BMW – Page 18 – Automobiles Review

BMW M6 Coupe Competition Edition Will Debut at 2015 FIAA

2016 BMW M6 Coupe Competition Edition The latest BMW M6 Coupe Competition Edition will be presented at the 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show. The vehicle will offer exceptional individuality, thanks to the special paintwork, the unique carbon-fiber components and the fine leather with contrast stitching. But as we know, shiny stuff and fluffy interior components are not vital for the pleasure of driving. What matters the most is the drivetrain system. And BMW knows this fact perfectly well. So, the team geared this beauty with a 4.4-liter V8 petrol unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology. The result is a machine that produces a total of 600 hp (441 kW) and 700 Nm of torque. With this setup the vehicle has a top speed of 305 km/h (189 mph) and fuel consumption of 9.9/100 km and CO2 emissions of 231g/km.

Furthermore, customers can choose among two exterior paintwork color schemes: Alpine White and luminous Austin Yellow Metallic. If you choose your BMW with the Alpine White color, you also get stylish decorative bodywork stripes in well-known BMW M colors. Furthermore, the vehicles offer and matt-black 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke 343 M styling with mixed tires. As you will see for yourself, the wheels, along with the signature BMW kidney grille, door handles and side grill s in black chrome bring that classy, yet aggressive appearance and stand.

2016 BMW M6 Coupe Competition Edition

Let’s go back to the interior. The BMW Coupe Competition Edition will grant customers with individual fine-grain Merino leather in black with Opal White or Alpine White paintwork in yellow with Austin Yellow metallic paintwork. And of course, the “M6 Competition” lettering in metal on the door sills is present. Furthermore, the multifunction seats for the driver and passengers, along with the BMW Heads-Up Display are also part of the standard equipment. And BMW team also gave attention to the music experience. The vehicle can now be geared with either Harman Kardon Surround Sound System or the high-end Surround Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with a total of 16 speakers and a total output of 1,200 watts.

2016 BMW M6 Coupe Competition Edition

And as always, the vehicle looks confident, appealing and stylish. It looks like this year’s FIAA will be incredible event with incredible reviews

Source: BMW

September 15, 2015

Vision of Speed for the Latest BMW M4

VOS BMW M4 Front View VOS BMW M4: the first thing that we can say about it is that it received unique photo-shoot. You can view the high definition imagery in the gallery below. But this car is more than just pictures. Of course, the fact that it is based on the BMW’s latest M4-Series makes the project initially outrageous. Having this good basis, the specialists at VISION OF SPEED (VOS) carefully added some goodies. Let’s see what they have included.

More Power for the Drivetrain

Without any enhancements, M4’s 3-litre inline six-cylinder unit produces 431 PS (317 kW), 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque, and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. This means pretty good performance, doesn’t it?

However, due to the addition of VOS-Performance upgrade for the engine, the experts have achieved new heights. The result is no less than 550 PS (404 kW) and 710 Nm (524 lb-ft) of torque, making an extra of 119 PS and 160 Nm. In addition, they have also unleashed the top speed and it now reaches 310 km/h.

Stability and Control for the new Horsepower

VOS BMW M4 Side View

550PS are not easy to handle, so VOS decided to make the car more safe and stable, so that the driver can keep everything under control. For this purpose they have integrated Clubsport chassis version 3 and KW Suspensions.

The exhaust system was also changed, and the BMW now breathes through new stainless steel one that has valve-control, middle silencer and rear muffler. At the front axis we also see new Brembo brake system with six-piston-calliper as well as two-part 380×34 mm-racing-brake-discs. The rear axis received four-piston-callipers matched with two-part racing-brake-discs of 380x28mm.

Enhancements for the Exterior

VOS BMW M4 Rear View

Although there is not much done in terms of exterior tuning, we can still see the changes easily. They include new carbon mirrorcaps, carbon rear diffuser, wheels and tires. By the way, the alloys are manufactured by BBS and come in size of 20-inch. Vredestein-tires of 255/30-20 and 275/30-20 come into play at the front and rear, respectively. And this basically rounds out this project.

