Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 3 Series Shows up on a Flatbed
Here's our first look at what we can expect for the next BMW 3 Series, which is expected to debut in 2011 as a 2012 model. From these photos its clear that the proportions of the next 3 Series are not going to change much. The next-generation will also see the return of four-cylinder engines in the US market.
BMW has said in the past that the automaker has no plans to ever offer a front-wheel-drive, but it looks like that will soon change. It's being reported that BMW is currently working on a new line dubbed the 0 Series that will share its platform with the next generation MINI.
If the rumors are true, the 0 Series will hit showrooms by 2013 in three-door, five-door, and roadster versions.
Confirmed: 2011 BMW M5 Loses Two Cylinders and Gets Turbocharged V8
As expected, the next-gen BMW M5 is going to ditch its current 5.0L V10 engine for a smaller turbocharged V8.
BMW insiders have confirmed the change, but did not give any details about the V8. It's safe to assume that the M5 will be powered by the same turbocharged 4.4L V8 that is in the M versions of the X5 and X6. In the X5 and X6 it puts out 555 horsepower and 500 lb-ft. of torque.
Audi is also expected to drop its V10 engine from the RS6 for a turbocharged V8.
The BMW 5 Series GT has yet to reach showrooms, but BMW is already planning a GT version of the 3 Series. The 335i Gran Turismo will be released sometime in 2011 and will have a similar two-stage tailgate as the 5-Series GT. It's expected to be priced between the 3 Series and 5 Series. It's also possible that 4 and 5 seater versions will be produced with both diesel and gasoline engines. It's doubtful that an M3 version will be produced.
It's not yet known if the 3 Series GT will replace the 3-Series wagon in the US, since the 5 Series GT is expected to replace the 5 Series wagon here.
BMW Confirms the Return of 4-Cylinder Engines for the U.S.
Currently BMW does not offer a four-cylinder powered car in the US, while it does in the rest of the world. Well that will soon change with the 3-Series once again being offered with a four banger in the US by 2012.
BMW's U.S. chief Jim O'Donnell revealed in Frankfurt this week that BMW is planning on releasing new 4-cylinder engines in the US that will feature twin-turbocharging technology. BMW's goal is to release the four-cylinder powered 3-Series by spring of 2012.
Officially joining the Mini Coupe Concept in Frankfurt is the Mini Roadster Concept. The Mini Roadster is a two-seater with a chopped roofline and a more tilted windshield. Other than that the Roadster concept looks pretty much the same as the other Mini models currently being produced. In fact this concept is almost certainly the second new model Mini is going to produce in addition to the new coupe.
The front end of the roadster is identical to the convertible all the way until the a-pillar, where the roadster gets a more raked windhield. With the roof up the roadster has a more notchback look, further distinguishing it from the Mini convertible.
BMW is only a few thousand units behind sales leader Lexus, which could mean that there could be a new top-selling luxury brand in the US by the end of the year. Lexus has been in the number 1 spot for the past nine years.
"We're really breathing down Lexus' neck," said Jim O'Donnell, CEO of BMW Group's North American sales operation, during an Automotive Press Association luncheon Tuesday.
"We were slightly ahead of Lexus (in sales) until July," he said. "But we expect business to pick up and have a strong fourth quarter. We could catch them."
Through August BMW has sold 129,176 units compared to the 131,469 units Lexus has sold.
Yesterday Mini released the first official images of the Coupe Concept and now we have more shots of the concept that is going to be officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.
MINI Celebrates 50 Years...Unveils MINI Coupe Concept
Mini is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the the public debut of the original Mini. To celebrate 50 years, Mini has unveiled the MINI Coupe Concept, which takes the Mini style even further. The MINI Coupe Concept features only two seats, but as a more speedster style than the current Mini convertible. It has a more swept back windshield and a roof design that cuts out the rear seats. The concept is 146.2" long, 66.3" wide and 53.4" tall.
The MINI Coupe Concept is designed to accommodate even the most powerful of the Mini engines, the the 1.6L twin-scroll turbocharged unit from Mini John Cooper Works. It puts out 211-hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, which can be increased to 206 lb-ft for a short period.
At this point it's not known if the MINI Coupe Concept will enter production, but it will have its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month, in addition to the production version of the Mini crossover.
MINI to Unveil Crossman Crossover and Speedster This Week?
According to sources over at MotoringFile, BMW is set to unveil two new MINI models in Frankfurt next month. The MINI Speedster concept, which is a sportier alternative to the convertible Cooper is set to be unveiled at the show. In addition, the Crossman R60 crossover is also going to be at the show.
If the guys over at MotoringFile are correct, we should expect to see an online unveiling of the two models sometime this week.
BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer recently told Reuters that BMW is going to launch a series of electric vehicles under its own brand, which kills reports of a stand alone fourth brand being created.
Instead of creating a fourth brand, BMW's board has decided to create a sub-brand for the new vehicles, kind of like the M sub-brand that is used for BMW's performance vehicles.
BMW Celebrates MINI's 50th Anniversary at Frankfurt
It's MINI's 50th anniversary and BMW is set to show off two special edition models to celebrate the the event, the MINI 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.
In addition to the birthday editions over at the MINI stand, BMW is set to have the official world premiere of the Rolls-Royce Ghost. Additionally the full fleet of the BMW EfficientDynamics models will be shown off over at the BMW stand. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and BMW ActiveHybrid X6 will also premiere.
MINI USA has been trying to build a case to bring the diesel powered MINI to the US for some time now, but it looks like that isn't going to happen.
