2010 BMW X6 M

Auto Car | 2010 BMW X6 M | The X6 M is a high-performance variant of BMW's controversial head-turning crossover. Unveiled at the New York Auto Show in 2009, the X6 M uses a potent version of BMW's twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. Output is pegged at 555 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and peak torque is 501 pound-feet, available between 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. The car can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to the automaker.

The hotrod SUV, which goes head-to-head with Porsche's Cayenne Turbo and Turbo S is priced from $88,900, making the M $9,000 cheaper than the Turbo -- which is likely the intended competitor -- and $35,000 less than the Turbo S, which has a similar horsepower rating.

The X6 M and X5 M are the first xDrive all-wheel-drive vehicles from BMW to sport the "M" badge. Coupled with special "M" air suspension featuring Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic power steering, the performance 'ute promises very competent handling. Other high-tech features include launch control for maximum acceleration and an "M" six-speed automatic optimized for performance. Drivers can manually select gears using either paddles or an an electronic gear selector lever.

Electronically controlled, variable power distribution to the front and rear axle prevents even the slightest tendency to over- or understeer right from the start, before DSC Dynamic Stability Control is even required to cut in.

BMW is referring to the new 4.4-liter motor as its "M TwinPower Turbo" unit. The name reflects the fact that the motor features Twin Scroll Twin Turbo Technology and a common exhaust manifold encompassing both rows of cylinders.

Although traction control is standard, the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) greatly reduces the aggressiveness of the system. The MDM setting allows the driver to enter a controlled drift and push the vehicle's handling to the limit. There's also a DSC-Off Mode for drivers seeking a more purist experience.

(www.leftlanenews.com)

2011 BMW 5 Series

Auto Car | 2011 BMW 5 Series | The 2011 BMW 5 Series is all new with virtually no hardware having carried over directly to the 2011 BMW 5 Series from the previous models. The all-new 2011 5 Series lineup includes the BMW 535i and  BMW 528i with six-cylinder engines, and the BMW 550i with a V8. The 2011 BMW 5 Series is available in three models: the BMW 528i with 3.0-liter inline-6, the BMW 535i with more powerful 3.0-liter inline-5, and the 550i with 4.4-liter V8.

The 528i and 535i come standard with leatherette upholstery, automatic dual-zone air conditioning with micron air filter, 205-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with 12 speakers, redundant steering wheel controls, pre-wired for satellite radio and CD changer, iDrive, power moonroof, Bluetooth, wood trim. The 550i comes standard with leather trim.

Options: The Active Ventilated Seat Package adds front ventilated seats, active front seats, multi-contour seats, heated front seats; Convenience Package adds power tailgate, keyless entry, soft-close automatic doors; Cold Weather Package includes heated steering wheel, heated front seats, heated rear seats, retractable headlight washers; Driver Assistance Package supplies automatic high beams, lane departure warning, active blind spot detection, parking assistant; Dynamic Handling Package adds electronic damping control, active roll stabilization, adaptive drive.

The Premium Package for 528i and 535i upgrades to Dakota leather and includes universal garage-door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, ambiance lighting; Premium Package 2 for 550i, 528i and 535i adds navigation, rearview camera, satellite radio, premium audio, power rear sunshade with manual side windows, heated front seats, park distance control, iPod and USB adapter. The Sport Package features 19-inch alloy V-spoke wheels (18-inch on 528i), increased top-speed limiter, leather steering wheel, multi-contour seats, shadow-line exterior trim. We drove both the 535i and 550i on the racetrack and were stupefied by how extremely competent and balanced this midsize performance sedan really is. The chassis of both models had exceptional poise and pace.

The 550i's front/rear weight balance was slightly more nose heavy, at 52.4/47.6 percent, than the 335i's 50.9/49.1, but it would take Mario Andretti to notice the difference, which he no doubt would. For the rest of us, merely bringing our game up sufficiently to fully exploit the real potential of the two different 5s was an all-day exercise.

So what does racetrack performance have to do with everyday driving in these 5s? Absolutely everything. Virtually any emergency maneuver in normal traffic demands near maximal use of a car's balance and grip. On the racetrack, a car's balance, grip and maximum performance and being assessed constantly. We found the two 5s to be extremely controllable at massive levels of acceleration, stopping and cornering. Compared with their competition, the BMWs should provide excellent performance in accident avoidance maneuvers.

One of the singular components of the new 5 is a superb new eight-speed automatic transmission, up from six speeds last year. This eight-speed, combined with newly intense weight-saving provisions with aluminum doors, hood, front side panels and suspension components, produce good fuel mileage for such a strong performer, in part because gears seven and eight are both overdrive. Fuel economy are an EPA-estimated 20 City/29 Highway for the 535i and 17/25 mpg for the 550i. Not bad for a racing sedan. The 535i and 550i, after all, achieve 60 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds and 5.0 seconds, respectively.

The cockpit of the 2011 BMW 5 Series is all business, deferring in every way to the driver. The dashboard is angled towards the driver, while the horizontal lines of the dash add to a feeling of spaciousness for both front-seat occupants. And as expected, all controls are well placed, with the driver-only functions situated to the left of the steering column or on the wheel itself. The steering wheel contains 12 fingertip adjustments for audio, phone and adaptive cruise control. It also has a convenient tilt-away provision for easy ingress and egress.

The front seats are supportive and grippy, with unobtrusive but firm side bolstering. Both front seats have 10-way power adjustment, though with the Sport Package, for maximum comfort and driver alertness, the driver's seat is provided with deluxe 18-way multi-contour seats. The rear seats offer decent side bolstering, while rear seat legroom is generous, a half-inch greater than in the preceding 5.

(www.bmwtowson.com)

2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 First Drive

Auto Car | 2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 First Drive | BMW used the most recent Los Angeles Auto Show to display the production version of its new Activehybrid 7, the first product of its collaboration with Mercedes-Benz to produce a new mild hybrid system. While BMW and Mercedes partnered with Chrysler and General Motors on the more sophisticated two-mode hybrid that is now launching in the X6, the German's have also created an alternative lower cost and modular system. This mild hybrid will likely become the primary type used going forward for both of the German companies.

According to BMW, the point of the mild hybrid system was to create a balance between performance, weight and efficiency. A typical strong hybrid system adds about 300-400 pounds on to the mass of the base vehicle, much of it attributable to the battery pack as well as the complex power-split transmission. The mild hybrid 7 weighs just 165 pounds more than a 750i. We had a chance to take a short drive around downtown Los Angeles in an ActiveHybrid 7 and you can read about it after the jump.

When it comes to buying hybrids  there are usually two main motivating factors that persuade potential customers; either saving money at the pump or the image of being green. When it comes to the new 2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7, the $102,300 starting price ($106,200 for the long-wheelbase model) makes us think that most buyers won’t have too much trouble paying to fill ‘er up.

So buyers of the 2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 want to be seen as green but at the same time they want performance--and fortunately for them, BMW delivers here big time. The new model is BMW’s first mild hybrid and it also just happens to be the world’s fastest.

Featuring an electric motor matched with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 and a new eight-speed automatic transmission, the big sedan can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds--all while delivering EPA fuel economy estimates of 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, a near 18 percent improvement over the similarly powerful 750i/Li.

It's still a 7-Series, of course, which means it's big, fast, solid, and luxurious. Like any BMW, the handling is exemplary. And it's a big car that's pleasant to drive fast, easy to place precisely on narrow roads, and predictable in its cornering behavior.

However, being BMW’s first attempt at a mild hybrid system, there are some issues. There’s definitely some getting used to at lower speeds as the car’s computer tries to blend output from the electric motor and engine as well as switch over to regenerative mode.

Below 25 mph, lifting off in a normal car allows momentum to let it coast effortlessly until the driver brakes or accelerates. But lifting off at those speeds in the Activehybrid 7 kicks on recharging instead--and the car starts to slow noticeably, as if it had driven into mud that was dragging it down.


(www.motorauthority.com)

2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is

Auto Car | 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is  | When typical car nuts see that "M" insignia on the trunk lid of a BMW, they almost unconsciously say, "Sweet!" Why? Because they know the M designation means that Bimmer is a posh and powerful beast, tweaked at the factory to a higher level of performance than the standard assembly line fare. But M isn't the only letter BMW uses to symbolize performance. It also uses "S."

The S is the brand's performance level set between regular trims and those specifically modified by M GmbH, the creator of the brand's most powerful, speed-hungry machines. The line was born in the 1980s when the E21 320is hit world markets, and ever since it has served as a happy medium for buyers wanting a tad more speed for a smaller price premium. While BMW hasn't used the S designation often, it is adding an S version to the Z4 lineup for 2011, raising the little roadster's performance quotient to a level that BMW fans have wanted for years.

The 2011 BMW Z4  is offered in three trims: the base sDrive30i, the more powerful sDrive35i and the new sDrive35is. All are 2-seat roadsters with a power-retractable hardtop. Standard equipment on the 30i is extensive and includes leatherette upholstery, a height-adjustable driver's seat, air conditioning, cruise control, power locks and windows, heated power mirrors, remote keyless entry, an AM/FM/CD stereo with HD radio, rain-sensing wipers, adaptive bi-xenon headlights and P225/45R17 tires on alloy wheels. The 35i adds leather upholstery, automatic climate control, aluminum interior trim and larger P245/40R17 rear tires.

The new sDrive35is is enhanced with equipment meant to improve performance, including BMW's adaptive M suspension; M Sport steering wheel, seats and gearshift; unique interior trim; exterior aerodynamic enhancements; and 18-inch wheels. Exclusive 19-inch wheels are also offered.

Safety features on all Z4s include dual front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags, anti-lock brakes, roll bars, a tire-pressure monitor, traction control and electronic stability control. Manual transmission cars also have a hill-holder clutch to prevent the car from rolling backward when starting on an incline.

(editorial.autos.msn.com)

2010 BMW Concept Gran Coupe

Auto Car | 2010 BMW Concept Gran Coupe | BMW has revealed its Concept Gran Coupé at the Beijing Motor Show. The Concept Gran Coupé is BMW’s take on the four-door coupe, which was made popular by the Mercedes CLS. Like the CLS, it features coupe-like proportions and a body height that is flatter than the BMW 5 Series or 7 Series sedans.

The BMW Concept Grand Coupe also features LED lights on the front and rear and frameless doors to enhance its razor-sharp looks. Given that BMW doesn’t have such a product in the market, this will likely see the day of light in one form or another. Find all the details in BMW’s press release.

“It’s true that the Gran Coupe points to a specific model, a saloon with the presence and elegance of a 7-series but a more dynamic, sporty character: much more of a driver’s car,” BMW design chief Adrian van Hooydonk said. “We’re convinced that we should make a car like this.”

The BMW Gran Coupe picks up where the Concept CS study left off in 2007. van Hooydonk said that BMW was always interested in a more dynamic flagship four-door back then but put things on hold until it worked on Project i’s Megacity electric-car. “Now we’ve had the opportunity to revisit the CS and update it, and I think everyone inside of BMW is pleased with the results,” he said.

As for BMW bringing back the 8-series badge, van Hooydonk said that it’s not his decision.

“I don’t think of this car as an 8-series, but our marketing department may think differently. Either way, their work is just beginning, and I know that often it can take longer than our design work!”

(www.autotribute.com)

Concept Cars: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics

Auto Car | Concept Cars: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics | The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is a 2+2 sports car which epitomizes BMW's latest design philosophy of lightweight, high performance and lower emissions. The concept was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept offers the performance potential of a BMW M vehicle, but also a standard of fuel efficiency and emission management that exceeds the current levels achieved by the latest compact cars. This is due to the combination of BMW ActiveHybrid components with an extremely economical combustion engine, and outstanding aerodynamic qualities.

Drivetrain

The hybrid drivetrain of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept features a 1.5 litre, three-cylinder turbodiesel engine which is located just forward of the rear axle. Fuel is injected by the latest generation of High Precision Direct Injection, and the turbocharger features variable intake geometry for maximum efficiency. Engine output is 163 hp with peak torque of 214 lb-ft. Power from the turbodiesel engine is delivered to the rear axle through a double-clutch transmission (DCT).

The engine is complimented by a pair of electric motors. At the rear one compact electric motor is located between the diesel engine and the transmission. This motor develops a consistent 33 horsepower but is able to reach a peak of up to 51 hp over short bursts. Maximum torque for the rear electric motor is 214 lb-ft, the power, either supporting the diesel engine or in all-electric motoring. When coasting or applying the brakes, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds electric power to the lithium-polymer battery in the car.

The second electric motor drives the front wheels. This motor is a hybrid synchronous motor which offers a continuous output of 80 horsepower and peak torque of 162 lb-ft. Extra power of 112 horsepower is available for a period of up to 30 seconds, and, for a 10-second "burst," the electric motor is able to develop 139 horsepower. The power is channeled through a 2-stage, single-speed reduction gearbox.

BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to run completely under electric power, with the power of the turbodiesel engine alone, or through an infinite combination of the three power sources. Depending on driving conditions, the two electric motors may be used both for accelerating and for regenerating energy when applying the brakes and while coasting. For a short time, such as in passing maneuvers, the cumulative maximum output of all three engines increases to 356 hp, with maximum torque generated by the three engines reaching 590 lb-ft.

With this potent hybrid drivetrain the concept can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.8 seconds, and go on to an electronically-limited 155 mph top speed.

Exterior Design

To further improve the performance and efficiency of the Vision EfficiencyDynamics concept, BMW's designers and engineers spent a great deal of time optimizing the bodywork for minimal drag. The use of lightweight materials such as aluminium for the chassis and carbon fibre for the bodywork serve to improve the power-to-weight ratio and reduce fuel consumption.

Numerous details in the design of the body are based on the experience's BMW has gathered in Motorsport. Designed as ducts, for example, the A-pillars serve to channel the flow of air in the same way as the rear lights with their wing profile. The floor of the car is fully covered from front to rear and from one side to the other, thus maintaining a smooth surface to avoid any air swirl liable to increase fuel consumption.

The 21" wheels have themselves been designed to offer minimal drag and air resistance. The extra-large wheel covers extending over part of the tire flanks add to the unique, very different look of BMW Vision EfficientDynamics from the side. The blade profile integrated in the wheels serves furthermore to reduce the negative effect of the turning wheels on the overall aerodynamics of the car.

(www.diseno-art.com)

2007 BMW M6 Convertible

Auto Car | 2007 BMW M6 Convertible | The 2007 BMW M6 Convertible is virtually the same car as the M6 coupe sans haut: same "Power" button that summons an extra 100 horsepower; same three-position damper control button; same seven-speed automated-clutch manual transmission (sadly); same variable differential lock and programmable "M" button that accesses your favorite performance settings (of the 279 possible), or as we prefer, the full-commando max-mental mode the car is capable of.

Since it was introduced in the 2006 M5 super sedan, the BMW 5.0-liter V10 (S85B50)  has won numerous international awards, to which they may now add the "Engine Note Most Improved by Including a One-Touch Soft-Top Convertible" award. We love the poetic logic and resonance of 10 half-liter 50-horsepower engines working in unison to produce a Dodge Viper-or Corvette Z06-threatening 500 horses (with 3.3 and 2.0 liters smaller displacement, by the way) and 384 pound-feet of torque. It also redlines at a crank-twisting 8250 rpm.

Fundamentally, the BMW V10 comprises 10 engines. It features 10 individual intake trumpets, 10 throttles, 10 cylinders, 10 coils/spark plugs, 10 knock sensors and 10 individual exhaust headers. It's a modern marvel of mechanical skill and computing power originally meant to be a tribute to the BMW F1 engine made obsolete by the FIA's 2006-season rule book. It's the kind of power unit BMW can hang its hat on, even if it's a bit of a "because-we-can" statement. Whatever. We were happy to guzzle down $4.50/gallon of European fuel to probe the edges of the rear-wheel-drive M6 convertible's comfort and speed zones.

BMW chose to introduce the M6 convertible in the elite neighborhood of international shipping magnates and Formula 1 drivers, why? Because the exclusive M6 convertible fits in perfectly with the Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Aston Martins we saw in and around Nice, France. In fact, as we were leaving town for the hills to the north, a tawny, well-groomed man in his F430 Spider nearly rear-ended the car in front of him when he caught sight of our Alpine White drop top.

Base-priced at $108,795 (including $3,700 gas-guzzler tax and $695 destination fee), the M6 convertible is a distinctive car for a discriminating and well-financed buyer. Made in limited numbers, it'll be a rare sight you'll first hear — then see. Our test car was further optioned with keyless entry/starting ($1,000), head-up display ($1,000) and Indianapolis Red Merino leather ($3,500) for a total of $114,295. Yeow.

(www.insideline.com)

2011 BMW 8-series

Auto Car | 2011 BMW 8-series | BMW is rumored to have plans to revive the 8-Series name for a potential “four-door coupe,” much like the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. New 8-series would compete closely with the new Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, Aston Martin Rapide and Porsche Panamera.

Beginning of the year BMW placed Gerhard Richter in charge of development of its new Gran Turismo model, which is based on the popular CS concept car. New model will be called either simply GT, short for Gran Turismo or 8-series. Most likely the car will get the previous 8-series models name so that BMW can position it as the highest, most luxurious and expensive model.

This new GT/8-series model will be the first non M-series car to be built by the performance division. BMW M President, Herr Willisch said that the CS “It’s a car that doesn’t have any resemblance to the other cars built by BMW AG, so it was decided to give the project to us.”

New 8-series will have a larger wheelbase and sportier chassis than the 7-series, though it will be based on the underpinnings of the new 2009 7-series.

Expected engines will be a V8 twin turbo engine or a 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12. New 8-series will be introduced most likely in 2010 as a 2011 year model. Still a long time to go with lots of spy shots and rumors. As BMW has not started the testing of the new 8-series we don’t have any spy shots yet, what we have are two artist renderings of the new 8-series.

(www.globalmotors.net)

Buffalo Celica Enthusiasts Await Debut of 2012 Celica at West Herr Toyota

Auto Car | Buffalo Celica Enthusiasts Await Debut of 2012 Celica at West Herr Toyota | The No. 1 Buffalo Toyota dealership, West Herr  Toyota, proudly announces the eagerly anticipated relaunch of the original affordable sports car, the Toyota Celica.

The Celica, which has been absent from Toyota’s line-up since 2005, is expected to return as a four cylinder, rear wheel drive, economical and fuel efficient sports car sure to become a favorite of Buffalo Toyota consumers.

The redesigned Toyota Celica is expected to be an aerodynamic hatchback capable of seating four adults. Celica’s linear, fluid design will certainly turn heads and get you noticed in Orchard Park, NY!

The Celica is a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru. Buffalo Toyota consumers will appreciate Toyota’s reliability and fuel economy and Subaru’s sporty powertrain. The Toyota-Subaru alliance has engineered Celica to be a sports car with high-price looks but still a relatively low price tag.

Powering the coupe will be a Subaru 2.0 liter flat-4 engine with 200hp and 145 lb-ft. of torque. Road and Track is predicting that the car will weigh in at about 2700 lbs. That would make this a pretty quick car pushing 0-60mph around 6 seconds or better.The base engine will likely be coupled with a six-speed manual and an optional automatic transmission. Talk of a premium turbocharged engine in the plans that will deliver 300 horsepower.

