BMW – Page 60 – Automobiles Review

2013 BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe UK – Price £61 390

BMW UK has announced the full price list for their latest model – 6-Series Gran Coupe. It will hit the market next month as the range includes three models.

This is BMW’s first four-door coupe. The car combines the elegant and sporty appearance of a classic grand tourer with the space and ease of access of an executive saloon.

The engine range includes a new 450HP V8 TwinPower Turbo. There are two other less powerful variants – six-cylinder petrol and six-cylinder diesel power units.

All three engines drive through an eight-speed automatic transmission and come with the full suite of EfficientDynamics technologies, including Auto Start-Stop, ensuring highly responsive performance goes hand-in-hand with low fuel consumption and emissions. Extensive use of aluminium in the body and chassis reduces weight and ensures that the 6 Series Gran Coupé has the agility and precision expected of a BMW.

Model	Price OTR from	Power Hp	Torque Nm	0 – 62mph Seconds	Top Speed Mph	Combined Mpg	CO₂ Emissions g/km
BMW 650i Gran Coupé	£70,650	450	650	4.6	155*	31.7	206
BMW 640i Gran Coupé	£61,390	320	450	5.4	155*	35.8	181
BMW 640d Gran Coupé	£63,900	313	630	5.4	155*	49.6	148

* Electronically-limited

Source: BMW

May 28, 2012

2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani – an inspiring design

2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani is the special car, designed by Franca Sozzani (chief editor of Vogue). This exquisite MINI car was made to mark the 20th anniversary of the Life Ball charity event in Vienna.

MINI Roadster served as a base model for this inspiring floral design of the vehicle. In fact, the Roadster is the first open-top two-seater in the brand’s history. It comes with 184 horsepower (135 kW) and has a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph).

Franca Sozzani decorated the roof of the Roadster in a stylishly intricate floral design. All those floral motives are harmoniously combined with the trendiest color of all the Deepest Purple. It was applied as a matt paintwork over the car, and in addition is complemented by gold hallmark MINI rally stripes.

As you can see the overall appearance of the vehicle is more than impressive. In my opinion it is even a work of art.

The interior of the car is as inspiring and exceptional as the exterior itself. For instance, for the instruments and brass-colored touches on the circular elements is used printed leather.

The designer Sozzani spoke about the inspiration behind this unique design, which will stay in the history of the MINI:

“The concept behind the MINI customisation is inspired by the beautiful and elegant women who in the past used to wear a scarf draped around their head when driving a convertible. Flowers are a symbol of joy and life. And the Life Ball is always fighting for life and joy.”

2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani Interior

Source: MINI

May 21, 2012

Vorsteiner GTS-V BMW 1M Coupe

It has arrived. Vorsteiner‘s GTS-V program for the BMW 1M Coupe is a fact of life – “Autoclave Pre-Preg” carbon fiber aerodynamic components, some wheels and a sport exhaust system that’s beneficial to the power output.

The finished product is laden with character yet remains subtle. We have a GTS-V add-on spoiler for the front that also flings air to the disk brakes and a rear diffuser with a splitter and jutted fins. For the sake of lightness, the boot lid has been replaced entirely and now weighs only 11.5 lbs. A set of the company’s 20 or 21-inch VS-400, forged, multi spoke wheels also helps keep the unsprung weight down.

Vorsteiner would not leave it to that however. A stainless steel (or titanium optionally) system ups the power output by around 15 hp and 5 lb-ft of torque and will most probably make your ears bleed. So that would be 350 hp and 337 lb·ft of torque from the 1M’s 3.0-litre straight six. We reckon that it will do the naught to sixty run faster than the 4.3 second mark (the stock one’s time) on a drag strip. A real life evidence would be most welcomed.

Source: Vorsteiner

May 19, 2012

2012 BMW M6 F12 MotoGP Safety Car

BMW has announced the M6 F12 MotoGP Safety Car. It will be presented at this weekend’s M Festival at the 24 Hour Nurburgring Race. The car will also lead the M Corso parade featuring a lot of interesting models.