The main reason that we will not see a diesel powered MINI anytime soon has to do with costs. It would cost the automaker a significant investment to convert the European-spec diesel engine to US standards. Even if MINI were to charge 10-15% more for the diesel powered model, the automaker would still lose money. Charging 40-50% more would pay for the development costs, but who would actually buy it at that price? So it looks like we will have to wait another 4-5 years to get the diesel when the next-generation MINI is released.
Plans are still up in the air for an R60 based Cooper S D to make it to the US, but we'll see...
BMW's first hybrid, a hybrid version of the X6 is expected to be released by the end of the year. The X6 hybrid in these photos was caught near BMW's Spartenburg, SC plant.
The 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid is supposedly already rolling off the production line, which means we will start seeing it at dealers in the next few months. The X6's two-mode hybrid system is the same system used in GM's full-size hybrids and Chrysler's now dead Durango and Aspen hybrids. Although the system has been BMW-ized in the X6 hybrid. The system should improve mpg numbers by 20 percent over the regular X6. Prices are expected to start around $70k.
Upcoming MINI Crossover to be Dubbed the Countryman?
Spy photos of MINI's upcoming crossover, which is based on the also new BMW X1 have been all over the place lately. Although the crossover has been confirmed and is expected to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, we have yet to learn what the crossover is going to be named...until now. It looks like BMW AG (parent company of BMW and MINI) has officially registered the "Countryman" name for trademark for the new MINI crossover.
In the past the Countryman name was used for long-wheelbase versions of the Cooper in specific markets.
The Arrival of the BMW 5 Series GT May Signal the End of the 5 Series Wagon
Once the BMW 5 Series GT hits the US, it may jeopardize the existence of the 5 Series wagon in the US according to some BMW officials.
The BMW 5 Series wagon barely registers a blip on the radar and once the Gran Turismo is released the little demand for the wagon may be gone. No official decision has been made, but don't expect to see a wagon version of the next 5 Series on our shores.
After all the photo leaks yesterday, BMW has officially released more photos of the X1 and released a brief press release which states that the X1 will be offered in the US, sometime in 2011.
The X1 will debut this fall in Europe with a choice of either three diesel engines or a gas engine. It will also be available in either rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations.
BMW hasn't officially announced which configurations the US will receive in 2011.
BMW has announced that the 2010 BMW 7 Series will be offered with the xDrive AWD system for the first time ever.
The 2010 BMW 750i and 750Li will be offered with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. In addition the 2010 model year also sees the introduction of the V12 powered 760Li model, which brings the total to five variants of the 7 Series.
A new M Sport package is also available on the 2010 7 Series. The package includes an M steering wheel, lift-reducing aerodynamic kit, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), Shadowline trim, Anthracite headliner and 19″ wheels with ultra-high performance tires. 20" wheels are also available.
After many spy photos and teasers, BMW has finally released the official photos of the 2010 X1.
In Europe the X1 will be offered mainly offered with diesel engine choices with the most powerful model being the xDrive23d with 201-hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque. The most powerful gas powered engine will be the xDrive28i with 258-hp and 228 lb-ft. of torque.
The X1 is expected to be launched by the end of this year with sales starting in the US early next year. Expect more details once the official US press release is available.
BMW has released a few official photos of the upcoming X1 draped in camouflage.
According to TimesOnline there will be three engine choices in Europe: a 177hp diesel and 204hp diesel, and a gas powered 272bhp 3.0L V6. The US is likely to only receive the V6 when the X1 is released here.
We can expect to see the official production version of the X1 at the Frankfurt Motor Sow this September.
2010 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Officially Unveiled
BMW has officially released the specs and more photos of the 2010 5 Series Gran Turismo.
The 2010 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo doesn't stray far from the concept version that was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. It basically gets smaller wheels and a more production friendly interior. According to BMW the 5 Series GT "combines elegance, space, comfort and variability in truly unique style." The design features a coupe-like roofline and frameless windows.
Europe will have the choice of three different engines, the 306hp 535i, 407hp 550i and the 235hp 530d. All three engines are mated to a eight-speed automatic transmission.
BMW hasn't announced which models will make it to the US.
BMW X6 xDrive50i Ambulance Concept...Another Car That No One Asked For
BMW has created a new concept of the X6 that no one has probably asked for, although a few ambulance drivers may rejoice. The BMW X6 xDrive50i Ambulance concept is going to be shown off at the upcoming RETTmobil rescue vehicle show in Fulda, Germany.
The concept is powered by the 407hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 and is being positioned as the first responder vehicle, which would carry a doctor or paramedic to a scene before the actual ambulance. Which is a good thing because its doubtful that an X6 ambulance could hold nearly as much as a regular ambulance.
BMW and Mercedes-Benz Considering 4-Cylinders for the US
We've been hearing rumors for a while that BMW and Mercedes-Benz are considering bringing back 4-cylinders to the US to cut their brand's overall fuel economy.
BMW is currently working on a turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder that will likely be used in the 1 and 3 Series sometime around 2012. The new four-cylinder is expected to have the similar horsepower numbers as the current in-line sixes, but with better gas mileage and lower emissions. The engine is also slated for the X1 and new X3. BMW is waiting to decide on the engine for the U.S. until Washington releases what the new fuel economy standards will be.
Mercedes-Benz hasn't released any details on what the possible 4-cylinder engines could be, although a 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel was shown in the E250 Bluetech concept. A four-cylinder will most likely be offered in the C-Class and GLK within the next few years.
New York 09' Preview: 2010 BMW X6 M and X5 M Debut with 555 HP
BMW has officially unveiled the M versions of the X5 and X6 Sports Activity Vehicles.
