BMW – Page 22 – Automobiles Review

Vorsteiner Releases GTS-V Package for BMW M6

Front View of Vorsteiner's BMW M6 GTS-V It is white, it is grandeur, it is based on the M6 series and it is pretty much the latest project presented by Vorsteiner. We were impressed by the visuals of the car as well as the modifications done on it. Although they are not as massive as Mansory’s Bentley GT Race car, they are that harmonious that it feels like the vehicle has always owned them.

We all know that the M6 series is currently offered in three variants: cabrio, coupe and Gran Coupe, and the good news is that the tuner’s package is available for all of them. Precisely, Vorsteiner designed a new front spoiler specifically for the M6. The benefit of this is that this new addition to the car creates downforce at high speeds.

Furthermore, the front spoiler mimics the edgy lines of the factory bumper and this is the reason why it seems like it has just got out fresh from the BMW factory. At the front we also see new front lip made of company’s speciality: the PrePreg carbon fiber. The same material has been used for the rear diffuser and the deck lid spoiler.

Also featured in this project are the GTS-V brake ducts that help force the air directly to the rotors. And that is all. Unfortunately, there isn’t any change in the 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine, so this means that it boasts 560 HP (412 kW) between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm and 680 Nm (501 lb-ft) of maximum torque.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 17, 2015

BMW Introduces its First Production PHEV

BMW X5 xDrive40e is here and it is pretty impressive, since it is actually the first production plug-in hybrid that the famous company releases. Although we have seen its concept form, it is still a surprise that this car, being the first hybrid, is actually a Sports Activity Vehicle with all the benefits of permanent all-wheel drive and EfficientDynamics eDrive technology. Another interesting fact about this special vehicle is that it is infused with technologies directly taken from the popular BMW i cars.

Next to these qualities the vehicle can also show-off with a huge output and fuel efficiency. Of course, the low CO2 emissions are also an advantage. To go directly into details, the total output of this hybrid is 313 hp (230 kW) and it is produced by an electric motor combined with four-cylinder petrol engine. The result is envious and it is a combined fuel consumption of around 3.3 litres and15.4 kWh per 100 kilometres, and 78 grams of CO2 per kilometer.

As usual as in all hybrids, there is also a lithium-ion battery which supplies energy for the electric motor, which is then integrated in the 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The battery is recharged when needed via any domestic power socket, public charging stations or a BMW i Wallbox.

We did not mention anything about the torque and the number is pretty impressive, since it is 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). Combined with the horsepower this allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds. On the other hand, zero emissions and a run on pure electric mode cover the range of up to 31 kilometers.

Various technology features have been included in the X5 xDrive40e like the ConnectedDrive and the 360° ELECTRIC services. Navigation system Professional is added as a no-cost option and the same is valid for the remote app that helps in the check of the battery.

Of course, there are a lot of equipment options that could be mentioned here, like the extended navigation or the Adaptive Suspension Package Comfort and Dynamic Damper Control, or even the special M package. However, the most important news is that the first BMW hybrid is a SAV. It was a big surprise, wasn’t it?

BMW X5 xDrive40e details:

Model	Power Hp	Torque Nm	0 – 62mph Seconds	Top Speed Mph	Combined Mpg	CO2 Emissions g/km
X5 xDrive40e	Petrol: 245hpElectric: 113hp	Petrol: 350 @Electric: 250	6.8	130mph (limited)	85.6	77
	Total system output: 313hp	Total system output: 450Nm			Figure range due to varying tyre format

Source: BMW

March 16, 2015

This is the Ultimate M5. G-Power Tunes it to crazy 740 HP

G-Power is a tuner famous for its admirations for BMW models. And specializing only in this single company’s products it has achieved heights that it is literally impossible for anyone else to follow it. Of course, we are speaking in terms of power, since this beautiful black M5 is capable of more than 740 horsepower (455 kW) and 975 Nm (717 lb-ft), delivering it via its tweaked 4.4 V8 bi-turbo engine.

This means that the car achieves the same performance level as the first versions of the legendary G-Power M5 and M6 HURRICANE cars that were equipped with the supercharged V10 engines. And if these numbers mean nothing to you, then you should know that the standard M55 generates “only” 560 hp/(412 kW) and 680 Nm (502 lb-ft). Now this is impressive, isn’t it?

But how this gain in power has been achieved? The performance package here is called Bi-Tronik 5 V4. It comprises of an external performance module that has been based on a microprocessor, as well as a Titanium exhaust system with racing catalysts.

Then the Bi-Tronik 5 V4 was enhances by a G-Power V-MAX increase, which is actually a software optimization that adds some numbers to the top speed. The result is breathtaking: the V-max now stands at 350 km/h. All of these changes logically result in better performance figures. G-Power says that the enhanced BMW sprints from 0 to 200 km/h in only 10.5 seconds on its way to the new top speed.

