A genuine BMW offering new options and features in truly fascinating style and diversity – this is the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo.
Introducing this trendsetting concept car, the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium automobiles is establishing a brand-new segment in the automobile market, enriching the Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of BMW by a new facet and carrying over that unique BMW style to another type of vehicle. (more…)
Outstanding driving dynamics and unique design made the BMW X6 the clear favourite of the “Off Road” specialist magazine readership. Winning by a clear margin, the first Sports Activity Coupe in the world scored top marks in the “Four by Four of the Year 2009” competition’s “Crossover” category. The finishing touches to the BMW X models’ success story were added when the BMW X5 was selected third in the “Luxury SUV” category.
The excellent score that BMW X models achieved during the “Off Road” reader survey is a reflection of the undiminished attraction of BMW X models and proves the successful reinterpretation of their most important features in the context of a completely new vehicle segment. The superior driving dynamics of the winning Sports Activity Coupe BMW X6 are underlined by the model’s coupe-like line arrangement and powerful stance, which made their presence felt from the first. The new vehicle concept is closely connected with a unique driving experience. Dynamic Performance Control, introduced with the BMW X6, carries out the variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear wheels not only by means of the electronically controlled BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive but also between both rear wheels, thus consistently adjusting to driving conditions at all times and in all situations. Attributes such as agility, steering precision, stability and traction are raised to new dimensions.
Due to its modern drive technology, which includes the integration of extensive BMW EfficientDynamics technology, the BMW X6 also meets the requirements for reduced consumption and emission rates. An EU test cycle showed an average fuel consumption of 8.2 litres for 100 kilometres. With this result, the 173 kW/235 hp BMW X6 xDrive30d has achieved an efficiency that until quite recently would have been regarded as inconceivable for its category and performance class.
Exactly ten years ago, the German manufacturer of premium cars laid down the foundations of the BMW X models’ success by launching the predecessor of the current BMW X5 – the first Sports Activity Vehicle. The BMW X5 with its unique combination of sporting on-road characteristics and confident off-road traction defined new standards. Its predecessor boosted the attractiveness of the Sports Activity Vehicle concept not just in terms of dynamic driving but also with the combination of luxurious appeal with high functionality in the interior and the exemplary efficiency of its drive technology.
Accolades awarded by the “Off Road” specialist magazine rate high among manufacturers of all-wheel drive cars. They are based on the assessment of a readership whose substantial expertise and strong affinity to and fascination for off-road driving is on a par with that of the magazine’s highly competent and experienced editorial team. Last year, “Off Road” magazine celebrated its thirtieth anniversary. The magazine’s highly qualified readership has been taking part in the annual selection of the most popular off-road vehicles in the German market since 1982. The current success in the “Off Road” reader survey is yet another achievement in a series of awards won by BMW X models in the recent past.
Sales figures in this segment are another indicator of the sustained success of BMW X models. Ten years after the launch of the BMW X5, more than 1.3 million BMW X models have been sold, more than 243,000 of these in 2008 alone. Their enormous popularity was a major contribution to the fact that BMW successfully consolidated its position as the most successful global supplier of all-wheel drive premium cars in 2008. A total of 27% of all newly registered BMW models are equipped with xDrive and the near future will bring yet another expansion of the BMW X range. In addition to the BMW X6, BMW X5 and BMW X3 models, the car manufacturer will soon launch the new BMW X1. This new model will re-interpret the characteristic attributes of this vehicle segment in the context of the premium compact category.
HARTGE carbon add-ons
for HARTGE front spoiler lip 51 92 0700 (more…)
A brilliant US debut for the new BMW Advanced Diesel with BMW BluePerformance: renowned specialist magazine “Ward’s Auto World” has selected BMW’s 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder twin-turbo diesel engine with SCR system for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions as one of “10 Best Engines” in 2009. (more…)
One of the most important derivatives of the BMW 7 Series has gone on sale. The long-wheelbase BMW 730Ld is the latest addition to the marque’s flagship model range and is a welcome introduction for chauffeurs and business users. Priced at £57,735 OTR, the BMW 730Ld offers an additional 14cms of legroom for rear seat passengers and a wealth of optional enhancements aimed at cocooning occupants in a hi-tech, luxurious environment.
|
Model |
Price OTR |
Power Hp |
Torque Nm |
Zero – 62mph Seconds 0 – 62 |
Top Speed Mph |
Combined Mpg |
CO2 Emissions g/km |
|
BMW 730d |
£53,730 |
245 |
540 |
7.2 |
153 |
39.2 |
192 |
|
BMW 730Ld |
£56,790 |
245 |
540 |
7.3 |
153 |
38.7 |
194 |
The latest BMW 730Ld builds on the standard-wheelbase specification with self-levelling rear suspension, chrome rain channels in the roof, illuminated interior rear vanity mirrors and an electrically-powered sunblind for the rear window.
This long-wheelbase specification can be enhanced with optional multi-adjustable Comfort Seats for both front and rear seat passengers. This is complemented by individually heated and air-conditioned seats that can also be fitted, in the rear, with a massaging capability. Two levels of rear entertainment package completes the initial bespoke passenger experience. The BMW Business package comprises twin adjustable 8-inch flat screen monitors with a remote control. The system is flexible enough to permit two different programmes, DVDs or MP3 devices and games consoles to be played or viewed at the same time. The higher specification BMW Professional system comes with 9-inch twin flat adjustable monitor screens, twin wireless headphones and is operated by an iDrive controller in the rear armrest.
The new BMW 730Ld is powered by an all-aluminium 2,993cc straight-six cylinder diesel engine that produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. A peak torque figure of 540Nm is attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm and this results in a zero to 62mph time of 7.3 seconds and a 153mph top speed. Its 194g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, as is its 38.7mpg combined consumption figure. The BMW 730Ld comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
Every modern BMW uses EfficientDynamics technologies as standard to maximise economy and emissions figures, while also improving output and engine performance for a greater driving experience. The BMW 7 Series features Brake Energy Regeneration that uses the engine’s power on overrun, such as braking, to charge the battery for the car’s electrical system. Other ancillaries, such as the air-conditioning compressor, are also able to disengage to improve the all round performance of the car.
Chassis refined for rear seat comfort
The BMW 7 Series is the first BMW saloon to feature race car-like double-wishbone front suspension. This arrangement allows engineers to fine-tune the suspension for the best kinematic configuration. The standard wheelbase BMW 7 Series comes with a rear suspension consisting of a five-link arrangement made of aluminium. However, for the long-wheelbase vehicle the emphasis is even more biased on comfort so a self-levelling rear suspension is fitted as standard.
Drive Dynamic Control featuring Variable Damping Control comes as standard on the new BMW 730Ld. Drive Dynamic Control is the umbrella function that lets a driver customise the characteristics of his or her car. Variable Damping Control can be set in comfort, normal, sport and sport + modes. For the first time though these settings are infinitely variable depending on driving style and road surface condition. The selected mode now alters the throttle response, gear change speed and steering feel. The BMW 7 Series also marks the first time the dampers of a BMW feature compression and rebound damping capability for enhanced ride quality.
The BMW 7 Series comes as standard with Dynamic Stability Control + featuring additional functions such as Hill-Start Assistant, Brake Drying, Brake Pre-tensioning, Soft-stop and Brake Fade Compensation. Dynamic Traction Control can be activated via a button to enable spirited driving or greater traction on slippery surfaces such as snow and ice.
The BMW 730d and 730Ld are predicted to account for 85 per cent of all 7 Series sales in the UK during a full year. A long-wheelbase version of a diesel-powered 7 Series was first introduced in September 2005 following a high level of interest from chauffeurs and business users.
As far as the latest project by HAMANN-Motorsport is concerned, the name says it all: the Laupheim-based refiner called its latest creation for BMW X6 TYCOON. (more…)
There’s no driving pleasure without the right engine power: But what’s the use of pressing the gas pedal hard, if the power doesn’t get to where it’s needed? (more…)
Eco-friendly sports car makers Fisker and Tesla have had a fractious relationship in recent months, so Fisker can’t have been too pleased when Tesla secured a last-minute cheap deal for a stand directly opposite its own.
Last year Tesla sued Fisker boss Henrik Fisker, who had been working for Tesla as a design consultant. Tesla alleged that Fisker had stolen design ideas- but a court found in Fisker’s favour. Henrik Fisker is a former BMW designer, who styled the Z8 roadster. (more…)
With superior dynamic performance on the road and outstanding traction on rough terrain, the BMW X5 has been on an unstoppable course for success for ten years. BMW presented the first generation of the all-wheel-drive five-door vehicle at the North American International Auto Show in 1999, thereby founding the segment of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).
The world premiere marked the start of an unprecedented success story. Within one decade, over 845,000 units of the BMW X5 were sold. As a result of the consistent further development of the SAV concept, there are now three BMW X models to choose from, with a fourth ready for serial production in 2009. What is more, the BMW X5 became the key inspiration for the entire competitive field of all-wheel-drive vehicles. In its anniversary year, with the BMW X5 now in its second generation, the vehicle remains the role model and benchmark of its class in terms of driving dynamics, efficiency, versatility, premium quality and safety.
From the very beginning, the key to the success of the BMW X5 lay in its combination of two fascinating qualities which had never been realised in any vehicle previously. The new model successfully transferred characteristic BMW driving pleasure into a completely new market segment. For the very first time, the spacious, permanently four-wheel driven BMW X5 combined the driving dynamics of a BMW sedan with supreme mobility away from asphalted road surfaces. Its integral safety body and independent wheel suspension clearly set the BMW X5 apart from conventional off-road vehicles, with the driving stability system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) including automatic differential brake ADB-X (Automatic Differential Brake) and HDC (Hill Descent Control) ensuring supreme driving qualities both on and off the road.
Dynamic performance and versatility were also expressed in the design of the vehicle. Another striking feature was the raised seating position which instantly gave the driver the same sense of supremacy which was provided by the chassis technology. In addition, the spacious, versatile and high-quality interior provided a whole new driving experience for an all-wheel-drive automobile.
The second generation of the BMW X5 launched in autumn 2006 saw a consistent further development of the Sports Activity Vehicle’s characteristic features. With its increased space comfort, luxurious ambience, even more supreme drivetrain technology and innovative chassis along with driver assistance systems, the new BMW X5 once again sets the benchmark throughout the extended competitive field of BMW X models. Like its predecessor it is produced at BMW’s North American plant in Spartanburg and is the first BMW to potentially provide seating for up to seven occupants. Its further developed intelligent all-wheel drive BMW xDrive uniquely enhances both driving dynamics on the road and traction over rough terrain. The permanent, electronically controlled all-wheel drive, which is also networked with the drive stability system DSC, distributes drive power variably between the front and rear wheels.
With the success of the BMW X5, the foundation stone was laid for the current status of BMW as the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium all-wheel drive vehicles. What is more, numerous reputable awards for the vehicle’s design, quality and safety reflect the increased appeal of the large SAV models made by BMW. In 2007 the BMW X5 received the design award “autonis” of the automobile journal “auto motor und sport” for the most attractive design and a gold award in the J.D. Power customer satisfaction study in North America, as well as securing class victory in the “auto 1” competition of the international “Auto Bild” Group. These prizes were followed in 2008 by class victory in the “auto, motor und sport” readers’ vote “The best cars”. Twice in succession, the BMW X5 also won a place among the three vehicles with the most stable value in the German automobile market, causing the magazine “Auto Bild” to pronounce it “Value Master of the Year” in both 2007 and 2008.
As long ago as 2000, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the US declared the BMW X5 of the first generation to be the safest vehicle ever to be subjected to one of its crash tests. In 2003 the SAV achieved the highest possible score of 5 stars on the Euro-NCAP crash test. The current BMW X5 received the “Top Safety Pick Award” for outstanding crash test results from the IIHS in both 2007 and 2008.
The BMW X5 of model year 2009 also occupies a leading position in the area of efficiency. State-of-the-art 8 and 6-cylinder petrol engines and outstandingly economical 6-cylinder diesel engines in combination with current BMW EfficientDynamics measures ensure that the BMW X5 combines its excellent qualities with fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels which are exemplary in its vehicle and output category. This is also evidence that the development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics has taken impressive effect in the segment of the BMW X models, too. After all, the fuel consumption of all engine types of the BMW X5 has been considerably reduced in the course of its ten-year history – despite a significant increase in power. The BMW X5 xDrive48i of model year 2009 achieves an average fuel consumption of 12.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the EU test cycle – 13 per cent lower than the BMW X5 4.4i of the year 2000 which had almost 70 bhp less output. The BMW X5 xDrive30i surpasses its predecessor models by 41 bhp, yet it has an average fuel consumption level of just 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres, i.e. around 20 per cent less. In the BMW X5 xDrive30d, the output has been increased by 51 bhp, but fuel consumption has been cut by over 15 per cent to 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres.
These figures are all the more impressive when they are viewed in relation to the space and comfort offered by the vehicle. The first BMW to offer space for seven vehicle occupants is available with engines which offer outstanding fuel economy and a low level of exhaust emissions. With an average fuel consumption of 8.2 litres per 100 kilometres and a CO2 output of 217 grams the BMW X5 xDrive30d with 173 kW/235 bhp shows a remarkable degree of efficiency, especially considering its seating capacity: even in the segment of small cars, a per-capita fuel consumption of less than 1.2 litres per 100 kilometres and the relevant CO2 output level of 31 grams per kilometre is achieved only rarely.
Poised to lead its market segment once again, the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will make its world debut at the North American International Auto Show on January 11. (more…)
Audi of America today released pricing for the updated 2009 model-year Audi A6 sedan, A6 Avant and S6 sedan, which are scheduled to arrive in U.S. dealerships by the beginning of January.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the Audi A6 3.2 sedan Premium will start at $45,100. The Audi A6 3.0T quattro sedan Premium will start at $50,100. The Audi A6 3.0T quattro Avant Premium will start at $53,310. The Audi A6 4.2 quattro sedan will start at $60,950, and the Audi S6 will start at $75,900. Prices do not include a destination charge of $825, taxes, title or dealer charges. (more…)
The new Skoda Superb has added another award to its already impressive collection in the form of Sky Motoring’s Best Gadget honour.
Skoda’s innovative Parking Assistant beat off opposition from BMW and Renault to scoop the honour in the motoring website’s annual awards. Sky Motoring’s judges praised the Superb’s Parking Assistant system for its ease of use and commented. “It sounds destined for a slot on ‘It’ll never work’, but we tested it several times and, shock horror, it actually works.” (more…)