The 2010 BMW X5 M and X6 M are powered by a twin turbocharged 4.4L V8 that puts out 555 hp and 500 lb-ft. of torque that is mated to a 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The M versions of the X5 and X6 are the first all-wheel-drive BMW M models. All that power returns a 4.5 second 0-60 mph time.
As expected there are some changes to the exterior of the two models to differentiate them from their lesser powered brothers. The hood, front air dam and headlights are nearly identical on the two models. Both models feature special gills in the front fenders and 20-inch alloy wheels are also standard. Out back there are quad tailpipes.
For those of you that want the the 555 horsepower, but in a sedan or coupe package, you'll have to wait for the next M5 and M6, which will feature the same turbocharged 4.4L V8.
BMW has announced what models we can expect to see at the New York Auto Show next week.
The BMW X6 M will officially be unveiled alongside the new Z4 roadster, the 2009 7 Series, and the BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance models.
The 2010 BMW 5 Series and 6 Series will also debut at the show with updated navigation systems from the new 7 Series and the availability of an M Sport package.
BMW Z2 Gets the Green Light for Production...Expected in 2012
It's been rumored for a while that BMW has been working on a smaller roadster that will be dubbed the Z2 and according to AutoBild, BMW executives have now given the small roadster the green light.
The Z2 will be based on the 1 series and will be offered as a roadster and a small coupe, just like the previous Z4. The car was developed under BMW's Project i team and will be a front-engine, rear wheel drive car with a target weight of 2,200 lbs. Powertrain options are expected to be powered by a 1.6L turbocharged engine, an extended range hybrid, and an all electric motor with lithium-ion batteries.
A concept version is expected this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show and the production version is expected in 2012 or 2013.
BMW unveiled the 5 Series Gran Turismo concept at the Geneva Motor Show now we have our first unofficial look at the production version.
As expected the production version remains mostly true to the concept, but with a much more toned down interior. Expect the production version to have its official world debut sometime later this year.
Geneva 09' Preview: BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo Unveiled
BMW is out to create another vehicle that no one has yet to ask for with its 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept, which BMW refers to as a Progressive Activity Sedan.
The concept is neither a sedan, wagon or SUV, instead its a combination of all three vehicles. It's overall shape is similar to the X6, but with a lower ride height. One interesting feature is the two-piece double-jointed tailgate. Just like the X6, the Concept only has room for 4 passengers.
Just like past BMW's concepts, the production model is expected to be very close to what we see here and is expected to be released sometime in 2010.
Electric-Powered MINI E Delayed Due to High Demand
BMW had hoped to release the electric powered MINI E early this year, but due to overwhelming demand the release has been delayed until April. BMW has received 1,800 applications for the car, but only plans on producing 450 units. The high number of applications have delayed the process.
Since only 450 units are going to be produced BMW now has to go through the task of notifying most of the interested parties that they will not be receiving the vehicle. In order to qualify for the MINI E, a potential driver must live in Los Angeles, New York or New Jersey. In addition the driver must have a lockable garage that can accept a built-in charger to charge the MINI and lastly they must be willing to pay $850 a month to lease the car for a year.
VIDEO: MINI Convertible Hits the Car Wash With its Top Down
We all know that you're supposed to put the top up on your convertible before you take it to the car wash. Nonetheless here's a video of four guys in a new MINI Cooper Convertible hitting the car wash with the top down.
The BMW X6 may be something that very few of us asked for from BMW, but it isn't stopping BMW from releasing two new variants of it. Later this year BMW is going to release a two-mode hybrid and M version of the X6.
BMW has officially announced the pricing for the all-new 750i and 750Li models.
BMW's largest sedan starts at $81,125 for the 750i and $85,025 the 750Li. Both models are powered by a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 that puts out 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft. of torque.
The all-new 7 Series will be in showrooms this coming spring with a 7 Series hybrid following sometime later.
All-New 2010 BMW Z4 Officially Unveiled Before Detroit
Following several spy photos and photo leaks, BMW has officially unveiled the 2010 Z4 before its official unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show next month.
The new Z4 gets all-new styling that is both more aggressive (front end) and cleaner (back end). A new first for the Z4 is a two-piece retractable hard-top that ditches the soft-top from the last generation.
The Z4 also employs BMW's new naming scheme (sDrive) with the sDrive30i and sDrive35i. The sDrive30i is powered by a 255 horsepower 3.0L 6-cylinder engine and the sDrive35i is powered by the 300 horsepower 3.0L twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine. Both engines can be mated to either a a 6-speed manual or a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The sDrive30i is also available with a six-speed automatic.
The all-new Z4 will be officially unveiled next month with sales starting in the fall of 2009.
Ward’s Automotive Group has announced its 2009 10 Best Engines list.
The list is compiled by Ward's editors and 2009 is officially the 15th year of the Ward’s 10 Best Engines program.
This year the list of winners is very broad with hybrid engines as well as high output turbocharged engines receiving the award.
“A decade ago, few consumers in the U.S. paid serious attention to hybrids or diesels. This year, they have to, if they don’t want to be pinched the next time fuel hits $4 a gallon,” says Tom Murphy, executive editor of Ward’s AutoWorld magazine.”The diesels from VW and BMW and the Ford Escape Hybrid all got better than 30 mpg (7.8 L/100 km) during our testing, and often they topped 40 mpg (5.8 L/100 km),” he says. “And the diesels meet the strictest emissions regulations in the world. If Americans want to find a vehicle that consumes less fuel and is fun to drive, our list is a great place to start.”
Test mules of the 2010 BMW Z4 have been caught testing around the world many times, but now we have our first look at the new Z4.
