-top screen. The feature is being rolled out first on the new Pearl 3G, but is slated to arrive to all new devices running the new BlackBerry 6 mobile operating system.

Follow the jump to watch a video of the feature in action, as demonstrated on a 335is.

[Source: Phone Scoop via Engadget]

Continue reading RIM and BMW collaborate on iDrive-controlled BlackBerry integration [w/video]

RIM and BMW collaborate on iDrive-controlled BlackBerry integration [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 May 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW M3 facelift revealed, along with new hue

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:34:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, BMW

Click either image for a high-res gallery of the 2009 BMW M3.

We've only had a few months to get to know the new BMW M3, but the 2009 model has already gone under the knife. For 2009, the M3 sedan gets the revised taillights that originally debuted on the 328i and 335i, but the nip and tuck up front won't carry over as the M3's fascia different from its lesser siblings.

In addition to the new iDrive controller that's filtering down from the 7-series, the 2009 M3 will be offered in a new color, Le Mans Blue, which has only been available on other models.

Check out the gallery to scope out all the revisions.

Thanks to all who tipped in.

Gallery: 2009 BMW M3 Facelift

[Source: M3Post]

BMW M3 facelift revealed, along with new hue originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 BMW 3 Series unveiled

Alex Nunez — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:49:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Wagon, Europe, BMW

Click above for 40 hi-res images of the freshened 3 series

BMW has unveiled photos and details pertaining to the facelifted, Euro-spec 2009 3 Series sedan and wagon. We touched on the visual updates yesterday, but to recap, the car sports a revised front fascia, a new hood, restyled mirrors, and reshaped taillamps. The changes are subtle, but good. Inside, the new iDrive trickles down to the 3, which also gets BMW ConnectedDrive in-car internet, as well as an 80-gig hard drive. The 3 Series sedans and wagons are available with 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The 7-speed DCT doesn't make it into the four- and five-doors at this time, but it becomes available on the 335i coupe and convertible. Read on after the jump as we run down the model variants and engine offerings.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 3 Series

[Source: BMW | Photos: BMW via BMW Blog]

Continue reading 2009 BMW 3 Series unveiled

2009 BMW 3 Series unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 09:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: 2009 BMW 7 Series

Alex Nunez — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 17:45:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, BMW

Click above for a high-res gallery of the new 7 Series

BMW has officially announced the details pertaining to the 5th generation 7 Series, so let's cut right to the chase. In Europe, there are five models arriving on the market in November of this year: the 730d; the 740i and Li; and the 750i and Li. The latter two are powered by the same twin-turbo 4.4L V8 that debuted in the X6. In the U.S.-market 7 Series, the turbo eight is rated at 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, and it is the sole engine option being made available. If you want a BMW 7 Series in America, it will be a 750.

Europeans get more choices. The 730d's 3.0L diesel I6 pumps out 245 horses with nearly 400 lb-ft of torque. Despite the grunt, it boasts a combined fuel economy number of 32.6 U.S. miles per gallon (39.2 Imperial). The 740 models are powered by the now-familiar 3.0L twin-turbo gasoline engine. In the 7, the 3.0TT's power output is 326 horses and 332 lb-ft -- enough to hustle the 740Li from 0 to 62 mph in six seconds flat. All the engines are connected to a six-speed automatic. Follow the jump for more details and BMW's official press release.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

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Officially Official: 2009 BMW 7 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next BMW iDrive to take cues from Audi's MMI

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:32:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, I.C.E., BMW

We've already gotten a sneak peak of what the 2009 BMW 7-series will look like on the outside ahead of its official launch, but the interior - and iDrive in particular - is still veiled in a cloak of secrecy. However, Bimmerfile has supposedly gotten the inside dope on the new multi-function brushed aluminum mole.

According to Bimmerfile, the new iDrive interface will take a cue from one of our favorite in-dash control units - Audi's MMI - with a new interface that has a similar list design and selection system. The screen resolution is higher, which makes the maps and text "more visually appealing" and the submenus are reportedly "more like bookmarks," which should facilitate an easier flow of information.

The new display will also allow show maps in full screen, rather than the split screen in the previous version of iDrive, and radio and CD functions are now available in two separate menus. When playing a CD, the current song will be displayed in a "frame" at the top of the screen, with the list of tracks shown below it.

The major revision, aside from a new phonebook contact list that allows for multiple numbers, is the date, time and radio station bar migrating from the iDrive screen into a central mounted display nestled between the two gauges on the dash. This is one feature that Audi's MMI has had for a few years and is a very welcome addition to the new iDrive. We'll hopefully have official information about the new system in a few days.

