BMW – Page 73 – Automobiles Review

2012 BMW 1-Series M package

There is something wrong with the new 2012 BMW 1-Series. Just a day after the car has been revealed and the M Sport package is already on its way. Probably, the manufacturer is scared that the new 1-Series won’t so appreciated like the previous model, so they are hurrying to improve the exterior of the car.

The ///M Sport package consists of a new front bumper, revised rear bumper and big alloy wheels. The interior boasts a sport steering wheel, door sill with ///M logo and some aluminum trim with blue accents.

There is no information about the price list, but it won’t be cheap. Still, it is a kind of improvement for new the bland 1-Series.

We are eager to see, how the fans will respond to the bold design, which has nothing in common with the aggressive cars designed by Chris Bangle.

2012 BMW 1-Series M package

Source: BMW

June 7, 2011

2012 BMW 1-Series

BMW has announced the second generation of 1 Series. The entry series of the manufacturer will hit the market in 2012 and it is completely different car compared to the first generation.

The body is 85 mm longer, wheelbase 30 mm longer, front track 51 mm wider and rear track 72 mm wider than previous model. The height remains unchanged, but the width is increased with 17 mm. This results to a bigger luggage compartment – 360 litres. The rear seats can be folded 40/20/40.

2012 BMW 1 Series remains the only car in this segment with rear wheel drive, so it will continue to give sheer driving pleasure.

However, the new design is not the best, which the manufacturer could offer, but probably we will get used to it. Still, the sporty design and the elegant proportions are present.

The engine range will include a new 1.6 litre petrol with 136PS (100 kW) in 116i and 170PS (125 kW) in 118i. The diesels – 116d with 116PS (85 kW), 118d with 143PS (105 kW) and 120d with 184PS (135 kW).

BMW ConnectedDrive will be offered as an option for the new 1 Series. There are also High-beam assistance, Adaptive Headlights, parking assistance, reversing camera, Lane Departure Warning including Collision Warning, cruise control with brake function, speed-limit and no-passing information, Internet connectivity, increased smartphone and music player integration, real-time traffic information, and web radio, Facebook and Twitter apps.

2012 BMW 1-Series

2012 BMW 1 Series:

BMW 118i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS variable valve control,
capacity: 1, 598 cc, output: 125 kW/170 hp at 4,800 rpm,
maximum torque: 250 Nm at 1,500 – 4,500 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.4 seconds,
maximum speed: 225 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 5.8 – 5.9 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 134 – 137 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

BMW 116i: Four-cylinder in-line petrol engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS variable valve control,
capacity: 1,598 cc, output: 100 kW/136 hp at 4, 400 rpm,
maximum torque: 220 Nm at 1,350 – 4, 300 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 8.5 seconds,
maximum speed: 210 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 5.5 – 5.7 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 129 – 132 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

BMW 120d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail magnetic-valve direct injection
(max. injection pressure: 1,800 bar),
capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 135 kW/184 hp at 4, 000 rpm,
maximum torque: 380 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 750 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 7.2 seconds,
maximum speed: 228 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.5 – 4.6 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 119 – 122 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

BMW 118d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail, magnetic-valve direct injection (max. injection pressure: 1,600 bar),
capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm,
max. torque: 320 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 500 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 8.9 seconds,
maximum speed: 212 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.4 – 4.5 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 115 – 118 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

BMW 116d: Four-cylinder in-line diesel engine with
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger with common-rail, magnetic-valve direct injection (max. injection pressure: 1,600 bar),
capacity: 1,955 cc, output: 85 kW/116 hp at 4,000 rpm,
maximum torque: 260 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm,
acceleration [0 – 100 km/h]: 10.3 seconds,
maximum speed: 200 km/h,
combined-cycle fuel consumption*: 4.3 – 4.5 litres/100 kilometres,
CO2 emissions*: 114 – 117 g/km, emissions standard: EU5.

Source: BMW

June 6, 2011

2011 BMW M3 Carbon Edition

BMW has announced a new special edition M3, which will be available only in China.2011 BMW M3 Carbon Edition will be limited to just 111 units, which will be sold at the biggest car market. The sports car features carbon fiber roof, BMW performance front GT splitters, hood inlets and a trunk mounted lip spoiler. Of course, all elements come in carbon fiber.The special edition M3 is finished in white pearl metallic paint with black stripes. A Carbon Edition logo and huge 19” Style 220 M3 wheels in matt black fitted with high performance tires complete the exterior look.The interior received carbon fiber element, too. The “Carbon Edition” logo is present as well as white leather for the arm rest, door panels and center console. The final touch is the carbon fiber patterned material for the headrests.The engine didn’t get any power boost, because it already has a lot of it – a 4.0 liter naturally aspirated hi revving V8 with 420PS and 400Nm of torque. It is mated to a Drivelogic 7-speed dual clutch gearbox. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited.2011 BMW M3 Carbon Edition is priced at 1.23 million yuan, which is around $189 000.

June 2, 2011

Hartge BMW 6-Series F12

Hartge has announced that they are preparing a tuning program for the latest BMW 6-Series Convertible (F13). The tuning company didn’t reveal any further information about the project, but as we can see on the pictures, the vehicle won’t get any huge spoilers or bright paint.

The upgrades will include a new sports exhaust system, lowering springs kit, which will reduce the stance of F13 with 30 mm at the front and 25 mm and the rear.

Hartge 6-Series stands on 19” or 21” alloy wheels in the well know design of the tuner.

The interior will receive aluminum Hartge pedals, floor mats with logos and a Hartge emblem on the steering wheel.

As we know, Hartge do some crazy things like putting the mighty 507PS V10 S85B50 from M5 E60 into E90. Hopefully, they do the same, but putting the brutal twin-turbocharged V12 with 544PS and massive 750Nm. It would be madness, but the fans will definitely like it!

Stay tuned for more information about HARTGE F13.

Hartge BMW 6-Series F12

Source: Hartge

June 2, 2011

Best looking 6 concepts that never reached the market

As you know what you driving is a result of serious R&D, drafts and arguments. For many reasons your car was(is) available in the showroom. However there are many examples of cars that did not manage to go further than the draft or clay. Here are the best looking 6 concepts that never reached the market.

Number 6

Toyota FT-HS Concept

This beauty was introduced in 2007 in North America. It was quite up to date with the current tendencies, so speed and power were not the only thing the car was focusing on. Safety and ecology have definitely been taken into consideration. That’s why the idea of the car is to have a hybrid powertrain. Despite this the car would still remain light and a great fun to drive. Being a fast RWD car it takes Toyota back to the golden years of the AE86 Corolla and would definitely be a total hit both for teenagers and grown-up boys that once dreamed of having AE86 Corolla.

Number 5

Nissan Intima

Nissan’s luxurious sedan concept was seen for the first time in 2007. Two things came into sight right away. First of all the rear doors were to be opened towards the back of the car instead of the conventional opening – parallel to the front door. Also the windshield would go all the way to the back of the roof creating incredible atmosphere for the passengers. Surprisingly for Nissan, the Intima is constructed to have an efficient, environmental friendly 6 cylinder diesel engine. Last but not least , the Intima is equipped with a 4-zone air conditioning system that would make sure all of the passengers feel comfortable.

Number 4

Honda Accord Coupe Concept

In the beginning of 2007 Honda showed this coupe in Detroit and this was for a reason – Accord is the best-selling Honda in USA. The accent when presenting the car was the fuel economy and safety features. In terms of design, the Accord coupe looks aggressive due to the long hood and the headlamps that go deep behind to reach almost the middle of the fenders. The four exhaust pipes in the back promise to also touch the heart of the driver giving out the 6 cylinder engine at the touch of the throttle.

Number 3

BMW Concept CS

This Gran Turismo masterpiece was first to be seen in Shanghai and it did look stunning. A 4-door coupe with sleek curves and very low profile. Definitely something Mercedes need to be careful with when developing the CSL. Looking at the car you almost feel Bangle’s shade in it. The return to the “shark shape” is obvious, magical and… I love it! Is this going to be the positioned above the 7^th series and benefit from the 6.0 V12.

Number 2

Mazda Nagare

This car definitely deserves its place here. It is undoubtedly something unique that cannot be seen every day. The name of the car means “Flow” and indeed even when standing still it looks like it’s moving. The “doors” are a flashback to the Mercedes Gull-wing – they open not sideways but from the roof and give an overview to the whole interior. The Recaro seats and the plane-like steering wheel finish the sporty feeling of the car. Despite the fact no details have been disclosed about engine or specifications, the Nagare is expected to use a rotary engine well known for it’s high revs and great response.

Number 1

Audi RSQ concept

This car has been designed and created especially for the movie “I robot”, where Will Smith would use it to fight some “evil machines”. Indeed, it shares a lot with the TT, but it is so much different at the same time. The door are hinging back to open up like the wings of a butterfly. It is also mid-engined which is great prerequisite for it to be a pleasure to drive. Now the sweetest part – as this was Audi’s vision for the future, it definitely needed something indeed futuristic, and there it was, the wheels are… spheres and as you can figure, the side panels are shaped accordingly to make the car more and more resemble a sculpture. The interior of the car is really close to a plane cockpit. The steering wheel, the instrument cluster, all this aluminium and a windshield to go over the driver’s head create intoxicating atmosphere once you sit in the bucket seat. How likely is this car to show on the streets? Not really huge it seems. However a lot of it could be used for the Audi TT.

May 27, 2011

The evolution of BMW M3 series

The ultimate driving machine. This is how they call BMW M3 series. And it is for a reason. The MOTORSPORT division of BMW did their best to deliver the best possible experience from a BMW .

How it all began

In 1986 the first M3(1986-1992) was introduced. It was on the basis of E30 and had a 2,3 4 cylinder engine with 195 hp. The reason why the first M3 was actually produced was to homologate the car for the tourist car championship where it would compete with the Mercedes 190 EVO. Two more engines were used for the first M3. A 2 litre, 4 cylinder engine and also a 2,5 delivering the massive 250 hp, still naturally aspirated. The 2,0 version could be easily recognized, it lacked the curves of the wide arches. It seems like the M3 version does not have much in common with the regular e30. Besides the hood, roof panel, and sunroof it did not have much in common. These 4 cylinder engines were only reserved for the M3, and so was the firm suspension.

The 6 cylinders(E36)

Although nowadays 6 cylinders in a row is almost dead as conception, when the E36 M3 showed on the market, things seemed a little different. 1992 – the new M3 was introduced. With a 3 litre engine, 6 cylinders and output of 286hp. At first all M3s were based on coupe, but later the sedan and convertible models could also carry the M3 badge. Later in the production a more powerful engine was to be used – a 3,2 with 321hp . What is interesting, models sold in North America had 240 hp, regardless 3,0 or 3,2. Also, the 6 speed gearbox was never available in North America.

A special version – the M3 CSL is definitely worth mentioning. This model was sold with a trunk full of goodies to improve the performance of the car. Why they were not put directly into the car? Very simple, buying this version, the customer would sign a legal paper that they were aware installation of the latter would void the warranty of the car.

The production of E36 M3 seized in December 1999 with the convertibles being produced last.

The E46 M3

The next M3 came in October 2000. The engine is a 3,2 liter with code S54 – 343 hp available. What is new is the SMG II drivelogic transmission. It is basically the standard 6 speed manual but with electrohydraulically actuated clutch pedal. The E46 also had a CSL version, which is a real sports car that one could drive home. This version is cut off in terms of all unnecessary gadgets you do not need for the track, it does not even come with AC, stereo or navigation system.

What’s on the market now?

Well, it is the E90/92/93. First introduced in 2007 it did have a thing or two to show. The new M3 was a totally different car compared to its predecessors. First of all it has two more cylinders. Despite the return of the turbo mania, the new M3 is naturally aspirated. To be more precise it is a 4,0 litre v8 engine with 420 hp available at 8300 rpm. The latest M3 comes with a 6 speed manual or the optional M-DKG transmission which reduces the 0-100 time with 2 tenths of a second. The E92 M3 also has a light weight carbon-fiber roof to reduce the weight and lower the centre of gravity. At first the new M3 was supposed to be called… M4, but BMW realized this might not be well perceived by the customers and people who liked the traditions created more than 20 years ago. Many people say that market researchers and accountants are more and more involved in the build of cars. It seems like this has had some impact on the ultimate driving machine. The convertible suffers from the heavy mechanics that take care of the roof and the result is 1880 kg curb weight – not a good prerequisite for agility and speed.

A special model is also available(A special M3, ironic right). It is called the GTS. The 4,0 litre engine has been further developed to become 4,4 and to provide 450hp. What is more, it weighs about 150 kg less than the regular M3 making it a true beast on the road… or track. The production of GTS started in May 2010. Today all 250 GTS M3s have been sold.

To be continued…

May 27, 2011

Vorsteiner BMW 5er F10

Vorsteiner are developing special aerodynamics package for the latest BMW 5-Series.

Vorsteiner F10 will be officially released later this summer, so we have to wait a while to see, what will be the modifications, besides the obvious from the pictures.

The styling package includes modified side skirts, a carbon fiber front lip spoiler, a trunk lip spoiler and a new rear diffuser, also from carbon fiber, which houses the dual exhaust system.

Last, but not least, there will be a roof wing spoiler, again from carbon fiber.

The tuning company didn’t release any further information about performance packages or any price lists.

Check out the pictures below and stay tuned for more information about Vorsteiner BMW 5-Series F10.

Vorsteiner BMW 5er F10

Source: Vorsteiner

May 26, 2011

BMW 328 Hommage

The BMW 328 is considered the most successful and best-looking sports car of the 1930s. That’s why the manufacturer has revealed the 328 Hommage, which had its official debut at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este near Lake Como, Italy last weekend.

The car is based on the Vision Connected Drive Concept revealed in Geneva, but 328 Hommage is a modern version of the classic sports car. It boasts lightweight construction featuring carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). The curb weight of the vehicle is just 780 kg (1720 lbs).

The exterior features vertically positioned double kidney grille imitates the slim, vertical kidney design of the early BMW models. The headlights are very interesting, too. Their round shape is reminiscent of the headlamps featured on the BMW 328.

BMW 328 Hommage follows in the footsteps of the M1 Hommage, which was revealed in 2008. However, the new model didn’t get so much attention.

The interior boasts a lot of elements derived from motor racing.

“With the BMW 328 Hommage, we wish to pay homage to the passion and inventiveness of the fathers of the BMW 328”, commented Karl Bäumer, CEO of BMW Group Classic.

“They created an icon, which is considered a milestone in the history of the automobile.”, he added.

The BMW 328 Hommage translates the principles and the character of the vehicle of that time into present times and offers a possible interpretation of how the designers of that time, Fritz Fiedler and Rudolf Schleicher, might have built the BMW 328 in the present day using current technology.

BMW 328 Hommage

Source: BMW

May 23, 2011

G-Power BMW M3 GTS SK II

G-Power has released another staggering car with BMW badge. This time the platform is the latest E92 M3 in GTS variant. This is a stripped version of the regular E92 M3 with a little bigger engine. However, the naturally aspirated hi-revving V8 has a huge potential, so G-Power added SK II “Sporty Drive” supercharger kit.

The result is simply brutal – 635PS (467 kW) and 630Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque, instead of the factory’s 450 PS (331 kW) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft).

The performance date is staggering, too. 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.2 seconds, to 200 km/h in 11.9 seconds and a top speed of 323 km/h – a little over 200 miles per hour.

The suspension of M3 GTS is already on of the best in the world, so G-Power didn’t touched it. The body kit stays untouched, too.

The price for the pleasure is €23 500 including installation.