The new Z4 borrows styling elements from the new 2009 3 Series and 7 Series. It's also expected that the Z4 will also feature a retractable hardtop. Too bad that guy is in the middle of the shot or we could have seen more. The Z4 shown here is apparently in a BMW dealership during the filming of a new Michael Douglas movie.
Along with the announcement of the 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance pricing, BMW has also announced the pricing for the 2009 BMW 335d BluePerformance.
The diesel powered 3 Series starts at $44,725. It is powered by the same 3.0L inline-six diesel engine in the X5 that puts out 265 horsepower and 425 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2009 335d can reach 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds while achieving 23/33 mpg and a range of 550 miles.
2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance Starts at $52,025
BMW has announced the pricing for its diesel powered X5 that will be for sale in all 50 states by the end of the month.
The 2009 X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance starts at $52,025. The diesel powered X5 is powered by a 3.0L inline-six diesel engine that puts out 265 horsepower and 425 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine allows the X5 to reach 0-62 mph in 7.2 seconds while still achieving 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
MINI has confirmed the pricing for the 2009 MINI E at $850 a month for a 1 year lease.
The fully-electric MINI can go up to 150 miles on a full charge. The electric motor puts out 204 horsepower and 162 lb-ft. of torque, which helps the car reach0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 95 mph.
Although more than 9,500 people have signed up for info about the 2009 MINI E, only 500 will be produced for lease in California, New York and New Jersey. The $850 per month covers all maintenance and replacement parts. The car also comes with a wallbox that allows the battery to be charged in two and a half hours. In order to buy the car you need to have a lockable garage, since the charging system will be located in your garage.
Last month was a horrible month for automobile sales with most automakers posting double digit declines. Well decreased sales and profits are also cutting into the product plans for many automakers as well. BMW has announced that the Concept CS is not going to be produced because the vehicle will not be profitable.
This news means that the 7 Series will remain the top vehicle in BMW's lineup. The Concept CS was designed as a four-door coupe that was meant to compete with the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin Rapide, and Mercedes-Benz CLS.
BMW is working on a new "green" supercar that will be launched by the end of 2012. The new BMW supercar would rival the Audi R8 and upcoming Mercedes SLC.
The new supercar will showcase BMW's EfficientDynamics system, which combines fuel-saving technology such as direct injection, brake energy regeneration and stop-start.
Sources claim that the two-seater will be a modern day M1, which may draw cues from the M1 Hommage Concept that was unveiled earlier this year.
It's rumored that the yet to be named supercar will be powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter straight six and will get gas mileage that is equivalent to the 5 Series.
Earlier this year there were rumors that Ford was thinking about selling Volvo, but those rumors were quickly denied. Now rumors are circulating again that Ford is now talking to BMW about Volvo.
TimesOnline is claiming that Ford is in preliminary talks with BMW to sell its stake in Volvo. Of course sources are claiming that there were talks even though both automakers are denying it.
It was also rumored two years ago that Ford was in talks with BMW about Jaguar and Land Rover although both brands were eventually sold to Tata of India.
2010 BMW X1 to Get Rear-Wheel-Drive "sDrive" Version
BMW unveiled the concept version of the BMW X1 SUV at the Paris Motor Show last week. Many of us were not too positive about the overall styling of BMW's newest SUV, which doesn't really matter since the X1 will enter production next year.
Currently BMW's two SUVs, the X3 and X5 are only available with all-wheel-drive, but BMW is reportedly thinking about offering a rear-wheel-drive version of the upcoming X1. BMW feels that the savings on weight and fuel economy gains with a RWD version will make the vehicle more appealing. BMW currently labels its AWD system "xDrive" if the X1 gets the RWD option BMW is going to introduce a new label, "sDrive" for the system.
Spy Photos: 2010 BMW Z4 Caught Driving Around in LA
Today on my way into my day job, I happened to come across a 2010 BMW Z4 being driven around Santa Monica.
Unfortunately as many of you know, LA traffic is horrible so these are the best shots I could get before I slammed into the other cars in front of me. They were also taken with my iPhone..so of course they aren't the best quality.
The next-gen Z4 is definitely bigger than the current generation, most likely to make room for an even smaller BMW roadster built off the 1 Series platform. Other than the bigger exterior and possible retractable hardtop, the car sounded great.
Stay tuned for the official unveiling of the 2010 BMW Z4..whenever that is. :)
Neiman Marcus Sells a Limited-Edition 2009 BMW 7 Series for $160,000
BMW and Neiman Marcus have announced that the all-new 2009 BMW 7 Series will be offered in this year's Neiman Marcus Christmas Book.
The limited edition 7 Series is going to be offered at $160,000 and only 31 of them will be offered. What is special is that 31 Neiman Marcus customers will be able to purchase the car before its official launch date next year.
Iridescent Diopside Black metallic paintwork and exquisite BMW Individual Champagne Merino full leather are part of the limited edition package.
Following last night's photo leaks of the X1 Concept, BMW has officially unveiled the Concept in Paris.
The X1 Concept, which is very similar to the production version that will go on sale next year features a front end that is very similar to the new 7 Series. In terms of size BMW's newest small SUV looks very close in size to the current X3. It remains to be seen if the next X3 which is also due out sometime next year will move up in size. Overall the styling looks like a combination of the new 7 Series and the current X3 and X5.
BMW X1 Concept Unveiled Before its Official Unveiling in Paris
BMW is going to officially unveil the BMW X1 concept at the Paris Motor Show this week, but we have the first few official photos now of the concept.
