2011 BMW X1 xDrive28i

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS With its agile, versatile and modern character, the BMW X1 guarantees a new driving experience in the premium compact segment. It expands and enhances the range of BMW X models by yet another innovative vehicle concept. Through its body design the BMW X1 demonstrates self-confident elegance, a versatile and sporting character, as well as spontaneous agility. For the first time the features and characteristics of a BMW X model are carried over in modern style into a unique vehicle in the premium compact segment. The interior of the BMW X1 is characterized by clear function and trendsetting, modern style. The driver orientation so typical of BMW is additionally accentuated by the forward-pushing lines within the cockpit area. Sophisticated materials and natural colors accentuate the youthful and dynamic flair of the vehicle. The elevated seating position, a generous feeling of space, the wide range of storage options and the variable interior offer ideal conditions for enjoying the BMW X1 both in an urban environment and beyond, with agility, spontaneity and versatility of the highest caliber. Three full-sized seats at the rear offer generous space and freedom of movement. The rear-seat backrest is adjustable for angle and folds down in a 40/20/20 split. Luggage compartment capacity may be increased from 14.7 cu ft to a maximum of 47.3 cu ft. An electrically operated Panorama glass roof is available as an option. Modern drivetrain technology gives the BMW X1 superior performance and supreme efficiency all in one. Depending on the model variant, the driver benefits from powerful, economical and low-emission gasoline and diesel engines, BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, as well as a wide range of BMW EfficientDynamics features including Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, and a gearshift point indicator. The cutting-edge suspension technology featured in the BMW X1 comprises a double-joint thrust bar or, respectively, an aluminum double-joint tie bar axle at the front and a five-arm rear axle in lightweight steel, high-precision power steering, high-performance brakes, Dynamic Stability Control including Dynamic Traction Control and, as an option, Performance Control acting on the brakes for particularly dynamic driving behavior. The BMW X1 features a special body structure designed from the outset for maximum occupant safety. Standard features include three-point inertia-reel seat belts all round, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, adaptive Brake Lights and daytime driving lights. Xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and a High-Beam Assistant are all available as an option. In conjunction with the optional Business and Professional navigation systems, the BMW X1 is equipped with the latest generation of BMW iDrive including a Controller and direct selection buttons on the centre console, a Control Display harmoniously integrated in the instrument panel, and favorite buttons beneath the control panel for the air conditioning featured as standard. The most sophisticated HiFi systems are available as an alternative to the audio system fitted as standard and the AUX-In port likewise featured as standard may be supplemented by a USB interface. Numerous driver assistance systems and the wide range of BMW ConnectedDrive services are also available. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid

NEWS & REVIEWS BMW ActiveHybrid technology offers a significant increase in driving dynamics and at the same time reduces fuel consumption by approximately 20 percent versus a comparable vehicle powered by a combustion engine alone. The result is even greater driving pleasure combined with enhanced fuel economy and CO2 management providing the kind of progress to make the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 a genuine BMW in the hybrid market. The overall drive system featured in the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 consists of a 400 hp twin-turbocharged V8 gasoline engine and two electric synchronous motors delivering 91 hp and 86 hp, respectively. Maximum system output is 480 hp, and peak torque reaches 575 lb-ft. Precisely controlled interaction of the three power units optimizes the overall efficiency of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 at all speeds, with acceleration from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. Top speed of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is limited electronically to 130 mph. BMW’s first full hybrid model is able to run exclusively on electric power – and that is entirely free of CO2 – up to a speed of 37 mph or a range of 1.6 miles, with the combustion engine being activated automatically whenever required. These performance figures are made possible by utilizing a two-mode active transmission. The two-mode active transmission is based on an ECVT (electric continuously variable transmission) operating in two separate modes. One mode is for stop-and-go driving and low speeds, and the second is for driving at higher speeds. As would be expected in a BMW, the driver can operate the transmission manually. BMW’s lauded xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes the power between the front and rear axles. The electric motors receive their energy from an NiMH high-performance battery pack positioned beneath the floor of the luggage compartment. This battery pack also feeds electric power to the vehicle’s on-board network. Luggage compartment capacity is therefore the same as on the original BMW X6. On brake application and/or on deceleration, kinetic energy is converted into electrical energy and is stored in the battery pack. To provide this function either one or both of the electric motors act as a generator, feeding electric power generated back into the high-voltage battery. From a stop and at low speeds, only one of the two electric motors is activated. As soon as the driver requires more power or increased speed, the second electric motor automatically starts the combustion engine. The second electric motor then serves as a generator to provide a supply of electric power to the vehicle systems. When driving steadily at a higher speed most of the power required is delivered by the combustion engine in a largely mechanical process. Here again, one of the two electric motors acts as a generator. Status of the hybrid system and current operating conditions are presented in two locations. The most important information is shown in the instrument cluster, separated according to operating mode. Further information and technical explanations are shown in the Central Display. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 BMW M6 COUPE