Now it’s time to take a look at the gallery and tell us what you think about VOS’ work.

Source: VOS via Miranda Media

September 8, 2015

Comparing the very best family touring and estate cars

Growing families that need a little more room than a standard hatchback or saloon will usually turn their attention to estate and touring cars. Along with a bigger boot, estate and touring car owners still benefit from impressive styling, great refinement and plenty of equipment.

In addition, running costs are much cheaper than bigger MPVs and crossovers. Simply by adding some roof bars on top, from Tesco or other retailers, the same functionality can be enjoyed.

But what are the very best family touring and estate cars currently available? Here’s a quick comparison.

BMW 5 Series Touring

Possibly the best estate car around, the BMW 5 Series Touring ticks all the right boxes. The build quality is second to none, so you won’t have to deal with many surprise breakdowns. At the same time, owners are treated to a powerful yet controlled drive behind the wheel.

Self-levelling rear suspension allows you to transport heavy loads with the greatest of ease, while the ample safety and security kit means passengers will always stay free from harm.

Ford Focus Estate

If the 5 Series Touring is too expensive, consider the Ford Focus Estate instead. Not only does this option handle just as well as the BMW, it also boasts a number of powerful yet economical engines.

Space and practicality are also best in class, while all versions come with air conditioning, a digital radio, and Bluetooth.

Audi A6 Avant

Going back to the executive market, the Audi A6 Avant provides stiff competition for the BMW 5 Series. Handling isn’t quite as sharp but the beautiful cabin is a thoroughly pleasant place to be.

You won’t need to spend much on additional extras either, as nearly every piece of equipment you could want is included as standard. Competitive running costs and strong engine performance only add to the Audi A6 Avant’s strong points.

Kia Cee’d Sportswagon

Budget-conscious buyers that don’t want to break the bank with a purchase should look no further than the Kia Cee’d Sportswagon. With lots of space, a high quality cabin, and an abundance of equipment, you can’t go far wrong.

It is probably a bit noisier than the Ford Focus Estate and won’t deliver an equally impressive drive, but if value for money is your key concern, pick the Kia Cee’d Sportswagon.

Verdict

Personal preference in terms of handling and equipment is the only way to separate top of the range estate cars like the BMW 5 Series Touring and Audi A6 Avant. However, if your budget doesn’t stretch to these options, there are some commendable alternatives available.

The Ford Focus might not be as refined, but it can’t be beaten when it comes to space and practicality. And for the ultimate in cost-effective motoring, try the Kia Cee’d Sportswagon for size.

September 4, 2015

Another BMW M235i Cabriolet Project Mightier than its Stock Brother

DTE-Systems BMW M235i Cabriolet Front View DTE-Systems BMW M235i is a very special version of the M235i cabriolet that features enhanced power and some other playful characteristics. But before we discus the benefits that this car comes with, we should also remind you that the last news published about BMW was also about the M235i.

However, it was a M235i-tuning project by dÄHLer, which as a result generated around 390 horsepower. The logical question that comes in mind is whether this DTE-Systems project will bring out even more from this special M-Series cabrio. Let’s see.

FSR14 Performance upgrade for the Turbocharged Engine

DTE-Systems BMW M235i with open hood

Under the hood of the M235i is the 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six motor, which in its stock form produces 326 hp (240 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque. DTE-System’s performance upgrade called FSR1 adds to these numbers 40 hp and 70 Nm, making them a total of 366 hp (269 kW) and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft).

If you have followed my thoughts then you should also know the answer of the aforementioned question. Unfortunately, DTE-System did not manage to beat dÄHLer’s 390 hp for the BMW M235i.

New Keypad System

Nonetheless, this cabriolet has some other goodies that the other one doesn’t. For instance, an important additional feature here is the keypad system that allows the driver to choose from three different and fully customizable driving programmes.

As a result, they can dial in as many as seven power levels within these programmes. Three-colour LEDs show the chosen programme and service level.