The X1 concept is supposed to hint at the production version of the X1 that will be launched next year and judging by past BMW concepts the production model is expected to look close to this. Next year the BMW X1 will be produced at BMW’s Leipzig plant in Germany. BMW is targeting 100,000 units per year. The X1 is expected to be powered by a range of 4cyl and 6cyl gas and diesel engines.
BMW is Worried About the Launch of the All-New 7 Series
BMW's new North American chief, Jim O'Donnell is worried about the launch of the all-new 7 Series in the US next spring.
The US economy is so bad right now that O'Donnell has little hope for increased sales of BMW's flagship sedan, which will be in dealerships in March. O'Donnell's main goal is that the new 7 Series does better than the overall import luxury segment.
BMW is Considering 4-cylinder Powered 1-Series and 3-Series Models in the US
BMW is going to slow production of its slower selling V8 engines in favor of more fuel efficient engines, but now the automaker is close to a decision concerning offering 4-cylinder engines in the 1 and 3-Series models in the US.
Consumer Reports Names the BMW 135i as Their Top-Rated Sporty Car
Consumer Reports just tested the BMW 135i coupe against the Subaru Impreza WRX STi, Volkswagen R32, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and has given the coupe an "Excellent" overall score.
MINI is Not Going to Increase Production Despite Record Sales
MINI is having a record sales year thanks to the high gas prices. Sales in the first six months of this year were up a record 33.6 percent with a total 26,400 units sold.
BMW Builds 500 Electric-Powered MINI Coopers for California
BMW has announced plans to build 500 electric MINI Coopers for customers residing in California. The program labeled is part of a new division called Project i.
MINI Dealers to Start Selling Alfa Romeos in the US in 2010
It was reported earlier today that BMW and Fiat are going to collaborate on front-wheel-drive car that will be the basis for the next MINI and other future Fiats and Alfa Romeos. Now comes word that the partnership is also going to help bring Alfa Romeo back to the US in 2010.
BMW 7-Series Hybrid Will Feature a V8 and Lithium-Ion Batteries...Don't Expect Great Numbers
BMW officially took the wraps off the all-new 2009 7-Series a few days ago. BMW already confirmed as well that there will be a hybrid version of the 7-Series offered next year, but now we have more of the details thanks to CAR.
BMW is Going to Put the Mini's 4-cyl in the 1-Series and Release a Hybrid 7-Series
BMW’s CEO Norbert Reithofer recently revealed that the next-generation 1-Series is going to get the 4-cylinder engine that is a result of the PSA-BMW relationship. The current 4-cylinder is used in the Mini Cooper.
BMW M1 Hommage Concept Unveiled at the Concorsa d’Eleganza Villa d’Este
BMW unveiled the M1 Hommage Concept this weekend at the Concorso d'Eleganza at Villa d'Este. The concept pays tribute to the original M1, which just had its thirtieth birthday.
2010 BMW 5-Series is Going to Feature a Turbocharged V8 with 400 Horsepower
The BMW 550i is near the top of the 5-Series range, right below the M5. According to BimmerFile the all-new 5-Series is going to feature the same V8 in the X6 SUV.
Is This What the 2009 BMW 7-Series is Going to Look Like?
This photo may or may not be a photo of the all-new 2009 BMW 7-Series. The car pictured here does have many of the same details of the prototypes that have been caught testing, but it could be a really good photoshop.
In an interview with Car Magazine, BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer confirmed that a range of tii performance options will soon be available on BMW smaller models, specifically the 1 and 3-series.
VIDEO: Pontiac G8 Goes Head to Head with the BMW 550i in a Funny Ad
Pontiac's new G8 sedan is just now hitting dealerships and many GM execs might like you to think of it as a much more affordable BMW 5-Series. This video actually tries to convince you that the $30K G8 is equal to and in many areas superior to the almost $60K BMW 550i.
BMW is Looking at Smaller Engines for its M Lineup
BMW just upgraded the new M3 to a V8 powertrain, but now the automaker is looking at replacing the engine in the future with a more fuel efficient twin turbo inline 6-cylinder engine.
Detroit Auto Show Preview: US-Spec Diesel Powered BMWs Unveiled
Diesels are quickly becoming one of the more popular news stories, with almost every automaker talking about their upcoming diesel powered vehicles. BMW has just released info about their upcoming diesel powered 3-series and X5 models for the U.S. market.
2008 BMW 135i Starts at $35,675 and the 128i Starts at $29,375
Yesterday BMW unveiled the BMW 1-Series at the LA Auto Show. The automaker also released the pricing for the coupe that will be on sale early next year .
BMW seems to think so. BMW is hoping that the rising fuel prices in the US will lead to more sales of its upcoming 1-Series coupe and convertible that will be on sale early next year.
The MINI Clubman is the big news for MINI this year (pictured above), but MINI has something else in the works. We've already discussed earlier this year the possibility of a new MINI SUV (or SAV as BMW likes to label their crossovers) as the fourth MINI model. Well now more details on the upcoming MINI SAV have surfaced.
BMW 1-Series Convertible Will Be Released in the US Next April Starting Around $40K
The BMW 1-Series coupe is going to start right below $30K when it is released early next year and now according to Automotive News, the convertible is going to start in the low $40K range.
All-New BMW M3 Sedan Officially Unveiled...We've Got Almost 30 New Pics of the Car
BMW has finally officially unveiled the sedan version of the upcoming M3. Yesterday a few photos were leaked of the car and now today we have almost 30 new photos of the sedan.
BMW is Going to Sell its 3.0L Diesel in the US...Finally!
It seems that the US always gets screwed compared to the models that Europe and Japan get. This includes diesel vehicles which are finally starting to make a comeback here. By 2009 many of the world's largest automakers will start selling their "clean" diesels in the US and you can now add BMW to that growing list.