NEWS & REVIEWS Calling Jenny Craig. If ever a car needed a gastric by-pass, or a nip/tuck of the midriff, this is it. Measuring 192 in. stem to stern and tipping the scales at a porcine 3,900 lbs., the two-door M6 boasts the same kind of visual presence as, say, the Incredible Hulk. Yet here is a car with the kind of rear seats that most five-year olds would find a challenge to sit in. But for those who think the four-door M5 is just too effete, here is a Bavarian bruiser that uses its 500 horsepower to blast from standstill to 60 in just 4.5 seconds and cross continents at a rock steady 155 mph. You’ll hate the herky-jerky sequential manual transmissions, so opt for the new six-speed manual. But what’s amazing is that despite its bulk, the M6 carves curves like a thoroughbred, thanks to laser-precise steering and enormous grip from its 19-inch rubber. Just keep it away from the do-nuts. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 BMW M3 GTS

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS Even when you see it from a distance, you are instantly electrified. As a BMW M enthusiast, every step you take towards the orange painted concept vehicle of the BMW M3 GTS with its numerous matte-black applications raises your adrenaline level a little more. Exclusive 19-inch wheels with ample 225/35 tires at the front and 285/30 at the rear catch your eye. All this is certainly nice looking and sensible, but what you glimpse through the spokes of the aluminum wheel rims is even more exciting: a generously sized fixed caliper brake system with six pistons at the front and four at the rear. The wheels almost fill out the wheel arches, but if you look closely you discover the next highlight. Yellow springs with a small M logo provide the crucial clue: a threaded suspension, adjustable in compression and rebound. The expert will also spot the adjustable front splitter and rear wing. One thing is clear: this car is serious stuff. Not only can a high level of downforce be generated but it also precisely adjustable at front and rear. Fast bends can look forward to welcoming the BMW M3 GTS—but they won't get to see it for long. A cluster of lightweight construction measures such as optimization of the insulation, the use of lightweight parts in the interior, the use of Macrolon for the car's windows in the back, the lack of air conditioning, navigation and radio, and the entire rear seat also gets the scales the down. And the new titanium rear silencer not only looks great and contributes to the thrilling sound of the BMW M3 GTS, it is also much lighter than its serial production counterpart. Indispensable for safety reasons: the lightweight construction body has been prepared for installation of the 6-point seatbelt included for use on the race track. There are also mounts for the roll-over protective structure bolted on from the B column. A fire extinguisher and a battery master switch/emergency shut-off preparation do not make the car lighter either—but safer. So the BMW M3 GTS concept vehicle puts the scales up to around 3,285 lbs.—causing the engineer to give an appreciative nod. The car is fitted with a 7-speed M dual clutch transmission with adapted shift characteristics. But an absolute highlight is to be found under the bonnet. Exclusively for the BMW M3 GTS, the engine builders of BMW—recent winners of the Engine of the Year Award once again—have developed a power unit based on the M high-performance engine of the current BMW M3: with a capacity of 4.4 liters and an output of some 450 hp, it will catapult the light BMW M3 GTS into a whole new sphere. The BMW M3 GTS is manufactured to order on an individual basis at the BMW M production workshops. The first vehicles are due to be supplied in May 2010 in Germany but won’t make it to other countries until the summer of 2010. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 BMW Active Hybrid 7