The car comes with slightly restyled exterior finished in white, ///M stripes and badges “Safety Car”. The aerodynamics is improved by a new front splitter and a rear wing. The front grille is finished in gloss black.

The new M6 is powered by the famous twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine with 560HP (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft) powering the M5 F10. It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission.

0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. Probably, the Safety Car will be slightly more powerful and with removed speed limiter.

Stay tuned!

Source: BMW

May 18, 2012

2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD offers luxury interior and sportier ride

2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD is the latest transformation this time of BMW, made by the exceptional tuners from A. Kahn Design. This is a true design challenge and certainly – very well completed.

In particular, it includes a interior and exterior enhancement, featuring large number of new parts, such as , Kahn Enamel wing shields, new front and rear bumpers, wider wheel arches, a Kahn Enamel tailgate logo and brake calipers finished in Liquid Red.

The tuned BMW runs on 22 inch Kahn RSL Alloy wheels in Silver Palladium finish. Combined with the lowered suspension, the SUV is able to provide even sportier ride as well as to look more aggressively and powerfully.

This BMW also has the special feature of a tinted glass. Moreover, its interior speaks of luxury and exclusiveness. It was completed with a very special interior package, which comprises of quilted perforated leather interior seats and a Kahn glove box complete with carbon effect inserts.

Additionally this outstanding interior is further complemented by a steering wheel and dials. This multifunctional steering wheel is wrapped with Black Alcantara. Furthermore, in the cabin can be also seen floor mats with toughened rubber, and Kahn Silver rev counter and a Kahn speedo in red.

2012 Kahn BMW X5 5S 3.OD Tuning Specifications:

• Brake Calipers Finished in Liquid Red

• Exterior – Kahn Enamel Tailgate Logo

• Exterior – Kahn Enamel Wing Shields

• Front And Rear Bumpers and Wide Wheel Arches

• Privacy Tinted Glass

• Sports Lowered Suspension

• 22″ Kahn RSL Alloy wheels in Silver Palladium Finish

• Black Alcantara Steering Wheel

• Sport Style Multi Function Steering Wheel

• Floor Mats (Toughened Rubber)

• Kahn Silver Rev Counter

• Kahn Speedo in Red

• Quilted perforated leather interior seats (with carbon effect inserts)

• Kahn glove box (with carbon effect inserts)

• Steering wheel and dials

Source: Kahn Design

May 18, 2012

BMW has announced 320i EfficientDynamics, 316i and 3-Series xDrive

The BMW 3-series range will be boosted by several new models including 320i EfficientDynamics and the super-economical 316i.Other very interesting feature is the adoption of xDrive for F30.

BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition is powered by a 170HP (125 kW) 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo engine. A manual 6-speed transmission takes care of power transmission. The BMW 320i EfficientDynamics Edition accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, with fuel consumption at 5.2/100 km and CO2 emissions at just 124 g/km. The market launch is planned for the end of 2012.

The entry level 316i has 4-cylinder in-line engine delivering 136HP (100 kW). Power transmission is effected by a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission. 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds and CO2 emissions of 134 g/km.
The world’s most intelligent AWD system – BMW xDrive. It will be available as an option for the 320d, 320i, 328i and the top-of-range 335i. The electronically controlled system distributes power between the front and rear axles and each of wheels to give the car the best possible traction depending on the road conditions.

Last, but not least, the manufacturer will offer an upgraded M Sport package that will be available from July.

It includes an improved M Sport braking system that features 18” front and 17” rear lightweight brake discs as well as 18” or 19” allow wheels with a star spoke design.

Source: BMW

May 17, 2012

2013 BMW 135is Coupe and Convertible US – Price $44 145 and $48 845

BMW has announced the new 2013 1-Series (F20), recently and now the company is turning back to introduced the sports model of E82 (1-Series Coupe) and E88 (1-Series Convertible) – 135iS.

Both the new 135iS Coupe and Convertible are scheduled to arrive in BMW Center showrooms this fall with retail pricing set at $44 145 and $48 845 respectively, including $895 destination and handling.