2008 BMW 1-Series Convertible Officially Unveiled...Hits Dealers in Spring 2008
This summer BMW officially unveiled the all-new BMW 1-Series Coupe that we are going to get here in the US in Spring of 2008. Now BMW has unveiled the convertible version of the coupe that will be on sale at the same time as the coupe.
BMW Wants to Sell 2 Million Vehicles a Year by 2020 by Adding a Fourth Brand
BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer has revealed a few of BMW's plans for th next ten plus years. The automaker has set a five year goal of selling 1.8 million vehicles per year by 2012 and 2 million vehicles by 2020.
BMW's upcoming 1-Series is one of the more anticipated models that will be going on sale early next year. BMW has already released the full specs on the two initial models that we will receive here, the 128i and the hot 135i. The one thing the automaker hasn't spoken about is the pricing.
BMW X6 Crossover Unveiled in Frankfurt...Will Design Over Function Work?
Today BMW unveiled the new X6 Concept, which is supposed to be very close to what we will actually see in showrooms. The X6 crossover is an exercise in design over function, which is apparent with the raked roof that plunges downward after the B pillar. This significantly compromises rear seat room and the luggage capacity of the X6. BMW is betting that X6 buyers will be willing to give up that extra space for additional style over its X5 crossover.
New BMW M3 CSL Caught Testing in Germany?...It's the Ultimate M3
Spy photographers have caught what appears to be a CSL version of the upcoming BMW M3. It is uncertain if this is actually an M3 CSL, but the rear trunklid spoiler and wider track obviously lead us to believe that this is indeed a CSL version.
2009 BMW 3-Series Spy Photos...The 3-Series Gets a Sportier Look
Spy photos of a revised 2009 BMW 3-Series have surfaced. It looks like BMW is going to make a few small tweaks to its popular sedan to make it look sportier.
BMW 335i Coupe Gets All-Wheel-Drive...It's Now Faster Than the RWD Version
BMW has announced that the BMW 335i coupe will have all-wheel-drive as an option. The 328i coupe already has the AWD option. Audi's success with their Quattro AWD systems has promted BMW to add AWD to more of their vehicles.
MINI has finally released the full specs and photos of the upcoming 2008 MINI Clubman. We've already seen spy photos of the car, but now we have the first official photos of the new "bigger" MINI.
Spy Photos of the High-Performance BMW X5 M...This Version Could Have a V12 with 438HP
Spy photographers have caught what looks to be a higher performance version of BMW's X5 SUV. Currently the X5 only has two engine options, a 3.0L 6-cylinder with 272 hp and a 4.8L V8 with 355 hp. From these photos it is apparent that BMW is working on an even more powerful version that will liked be called an M model.
More 2009 BMW X6 Spy Photos...This is the Best View Yet!
Spy photos of the upcoming BMW x6 SUV/ Coupe crossover have been circulating the internet for weeks. Unfortunately those photos did not reveal much about the overall styling of the SUV. Well now Brenda Priddy & Co finally managed to catch the X6 with very little camouflage, which gives us a real glimpse of the rear hatch.
BMW May Outsource the Production of the Upcoming MINI Colorado SUV to Magna
There are rumors that the next version of the popular MINI will be an SUV. This fall MINI is going to release a third version of the MINI called the Clubman, which is essentially a stretched MINI. BMW is considering other models of the small car, such as the MINI SUV that could be named the Colorado.
2009 BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe Takes Shape...Is This the Ultimate X5?
BMW's new X6 SAC (Sports Activity Coupe) has been caught several times during hot weather testing. The latest spy photos gave us a better glimpse at its distinctly slopping roofline, similar to the Mercedes CLS that gives it the "Coupe" label. CarMagazine has posted a few new photo renderings of what they believe BMW's newest 4x4 will look like when it debuts at the Frankfurt Auto Show this September.
The Electric-Powered MINI Cooper Has Started Production and It Has Lithium-Ion Batteries
Hybrid Technologies has started production on the all-lithium electric MINI Cooper. The electric version of the popular MINI has been in development for the past two years. This version of the MINI uses Hybrid Tech's own proprietary advanced lithium management and battery-balancing system to propel the car.
2009 BMW X6 Spy Photos...We Finally Get A Glimpse of the Actual Styling of the SUV
Spy photographers have caught fresh photos of the 2009 BMW X6 during hot weather testing in California. The vehicle is heavily camouflaged, but thanks to the testers we're able to see the actual shape of the rear end.
2009 BMW M3 Convertible Spy Photos...The M3 Version Will Also Get the Retractable Hardtop
Spy photographers caught the upcoming convertible version of the BMW M3 testing in Germany. The interesting fact about these photos is that the convertible has the same retractable hardtop as the regular 3-Series convertible. It had been rumored that BMW was going to use a lighter cloth top for the M3 version.
Mercedes-Benz is Planning a BMW 1-Series Competitor That May be Built on a MINI Platform
It was reported earlier this week, that Mercedes-Benz was thinking about killing the current A-Class, but now there are rumors that Mercedes may be thinking about building a 1-Series and A3 competitor. Additionally the automaker may be in talks with BMW about using the current MINI platform for the upcoming car.
BMW Releases Full Specs and Photos of the 1-Series Coupe... The US Will Get the New Car in Spring 2008
The last two weeks have been filled with spy shots and speculations about the upcoming BMW 1-Series coupe. Well as predicted BMW has released the full specs and photos of the car today.