G-Power BMW M3 GTS SK II

G-Power BMW M3 GTS SK II:

635 hp / 467 kW @ 7,800 r/min (+ 185 hp / 136 kW)
630 Nm 3,900 r/min (+ 190 Nm)
Top speed: 323 km/h
0-100 km/h: 4.2s
0-200 km/h: 11.9s
G-POWER SK II “Sporty Drive” supercharger system: € 23,500.00 (excl. tax) plus installation

Source: G-Power

May 20, 2011

Prior Design BMW E92/E93 M3-style wide body kit

Prior Design now offers a full m3-style wide body kit for the latest BMW 3er – E92 and E93 (Coupe and Convertible).

The aerodynamics package includes a new front bumper with PDC and SRA possible, a pair of modified side skirts, a pair front fenders, completely restyled rear bumper with PDC, a widening rear side wall and modified hood. The kit also includes all mounting materials.

All parts are made from high quality Dura-Flex material, which is superbly flexible and strong.

The package also has a simple cost-effective installation.

The M3-style wide body kit gives unique style to the BMW 3er and significantly boosts its presence on the road.

Prior Design didn’t mention anything about performance packages or price of the wide body kit.

Prior Design BMW E93 M3-style

Prior Design BMW E92/E93 M3-style wide body kit:

– Prior-Design PD-MET front bumper for all BMW E92/E93 models (PDC and SRA possible)
– Prior-Design PD-MET pair of side skirts (. R / l) for all BMW models E92/E93
– Prior-Design PD-MET front fender pair (. R / l) for all BMW models E92/E93
– Prior-Design PD-MET rear bumper for BMW E92/E93 models (PDC also be fitted in)
– Prior-Design PD-MET widening rear side wall (right / left.) Fits all models of BMW E92/E93
– Prior-Design PD-hood for all models of BMW E92/E93
– Mounting material
– Includes TÜV parts certificate for easy entry of the body panels

Source: Prior Design

May 20, 2011

BMW at the Plus X Award 2011

BMW Group took four awards for ConnectedDrive in the annual, internationally renowned “Plus X Award”. The jury honoured the manufacturer with top awards in in the categories Innovation, Design, Operating Comfort and Best Technology of the Year 2011 with an additional “Plus X Award” seal of quality.

To select these products, an international, industry-neutral jury of 134 specialised journalists and market experts from 32 countries evaluates extraordinary design, innovative technologies as well as intelligent and straightforward operating concepts. Ergonomic and ecological product attributes, the use of high-quality materials and their processing are other equally important factors that go into the decision of a “Plus X Award” honour.

BMW ConnectedDrive assumes the role of a personal driving assistant and – by networking intelligently with the environment – gives the driver access to vehicle-specific information according to the situation and whenever it is required.

The company is already demonstrating to what extent a vehicle can become an integral part of a networked world in the future on the concept vehicle BMW Vision ConnectedDrive. The two-seater roadster communicates with the driver and the passenger as well as with the environment and the Internet and integrates numerous future-oriented functions and thinking approaches. B

Still, there is a lot of work for the engineers, who are already working on turning the range of functions demonstrated in the framework of BMW ConnectedDrive into reality.

bmw ConnectedDrive

Source: BMW

May 16, 2011

HAMANN BMW 5 Series Touring F11

Hamann Motorsport are ready with the special aerodynamics package for the latest BMW 5-Series Touring – F11. The tuning is based on the M-technology package and features four integrated LED daytime running lights and larger air inlets.

The body kit includes new front lip spoiler, modified side skirts, new rear bumper with diffuser and two spoilers at the rear and at the roof. The car stands on enormous 21” light alloy wheels – Anodized Edition Race Design. They feature matt black central boss and high-gloss rim and are fitted with 255/30 ZR21 tires at the front and stunniong 295/25 ZR21 at the rear. The price of the set is €8390.

Furthermore, Hamann offers Anniversary Evo alloys that comes in 20” or 21” sizes with a choice of silve or matt black.

The F11 has been lowered with 35mm with the use of progressively-wound suspension springs. With such enormous wheels and lowered ride height, the car has seriously aggressive stance.

There are no performance packages, besides the sports metal catalyzer with middle silencer for the 550i Touring.

HAMANN BMW 5 Series Touring F11

Source: Hamann

May 13, 2011

Tag: BMW