DTE’s PedalBox

DTE-Systems BMW M235i Rear View

In addition, greater driving pleasure is ensured via the in-house made PedalBox. What does it do? Well, it quickens the response time of the electronic throttle. In fact, there are over 20 different settings, three programmes and seven power levels. This of course gives the opportunity of a suitable response from a standing start and in intermediate gear acceleration.

Source: DTE-Systems

September 1, 2015

dÄHLer Releases BMW M235i Cabriolet with 390HP

dÄHLer BMW M235i Cabriolet Front and Side View dÄHLer BMW M235i Cabriolet is a product of the Swiss tuning company dÄHLer Design & Technik GmbH. The aim in every project the experts do is to eventually offer optimized and exclusive driving pleasure. And this is exactly what has happened with this BMW M235i Cabrio. As a matter of fact, the car is the forerunner of M2 and this makes everything a little bit more exhilarating.

Tuning for the Engine

The compact cabriolet received a performance improvement for its engine. As a result the car now can generate up to 390 hp (287 kW). In comparison the stock number was 326 HP (240 kW). This optimization also results in better maximum speed, which is now positioned at 288 km/h.

Featuring an All Wheel xDrive, the compact sports car can now accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.2 seconds. This is exactly 0.4 seconds less than the capability of the production variant.

More Goodies for BMW M235i

dÄHLer BMW M235i Cabriolet Rear View

The DÄHLER-tuning program also adds to this BMW multiple adjustable in-house made coilover suspension. As a result, the M235i achieves noticeable increase in longitudinal and lateral dynamics. Other key features here include stainless steel exhaust system with tailpipes, HARTGE multispoke wheels fitted with low profile rubbers and interior individualization.

Source: dÄHLer Design & Technik via Miranda Media

August 28, 2015

Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz and Their Attractive Sub-brands

It has become common place over the decades for manufacturers to entertain a certain sector of the market with high performance versions of their most popular models – or even one-off specials – and while most are well received, some marques stand out among the rest.

The big three German manufacturers of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz all arguably have the most attractive sub-brands – RS, M and AMG – appeasing those with a need for speed, great handling and a far more visceral experience from that of their standard models. Examples from the RS, M and AMG departments bring immediate appeal, thanks to their enhanced appearances, exciting aural offerings and their ability to reach the horizon in mere seconds.

A massive advantage for the trio’s more sporting models is the fact that their donor cars were never sluggish or of low quality to start with and on their own offer premium finishes and an overall sorted package, a combination that is even still evident in the second-hand market today.

To celebrate these manufacturers’ ability to bring such majestic and exhilarating models to the fore, here’s a run down of possibly the best examples from each sub brand. Don’t agree with the choices? Let us know your favourite RS, M and AMG models in the comments below.

Audi RS2

For Audi, the RS2 was genesis for the RS program and a project that was to become one of its most iconic cars in the line-up. The RS2 was a joint venture between Audi and compatriots Porsche, resulting in one of the most technologically advanced cars built with an Audi badge on the front at that time.

The compact estate car was built on Audi’s 80 Avant structure, but saw many additions and new parts to make it a superbly fast car; even by today’s numbers, the RS2 could give a Porsche Cayman a run for its money. Under the bonnet was a much modified version of Audi’s 2.2-litre inline five-cylinder turbocharged powertrain, serving up 311bhp; good enough for a 0-62mph sprint of just 4.8sec. One of the most famous stats for the RS2 was that its 0-30mph sprint time (1.5sec) was faster than that of a McLaren F1, as found out by Autocar.

This power was put through a highly effective Quattro four-wheel-drive system that led that way for future RS models, especially its successor the RS4. Admittedly, the RS2 wasn’t the best handling car in the world, thanks to the occasionally violent turbo and fairly steep understeer. However, it had a bucket load of character and to this day is an incredibly difficult car to get hold of, with the odd example with over 100,000 miles on the clock selling for around the £20,000 mark.

BMW M3 CSL

Black BMW M3 CSL E46

Now to BMW’s Motorsport division and a car that many revere as one of the all-time best M3 variants, the CSL. Standing for Coupe Sport Lightweight, the CSL was a raw and highly focused version of the E46 M3 and since its short production time in 2004 has become a modern classic.

