The modern, sustainable legacy of BMW M GmbH began in 1985 when engineers placed the snarling, race-bred inline-6 engine from the M1 supercar into the production BMW 5 Series sedan, reworked the suspension and brakes, and created the first M5.

Through this industry-first combination of attributes, the M5 redefined the capabilities of a sedan with levels of power, precision, balance, and linear control never before imaginable. Since then, finding new ways to expand the boundaries of what is possible with existing BMW models has been the singular purpose of the craftsmen at BMW M. Now the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the first all-wheel-drive models to offer the remarkable performance, dynamic driving experience, athletic design, and premium quality of a BMW M product.
Both models are powered by a newly-developed 4.4-liter V8 M engine delivering 555 hp at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque from 1500 to 5,650 rpm. This new M engine is the world’s first with a pulse-tuned exhaust manifold encompassing both rows of cylinders combined with high-performance twin-scroll twin turbo technology.

For the X5 M and X6 M, engineers at BMW M pushed the capabilities of BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the Dynamic Performance Control system to manage the power and performance potential of these two new vehicles. The special M suspension includes Adaptive Drive and newly-developed Servotronic power steering. These features combine to push the limits of what was previously possible with a sports-oriented vehicle, and guarantee driving behavior characteristic of a BMW M product: incredible stability and precisely controlled steering qualities abound throughout the performance envelope.

The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M set new standards of acceleration, lateral grip, steering response, balance, and stopping power among high-performance activity vehicles. Both models accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in 4.5 seconds and feature impressive delivery of power from the V8 twin-turbo engine which provides maximum torque of 500 lb-ft from 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. From a handling standpoint, both vehicles are notable for superb balance through careful tuning of xDrive, Dynamic Performance Control, and Dynamic Stability Control with M Dynamic Mode for linear buildup of cornering forces. These capabilities place the performance of the X5 M and X6 M on par with the performance of other recent BMW M vehicles.

The athletic character and amazing performance abilities of the BMW X5 M and X6 M result from levels of development never before applied to this type of vehicle. As it did when creating the original M5, BMW M has once again shown that applying new technologies and innovations to a solid BMW production vehicle type will produce startling performance and an exhilarating drive. Both of these new models offer capabilities and dynamic driving experiences which are quite unique, and promise to provide thrills from everyday traffic to the race track.

Exterior Design: BMW M heritage reflecting function, purpose, and style.
The outstanding potential of both models is communicated clearly in their looks and design, their performance-bred heritage presented convincingly by the common design of the front end with its large air intakes.

The hood, front air dam, and headlights are virtually identical on the BMW X5 M and X6 M. Both models feature special gills in the front fenders, as well as model-specific 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The signs of distinction of BMW M are presented in individual style at the rear, confirming the athletic character of each model. The rear diffuser on each model communicates a particularly powerful presence, and the quad tailpipes of the exhaust system are again a signature of BMW M’s masterful work.

Compared with the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6, the body-color surface area on the side skirts are designed to place greater emphasis on their road-going orientations. On both models the body designs fulfill major functions in terms of aerodynamics and the carefully controlled flow of cooling air.

The first modern turbocharged M engine: twin scroll twin turbo technology with a patented exhaust manifold.
Using BMW’s innovative, 4.4L reverse-flow V8 engine with High Precision Direct Injection and twin turbochargers as a basis, the new M engine introduces twin-scroll twin turbochargers and patented exhaust manifold technologies to achieve outstanding thrust and pulling force, while preserving the most compact dimensions possible. Two low-mass twin-scroll turbochargers are positioned together with the catalytic converters in the “V” section between the two banks of cylinders. By reversing the flow of gases through the engine from traditional arrangements, the intake and exhaust ducts are shortened and widened. The result is that pressure losses on the exhaust side are minimized.