[Source: Bimmerfile]

Next BMW iDrive to take cues from Audi's MMI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW to add further features, complications, to iDrive

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 13:47:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Technology, BMW

These days, technology and customization go hand-in-hand. Laptop computers and MP3 players now come in a rainbow of colors and your computer's operating system can be made to suit your unique preferences. BMW has big plans in store for its oft-criticized iDrive system which would make it and the vehicle in which it's installed extremely customizable as well. Simple choices such as color schemes and screensavers for the iDrive's graphical user interface pale in comparison to the ability to adjust transmission shift points and engine boost levels in an effort to either increase fuel economy or improve overall performance. Multiple users will be able to make their own adjustments and save their settings and the car will know the driver based on which key fob is in close proximity.

There are way too many new features planned for iDrive than there is space in this post to display them. For the complete and exhaustive rundown, click here. Thankfully, changes will be accessible from a web-enabled computer, which should simplify the in-car user interface somewhat. Rest assured, though, BMW's iDrive, already overcomplicated in the opinion of many, won't be disappearing from its dash-mounted perch anytime soon. Thanks for the tip, gear_shift!

[Source: BimmerFile]

BMW to add further features, complications, to iDrive originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 13:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW gets in bed with Google Maps for MyInfo

Michael Harley — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:30:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, BMW

Promising to make automotive navigation systems "easier, faster, and more convenient to use," BMW is (finally) rolling out its Google-partnered "Myinfo" service in North America (Europeans received BMW's similar "ConnectedDrive" late last year). With a click of a mouse from the Google Maps web site on your computer, up to 10 destinations may be automatically sent to the navigation system of the BMW Assist-equipped model (yes, there is no need to use the iDrive controller to painstakingly plug them in). The telemetry may be sent while the vehicle is parked, or while driving if you have shared your Myinfo data with a relative, friend, or co-worker.

BMW is making Myinfo exclusive to the 2008 BMW X6 right now, however it plans to roll it out across the lineup in 2009. Inputting address and destination data into any navigation system has always been grievous, so we welcome any technology that allows remote, one-click, uploading. BMW's system joins the upcoming eNav feature for GM's OnStar service, which works with MapQuest instead of Google Maps.

Hit the jump for BMW's full press release and a brief video of the system in action.

[Source: BMW North America]

Continue reading BMW gets in bed with Google Maps for MyInfo

BMW gets in bed with Google Maps for MyInfo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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M5's traction control 'off' switch nixed for a reason

Damon Lavrinc — Sat, 27 Jan 2007 10:17:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Technology, BMW

When Automobile got their paws on a six-speed manual version of the M5, they were none too pleased that BMW's engineers wouldn't allow drivers to fully disable the traction control. At the time, we assumed that BMW's legal boffins pictured overly enthusiastic Americans, stomping the go pedal and promptly winding up in a ditch.

Not so, according to Car. The magazine learned that the M division had no way of controlling clutch plate actuation, which would normally quell the axle tramp caused by the V10's prodigious power delivery. Acceleration times would rise and drivetrain components' lifetimes would fall. Hence, the only conceivable solution was to make the DSC a permanent fixture within the Bimmer's brain.

Still, you can partly disable the system in M Dynamic mode within iDrive (if you dare), but that may not be enough for those who want to test the limits of adhesion of the 285s in the rear.

[Source: Car]

M5's traction control 'off' switch nixed for a reason originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Jan 2007 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Build a better iDrive, get $5m in venture capital

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 12 Oct 2006 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Etc.

From CNN Money's Business 2.0 Magazine, we've learned of a proposal that is anything but indecent. Business 2.0 asked several venture capitalists what projects they would like to fund. Knowing this can be a touchy subject, they were pleasantly surprised to get some of the VCs to divulge their pet projects. The result is an interesting list of 20 business ideas, including websites, applications, batteries and even a luxury housing development. The one that naturally caught our "i" was a call for a next generation iDrive type computer interface that would utilize a heads-up display system. If you think you can build a better mouselesstrap, there could be a cool $5 mil in it for you and your team.

Investors Jonathan Fram and Howard Schultz, of Maveron, are willing to part with five million dollars for an "in-dash computer with a keyboard built into the steering wheel and a full-screen heads-up display projected on the windshield." The technology behind the system, laser or cathode-ray tubes that convert pixels into projected light, has been around for 30 years. Jet fighter pilots use it to read cockpit data without taking their eyes off the ~~road~~ sky. Commercial pilots use it too, and automakers have tried it with mixed results.