Modifications have been implemented to the engine cover, which is now made from visual carbon fibre, and there is tuning company’s badge in its middle. The sound of the powerful unit now goes out from four titanium/carbon tail pipes. Then, the appropriate wheels were added, being namely the 21 inch G-Power HURRICANE RR, which were then shod with 255/30 ZR 21 and 295/25 ZR 21 Michelins.

All in all, this is another stunning tuning from G-Power that attracts a lot of attention. Great work guys!

Source: G-Power

March 11, 2015

Camouflaged BMW Race Car Previewed Ahead of Official Reveal

This year BMW is celebrating 40th Anniversary of its first US race win at the 1975 12 Hours of Sebring. This is also the number of the years in which the company has been present in North America, so we are to expect some very impressive cars coming thought 2015. The celebration will officially happen at the 20th-annual Concours d’Elegance at the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island from 12^th till 15^th of March.

At the Concours the visitors will also see the iconic BMW 328 that has been a legend in racing history. In fact, the company has gathered several BMW 328 models featuring the 328 Touring Mille Miglia Coupe. This one is famous for its lightweight construction and advanced aerodynamics, and more precisely that it was the first car to include such changes. As a result it won the 1940 Mille Miglia endurance race.

Of course, at the event will be also the 328 car with which Sir Stirling Moss achieved his first victory. But even more important than this is the premiere that will happen there. As you can see from the picture, BMW has teased a very mysterious car and showed it wrapped in camouflage.

No details have been released so far and we will have to wait until the official reveal on Saturday. However, our sources say that it will be a 3.0 CSL-inspired livery Z4 GTLM. The car is destined to race in this year’s edition of the 12 Hours of Sebring on 21^st this month. The person behind the steering wheel will be Bill Auberlen. Stay tuned!

Source: BMW

March 11, 2015

BMW Celebrates 50 Years of ALPINA with the Fastest B6 xDrive Gran Coupe

The entirely new BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe will be the main star at company’s stand at New York Auto Show that starts on 1^st of April. This model will mark the celebration of two events: the 40th anniversary of BMW of North America and the US motorsports victory at the 12 Hours of Sebring with the1975 BMW 3.0 CSL. But we aren’t finished with the anniversaries. It is actually 50 years since the introduction of the ALPINA brand, so this is also an occasion to make some noise about it.

Believe it or not, the new ALPINA car is the fastest BMW which is currently sold. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.6 seconds, while its optimum speed is electronically limited at 200 mph.

The four-door Gran Coupe is driven by the powerful 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 that is capable of generating 600 horsepower (441 kW) and 799 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. This is exactly 60 horsepower more than the previous model we have seen.

Same are the ALPINA-tuned 8-Speed Sport Automatic transmission and xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system as well as the ALPINA stainless steel exhaust system with elliptical twin tailpipes. Updates have been made to the front spoiler and apron that have now new shape. They ensure that maximum air enters the cooling system. New are also the hood and the LED Adaptive Headlights with High Beam Assistant.

The anniversary BMW ALPINA B6 xDrive Gran Coupe will have a limited production but no numbers have been specified up to date. The car will be available at US dealerships in June and pricing will be announced close market launch.

Source: BMW

March 6, 2015

Vorsteiner Widens BMW M4 and Calls it Yas Marina Blue GTRS4

We haven’t said anything about Vorsteiner for a while, because all we have received recently was beautiful BMWs with new alloys. This time the tuner has taken things a little bit further with the “widened” BMW F82 M4 GTRS4 Yas Marina Blue Project. As you can see from the pictures the accent is again on the wheels, since they come in the contrasting Sakhir Orange. But, what’s left unnoticed at first glance is the widebody program, called GTRS4.

In details, all conversion parts are made of full lightweight carbon composite. It is exciting that the specialists made the front fenders have a total span of 4 inches. At the rear, the quarter panels sit 7 inches wider in comparison to the standard car.

We can’t skip the new carbon front and rear bumpers as well as the side blades. Given that every new element is made of carbon fiber, we suspect that the car has less weight and drives faster. However, no details in this respect have been announced.

Using our imagination and knowing that the standard M4 is powered by the 3.0 liter TwinPower Turbo Inline six-cylinder engine, we can say that this car will be capable of producing around (or more) 431horsepower (317 kW) and 550Nm (406 lb-ft). Expectations for the 0-100 km/h sprint exceed the production 4.3 seconds.

Going back to the alloys, the car has been equipped with specially designed three-piece forged wheels that come in the size of 20×10.5 and 20×13.5 inches at the front and rear, respectively. They were shod with 275 and 345 width tires.