More BMW 1-Series Spy Photos...This Time the Spies Caught the 1-Series Convertible
This week has been filled with news and spy photos of the new 2008 BMW 1-Series Coupe. Now Brenda Priddy and Co. have caught shots of the upcoming Cabrio version of the car.
BMW Releases Official Specs on the New BMW 135i Coupe...306HP and 0-62 MPH in 5.3 Seconds!
Most of the day today we were all gawking at the recent spy photos of the new BMW 135i Coupe that revealed the exterior sans camouflage. Click Here Well BMW UK went ahead and released the full specs of the UK version of the car. The big news is that they released the full specs on the 3.0L inline six-cylinder twin turbo engine in the 135i.
2008 MINI Clubman Takes it All off For a Commercial
The new MINI Clubman will be revealed at the upcoming Frankfurt Auto Show this September, but spies have caught the new car without any disguise during the filming of an upcoming commercial.
2008 MINI Clubman Spy Photos... Is the Bigger MINI Still "Mini"?
Spy photographer Chris Schotanus has caught another glimpse of the upcoming Mini Clubman that is expected to debut in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The clear images show the stretched Mini's split tailgate and rear passenger side door.
Spy Photos of the Interior of the Upcoming BMW 1-Series Coupe...Plus a Few More Shots of Exterior
We are getting closer and closer to the actual unveiling of the new BMW 1-Series Coupe (July 1st) and spy photos keep coming in of the new car. All of the previous photos have been of the exterior of the car, but now we have our first glimpse of the interior thanks to 2addicts.
2009 BMW 7-Series Spy Photos...The Next-Generation Will Feature a More Muscular Look
The next generation 2009 BMW 7-series has been spotted undergoing testing in Germany. The new design will be more of an evolution of the current generation with more of a muscular theme throughout. Although you cannot tell from these photos the new 7-series will adopt many of the same styling themes as the smaller 3-series.
2009 BMW M3 Sedan Spy Photos...It's Our First M3 Sedan in a Decade!
The upcoming sedan version of the recently revealed BMW M3 has been caught on the test track. This is the first new M3 sedan in a decade and it takes many styling cues from the new coupe.
BMW 1-Series Spy Photos...The New Small Bimmer Has Been Caught in LA!
This morning on his way into work one of our dedicated readers spotted a BMW 1-Series Hatch driving west towards Santa Monica. The car had virtually no camouflage, except for the BMW logo which was blacked out.
One in Five New Cars Sold by 2015 Will Have Start-Stop Technology That Will Result in Greater Fuel-Economy
According to Dr Bernd Bohr, chairman of automotive component company Bosch, 20% of all new cars sold by 2015 will have the new start-stop technology. The technology turns off the engine when the car comes to a stop at stoplights or in traffic. This new technology will reduce emissions and increase the fuel-economy of vehicles equipped with the technology.
More Spy Photos of the Upcoming BMW 1-Series...This Time it is Red
We are all eagerly awaiting the arrival of the smaller than a 3-Series BMW 1-Series coupe and convertible. Last week photos of a charcoal coupe circulated the internet and now we have two more photos of the coupe thanks to Member Advevo of 1addicts.com.
Land Rover, Jaguar and Volvo May All be on the Auction Block...What is Next for Ford?
According to Automotive News, Ford has hired investments banks Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley to help with the sale of the Jaguar, Volvo and Land Rover brands.
What are the Top Ten Non-Hybrid Cars That Get Over 30mpg?
Lately it seems that hybrids get all the attention for being fuel-efficient, but there are a handful of non-hybrid cars that get close to the same levels as the hybrids. In the US this list is dominated by Honda, Toyota and Nissan. Only one European model made the list, the MINI. The big question is: Why aren't there any models from Ford, GM or Chrysler on this list?
First it was the MINI and Soon the MINI Clubman is a MINI SUV next?
BMW has already created the wagon variant of the popular MINI, dubbed the Clubman, but now there are rumors that BMW may be working on another version of the car. There are rumors circulating that BMW has already given the green light to produce a compact SUV that will be reminiscent of the early MINI off-roaders.
Brad Pitt Shows up to the Premiere of Ocean's 13 In a BMW Hydrogen 7
Brad Pitt showed up to the premiere of his new movie, Ocean's 13 in a BMW Hydrogen 7 yesterday. Most of the onlookers at Grauman's Chinese Theater probably didn't even notice, since the car looks just like the regular BMW 7-Series.
Spy Photos of the Upcoming 2009 BMW 1-Series Coupe...It's Nearly Undisguised!
There have been numerous spy shots of the upcoming BMW 1-Series, but these newest ones are of the coupe with very little camouflage. World Car Fans This is the version of BMW's smallest car that we will actually get here in the U.S.
The New BMW 3-Series Convertible Performs Poorly in Crash Tests...While the Volvo C70 Excels
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has released crash test scores for the newest convertibles. The tests are pretty surprising since the new BMW 3-Series only received a marginal score, while the new Chrysler Sebring received good ratings in the crash tests. Apparently a higher price does not always mean you are getting a better car.
What are the Top 20 Safest Cars of 2007?...You May be Surprised That Some of These Cars Made the List
Forbes has gathered what they believe to be the safest new cars on the market. They searched through Consumer Reports, Department of Transportation, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) to compile the list of the top 20 safest cars of 2007.
Yesterday rumors surfaced that Ford was thinking about selling Volvo and that BMW was interested. Apparently the rumors are false according to a Ford spokesperson.
BMW F3 is a Go...BMW Confirms Production of Another Crossover
BMW has finally confirmed the production of the crossover BMW F3. Crossovers are quickly becoming one of the hottest segments in the US and Europe. BMW is planning on building the small people mover on the upcoming X3 platform that will be here in 2009.