An element that ensured the CSL would differ from the ‘standard’ M3 was its loss of 110kg, with many weight-saving applications helping to accomplish this diet, some of which coming straight from its then Formula 1 team. Firstly, a large proportion of the car’s sound deadening was removed, before its electrical architecture was stripped, meaning creature comforts such as electric seats and satellite navigation were taken out, while air con was not standard but could be fitted at no extra cost.

Add to this a carbon roof to bring down the centre of gravity, an extra 17bhp in that straight-six engine and a viciously fast semi-auto SMG gearbox, you’ve got yourself a fairly aggressive package; even more so when you press that all-important ‘M’ button on the steering wheel. A 50:50 weight distribution and this loss of weight also resulted in incredibly accurate handling dynamics, while a tighter steering ratio also did its part to increase the car’s responsive attitude.

Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG

Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM Cabriolet

When manufacturers create road-going versions of their race cars, you know you’re likely to be in for a treat, and with Mercedes CLK DTM AMG it was no different. Here was a fettled version of the CLK55 AMG coupled with inspiration from the German Touring Car championship, with just 100 coupes and 80 cabriolet versions released.

Mercedes used its supercharged 5.4-litre naturally-aspirated V8 for the CLK DTM AMG and upped the power to a massive 582bhp, good for a 0-62mph run of a mere 3.8sec. To give it a more aggressive stance, the track was widened at both the front and rear, while special tyres and suspension modifications were required to keep the car from destroying itself and allow it to take it to a 200mph top speed.

The CLK DTM AMG has since become a bit of a ‘Unicorn’ car and a great investment, with prices commanding various premiums for low mileage examples over the original £180,000 asking price. It was even a car that got many racing drivers’ attention; the likes of Jenson Button, Kimi Raikkonen and Mikka Hakkinen all at some point owned examples of the car, including the cabriolet.

Image Source: Wikipedia

August 25, 2015

Was D3 Bi-Turbo’s Facelift Necessary?

Alpina has finally demonstrated dthe D3 Bi-Turbo refreshment for sedan and estate models. As you know, the vehicle is influenced by the facelift of the BMW 3-Series and now it offers restyled grille, front spoiler, LED headlights and some changed graphics. The interior has also received its attention and now includes high-quality components and numerous more additions, that will be part of the standard equipment. For example, Cruise Control System and Park Distance Control System.

But the vehicle didn’t receive any changes on the drivetrain system. It will be still powered by the 3.0-liter diesel unit with two turbochargers which provide a total of 350 hp (275 kW) and 700 Nm of torque. Let us remind you that this set up provides a short 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint of just 4.6 seconds and the top speed is 276 km/h (171 mph). In fact, as we see these stats look like enough, but I am pretty sure that there are numerous BMW fans, who wanted even more.

However, the facelift still remains an arguable topic. Even though it contributed for some minor cosmetic changes and some additional gadgets, we still wonder if it was that necessary. What do you think about it?

Source: Alpina

August 21, 2015

Simple but Charming: Meet JMS BMW 5-Series Facelift

JMS Fahrzeugteile BMW 5-Series Facelift is an example how sometimes tiny changes can make a “big deal”. Not everybody, including me, like pompous tunings or modifications. In fact, if there are people who think like I do, then they will find that some conversions are even equal to unnecessary spent money. But it depends on the taste and of course, we shouldn’t generalize all tunings out there.

So, this 5-Series have received new stance just by three simple steps. Here they are:

STEP 1

JMS tuning specialists have used the meaning lowering very well. This BMW features Racelook Exclusiv Line front spoiler lip with integrated splitter not only for an addition of sportier touch, but also for 28 mm lowering. The spoiler lip also makes the perfect visual transition to the standard side sills.

STEP 2

JMS Fahrzeugteile BMW 5-Series Grille

Changing the handling and road-holding was achieved with the help of KW Variant 3 coil-over suspension. This has resulted in 55 mm lowering at the front and 45 mm lowering at the rear, contributing to the more purposeful and aggressive stance of this 5-Series.