The goals: virtually eliminate turbocharger lag while maximizing combustion efficiency and power output. Tremendous power and performance are delivered by the engine in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M through a new design and construction principle. The new M V8 engine with twin-scroll twin turbo technology uses a single exhaust manifold with tuned-length runners, incorporating both cylinder banks and connecting cylinders in carefully-selected pairs. This configuration, patented by BMW M and known as Cylinder-bank Comprehensive Manifold (CCM), offers lightning-quick response, a linear build-up of engine power, and a broad, consistent torque curve by feeding each of the twin turbochargers with a “charge pulse” at approximately every 90 degrees of crankshaft rotation, rather than the more traditional “irregular schedule” of charging.

The managed flow of exhaust gas provided by the CCM ensures high-velocity flow of combustion gases. The appropriate separation of exhaust gas flow from different cylinders is maintained until the gas reaches the turbine wheel, spooling the two twin-scroll turbochargers without back-pressure. With maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar (21 psi), the use of twin-scroll twin turbo technology and the CCM exhaust manifold allows complete exploitation of the benefits of turbocharging.

Immediate response and remarkable thrust characterize the new V8 twin-turbocharged engine from BMW M GmbH. The impressive onset of power is accompanied by unique, engaging engine sounds that accentuate the quick-revving characteristics with the dynamic acoustic effect typical of a BMW M product. The sounds are always civilized, but transform from relatively calm to extraordinarily intense as the boost and revs build from idle. Reflecting the tremendous power of the engine, the turbocharged M V8 is equipped with an advanced cooling system developed specifically for the two new models. One notable feature in this context is the presence of two high-capacity water-to-air intercoolers which consistently optimize performance under the most demanding driving conditions. An aluminum oil sump exclusive to BMW M with a special finned surface guarantees optimum cooling at all times even under an extremely demanding style of driving.

The turbocharged M V8 engine develops its outstanding power with remarkable efficiency. In addition to BMW’s High Precision Direct Injection, both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are equipped with a range of technologies from BMW’s EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. These include on-demand control of the electric fuel pump, an on-demand compressor for the air conditioner, and a flow-controlled supply of hydraulic fluid to the Active Roll Stabilization system. By operating these features specifically on demand, energy waste is minimized. The engine fulfills the requirements of the US LEV II standard as well as the EU5 requirements in Europe.

M Sports Automatic and M shift paddles on the steering wheel.
Featured for the first time on a BMW M model, the 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission enhances the high-performance character of the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M through its instantaneous response, direct connection to the engine, and a high degree of shifting comfort. The new M Sports Automatic is commanded by an electronic selector on the center console and offers the driver not only the Drive mode, but also Sport and M Manual modes for absolute control of gear selection.

Aluminum pull-style paddles on the steering wheel exclusive to BMW M allow manual shifting (Right for upshifts, Left for downshifts). Upshifts occur significantly quicker than in the past thanks to new technology that reduces torque in the transmission through momentary deactivation of individual cylinders. This significantly enhances the athletic character of the vehicle. In the M Manual mode, each chosen gear is held up to redline in order to give the driver perfect throttle-steering control of the vehicle under the most demanding driving conditions. The transmission does not upshift or downshift automatically in this mode. A further option in the M Manual mode is to activate the Launch Control feature, which enables the driver to accelerate from a standstill with maximum performance. To activate Launch Control, the driver stops the vehicle, moves the gear selector into the M/S position and activates the Sports Power mode, as well as the M Dynamic mode, or respectively, the DSC-Off mode. Then, with the transmission in stage M1, the driver presses down the brake pedal and moves the accelerator to at least 60% throttle, setting Launch Control to standby. Standby status is confirmed by “starter’s flag” symbol in the instrument cluster. As soon as the driver releases the brake pedal, the vehicle will accelerate with full power in “genuine racing style.” In the process, the M Sports Automatic transmission automatically upshifts at the ideal points, with the fastest possible shifts and optimum wheelspin control. The driver may terminate the Launch Control process at any time by reducing the throttle position.