Source: Vorsteiner

March 6, 2015

G-Power BMW M3 Gains More Horses

G-Power specialists are mostly known for their exceptional BMW tunings and it is not a secret that they prefer to work on the M series. But who wouldn’t? The buzz around them is that they have revised their supercharger program for the V8-powered M3 model, thus making it gain 20 horses. But there is more to that. This new program also counts those who have already added a supercharger system. The benefits for them are the biggest, since they can enhance the power output of their BMW to 630 hp.

The additional power is delivered via new software for the electronic engine control. As a matter of fact, the tuners developed it from the beginning and created an entirely new set of maps for the fuelling, ignition, variable-valve-timing and boost control. Due to the new configurations they also had to mind the fuel efficiency and emissions.

The complete development process for the software took about one year to be completed. But this did not include only in-house testing, but also many kilometers on the racetrack in real driving.

The result is a powerful and dynamic engine, which puts emphasis on supreme performance. Precisely, we must take into account that the standard M3 produces only 420 horsepower (309 kW) and 400 Nm of torque. The G-Power conversion system makes the 630 horses (463 kW) and the 590 Nm of torque a reality, as well as the spectacular 4.0 seconds 0-100 km/h sprint. The top speed is up to 330 km/h.

The new 20 hp can not go without new alloys. More power just needs new wheels to run on. In this case, the BMW is fitted with Diamond-Cut double spoke Hurricane RR forged alloys that are 20 inches of size. They are shod with 245/30ZR20 and 295/25ZR20 Michelins at the front and rear, respectively.

Every BMW fan would agree that if there is so much horsepower, there should be appropriate ride height modifications. The case here is no different and we have received an M3 which is 30 mm lower to the ground. The ceramic brake system is responsible for the stopping power of the car. It has 396 mm vented discs with six-pot calipers on the front axle, and 380 mm vented discs with four-pot calipers brake at the rear. Good job guys!

Source: G-Power

February 23, 2015

Why Vorsteiner BMW F32 435i Has More Rugged Appearance?

The American tuner car manufacturer Vorsteiner is introducing its latest lightweight flow forged alloy technology which is a real treasure when it comes to safety, design, quality and performance. Even though this new technology is approximately 25% lighter compared to a conventional cast construction, it is capable of demonstrating exceptional strength, balance and resistance. A model that takes advantage of these lightweight wheels is the BMW F32 435i. The car arrives with 300 untamed horses (223 kW) and a maximum torque of 406 Nm (300 lb-ft).

This specially fitted BMW is displayed in Carbon Graphite double five spokes wheels that come in dimensions of 20×8.5 inches at the front and 20×10 inches at the rear. The use of a standard profile in the front and concave profile in the rear is a recipe for absolute clearance even when we talk about the largest big brake kits in the market nowadays.

But how does the new technology work? Taking into consideration every possible detail, the unique Vorsteiner flow forged technology is placed into a steel rim mold and prepped to be processed. After that, there is an extensive heat and pressure applied by using three individually shaped rollers.

They strengthen the barrel to the exact width and density, thus forming stronger rims without using too much material. Finally, the wheels have higher impact tolerance and weigh less thanks to the molecular mixture of the aluminum. Precisely, the front alloys have a mass index of 21.4lb, while those at the back weigh 22lbs.

At last, Vorsteiner ensured that their V-FF 103 are accompanied by the appropriate tyres. So they have chosen the Pirelli P Zero for the task and the sizes 245/30/20 and 275/30/20 for the front and rear, respectively.

Source: Vorsteiner

February 20, 2015

AEZ Straight Shine: Perfect Choice for Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz

AEZ are famous for their wheels with good – looking designs. In order to make sure that every customer receives what they want, the company offers a rich selection of alloys. By providing tons of opportunities and options, AEZ manages to highlight the character of different BMW, Mercedes and Audi models. Straight alloys were revealed for the first time not too long ago and now the company is introducing its AEZ Straight shine. It is one out of three variants in total and it features a high gloss finish that makes it most flexible.

Seeing it for the very first time, everyone can notice that the 10 – spoke wheel demonstrates an extremely mesmerizing straightness. It is sporty. It is aggressive. And it is elegant at the same time. But this is not all because the specialists had a few more aces up their sleeves. Thanks to the concave bowl the Straight shine receives additionally explicit versatility and stance. On the surface, the flange is connected with a slight bend. What is more, there is a one-sided edge which lends the struts more dynamic and asymmetrical appearance.

If we leave the emphatic look aside, Straight shine wows with a high-class technical design. The different scope of dimensions turn it into a perfect choice for high-performance vehicles with staggered fitments. For instance, the AEZ Straight shine can ideally match the sporty virtues of Audi A4, A5 or A6. Additionally, these alloys can also enhance the progressive appearance of the 3, 4 or 5-Series BMW and can finally contribute to the impressive silhouette of Mercedes-Benz C and E-class as well as the CLS.