STEP 3

The last step that JMS tuners did is to replace the standard alloys with Oxigin 18 Concave Wheel in 9.0×20 and 10.5×20-inch sizes at the front and rear, shod with 245/35R20 and 275/30R20 tires.

Accessories such as the JMS Tuning accelerator “Speedpedal”, performance upgrades and sport exhaust systems care also an option here as they come with a special JMS program. What do you think about this project? Does these changes seem enough to you?

Source: JMS Fahrzeugteile

August 21, 2015

Lost the “Spark” For Your BMW? OK-CHIPTUNING Might Help You

We all know that BMW 1 Series M Coupe with 340 hp (250 kW) is not that delicate, but there is good news for the fans out there. The brand OK-Chiptuning in Neukirchen-Vluyn, that specializes in software for optimization sometimes likes to tweak with gadgets just to prove wrong.

So, there is one BMW 1 Series M Coupe E82 with N54-engine year vehicle that comes to these guys for its ‘medicine’ and the professionals install the software in two parts: first the Evo 2 Performance intercooler from Wagner Tuning and then the Eisenmann -race-exhaust system ans Sachs-performance-clutch. So, the Bayer now has been turned into a sort of flying machine with this data on the in-house dynamometer: 440 hp (324 kW) and 696 Nm according to EC and 451 hp (332 kW) an 714 Nm according to DIN. And the maximum torque is now up to 4,500 U/min. Cool, huh?

In fact, OK-Chiptuning-team also offers and Bedi-cleaning. This is a patented idea annd the method works as it comes repeatedly to coking of the inlet valve with direct injection engines. What the professionals advise us is to use this method once in between 60,000 and 100,000 km. Otherwise the vehicle will suffer from power loss or even engine damage and crashes. It actually sounds scary.

And along with the software there are also some special features offered. For example a special wheel-tyre combination of three-piece Schidt rims CC-Line and special ZR20 tyres. Along with rear spoiler, carbon mirror caps and radiator grill.

So, if you wish to bring back that spark for your BMW or you wish to have one, we have already showed you the place.

Source: OK-Chiptuning

August 20, 2015

LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 is Dressed to Impress

2015 LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4

LIGHTWEIGHT tuner has set its eyes on BMW X4. Thanks to the professional team, the crossover-SUV is “dressed to impress”. The car has gained optimized and more exciting look and can now demonstrate stronger driving dynamics.

The performance improvements are done with the help of an extra control unit that guarantees 365 HP (268 kW) with a peak torque of 690 Nm. Another way is through field boost which delivers even more horses, precisely 375 HP (276 kW). Torque rates are increased to 700 Nm. Finally there is a Vmax-increase up to 280 km/h.

When we observe the tweaked BMW X4 from the outside, it looks more powerful than ever. The dark frozen gray finish makes the car look sleek, stylish and ready to rock n’ roll. In order to ensure optimal protection of this Bavarian beast, the tuning company has wrapped the car in ceramic two-component solid filling. It is applied on the discs too. The exterior is complimented by LIGHTWEIGHT-carbon fiber mirror covers, spoiler and rear apron insert. Black gloss or carbon fiber front spoiler is also part of the highlights on the outside. There is a Hartge-Classic 2-wheelset in 9.5×21. It comes with Michelin PilotSuperSport in 245/35-21 at the FA and in 10.5×21 with 265/30-21 at the RA. The wheelset is protected with four component permanent sealing. 30 mm lowering is available too thanks to the in-house suspension with Bilstein-parts.

2015 LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 Interior

Interiorly, LIGHTWEIGHT BMW X4 consists of black alcantara. A LIGHTWEIGHT-logo adorn the velour floor mats while the center console stands out with double contrast stitching. There are aluminum pedals and LIGHTWEIGHT-auxiliary display contributing to the good-looking interior of the vehicle.

The car is priced at 88 000 Euro.