The 135iS is powered by the famous TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine (N55), which is slightly updated to produce 324HP (239 kW) and 429Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. It comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox and an optional seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission (DCT).

A Performance exhaust system complements the increased engine performance and provides a sporty exhaust tone. The engine cooling system has been upgraded to match the additional performance output by adding a larger, and more powerful radiator fan and an auxiliary radiator.

The 135iS is equipped with sport suspension incorporating an aluminum double-pivot front suspension and a five-link fully independent rear suspension in lightweight steel.

The differential in the 135iS is also updated and optimized for running smoothness and fuel efficiency.

The exterior boasts gloss black accents, a lowered stance and exclusive 18” alloy wheels, while the interior comes with a pair of sport seats with blue contrast stitching, stainless steel pedals and unique badging.

The BMW135is Coupe and Convertible are available to order now and are scheduled to arrive in BMW Center showrooms this fall.

Source: BMW US

May 16, 2012

2013 BMW 3-Series Touring – Price £29 380

BMW has revealed pictures and details of the new 2013 3-Series Touring model. Initially, the manufacturer has launched only the saloon version of the new 3-Series – the F30, but Touring, Coupe and Convertible will hit the market in the next two years. The new M3 is only a rendering for now.

The front is practically the same as the saloon and the rear is photocopied from the new F11 (5-Series Touring).

Dimensions have been slightly increased over its predecessor that has allowed additional leg room and luggage space. The overall length measures 97mm longer while the wheelbase has also gained an extra 50mm. It helps the model achieve an extra 17mm of legroom and 35 liters of additional luggage space.

The engine range includes two diesel and a petrol power units. The entry level 320d is powered by a 2.0 liter turbocharged diesel with 184HP (135 kW) and 380Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. The powerful 330d has a 3.0-liter straight-six diesel engine with 258HP (190 kW) and 560Nm (413 lb-ft) of torque. The 328i comes with 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine that develops 245HP (187kW) and 350Nm (258lb-ft) of torque.

The 330d accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

The 2013 BMW 3-Series Touring is priced from £29 380 for the base 320d model.

Model	Power Hp	Torque Nm	0 – 62mph Seconds	Top Speed Mph	Combined Mpg	CO2 Emissions g/km	Price OTR
*BMW 328i Touring*	245	350	6.0	155*	41.5	159	£30,400
*BMW 320d Touring*	184	380	7.7	143	60.1 (61.4)	124 (122)	£29,380
*BMW 330d Touring*	258	560	5.6	155*	55.4	135	£34,700

*Electronically-limited. **Automatic transmission only.

Source: BMW

May 15, 2012

BMW E92 M3 ESS vs Mercedes SL 65 AMG, Porsche 911 Turbo and Nissan GT-R [HD video]

Here is another great drag race battle between several ultra-fast sports cars – BMW M3 E92 ESS VT2-650 with 700HP, Porsche 911 Turbo 997 with 530HP, Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG PP-Performance Stage 2 with 750HP and mighty Nissan GT-R Mk.1 Sportec Stage 2 with 600HP.

The BMW meets all its opponents at incredibly slippery surface, so it had huge problems with the traction.

In the first start the M3 E92 met the 911 Turbo. The BMW crossed the 1 mile mark with 282 km/h and time of 30.942 seconds, but that wasn’t enough fast to beat the underpowered Porsche, which won with 30.024 seconds and terminal speed of just 271 km/h.

In the second start, the BMW went against the 6.0 liter bi-turbo Mercedes, which also had problems with the traction, but managed to beat the M3 with a small lead. The SL65 AMG crossed the finish line at 30.372 seconds time with 290 km/h.

In the final start, another M3 with the same tuning package, but a saloon version (E90) didn’t stand a chance against a brutal Nissan GT-R with 600HP. The GT-R made incredible time of 28.542 seconds, which is more than 2 seconds faster than the BMW.

