Wednesday, February 11, 2009

BMW X3 Hybrid


The Concept X3 EfficientDynamics applies BMW's latest technology and philosophy to its small SUV, where it balances functionality and driving dynamics with significantly enhanced fuel economy. The system packs efficiently, with both the electric motor and electronic control unit fitting within the existing vehicle. And rather than use a large battery pack, the Concept X3 draws on high-performance capacitors, aka Super Caps. The net effect is that this concept will outgun comparable production X3s, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 6.7 seconds, while returning 20-percent better fuel economy. The real mechanical miracle is in the Active Transmission, where engineers were able to fit six driving gears, an electric motor, two clutches, and the complete electronics pack within the existing transmission housing. All told, this electric assist adds 41 hp to the mix. With BMW's fat R&D budget and penchant for performance engineering, we have no doubt that it could be an amazing machine, but would the market support an even pricier X3?

First Drive: 2008 BMW 135i


To put it plainly, the 2008 BMW 135i is more than merely good. It raises the standard of measure for small coupes to a whole new level of excellence. It is one of the purest expressions of the BMW character since the 1971 BMW 2002 tii.This is not another space-efficient front-wheel-drive hatchback. Instead BMW's classic configuration of front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive brings an emphasis on driving to the segment of premium small cars that includes the Volkswagen R32 and Volvo C30.Search if you will, but you can take it from us; there is simply no more accomplished car for $30,000 than the 2008 BMW 135i.

Concept CS - the new BMW prototype


Here's the new BMW proposal, also known as the CS Four Door Luxury GT. The German brand doesn't disappoint and presents us a large and luxurious car - 5,10 metres long, four doors and back-wheel traction. In the motor compartment, a V12 of 6 000cc and great power secures the necessary high performances. On the exterior, and aggressive design and a sporty look, Chris Bangle's trademark, make this vehicle irresistable. None of this would be out of the ordinary, weren't it for the fact that it is destined to the Chinese market. It wasn't by coincidence that it was presented at Shanghai...

BMW GINA Light Visionary Model


The fabric skin of the BMW GINA Light Visionary Model concept car is used to cover metal wires, which can be moved to achieve different shapes using electro-hydraulic devices.
How does it all hang together? Well, wire mesh and carbon fiber.
The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model concept car allows the driver to change both the exterior and interior of the car for as many number of times as desired. So you want a low-slung skirt - you got it. Want a spoiler, you got that too! The headlights are revealed when the fabric moves apart, and the engine is accessed when the bonnet seemingly splits to reveal its innards.

2006 BMW 130i Auto Show Photo


It's a shame BMW decided against offering the 1 Series in the United States. A compact, affordable BMW has even greater appeal today, as young drivers openly aspire to drive luxury-branded vehicles. With gas prices finally outpacing drinking water, compacts may have growing appeal, especially if they boast more than 260 horsepower, like the new 130i. Sized much like a Mazda3 five-door, the range-topping 130i boasts a 3.0L inline six with 232 lb-ft of torque, capable of delivering a 6.2-second 0-60-mph time. An available M Sports Package can make this hot hatch even better, with a sport-tuned suspension and M aero package, boasting distinct front and rear fascias, and body-colored side sills. The interior is dressed with leather and all the obligatory M cues, from door sills to stitching. If the Audi A3 is the success it deserves to be Stateside, rest assured that BMW will take notice.

2012 BMW 3 Series



The next generation 2012 BMW 3 Series is still a few years out, but this does not stop the curiosity of the true bimmer fans. Our friend Giom decided to show us some renderings of what the next generation BMW 3 Series might look like.
If you remember, Giom is the same designer that came up with the really cool 2012 BMW M6 renderings that were posted on here back in May. I agree with Giom when he says that the next generation 3-series will be evolutionary rather than revolutionary, so the styling reflects the current cues, which includes the CS concept.
The headlights retain its basic shape and the intake openings move to the sides of the lower bumper. According to him, this is still an area where the renderings can be improved. There are also lots of detail in the surface folds and creases, creating interesting reflections and shapes. The line bending upwards on the side is a visual helper in creating the illusion of speed. This ‘upward’ line repeats in the rear bumper.
Within the next 2-3 series, the final design will be approved by BMW and we will see which direction the will choose to go towards.
Well, I hope you will enjoy these renderings and feel free to leave your comments, suggestions or just a general opinion.

2007 BMW X5


BMW's X5 line has needed an overhaul for a while now, and it got one for 2007. The all-new 2007 BMW X5 ($TBA) features more interior room with a third row of seating, a new inline six-cylinder engine that makes 260hp — an even more powerful 350hp, 4.8L V8 is also an option — enhanced x-Drive all-wheel drive, 50/50 weight distribution, and more tech-oriented options than ever before, including standard run-flat tires, the BMW Assist Bluetooth system, an iDrive on-board control system, heads-up display, rear-view camera for parking, and a premium sound system that features 600 watts of power, Dolby 5.1 surround sound and 16 speakers. One of the most elegant, complete SUVs on the road just got a whole lot better.