BMW xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control with a special M setup for optimum dynamics.
The outstanding success of BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology is based on quick, electronically-controlled power distribution to the front and rear axles. When combined with the superb, near 50-50 static weight distribution of any BMW, xDrive can prevent the tendency for the vehicle to oversteer and understeer as long as possible, reducing the need for Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) to provide electronic assistance.

BMW’s Dynamic Performance Control was presented for the first time in the BMW X6 and is now featured in the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M. Put succinctly, Dynamic Performance Control enhances driving stability in demanding situations and is thus perfectly suited to a powerful M vehicle. Vectoring of torque between the right and left rear wheels (both on throttle and off) significantly improves steering precision and tracking stability at all speeds, with DSC being required to stabilize the vehicle only under extreme lateral acceleration. Ultimately this offers the driver an unparalleled standard of performance, agility, balance, and traction, and re-establishes the benchmarks in drivetrain and suspension technology for all types of performance-oriented vehicles.

In the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M the potentials of both xDrive and Dynamic Performance Control are maximized by BMW M, with the driver able to activate the M Dynamic Mode (MDM) with the DSC button on the center console or the steering wheel-mounted M Button. This mode raises DSC thresholds of intervention and ensures throttle-steering behavior typical of BMW M by shifting the xDrive bias more to the rear and involving the Dynamic Performance Control in the process. A pictogram in the Control Display in the instrument cluster allows the driver to monitor the activity of Dynamic Performance Control and xDrive through a clear visual depiction, which shows the driver how much power is being distributed to each wheel.

As a result, M Dynamic Mode allows maximum speeds in bends and on winding roads with the DSC system intervening only when the vehicle reaches the absolute physical limits of grip. Even under maximum load in the apex of a bend, the vehicle follows steering inputs with tremendous precision, giving the driver very high speeds when exiting a turn in the interest of optimum performance. Last but not least, DSC may be completely deactivated by experienced drivers at the touch of a button.

Beyond the stabilizing effects of Dynamic Stability Control provided by individual brake activation and engine power reduction under extreme conditions, DSC in the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M includes a wide range of additional features tuned to BMW M standards to promote safe and exciting driving. These include ABS anti-lock brakes, Trailer Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic Brake Control which maximizes brake force when required, Cornering Brake Control for advanced trail-braking, Brake Fade Compensation for extreme driving conditions, automatic Brake Drying when the windshield wipers are activated, Start-Off Assistant for driving on steep hills, and a braking function for use by the standard cruise control.

Both vehicles come with an electrohydraulic parking brake which features the Autohold (Auto H) function. Auto H is a convenience feature that holds the vehicle in position as soon as it comes to a stop at an intersection or in stop-and-go traffic, without requiring the driver to hold constant pressure on the brake pedal. As soon as the driver touches the accelerator again, the brake is instantly released.

M Suspension with standard Adaptive Drive.
The suspension developed specifically for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M with its double-wishbone front control arms and integral four-link rear axle offers M-specific geometry and damping. This is accomplished through optimized control arm and A-arm bushings at the front, as well as stiffer axle support mounts at the rear.

As part of the advanced Integrated Chassis Management system which networks all drivetrain and suspension components, both models feature standard self-leveling rear air suspension and Adaptive Drive with Electronic Damping Control (EDC) and Active Roll Stabilization (ARS). The special version of Adaptive Drive tailored to the requirements of BMW M lowers the entire vehicle by 10 millimeters or 0.4″ versus the standard BMW X5 and BMW X6.

To quickly and reliably process data, Adaptive Drive uses the high-speed FlexRay data transmission protocol. FlexRay enables Adaptive Drive to transfer data through the vehicle’s on-board network at an extremely fast rate. This enables lightning-quick changes to settings for individual shock absorbers, swaybars, and other components as conditions and driving demands warrant. For example, if the front wheel encounters a bump, the system responds quickly enough before the rear wheel reaches the same bump. On the X5, X6, and 7 Series, BMW is the first carmaker in the world to use FlexRay as a regular technology.

The special Servotronic steering developed for the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M provides variable steering assistance geared to the road speed of the vehicle. This allows the driver to negotiate parking maneuvers with lower effort while preserving exact feedback and the highest standard of steering precision at higher speeds.

The degree of power steering assistance is defined by two control maps. Apart from the standard configuration, the driver is able, through the Adaptive Drive button or the M Drive button on the steering wheel, to call up the Sport Mode. This activates a sports driving control map with higher control forces for particularly dynamic driving conditions.

When changing from Normal to Sport Mode, the system alters not only the Servotronic steering control map, but also the damper setting, with the shock absorbers of the vehicle being significantly stiffened in Sport Mode. In conjunction with Active Roll Stabilization, this allows an exceptionally high standard of linear lateral forces in dynamic bends and on fast, winding roads, and keeps body roll to a minimum.

M Brakes and tires to match the M Power.
Outstanding stopping power with fade reduced to a minimum is guaranteed by the high-performance M brake system, which combines giant four-piston fixed calipers at the front with floating calipers at the rear, combined in each case with large, internally-vented lightweight brake discs. The brake rotors themselves measure 15.6” in diameter at front and 15.2” at rear. They feature a riveted connection to join the aluminum rotor hats with the cast-iron rotor discs.

The BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M are the only vehicles of their type equipped with staggered-size tires front and rear, running on 20-inch light-alloy wheels. The choice of runflat tires in sizes 275/40 R 20 at the front and 315/35 R 20 at the rear is a result of the special setup of both models, with the emphasis on rear-wheel power and dynamic handling balance. This promotes exceptionally good transmission of power to the rear axle and precise, razor-sharp steering behavior of both models. Transitional stability is also world-class.

Maximum performance at the touch of a button: M Drive button on the steering wheel.
In addition to the DSC mode (On, MDM, or Off) and the specific setup of the shock absorbers and Servotronic steering, the driver may also configure the setup of the drivetrain on the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M. Activating the Power mode influences both engine and transmission behavior, and the driver can choose from the Sport and Efficiency driving programs. The Sport program allows precise control of engine power under the most dynamic driving conditions, and ensures a linear build-up of the power delivery. The Efficiency program, in turn, upshifts at earlier points not only to significantly reduce fuel consumption under normal driving conditions, but also to allow a relaxed style of driving by taking advantage of the new M engine’s prodigious torque and power available from low engine speeds. The result, therefore, is an ideal combination of flexibility for daily use and all-out performance when desired.

When customizing the response of the steering wheel-mounted M Drive button, the driver uses the M Drive menu to preselect the desired Power Mode and the setup of DSC and EDC, making a personalized combination of settings that can be activated on-demand. The driver’s favorite setup settings are saved and subsequently activated at any time simply by pressing the M Drive button on the steering wheel. Pressing the M Drive button again returns the vehicle to its previous configuration.

M-specific cockpit and sophisticated driver assistance systems for even greater ability at the wheel.
The BMW M philosophy naturally continues into the design and configuration of the driver’s “office.” Both of these all-wheel-drive high-performance sports vehicles come with a special M cockpit with the instrument cluster featuring a variable redline, specific vehicle function displays, and white display backlighting. Both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M feature power, heated front M sport seats, an M sport leather steering wheel, M door sills, and driver’s footrest.

Infotainment functions, standard on-board Navigation with Real-Time Traffic data and communication functions are all controlled by BMW’s 4th-generation iDrive. The standard HiFi audio system features 12 loudspeakers and a 230 watt amplifier. In addition, both the BMW X5 M and the BMW X6 M may be equipped with a Head-Up Display programmed specifically by BMW M. This option enables the driver to customize the type and scope of data projected onto the windshield through settings available in the M Drive menu.

Innovative driver assistance systems are fitted as well, with both models featuring standard Dynamic Cruise Control, Rain Sensor, Auto-Dimming Mirrors, Park Distance Control, and BMW’s Xenon Adaptive Headlights. The list of optional features includes a Driver Assistance Package which includes High-Beam Assistant, Head-Up Display, and Rear View Camera with the spectacular new Top View feature. Top View provides the driver with an “birds-eye view” of the vehicle on the iDrive control screen, using input from a camera on each side of the vehicle and the traditional rear-view camera. Top View provides the driver with additional confidence for tight parking scenarios.

Stable bodyshell and advanced safety equipment.
The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M come with extremely stiff bodyshells. To ensure maximum solidity, BMW’s body engineers focused on the use of intelligent lightweight materials technology. Both the choice of materials and the arrangement and geometry of the support bars, braces, and mounts on both models are based on an overall concept that combines maximum crash safety with supreme agility – which helps avoid crashes in the first place. At BMW, the ability to avoid a crash is the best safety feature of all.

Forces acting on the unibody in the event of a crash are diverted through the engine carriers and the chassis along several load paths in order to avoid extreme loads acting on individual structures and help keep impact energy away from the stable passenger cell.
Both the BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M come with frontal and hip/thorax airbags, as well as curtain head airbags to protect the occupants both front and rear from injury. Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts are at all seating positions with force limiters and, on the front seats, an additional seatbelt pretensioning function. To help protect occupants from cervical spine injury in the event of a rear impact, the front seats feature crash-activated active head restraints. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard on the rear seats.

All restraint systems are controlled by the vehicles’ central safety electronics, which take the type and severity of a collision into account so that the most effective safety elements are activated in any given crash. The frontal airbags feature two-stage activation, to allow deployment in varying intensity as a function of crash severity. Networked with Dynamic Stability Control, the standard rollover sensors activate both the curtain airbags and the seatbelt pretensioners, to ensure occupants are best positioned for and protected from the unlikely event of a vehicle rollover.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 83 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

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BMW: THE NEXT CHAPTER IN THE STORIED HISTORY OF BMW M: All-New BMW X6 M and BMW X5 M Make World Debuts in 2009

Introducing progressive new models offering that Sheer Driving Pleasure so typical of the brand and at the same time allowing conscientious use of natural resources, BMW is making a significant statement at the 79th International Geneva Motor Show 2009.

The range of technologies upgraded to production standard as part of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy is indeed greater than ever before, helping to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions and enhance the driving experience to an even higher level. At the same time the public in Geneva will have the opportunity to experience a wide range of technical innovations and new features in BMW’s current model portfolio at the Motor Show from 5-15 March 2009.

The 2009 Geneva Motor Show marks the European debut of the new BMW Z4. As a modern interpretation of the classic roadster, this unique car combines its dynamic driving potential not only with sporting and elegant lines as well as supreme driving comfort, but also with the impressive economy of its six-cylinder power units.

The new BMW 730Ld also making its public debut in Geneva sets a new standard for efficiency in the luxury class. Yet a further highlight is the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid offering an outlook at the first hybrid model based on the BMW 7 Series, which will reach production level in the course of 2009.

A further outstanding achievement in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics is the development of particularly fuel-efficient diesel engines reducing emissions to a minimum. The most fuel-efficient and lowest-emission model within BMW’s portfolio presented in Geneva is the new BMW 116d powered by a 85 kW/115 hp four-cylinder diesel engine and consuming an average of just 4.4 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 64.2 mpg imp, in the EU test cycle. The CO2 emission rating of the new BMW 116d is equally impressive at 118 grams per kilometre.

Offering optional BMW BluePerformance technology, the BMW 330d is the only car in the premium segment to already fulfil the EU6 emission standard today.

A further outstanding achievement is that entering spring 2009 BMW offers no less than 49 models fulfilling the EU5 emission standard, ranging all the way from the BMW 1 Series to the BMW 7 Series.