Check out all starts in the video below.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k65TWA6wzPM

Source: Dragtimesinfo

May 14, 2012

BMW comes out with the new three-door 2013 BMW 1 Series

2013 BMW 1 Series is now being offered in three-door variant by the popular German brand. The model not only delivers a sporty and elegant design, but also comes offering a wider range of engine choices.

In fact this is the second body variant, which BMW added to the 1 Series, distinguished by its three doors and sporting characteristics. As you can see clearly, it has a sporty stance and elegant design, thanks to its attractive features.

What is more here is that this vehicle is characterised by the unique rear-wheel drive system and superior handling as well. And to tell you the secret of the inner circles of the brand – the highlight in the model range is the new BMW M135i.

Of course, there is no significant change in terms of exterior design, given that it is ruled by the powerful and typical for BMW style and proportions. However it has unique appearance. What makes is so distinctive is the dynamically stretched side line, wide doors with frameless windows.

In addition, the fluidic sculpture of the exterior is further emphasized by the side window graphics which are flowing seamlessly into the B pillar and strongly retracted side window graphics.

Moreover, it we can’t go on without mentioning the powerfully contoured side panels. They have an accentuation of the rear wheel arches, which make them distinctive and unique. Furthermore, the side sill lines are extended to the front. With their help, the dynamically stretched appearance of the vehicle’s silhouette is underlined additionally.

Let’s put some attention to the interior features included in the new 1 Series range. Of course, they all emphasize the sporty nature of the car. First the handling profit is now increased in terms of body length: there were added additional 85 millimetres. In addition, the wheelbase is extended as well: here were added 30 millimetres.

Further millimeters were added to the track width: to the front – exactly 51 mellimeters, whereas to the rear – 72 millimetres. At last, the width was extended with 17 millimetres compared to the predecessor model. What remains the same here is thee vehicle’s height.

Good to mention is that there is now a choice of two or three seats respectively at the rear. Thank to the aforementioned extensions of the car’s body, now there is even more leg room at the rear – exactly 21 millimetres.

Additional space is provided for the luggage compartment, which was increased by 30 litres to 360 litres. And when the rear seats are folded, this means that the storage capacity can now contain up to 1 200 litres. The optional split folding is with 40:20:40 ratio.

What is more around the interior is that it was man with high-quality materials and precision in terms of craftsmanship. Its entire philosophy resolves in one central point – the driver-oriented cockpit.

Control display of the optional operating system iDrive fitted as a firmly integrated onboard monitor sporting an exclusive BMW flat screen design. There is also included a wide range of driver assistant systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive that are unique in the compact segment. These are: High-Beam Assistant, Adaptive Headlights, Rear View Camera, Lane Departure Warning including. Rear Collision Warning, Parking Assistant, Cruise Control with braking function, Speed Limit Info with No Passing Indicator, Internet access, improved integration of smartphones and music players, Real-Time Traffic Information and Apps for personalised web radio reception.

More importantly, the brand now offers an extended coice of petrol and diesel engines for its customers. In it are included the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, and BMW 114i as new entry-level version with 75 kW/102 hp.

The available engines are:

• BMW 116i (100 kW/136 hp)

• BMW 125i (160 kW/218 hp)

BMW 116d (85 kW/116 hp)

• BMW 118d (105 kW/143 hp)

• BMW 125d (160 kW/218 hp)

• BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition (85 kW/116 hp)

Adding to these are the new:

• BMW M135i (235 kW/320 hp)

• BMW 118i (125 kW/170 hp)

• BMW 120d (135 kW/184 hp)

In fact, this is the first ever BMW M Performance vehicle, which is going to include the petrol engine: BMW M135i. It has a capacity of 3-litres and is a straight six-cylinder engine which produces 235 kW/320 hp. Adding further to its greatness are the M-characteristic suspension components and aerodynamically enhanced body features.

Furthermore, this engine will deliver uncompromised level of performance combined with exceptional fuel efficiency. Thanks to its typical M-style coherence between drive, suspension technology and aerodynamic balance this machine is able to deliver to every customer an exciting driving pleasure in a compact model.