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 will reach America shores in Spring, 2010. Based on the newest BMW 7 Series, this unique car sets new standards for performance and efficiency in the premium luxury class. This symbiosis of an upgraded twin-turbo, High Precision Direct Injection, V8 engine with a 3-phase synchronous electric motor gives the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 a combined output of 455 hp and maximum torque of 516 lb-ft (preliminary figures). Power is transmitted via an 8-speed automatic transmission with the electric motor positioned between the engine and the torque converter. The electric motor receives its supply of energy from a lithium-ion battery developed specifically for use in this automobile. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 accelerates to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds (preliminary), while delivering fuel economy approximately 15% better than the 750i. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is also the first BMW with automatic transmission to feature Auto Start Stop to maximize efficiency by avoiding engine idling when stopped. Special displays in the instrument cluster and the Central Display inform the passengers of the degree of efficiency and the current operating status of the hybrid components. The ActiveHybrid 7 is distinguished from the 750i by aerodynamically-tuned ten-spoke 19-inch light-alloy Aero wheels, and model designations on the trunk lid, C-pillars, and on the door cutouts. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is also available in Bluewater Metallic exterior paintwork. Like existing BMW 7 Series models, BMW's first luxury sedan with ActiveHybrid technology will enter the market in two body variants. The extended version of BMW ActiveHybrid 7 has a wheelbase increased by 5.5", all of which is devoted to the enhanced comfort of rear-seat passengers. BMW ActiveHybrid technology uses energy that would be normally converted into heat through the brakes, and therefore wasted in conventional cars. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 features an enhanced version of Brake Energy Regeneration already used in some current BMW models running on a combustion engine alone. In this case the integrated electric motor acts as a generator when coasting or applying the brakes, in order to feed electric power into the battery. Brake Energy Regeneration converts some of the vehicle's kinetic energy into electric power for the on-board network whenever the driver lifts off the accelerator or applies the brakes. When the driver requires only a small amount of brake force, the system uses only the drag of the electric generator (motor). The mechanical brakes are activated only when the driver presses down the brake pedal harder for more stopping power. BMW found that lithium-ion battery technology offers sufficient energy storage capability while taking up minimal space. The result is that the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 gives up almost no luggage capacity to its conventional siblings (750i and 750Li), because the 120-volt battery is small enough to be mounted underneath the trunk floor. Furthermore, the weight penalty incurred by this battery is minimal, meaning less energy is consumed to carry it, weighing a mere 59.5 pounds. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 BMW 760LI High Security

NEWS & REVIEWS Both, the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security are the first models in the world to be certified to BRV 2009 and both vehicles meet the requirements of the new ballistic protection level VR7, good enough to protect againist the common assault rifle. The two BMW high security sedans set new standards in the protection of persons at risk while traveling in their vehicle. Specific chassis components are perfectly adapted to the increase in weight due to the sedans' armor plating. Hence, reinforced suspension, dampers and suspension strut top mountings are part of the model-specific component range. This approach ensures finely-tuned vehicle performance characteristics that cannot be achieved by retrofitted armor plating. Reinforced vehicle-specific armor plating made from special steel as well as newly-developed safety glazing protects the passenger compartment in particular from attacks of all kinds. The passenger compartment is protected by armor plating of the doors, the roof, the pillars, the front foot well and the separation wall between passenger and luggage compartments. The steel panels, which were manufactured by means of a special technique, fit the body contours perfectly. The sedans' undercarriage is armored by special plating which was developed with a particular focus on maximum explosion protection. The newly developed V12 unit of the BMW 760Li High Security unleashes its superior power of 544 hp at an engine speed of 5,250 rpm. In combination with the newly developed eight-speed automatic transmission, the 6.0-litre twelve-cylinder engine accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in as little as 6.2 seconds. The 4.4-litre eight-cylinder engine of the BMW 750Li High Security is the first petrol engine of its kind with turbochargers that are located in the "V" space between the cylinder banks. The V8 engine achieves 407 hp at engine speeds of between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm. The BMW 750Li High Security accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds. Just like the range of comfort options, the security package for both the BMW 760Li High Security and the BMW 750Li High Security can be adapted to suit individual requirements. An intercom system with concealed microphones and speakers allows safe communication with people outside of the vehicle without the need to open doors or windows. Additional safety options include an assault alarm, fire extinguishing system with temperature sensor for extinguishing fires in the engine compartment and below the vehicle as well as irritant gas sensors for protecting passengers from gas attacks. If the interior protection system is triggered by excess gas levels, all windows are closed automatically, the central locking system is activated, the fresh air valves are closed and the ventilation system is shut off. An additional internal fresh-air supply system ensures that passengers are provided with breathable air. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 BMW 760LI