Who Cares About the Prius When the New MINI D Gets 72.4 mpg!
This fall BMW is going to launch many changes to the current MINI lineup that will result in increased fuel-efficiency across all models. The changes will result in increased engine performance and fuel efficiency all without the use of hybrid technology or alternative fuels.
2008 Infiniti G37 Goes Head to Head Against the BMW 335i!
It has been reported several times that the new BMW 335i actually produces more power than is stated on paper. BMW states that the 335i coupe and sedan have 300 horsepower at the flywheel, although according to several dyno tests the car actually puts out between 275-300 horsepower at the wheels. Using simple math it is estimated that the actual horsepower at the flywheel is 350-375 horsepower. Those are exciting numbers!
The Weak US Dollar is Making it Harder for Automakers to Import Vehicles to the US
According to company insiders BMW will build the next generation X3 at the Spartanburg, South Carolina plant in the US. The new X3 will be built alongside the upcoming BMW X6 and the current X5 and Z4.
PC Magazine has listed what they feel are the vehicles with the best technology. For the second year the BMW X5 was listed as their top vehicle and took home the magazine's "Digital Drive Car of the Year" award. The X5 was picked because of its adaptive drive, spilt-screen navigation, real-time traffic reports and front and rear sonar.
2009 Audi A4 Spy Photos...Audi Takes Aim at the 3-Series
The 2009 Audi A4 is still more than a year away, but spy photographers have caught their first images of the new 3-Series fighter. Audi is determined to be one of the top, if not the top luxury automakers. The new 2009 A4 is crucial to Audi's success.
2009 Hyundai RWD Coupe Spy Photos...Can Hyundai Actually Compete with BMW?
Spy Photographers have caught what appears to be Hyundai's new 2009 RWD Coupe in South Korea. It has been reported that the automaker plans on releasing numerous vehicles that will be built on the BH platform. That includes the new Genesis sedan, this coupe and a possible truck.
What are the Most Wanted Cars in the U.S. for 2007?
Edmunds.com has posted a list of the most wanted cars in 2007 based on reader feedback. Out of the 32 categories you may be surprised which automaker took home the most awards....
ZF Announces Plans for an 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission maker ZF has announced plans to produce an 8-speed automatic transmission that will likely be used in future Ford, BMW and VW vehicles. The transmission called the "8HP" will be used in the new 2009 BMW 7-Series that will debut in late 2008.
April's auto sales numbers have just been posted and almost every major automaker had a sales decrease last month. Even the Asian automakers that have been making headlines for their sales gains, took a hit.
Braman MINI Palm Beach placed this photo of the yet to be released new MINI convertible on their website in the "New Car Specials" section. What is interesting is the fact that MINI has yet to release info and specs on the upcoming convertible. The current MINI convertible is still based on the last generation MINI and not the all-new 2007 version that was released two months ago.
2008 Chrysler Aspen Two-Mode Hybrid Will be the Automaker's First Hybrid
Chrysler has announced that there will be a hybrid version of the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango on the market in 2008. The SUVs will feature a Two-Mode hybrid system that was developed with GM and BMW, coupled with a 5.7L V8 HEMI engine with cylinder deactivation.
The 2009 BMW M3 Sedan will Have the Same Front End as the Coupe
Spy photographers have managed to capture two more pictures of the upcoming M3 Sedan during testing. This is the first M3 sedan, since the E36 sedan a decade ago. Stylistically the new BMW M3 Sedan will be differentiated from the regular sedan. The sedan will feature the same front end as the recently unveiled M3 coupe.
When is Small too Small? Are the New Microcars Too Micro for U.S. Tastes?
Gas prices are expected to reach $4 a gallon in some parts of the U.S. this summer. Because of the ever increasing gas prices, automakers are expecting consumers to continue to flock to smaller more fuel efficient cars, such as the Mini or Honda Fit. Next year the Smart ForTwo will make it to these shores and GM has also shown three new small Chevy concepts at the New York Auto Show. Will these cars that are smaller than the current popular subcompact cars, such as the Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris sell?
BMW CS Concept Unveiled...Is this a Glimpse of the New BMW 8-Series?
BMW has unveiled the new CS Concept, which is designed as a 4-door coupe to go head to head with Mercedes, Porsche and Maserati. The car is going to be officially unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show. There have been numerous rumors about this "4-door" coupe and this concept provides even more fuel to the rumors.
2008 Lexus IS-F Shows up at the NY Auto Show...Is it Better than the New M3?
The 2008 Lexus IS-F made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show this month. It is also being displayed in all its glory at the New York Auto show this week.
Just in Case you Think your Mini Cooper is Too Small...
World Car Fans has posted spy photos of the upcoming Mini Clubman S. There have been numerous spy photos of the regular version of the upcoming car, but this is the first time we are seeing what seems to be the S variant of the car.
BMW recently unveiled the M3 Concept at the Geneva Auto Show, but now we have info on the production version, 2009 BMW M3, that is set to go on sale in the U.S. in mid-2008.
Saturn Sky vs. BMW Z4...Does the Price Actually Matter?
AutoBild, recently did a comparison of the BMW Z4 and the Opel GT (Saturn Sky) in Europe to see if the cheaper by $14k Sky could hold its own against the Z4.
BMW has just released details of the engine in the upcoming 2008 BMW M3. They showed a concept version of the car at the Geneva Auto Show. Now they are giving us full details on the engine in the production version.
Spy photographers have caught the 2009 BMW 1 Series coupe in the American southwest. There have been numerous rumors about this car making it to the U.S.