Projected displays don't distract drivers as much as cell phones or dashboard controls, and research has shown that our eyes can handle projected displays and the road much easier than refocusing between the road and the dashboard. Fram and Schultz (who helped create Starbucks) think that with the increasing technological needs of today's drivers and the obvious safety advantage of not having to take your eyes off the road, there is enough of a market for a functional system that $5 million is just a drop in the bucket. If you think you have a "deeply qualified 20-person team" that can deliver a prototype, as well as a plan to promote a commercial version to automakers in the next three years, the $5 million could be yours. Follow the read link for details.

[Source: CNN Money via Foursprung]

Build a better iDrive, get $5m in venture capital originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Oct 2006 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No iDrive for the MINI and there was much rejoicing

Damon Lavrinc — Sat, 30 Sep 2006 07:54:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Hatchback, Mini

Mr. Paukert, our compatriot at Winding Road, was able to abduct a few BMW execs in Paris and beat them with stale baguettes until they finally put to rest rumors of an iDrive-like interface finding its way into the new MINI.

Since a touch screen setup was nixed due to design and placement issues, the joystick you see south of the shifter is there to control all facets of the new MINI's sat-nav. Furthermore, the crumb-encrusted execs made it clear that no aspect of iDrive's architecture will find its way into the iconic hatch, citing MINI owner's affection towards a (somewhat) simple, uncluttered motoring experience.

No iDrive for the MINI and there was much rejoicing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 Sep 2006 07:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MINI gets iDrive - uses joystick instead of dial

John Neff — Wed, 30 Aug 2006 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Technology, Hatchback, Mini

Motoring File is reporting that for 2007 the MINI will receive a new navigation system that is basically a slightly altered version of BMW's now infamous iDrive system. The iDrive controller will be a small joystick instead of BMW's trademark dial located directly behind the shifter. From there the driver will control a redesigned menu screen that can jump to "Entertainment", "Navigation", "Communication", and the setup screen. There is no link from the main menu to a climate control screen like in a BMW, however. MINI owners will still control the HVAC systems the old fashioned way,from the center console. In addition to interfacing with the system via the joystick, drivers will also be able to hit a button on the steering wheel and issue voice commands to the iDrive system like, "Stop being such a pain in the ass!" We kid, we kid.

[Source: Motoring File]

MINI gets iDrive - uses joystick instead of dial originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Aug 2006 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Photos: SMART ForTwo

Erin Mays — Sat, 17 Jun 2006 13:06:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Coupe, Budget, Europe, Government/Legal, Daimler, Smart

For those of you following the saga of SMART's progress towards infiltrating the U.S. more closely than the NBA Finals, these spy shots are for you. The soft-top Cabriolet and City Coupe pictured show that SMART's here to stay, at least for now. Refreshed head and tail lamps, a pedestrian-friendy nose, new and more aerodynamic mirrors, and door handles that fit flush with the door round out the updates to DaimlerChrysler's perennial problem child. Also be on the lookout for Mitsubishi's turbocharged three-banger -- despite the end of DaimlerChrysler's engine development relationship with Mitsubishi for projects such as this, the little car will still sport the diminuitive power plant, which it shares with the Mitsubishi i.

[Source: Channel4]

Spy Photos: SMART ForTwo originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Jun 2006 13:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW named top brand for telematics

Chris Paukert — Sun, 30 Apr 2006 19:04:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Trends, Technology, BMW, Cadillac, Infiniti, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz

According to the Telematics Research Group (TRG), the crafty engineers at BMW are the most technologically savvy bunch selling cars in North America-- at least as far as telematics go. The upscale Bavarian marque headed the TRG Automotive Technology Index thanks to its range of available "key telematics, infotainment and driver assist technology." Composed of 30 different metrics in six categories, BMW edged Mercedes-Benz and Cadillac to take the top spot, with Infiniti and Lexus rounding out the top five.

Advances in driver assist technology like lane-departure warning systems and adaptive cruise control have largely been introduced in brand flagships like BMW's 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz's S-Class, with features trickling down to the rest of the lineup as time goes on.

That said, innovations like BMW's all-in-one metallic porkpie hat (otherwise known as iDrive) have had their share of detractors and glitches, with not everyone warming to the influx of electronics in their vehicles. Obviously, however, that hasn't deterred the brand from moving forward with various technological initiatives.

[Source: DrivingToday.com; AutoReview.ru]

BMW named top brand for telematics originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 30 Apr 2006 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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