Later in the year the BMW 118i (125 kW/170 hp) and BMW 120d (135 kW/184 hp) will also be available. They will come with and intelligent four-wheel drive.

A further highlight here is that for the first time in the 1 Series will be included the BMW xDrive. It will be available on the models BMW M135i xDrive and BMW 120d xDrive. Of course, the popular BMW xDrive will also be offered to the five door versions of the model range.

Additional important information is that every engine will be matched with a six-speed manual transmission. This will be the optional variant of course. And for those who prefer to drive a car with automatic transmission, the brand has prepared for them the unique optional eight-speed automatic transmission and eight-speed automatic sports transmission.

Contributing to the sportier feeling is the BMW EfficientDynamics technology, which feature the Auto Start Stop function. It works in collaboration with the manual and automatic transmissions as well as ECO PRO mode.

In short, everything in this BMW goes around the driving pleasure: the longitudinally mounted engines, the rear-wheel drive, the harmonious weight distribution and the sophisticated suspension technology. To be more precise, this is the best ever agility and driving comfort in the segment.

Part in this take the double-joint spring-strut front axle, five-link rear axle, the precise electromechanical power steering free from drive train influences, the variable sports steering (optional), the Dynamic Stability Control which in turn features DTC and Active Differential Brake (ADB-Sport) on the rear axle, the torsion-resistant body structure and at last but not least the comprehensive safety features.

Source: BMW

May 14, 2012

Kelleners Sport BMW 5 Series Touring

Tuning house Kelleners Sport from Germany have provided some neat accessories and tune ups for the latest BMW 5 Touring (F11). Think in terms of aerodynamic panels, engine tweaks, wheels and springs and some plumbing.

What’s funny about this project that the focus is on a Toruring (estate). Whenever you buy an estate, you label yourself as a sensible person. Whenever you buy panel kits for your car, you are a teenager that want’s to peel the tarmac off the road. For the sake of even more confusion, Kelleners offer a performance upgrade even for the 535d – the magnificent top-of-the-range diesel from BMW – 313 hp. and 630 Nm. of torque. With the upgrade those figures go up to 376 hp. and 756 Nm . It’s pure lunacy, we tell you.

The petrol 4.4-liter V8 Twin Turbo version (550i) gets its power up from 407 hp. to 490 hp. At the same time, the torque ends up at 720 Nm – 120 more than usual.

Visual treats include the lower lip spoiler and apron that boasts a deliciously meshed grille design. Some side skirts have also been thrown in and a rear diffuser as well. Those pipes that jut out from it measure at 90 millimeters in diameter, ensuring a noble, yer stomach churning acoustics.

The finished product sits on four Kelleners Sport Light alloy wheels that can come in two sets – 8.5 x19 and 9.5 x19-inch, and 9×20 and 10×20-inch. It’s worth also mentioning that this particular BMW is 30 mm lower than standard thanks to some sports springs which come in handy while in a corner but there is a slight chance that the family won’t enjoy the rest of the ride.

Source: Kelleners Sport

May 12, 2012

BMW E92 M3 ///M Performance Edition

BMW has announced the new M3 ///M Performance Edition based on the coupe – E92. The manufacturer has released a video presenting the new model, which will be run in limited series of just 30 units.

The M3 ///M Performance Edition will be available with with a choice of red, white and blue finishes that will be produced in equal numbers and are available for the first time in the UK market.

Still, BMW didn’t announce what kind of improvements the car will come with, but there will be a high specification of standard equipment.

The engine will remain unchanged – a 4.0 liter V8 with 420HP (309 kW) at 8300RPM and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) at 3900RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. Without the limiter, E92 M3 can easily pass 300 km/h (186 mph). The power transferred to the road via the standard 7-speed M DCT transmission and variable M differential.

Probably the car will come with revised brake system and stiffened suspension.

Stay tuned and enjoy the video.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuTnWrxoq3E

Source: BMW via Youtube

May 10, 2012

Tag: BMW