NEWS & REVIEWS The new BMW 760i and the new BMW 760Li are taking over the top position within BMW's model portfolio, representing the highest level of motoring refinement in their segment. The heart and foundation of this exceptional new standard comes from the twelve-cylinder power unit featured in both top models in the BMW 7 Series. Developed as a completely new engine from the ground up, the V12 is a masterpiece of modern engine technology. Superior power of 544 hp comes at an engine speed of 5,000 rpm, with maximum torque of 553 lbs.-ft. from just 1,500 rpm. Combined with the likewise brand-new eight-speed automatic transmission, this twelve-cylinder offers not only unparalleled motoring refinement, but also supreme driving dynamics through its ability to convert seemingly unlimited power reserves spontaneously and with precise control at all times into supreme driving dynamics. Once again, BMW's twelve-cylinder power unit is the epitome of refined performance, grand touring comfort, and stylish exclusivity. The new BMW 760i as well as the new BMW 760Li with its wheelbase extended by 14 centimeters or 5.5" for particular comfort – if not to say, luxury – at the rear, provide the clear answer to the question as to what one may expect of a genuine luxury performance saloon, with fascinating new features underscoring BMW's claim to leadership in the luxury segment. The drive train with all its technical features is a masterpiece of supremacy in every respect. This applies both to the 6.0-litre all-aluminum power unit with Twin-Power Turbo Technology, High-Precision Injection with fuel injected directly into the combustion chambers, and to BMW's infinite double-VANOS camshaft adjustment as well as the eight-speed automatic transmission featured for the first time in a BMW. Benefiting from all these technologies, the new BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li offer a new standard of motoring refinement, dynamic performance and all-round efficiency in a vehicle with this kind of power and output. Acceleration to 62 mph comes in just 4.6 seconds. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS The BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo combines elegance, space, comfort and variability in truly unique style. As an attractive, future-oriented extension of the BMW 5 Series, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is quite unparalleled worldwide in the upper middle segment, combining the characteristic features of a prestige saloon, a modern, highly versatile Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo in brand-new, unprecedented style. • Through its body design, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo combines the proportions so typical of a BMW, an elegantly stretched silhouette and a coupé-like roofline, as well as four doors with frameless windows to create one complete, harmonious unit. • Flexibly adjustable, the interior of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo enables the driver and passengers to vary the generous space inside the car as they wish to their individual, personal requirements. In their standard position, the rear seats offer the passengers the same kind of legroom as in the BMW 7 Series combined with the same headroom as in the BMW X5. In this configuration, luggage capacity is already an ample 15.4 cu ft. Thanks to the partition behind the rear seats, the passenger and luggage compartments are separated acoustically and in terms of climate conditions from one another like in a saloon. When required, the rear seats may be moved individually to the front by up to almost 4", with legroom still remaining the same as in the BMW 5 Series Saloon and an increase in luggage capacity to 20.7 cu ft. And after folding down the rear-seat backrests together with the partition, finally, luggage space increases to its maximum capacity of 59.5 cu ft. • Offering unique functionality, the two-piece tailgate on the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo provides exceptional variability and maximum comfort in loading the luggage compartment. • The slightly elevated seating position, the clear, structured arrangement of the controls, BMW’s new iDrive with its Control Display up to 10.2 inches in size, and the cockpit in Black Panel technology all help to give the driver maximum supremacy at all times. • The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is entering the market with a choice of no less than three ultra-modern drive units carrying over BMW -EfficientDynamics into a new segment in the automobile world. The BMW 530d Gran Turismo offers a truly unique, unparalleled balance of driving experience and fuel economy with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 6.5 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 43.5 mpg imp, and a CO2 rating of 173 g/km. The two gasoline models also set new standards for efficiency in their respective engine class. • The top engine in the range, finally, is the V8 TwinPower Turbo delivering maximum output of 407 hp in the BMW 550i Gran Turismo. • All model variants come as standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission previously to be admired only in the BMW 760i twelve-cylinder luxury saloon. Featuring an innovative configuration of gearsets, a unique level of internal efficiency, and the same low weight and compact dimensions as a six-speed automatic transmission, this high-tech automatic combines gearshift comfort, dynamic performance, and motoring efficiency of the highest caliber. • The modern, demanding suspension technology of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is designed for both fascinating driving dynamics and supreme grand touring comfort. The double track control arm front axle and the Integral-V rear axle exclusive to BMW are made largely of aluminium. Standard features also include rear axle air suspension as well as hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with a steering servo pump operating on demand. Integral Active Steering is available as an option, combining active steering of the front wheels with rear-wheel steering varying according to driving conditions and current requirements. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 BMW Z4