Dimensions:
4 holes 7.5×17, 8.0×18 inch
5 holes 7.5×17, 8.0×18, 8.5×19, 9.5×19, 8.5×20, 9.5×20 inch
Finish: high gloss
Construction: cast, single-piece
Load: up to 735 kg
TPMS: fit for TPMS, 100 % compatible with ALCAR T-ProSensor
Guarantee: 3 years

Source: AEZ

February 17, 2015

The new BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer Looks Demotivating

What is big, ugly, and unnecessary? The new BMW 2-Series Gran Tourer! This might be the first premium compact model to offer up to seven seats and answer the mobility requirements of young families but it is also a model which does not shine with sufficient originality. On top of this, the carmaker has obviously forgotten what attractiveness is when creating this model. Convenience might be important but it isn’t everything when it comes to the pretentious automotive world! Let alone the automotive dreams of BMW fan-boys!

The new BMW Gran Tourer arrives with a choice of five turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, all part of the BMW’s most-recently formed engine family. With either three or four-cylinders, these advanced power units are said to offer excellent efficiency. Thus, the 220i and 220d can cover the 0-62 mph run in 7.8 seconds. The most powerful among the powerplants is the diesel version which allows the BMW 220d to try to impress with 187 bhp and 295 lb-ft of maximum torque. The range-topping 220i petrol variant, on the other hand, can generate 189 bhp with a peak torque of 207 lb-ft. Prices start at £24,175.

2016 BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer’s silhouette is outlined by twin kidney grille, twin round headlights and brand logo. The attempts of BMW to make it look sporty haven’t been that successful really because what we see is nothing else but simplicity and hideousness. Inside, the only positive feel that one can get is that of too much space. Visually, the interior is just… demotivating. At least there is enough room to throw a party there and to invite pretty much the whole neighborhood!

Source: BMW

February 13, 2015

Borgward Returns and Is going to Compete with Brands Like Porsche [VIDEO]

After 50 years, the German brand Borgward is returning. It might not be as famous as BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and other German automakers but this brand produced some really spectacular models in the past. Established in 1919 by Carl F.W. Borgward, the company went bankrupt in 1961. The return of this forgotten automotive king will be marked by the release of something new during the 2015 Geneva Motor Show which is going to take place the beginning of March.

It is still unclear though what exactly Borgward has in store but expectations are growing. Releasing just a teaser video for now, the automaker shows a sports coupe in profile which kind of looks like it has inherited the spirit of the 50’s.

As mentioned before, the not – so – popular manufacturer now was writing an automotive history back in the day. The styles of the cars produced between 1919 and 1961 was considered to be ground – breaking and innovative. The progressive design incorporated class, specific presence and sophistication which labelled every vehicle as something marvellous. “As one of Germany’s largest and most successful car manufacturers of its time, Borgward created some of the most iconic cars of the early 20th century as well as a large range of commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, fire engines, boats, electric cars, sports cars and even helicopters.”

Perhaps the most notable model introduced by this German company was Borgward Isabella. The released clip offers a glimpce of the car as well as few more vehicles and some vintage racing images. But what do you think? Do Borgward cars stand a chance now?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Rrzt3tTWc0

Source: Borgward

February 10, 2015

Manhart MHX5 750 Promised to be Faster than BMW X5M F85

Despite the fact that Manhart Performance are still being very secretive about their upcoming MHX5 750, they have decided to unveil two images of the model just to keep our attention and interest alive.

The recently – developed Manhart MHX5 750 is based on the BMW X5M F85 and will be fitted with a stylishly designed exterior. The rigid and somehow serous bodylook suggests that this car is definitely made for grownups. The masculine appeal of the MHX5 750 is underscored by a blacked out grille, bonnet made of carbon fiber and front spoiler. In addition to this, carbon fiber mirror caps can be spotted too. For an extra tone of dynamism, there is a sporty exhaust system, 23 – inch forged alloys and an impressive rear diffuser.

Power is provided by the well – known twin – turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine. It is going to be tweaked so that it can trigger 750 PS (551 kW) and 1000 Nm (737 lb-ft) of maximum torque. Even though the company refused to share any performance specifications for now, the model is expected to be much faster than the BMW X5 M. The latter is able to speed up from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 100 km/h) in 4.2 seconds before hitting a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). The X5 M arrives with 567 HP (423 kW), between 6000 and 6500 rpm.

More information about the Manhart MHX5 750 is yet to be revealed, so stay tuned!

Source: Manhart

February 10, 2015

Tag: BMW