Source: miranda-media.de

August 6, 2015

BMW Releases 2016 M235i Track Edition Limited to 12 Copies Only

2016 BMW M235i Track Edition Front View 2016 BMW M235i Track Edition received this beautiful photo-shoot in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, which you can view in our gallery below. The reason for it wasn’t a shier enjoinment of the images, but the fact that BMW is actually introducing a special edition of only 12 copies to the Netherlands’ automotive market. The limited edition series pictured in the gallery received additional treatment from the experts at Baan Velgen, who gave the M235i more stylishness.The main reason for the release of this limited BMW M235i Track Edition in the Netherlands only, is to simply boost the sales in the country. As the name shows, the two-door sports coupe is equipped with M Performance Parts, giving it more athletic and dynamic appearance.

M235i Track Edition & M Performance Parts

As a matter of fact, the car got the complete M Performance Parts body kit. But what does it include? The answer: a lot of stylish components. At the front, there is a brand new splitter and lip spoiler as well as blacked out kidney grilles. The sides come adorned by new side skirts, while the tails gets a redesigned rear diffuser and M Performance stainless steel exhaust system. 19-inch alloy wheels come as a standard in these 12 limited editions.

Baan Velgen Treatment

The special treatment by Baan Velgen is seen via the 19-inch Tarmac Black HRE FlowForm FF15 wheels. Obviously, the specialists did not enjoy the stock alloys, and decided to do something about it. Eventually, the new wheels make the BMW M235i Track Edition look captivatingly good.In addition, this particular BMW received a set of H&R lowering springs, which have not only improved its visual status, but also lowered its center of gravity thus reducing body roll and making the handling better. At last, Baan Velgen added window tint, which perfectly matches the dark-character of the BMW.

Interior

Although there are no pictures of the interior, BMW Holland says that the M235i Track Edition has received a steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara, leather upholstery for its sports seats as well as aggressive stainless steel pedals.

Drivetrain

Nothing has been changed in the engine, so this means that the BMW M235i Track Edition keeps its stock’s output. Powered by the 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder engine, it is capable of producing 326 horsepower (240 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of maximum torque. The unit is connected to 8-speed Steptronic transmission, thus ensuring a 4.8 seconds for the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h and on the way to a Vmax of 250 km/h.

July 30, 2015

G-Power BMW 435d xDrive F32 Shows Amazing Performance

G-Power BMW 435d xDrive F32 Front View G-Power BMW 435d xDrive F32 will make BMW fans go crazy! The 4-Series has gone under significant engine update and as a result it is now capable of showing more performance compared to its stock siblings and even compared to upper-range models. Of course, the modifications were carefully conducted by the expert knowledge of the German specialists at G-Power. In fact, we have seen that they are able to do some fantastic engine uprating. Remember the 610HP BMW 760i? If you don’t, you should definitely check it in the link below.

Straight to the numbers, the G-POWER 435d xDrive F32 has a power output increase of 67 hp and 125 Nm of torque. This significant update was achieved via performance software.

A Total of 380 hp and 755 Nm

As a result, the BMW 435d has now an output to brag about: 380 hp (279 kW) and 755 Nm (557 lb-ft) of torque. As a matter of fact, the 3.0 litres 6-cylinder serial motor with its default Biturbo charge was the perfect basis for the additional power increase.

The special performance software tunes the factory BMW motor electronics, thus increasing the power by 67 hp (49 kW) to a total of 380 hp (279 kW). The torque improvement is even more impressive, adding a total of 125 Nm and resulting to a staggering 755 Nm (577 lb-ft).

Kill the Top Speed Restriction

How about the top speed? G-Power did not provide any details about it, but only said that there is the option of “killing” the serial top speed restriction. The way they can do this is to raise the limit of the top speed to a theoretical value that can not be achieved in practice. This is how, the G-POWER BMW 435d xDrive would be capable of achieving a top speed that is in accordance to its new power output.

Exterior Gets Minor Changes

The guys at G-Power have obviously concentrated on the “heart” of the BMW. This is why there is not much work done on the exterior or the interior. Well, more sportiness is gained via the new set of 20-inch big G-POWER HURRICANE RR forged wheels. They will surely assist in the perfect way the new horsepower and torque capability of the BMW 435d.