NEWS & REVIEWS The new BMW Z4 is the first BMW roadster to protect its occupants from wind and weather with a fully retractable hardtop. This two-piece lightweight aluminum shell opens and closes at the touch of a button within 20 seconds. The compact packaging of the folding roof enables the Z4 Roadster to retain the characteristic, slender proportions of its predecessor. The retractable roof may be operated either by a switch in the center console or by remote control key fob when equipped with optional Comfort Access. Comfort Access also allows convenient loading and unloading of the luggage compartment with the roof open. To provide access to the luggage compartment in this case, the open hardtop is moved to an interim position facilitating the removal of large objects. To ensure driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 is offered with two inline-6 engine displacing 3.0 liters: 300 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure truly outstanding acceleration and response at all times. The use of two turbochargers (each supplying three cylinders) ensures responsiveness never seen before on a turbocharged engine. The engine achieves peak torque of 300 lb-ft without the slightest delay, and maintains this high level of torque throughout a broad rev range from 1,400–5,000 rpm. Maximum output of 300 hp comes at 5,800 rpm, and the BMW Z4 sDrive35i accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds (optional seven-speed double clutch sport automatic transmission in 5.0 seconds). The acceleration continues all the way to an electronically-limited 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package). All variants of the new BMW Z4 come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. As an option, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i is available with BMW’s newly developed double-clutch sport automatic gearbox. Based on the M DCT transmission introduced in the BMW M3, this 7-speed gearbox ensures faster acceleration and extra performance in comparison with the 6-speed manual gearbox, while providing the comfort features of a BMW automatic transmission. The 7-speed double-clutch sport automatic shifts gears without the slightest interruption of power. The 6-speed sport automatic transmission available on the BMW Z4 sDrive30i promotes not only driving comfort, but also the sporty performance of a BMW Roadster. The sport automatic transmission offers the driver the opportunity to shift gears manually when desired. Apart from selecting gears via the selector lever on the center console, the driver also has the option to use the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. Featuring traditional spring-struts, a “double-jointed” front suspension made largely of aluminum, and a constant-geometry rear axle, the new Z4 comes with proven suspension concepts in a configuration perfectly tailored to the characteristics of the car. Electric power steering plays a role also in the BMW Z4, enhancing the precision and comfort of steering maneuvers and reducing fuel consumption, since the electric motor for steering power assistance is activated only when required or desired by the driver. The new Z4 comes with new high-performance brakes, featuring low weight and low brake pad wear. At the same time the BMW Z4 is the first car in its segment to feature an electrical parking brake activated and released by a button on the center console. Both versions of the new BMW Z4 come as standard on 17-inch light-alloy rims and with runflat tires as well as a Tire Pressure Monitor. The new BMW Z4 is slightly larger outside than its predecessor, at the same time offering significantly more comfort in terms of space and a lot more loading space: BMW’s new Roadster is 5.8” longer, 0.4” wider, and 0.3” lower. Wheelbase has grown 0.1” to measure 98.3". PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 BMW X6 M

NEWS & REVIEWS Now the discerning customer has the opportunity to enjoy the unique high-performance character of a BMW M car also in the segment of BMW X models: The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the supreme performance, dynamic driving features, athletic design, and premium quality of a typical BMW M Car. Both models are powered by a newly developed V8 high-performance engine delivering 555 hp at an engine speed of 6,000 rpm. BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system is naturally geared to the specific power and performance characteristics of the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M, just like Dynamic Performance Control also standard on both models. Interacting with the cars’ special M suspension including Adaptive Drive and the newly developed Servotronic power steering, this ensures the driving behavior so characteristic of a BMW M Car, combining unique driving stability with precisely controlled steering qualities all the way to the highest level of driving dynamics. The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M set new standards in this segment of high-performance models in terms of acceleration, lateral dynamics, steering behavior, stopping power, and efficiency. Both models accelerate to 62 mph from a standstill in 4.7 seconds and stand out not only through the truly impressive delivery of power by the V8 turbo engine providing maximum torque of 501 lb-ft in the broad speed range between 1,500 and 5, 650 rpm. Both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M feature special gill intakes in the front side panels tailored to each model as well as individually designed 20-inch light-alloy rims. The signs of distinction so typical of BMW M are likewise presented in individual style at the rear, in both cases confirming the outstanding dynamism of each model: The rear air dam on the BMW X6 M demonstrates particularly powerful presence, while the two dual tailpipes in the exhaust system surrounded in both cases by the rear air dam are again typical of BMW’s M philosophy. Featured for the first time on a BMW M Model, the six-speed automatic transmission enhances the high-performance character of the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M through its spontaneous gearshift, direct connection to the engine, and the high standard of shift comfort. The new M Sports Automatic is controlled by an electronic gear selector lever on the centre console and offers the driver not only the D Mode, but also an S and M Mode for an even more sporting gearshift. Aluminum gearshift paddles on the steering wheel exclusive to BMW M allow a manual gearshift significantly shortening gearshift times by the new technology reducing torque in the transmission through the deactivation of individual cylinders. The outstanding success of BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology is based on the fact that the system not only improves traction on rough terrain, but also enhances driving dynamics on the road. 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. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge