BMW F30 – Automobiles Review

2013 Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Based on BMW F30 and F31

Alpina has announced the new 2013 D3 Bi-Turbo based on BMW 3-Series F30 (Saloon) and F31 (Touring). The model boasts uncompromising performance with nice styling modifications.

The new D3 Bi-Turbo presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show is a logical and consistent step: the extremely successful and proven straight-six 3-litre diesel with Bi-Turbo charging, known from the D5 Bi-Turbo and most recently also the XD3, now finds its way into the new and multi-award winning BMW 3-Series.

2013 Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo is powered by a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged diesel with 350HP (257 kW) at 4,000RPM and 700Nm (519 lb-ft) at just 1,500RPM. The engine is connected to an 8-speed ZF Sport-Automatic gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 278 km/h (173 mph). The fuel consumption is extremely low – 6.0 liters / 100 km in city; 4.9 liters / 100 on highway and 5.3 liters / 100 in combined cycle. The curb weight is 1585kg (3487 lbs).

With the new BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo, Alpina is once again setting the benchmark, combining extraordinary performance and excellent efficiency with familiar Alpina virtues appreciated by the customers worldwide.

D3 BITURBO Saloon SWITCH-TRONIC

Dimensions
Length (mm)	4628
Width (mm)	1811
Height, unladen (mm)	1428
Wheelbase (mm)	2810
Track, front (mm)	1539
Track, rear (mm)	1556
Luggage capacity (l)	480
Fuel tank capacity (l)	ca. 57

Weight
Unladen (kg)	1585
Max permissible (kg)	2135
Permitted load (kg)	550
Max axle load, front (kg)	1020
Max axle load, rear (kg)	1175
Max trailer load, braked (kg)	1800
Max trailer load, unbraked (kg)	750

Engine
Cylinders	6 in line
Capacity (cc)	2993
Bore (mm)	84.0
Stroke (mm)	90.0
Compression ratio (:1)	16.5
Max output (kW / hp / 1/min)	257 / 350 / 4000
Max torque (Nm / 1/min)	700 / 1500-3000
Engine management	BOSCH DDE 7.31
Fuel type	Diesel
Emissions classification	EU6

Transmission
Transmission	8-Speed Sport-Automatic ZF 8HP70 SWITCH-TRONIC
1st	4.71
2nd	3.14
3rd	2.11
4th	1.67
5th	1.29
6th	1.00
7th	0.84
8th	0.67
Final drive ratio	2.81

Performance
Acceleration 0-100km/h (s)	4.6
Top speed (km/h)	278

Fuel consumption *
Urban (l/100km)	6.0
Extra-urban (l/100km)	4.9
Combined (l/100km)	5.3
CO² emissions (g/km)	139
Efficiency category	B

Wheels and tyres
Standard wheels and tyres	ALPINA CLASSIC 19″
Front	8 x 19 245/35 ZR19
Rear	9 x 19 265/35 ZR19

Standard Equipment

Adaptive ALPINA Sport Suspension

Air conditioning and radio control panel with Black High-gloss highlight

Airbags, for driver and passenger with seat occupant detection

Auto Start-Stop

Automatic air-conditioning, single-zone

Auxiliary input point for auxiliary playing devices (e.g. MP3 player)

BMW Emergency Call

Brake Energy Regeneration

Brake system 18″ high-performance, callipers painted in blue with ALPINA lettering

Centre armrest/centre console – rear

Door sill finishers ALPINA

Drive Performance Control with ECO PRO mode

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) incl. Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)

Exhaust system ALPINA, made by Akrapovič, stainless steel, two double-ended tailpipes

First aid kit and warning triangle

Floor mats ALPINA

Fog lights

Front spoiler ALPINA

Hands-free facility with USB interface

Headlight wash

Instruments ALPINA

Interior trim: ALPINA luxury wood Burled Elm

Kidney grille, Chrome with Black vertical slats, front air inlet with Chrome finisher

Move cloth upholstery

Paintwork: non-metallic paintwork in standard BMW colours

Production plaque

Radio Professional

Rear spoiler ALPINA

Rear valance ALPINA with two double-ended tailpipes

Remote control, including integrated key, in Black with insert in Chrome

Sport Automatic Transmission (8-speed) with ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC

Sport seats, front

Steering wheel: SWITCH-TRONIC leather steering wheel with Multi-function

Tyre Puncture Warning System (TPWS)

Variable sport steering

Wheels: ALPINA CLASSIC 19

Xenon headlights

Source: Alpina

September 24, 2013

2013 Alpina B3 F30 – Test [video]

Chris Harris made a test drive of the recently announced 2013 Alpina B3 based on BMW 3-Series F30 335i (saloon). The powerful saloon comes with some styling upgrades and significantly improved engine.

The engine is the well-known 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged petrol – 410HP (310 kW) at 5,500RPM and 598Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to an 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox sending power to the rear wheels. 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 306 km/h (190 mph). The fuel consumption is 7.9 liters / 100 km (35.8 mpg UK, 29.8 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 177 g/km.

The exterior boasts complete Alpina aerodynamics package including a front lip spoiler and new rear diffuser housing quad tailpipe sports exhaust system from Akrapovic. There are also a new trunk lid spoiler, a set of enormous Alpina Classic wheels and optional LSD (limited slip differential).

Enjoy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=740gShZJF1M

Source: Drive via Youtube

August 29, 2013

Prior Design BMW F30

Prior Design has announced their latest project. It is based on the all-new 3-Series – the F30. The aggressive BMW is now even more special. It comes with several styling updates giving more individuality and style.

The complete aerodynamics package by Prior Design for BMW F30 is made from Dura-Flex, which is a high-quality material, characterized by excellent surface structure that provides sufficient flexibility and stability.Aerodynamic parts are easy paintable as well.

The 3-Series F30 front bumper is priced at €699, the rear bumper is also €699, the pair of side skirts are just €329 and the trunk lid spoiler is €229.

The package will fit all BMW 3-Series F30 models.

Source: Prior Design

December 19, 2012

BMW at the NAIAS 2013

BMW is bringing several interesting models at the NAIAS 2013 in Detroit. The manufacturer will exhibit the new Concept 4-Series Coupe (F32), M6 Gran Coupe, Z4 Roadster, 1-Series Coupe and 1-Series Convertible Limited Edition Lifestyle.

The 4-Series Coupe is one of the most interesting new BMWs. Until now, the manufacturer didn’t have 4-Series in their line-up. The new vehicle is bly larger than the BMW 3 Series Coupe in terms of length, width and wheelbase, while the roofline is considerably lower. The car is much more aggressive at the front and at the rear. The new BMW Coupe embodies a development curve at its zenith.

The alluring interior exudes cutting-edge luxury, with elaborate details and exquisite materials sharing centre stage.

Here again, the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe reveals a spectrum of qualities set amid new dimensions and underlines the brand’s ambitions through its unrelenting pursuit of perfection.

The high-performance M6 Gran Coupe brings together the hallmark performance attributes of M cars within a handsome and sumptuous design. The extra room on board the four-door Coupe allows two rear passengers to bask in generous levels of spaciousness.

It is powered by the a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 13 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited and 305 km/h (190 mph) with M Driver’s Package.

The Z4 Roadster is now available with three new body colours are available exclusively with the Design Pure Traction option, which is also new. Meanwhile, black and orange tones create a particularly absorbing contrast of colours in the interior.

There are also new 17” and 18” light-alloy wheels and the optional M Sport package. And there is also the arrival of a new model variant to report; the BMW Z4 sDrive18i is powered by a 2.0-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology developing 156 HP (115 kW).

This new entry point to the Z4 range can also be ordered with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The selection of driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive mobility services available on board the BMW Z4 has also been expanded. If the Professional navigation system is specified, the ConnectedDrive Services option enables use of internet-based information and entertainment services inside the car.

Both 1-Series Coupe and 1-Series Convertible are available with Limited Edition Lifestyle equipment package.

As well as the exclusive Mineral White metallic paint, customers can also choose from two other exterior colours, while 18” light-alloy wheels accentuate the cars’ classy looks.

The Lifestyle Edition contrasts are particularly effective on the BMW 1-Series Convertible; a brown soft-top with silver pigmentation generates fascinating light effects, for example. Brown leather trim with white contrast stitching plays the lead role in the interior of the Lifestyle Edition cars.

A matching brown sports leather steering wheel, specially badged door sill strips and Fineline Stream fine wood trim elements add the finishing touches to the interior ambience.

Source: BMW

http://www.automobilesreview.com/pictures/2013-bmw-m6-gran-coupe/

December 18, 2012

BMW is The Most Reliable Brand in the UK for 2012

BMW is the most reliable car company in the UK… and not only there. Still, this is according to a survey of the 50 largest contract hire and leasing companies in the country.

BMW has repeated its double victory in the 2011 FN50 survey coming top as most reliable car manufacturer as well as having three cars in the top 10 with first place taken by the 3-Series. Other premium models have also moved up – the VW Golf is one place higher and the third-place Audi A4 is five positions higher than in 2011.

The BMW 1-Series and Ford Focus scored equal points to achieve joint 8^th place, while the final place in the top 10 is taken by the BMW 5-Series, proving the latest version of the car is as reliable as its predecessor.

Tim Abbott, managing director at BMW UK commented:

“To have three of our biggest selling cars in the top ten is a fantastic achievement and our customers will take great heart from realising they not only drive a class-leading car in terms of efficiency and driving pleasure but also one that is the most reliable too”.

2012 Top 10 most reliable cars: (2011 position in brackets)
1 BMW 3 series (1)
2 Volkswagen Golf (3)
3 Audi A4 (8)
4 Honda Civic (-)
5 Honda Accord (2)
6 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (-)
7 Audi A3 (4)
8= BMW 1 Series (-)
8= Ford Focus (-)
10 BMW 5 Series (10)

2012 Top 10 most reliable car manufacturers: (2011 position in brackets)
1 BMW (1)
2 Audi (2)
3 Honda (3)
4 Volkswagen (4)
5 Toyota (5)
6 Ford (8)
7 Skoda (10)
8 Mercedes-Benz (7)
9 Nissan (6)
10 Volvo (-)

Source: BMW

November 7, 2012

BMW F30 328i by IND

3D Design Japan has announced their tuning package for the new BMW 3-Series – the F30 model. Originally the tuning company planned to introduce the package on August 27^th, but obviously someone was in a hurry.

The tuning package includes a new 3D Design front lip, a set of cool 19″ BBS CH-R wheels in dimensions 8.5J x 19” ET32 at the front axle and 9.5J x 19” ET35 at the rear fitted with HANKOOK sport tyres. Other goodies feature iND Gloss black front grilles, iND painted front reflectors, iND gloss black lower whiskers and H&R Sport Springs for perfect stance and improved handling.

The last touch are the Yellow M-Performance Brakes, which give not only better stopping power, but more individuality to the vehicle.

The car is finished in Imperial blue BMW paint.

Source: IND

August 14, 2012

2014 BMW M3 sedan [render] – F80

Wildspeed has released a new version of the 2014 BMW M3 F80. The sports saloon features an aggressive design influenced by the more recent offerings by the M Division – the new M5 F10 and M6.There are a lot of rumors that the new M3 will come with a twin-turbo V6, which will ruin a lot of the car’s reputation, so probably the manufacturer will keep the tradition with an in-line six-cylinder power plant. The power will be around 435HP and 550Nm of torque, which will make it the most powerful M3 model.Other rumors say that the M3 saloon will remain unchanged, but the coupe and convertible body styles will be relabeled as the M4. This is not so important, but it will be good, if BMW AG divide the models.The new M3 saloon is expected to hit the market during the next year.

May 4, 2012

Vogtland Suspension for BMW 3 Series

It’s hard to imagine that the BMW 3 Series, the current one, needs a suspension revision. In fact it doesn’t. Even Vogtland themselves admit so. However they have provided one nevertheless. It’s for the hardcore fans of sideways lunacy and track day goers.

I say suspension but the whole thing is just a set of springs which lower the car by 30 mm. Supposedly, one would benefit from the lower center of gravity and the better sway control. Nobody can’t be quite sure if all works out, but at the very least, the F30 gets a cooler and more desirable stance. A stance that costs $304. For that you get also a TÜV certificate and a two year guarantee.

And the springs themselves are not what you’d call outdated – manufactured from high strength “chromium-silicon alloy”. Haven’t got the slightest ideal what that means but it just sounds cool.

Source: Vogtland

March 30, 2012

BMW has won two awards from What Car?

BMW has earned 1st places in two categories at the What Car? Awards event. The new BMW 3-Series Saloon has topped Best Compact Executive Car category, while the 2012 BMW X3 took home the accolade of Best SUV of the year.

2012 BMW 3-Series F30 with EfficientDynamics package is the most economical car in its class. However, it was not just the BMW 3 Series’ outstanding economy that stood out for the judges; it was commended for being smooth and refined whilst still offering that sheer driving pleasure.

“The new BMW 3 Series is great to drive, with sharp steering and a well judged chassis. But the biggest gains are in efficiency; it delivers 60mpg and CO2 emissions so low that it falls into the cheapest 13 per cent company car tax band for diesels. It’s a convincing winner of our Executive Car of the Year award.”, commented Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief.

“It is a testament to the quality and refinement of the BMW 3 Series to win this prestigious award for seven consecutive years. To have this consistent recognition, across the generations, for all of the hard work that goes into producing BMW’s core model is a great honour.”, Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK added.

On the other hand, the superb 2012 BMW X3 xDrive20d was awarded the top honour in recognition of its exceptional blend of efficiency, practicality and quality. It has achieved incredible results – 50.4 mpg on combined cycle with emissions of just 147g/km CO2.

“There’s more competition than ever among SUVs, but the BMW X3 wins the category award by offering lots of space, excellent fuel efficiency and a beautifully finished cabin. It’s a great family car, really – and its running costs are around those of a regular hatchback.”, Chas Hallett, What Car? editor-in-chief finished.

Source: BMW

January 13, 2012

2012 BMW 328i and 335i Sedans – Price

BMW Announces Prices for All-New 3 Series: 2012 BMW 328i and 335i Sedans priced at $35 795 and $43 295 respectively

Just before a couple of hours BMW of North America had made an announcement of the prices for the all-new 2012 BMW 3 Series Sedans. The 2012 328i Sedan will be priced from $35 795 while the 2012 335i Sedan will be priced from $43 295. Of course in the stated prices is included destination and handling (which costs $895). The base price of $320 and $370 increase over the outgoing models, nevertheless, as an addition to the brand new redesigned exterior and interior, the new cars include a significantly higher level of standard equipment. If you wonder what it might be, it is the following: a 6.5-inch central display with iDrive controller, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/iPod interface, 8-Speed Automatic Transmission, Automatic Start/Stop, Dynamic Driving Control with ECO PRO Mode and Brake Energy Regeneration. Further improvement is made with larger wheels and tires, which go as standard equipment for both models.

The sixth generation BMW 3 Series Sedan raised the question once again about the benchmark by which all sport sedans are measured. Not surprisingly the pioneering history of the 3 Series is taken as an inspiration for the new sports sedan. Every BMW admirer would love the new powerful styling that is actually a fresh interpretation and conscientious development of traditional BMW design. These all-new 3 Series will without exception set very high standards for performance and handling, for luxury, technology and last but not least – for efficiency.

To go further into details, the 328i Sedan is equipped with its TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine. On the other hand we have the 335i, which features the BMW’s TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six. Both will be available in a trio of trim and equipment versions – the Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line. This is to be made because as usual BMW presents its own individual take on the character of the sports sedan, and of course – they care about the customer individual taste.

The all-new BMW 3 Series Sedan will debut at the North American International Auto Show in January and arrive in US showrooms in February 2012 as a 2012 model.

Source: BMW

November 24, 2011

2012 BMW 3-Series Sedan F30

BMW has revealed the all new 2012 3-Series F30 Sedan. This is the sixth generation of the world’s best-selling premium saloon. The car will hit the market in February next year and it will build on the current model’s position as the ultimate drivers’ car in its sector. It will also be the most logical business proposition, thanks to new powertrains and additional EfficientDynamics fuel-saving, emissions-reducing technologies.

BMW F30 is larger and more spacious than E90. It is also lighter and quicker, more fuel-efficient; and more nimble and agile while even safer. There have been big steps forward in style, quality, comfort and specification for only a minimal price increase. A wider choice of trim levels and an extensive personalisation programme will allow 3 Series Saloon buyers to order virtually a bespoke car.

F30 continues to be the ultimate driver’s car by featuring rear-wheel-drive layout, near-perfect 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution, agile chassis set-up and responsive engines.

The engine range includes a new four-cylinder 2.0-litre petrol unit with whopping 245PS and 350Nm of torque. This engine is installed in 328i and replaces the six-cylinder 3.0-litre engines in the previous 325i and 330i. 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and a staggering 44 mpg on combined cycle with CO₂ emissions below 150g/km. The new unit features High-Precision Direct Injection, BMW’s new TwinScroll turbocharging, Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve opening technology. The other petrol engine on offer is the 3.0-litre six-cylinder TwinPower Turbo unit in the 335i.

The diesels are an improved 2.0-litre in 320d with 184PS and 320d EfficientDynamics with 163PS, which is capable of doing 68.9mpg fuel consumption and just 109g/km CO₂. Previously only available as a manual, the 320d EfficientDynamics is also now available with the new 8-speed automatic transmission.

Less than a month after launch, three new engines will be added. There will be 316d and 318d diesels, powered respectively by 116PS and 143PS variants of the 2.0-litre diesel engine, plus another version of the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This will slot into the new 320i, and will be tuned to deliver 184PS and 270Nm of torque, with the same free-revving, supremely flexible character of all other BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engines.

BMW UK can confirm that towards the end of 2012 it will introduce four-wheel-drive and hybrid powertrains to the 3 Series Saloon for the first time in the UK. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system has been available on the 3 Series in some markets previously, and has now been engineered for right-hand-drive cars. It will be of particular benefit to owners who live in areas prone to extremes of bad weather, and will be available with selected petrol and diesel engines.

The ActiveHybrid 3 will arrive at roughly the same time, and will use the powertrain recently announced for the ActiveHybrid 5. This pairs the 335i’s 306PS six-cylinder engine with an up to 40kW electric motor in a particularly intelligent and efficient way.

Check out the price list, below!

Model	Price OTR from	Power Hp	Torque Nm	0 – 62mph Seconds	Top speed Mph	Combined Mpg	CO₂ Emissions g/km
BMW 328i Saloon	£29,060	245	350	5.9 (6.1)	155*	44.1 (44.8)	149 (147)
BMW 335i Saloon	£35,525	306	400	5.5 (5.5)	155*	35.8 (39.2)	186 (169)
BMW 320d Saloon	£28,080	184	380	7.5 (7.6)	146 (143)	62.8 (64.2)	120 (118)
BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Saloon	£28,080	163	380	8.0 (8.1)	143 (141)	68.9 (68.9)	109 (109)

*Electronically limited.

Source: BMW

October 14, 2011

Tag: BMW F30