The  Celica may have a bold powertrain and exciting RWD platform, but stays true to its roots as the iconic everyday affordable sports car with an anticipated price tag anticipated to be in the $17,000 to $25,ooo range.

The exhilarating new Celica is expected to premier at your premier Buffalo Toyota dealership, West Herr Toyota, later this year.

(www.buffalotoyota.net)

2012 Mazda RX-7

Auto Car | 2012 Mazda RX-7 | The new RX-7 is rumored to be equipped with a new 16X 2 rotor rotary engine (1600cc displacement).  This engine is based on the side port technology used in the current RX-8 “Renesis” engine.  While this engine does improve gas mileage, it only produced a lack luster 235hp, and dyno’s of RX-8s are common to only show 180-190 rear wheel horse power.  This is a far cry from the original 255 flywheel and 225 to the wheels that the original RX-7 provided.  Not to mention the huge aftermarket gains the original RX-7 13B could provide (up to 350-400hp on stock block).

It's too early to tell whether the 2012 Mazda RX-7 will live up to the hype growing around it, but it should be no less the unique sports car its predec­essors were. Is that worth waiting for? Well, RX-7 fans have already been waiting over 10 years for a new version of their favorite. What's a couple more? But be prepared to move once dealers have it. Demand for the new RX-7 is likely to be strong, at least in the first season. Also, like the RX-8, this car is partly a technology and image flagship, so Mazda won't be looking for big sales. Indeed, availability might even be capped at, say, 25,000-30,000 units a year to maintain both exclusivity and resale values.

(www.rx7blog.com)

2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti.

Auto Car | 2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. | The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is the perfect marriage of sporty thoroughbred Ferrari berlinetta performance and excellent onboard comfort for four occupants. The replacement for the highly successful Ferrari 456M, the new model's own winning combination derives from a roomy interior enhanced by significantly larger dimensions, a 60 kg reduction in weight, and a range of uncompromising design solutions.

All-aluminium space frame chassis and bodywork construction used for the very first time on a Ferrari 12-cylinder and built entirely by Ferrari at the Scaglietti light-alloy technologies facility. The result is a massive 60% increase in overall structural rigidity (rigidity-weight ratio). The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti's advanced aluminium construction also translates into improved comfort and handling, in addition to offering maximum occupant protection in the case of a collision.

The two-plus-two-seater, V-12 flagship grand touring coupe has been overshadowed the past two years by the 599GTB sports coupe, so the 612 was chosen as the debut vehicle for Ferrari’s new customization program, called Ferrari Atelier. This is a new, organized marketing effort to allow Ferrari customers to have their 612s tailor-made to their specific tastes.Yes, of course it’s true that you’ve always been able to get things done your way at the Ferrari factory, but it was not part of an official program.

Now, the factory will have a special salon where you can sit down with a specialist to discuss your specific needs and desires, look at samples of leathers, try out different seating styles, choose your matching handmade luggage, and in general get the white-glove treatment.Ferrari set up a mini version of the Atelier on the second level of its opulent stand at the Geneva show, where we sat in a gorgeous chocolate brown 612 whose every interior surface was swathed in the most exquisite brown stitched leather we’ve ever seen. Even the trunk, including the underside of the trunk lid, was covered in these hides! How much do these baubles cost? If you have to ask…In other 612 Scaglietti news, the car has been fitted with the latest version of the F1 SuperFast automated manual paddle-shift transmission, so 612 drivers now enjoy the same gearshifting times – about 100 milliseconds – as 599GTB drivers.

The 612′s steering wheel now has the Ferrari manettino switch, which controls stability control and other chassis systems, on the right spoke, plus a red engine start button on the left spoke. (You can still get a manual transmission for the 612, in theory, but virtually no one does.) Carbon ceramic brakes are now standard, as they have been on all other Ferraris since October 2007 production. The 612 also gets a new, standard, full-glass roof with electrochromatic tinting.

(topcar-s.blogspot.com)