European debut of the new BMW Z4: even more dynamic,
extra-comfortable and for the first time with a retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 offers a particularly modern rendition of the traditional open two-seater concept so rich in tradition, combining the classic proportions of a genuine roadster and the seats moved far to the back with a high standard of elegance and all-round comfort.

This is the first BMW Roadster to boast a retractable hardtop, the two-piece lightweight aluminium shell roof structure opening and, respectively, closing fully automatically within just 20 seconds. The ambience within the passenger compartment is characterised by the driver-oriented design of the cockpit and top-quality materials, with optimimum all-round visibility ensured even with the roof closed by the extra-large windows.

The new BMW Z4 is entering the market from the start with a choice of no less than three straight-six power units ranging in output from 150 kW/204 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive23i through 190 kW/258 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i all the way to 225 kW/306 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i.

Depending on the model variant, the engines come with fully variable VALVETRONIC valve management or Twin Turbo Technology and High Precision Injection.

As an alternative to the six-gear manual gearbox, the top model is available with sports automatic featuring seven gears and double-clutch technology. A standard feature on the new BMW Z4 is Dynamic Drive Control enabling the driver at the touch of a button to adjust the car’s set-up in three stages according to his individual preferences. And as an option the customer also has the choice of an Adaptive M Suspension complete with electronic damper adjustment.

Fleet consumption down by more than 25 per cent:
BMW Group over-fulfils the self-imposed ACEA standard.

BMW EfficientDynamics has become the epitome of up-to-date automotive technology the world over. Thanks to EfficientDynamics featured as standard, BMW sells more cars with fuel-saving and CO2-reducing technologies each month than other car makers in an entire year. And through the consistent use of such efficiency-promoting technologies, BMW’s current models offer an unparalleled, extra-favourable balance of fuel economy and performance throughout all model series and performance classes.

Such progress in efficiency achieved with each and every new model naturally has an exceptionally positive effect on the overall balance of fuel economy and emission management offered by BMW Group cars. Precisely this is why the fleet economy of the BMW and MINI brands has improved from 1995 to the end of 2008 by more than 25 per cent in the member states of the European Union alone. Hence, the BMW Group has over-fulfilled the pledge made by the Association of European Car Manufacturers through BMW EfficientDynamics and the technologies offered with this philosophy. And in the 2009 model year the number of particularly economical, low emission models from BMW will be increasing even further.

BMW EfficientDynamics: more driving pleasure, lower emissions also in the luxury class.

The new BMW 7 Series now establishes trendsetting momentum for the effective reduction of both fuel consumption and exhaust emissions also in the luxury performance class, consistent use of numerous
BMW EfficientDynamics guaranteeing an outstanding driving experience combined with all-round economy quite unique in this segment. So in a nutshell BMW is using its innovative power to overcome the conventional contradiction of luxury and efficiency.

Perhaps the best example of this unique symbiosis is the BMW 730d powered by a 180 kW/245 hp straight-six diesel. This outstanding luxury performance automobile accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 7.2 seconds, averages fuel consumption of 7.2 litres on 100 kilometres (equal to 39.2 mpg imp) and restricts CO2 emissions to just 192 grams per kilometre.

Now the benefits of BMW’s newly developed diesel drive may be combined perfectly with the exclusive grand touring comfort of the long-wheelbase BMW 7 Series with an extra 14 centimetres/5.5″ legroom at the rear: The new BMW 730Ld accelerating to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds and offering average fuel economy of 7.3 litres/100 kilometres or 38.7 mpg imp, with a CO2 rating of 194 grams/kilometre, again setting a new standard in the process, is making its debut at the International Geneva Motor Show in 2009.

BMW 116d and BMW 116i: lower fuel consumption and more driving pleasure with the new entry-level models in the BMW 1 Series.

The new BMW 116d is entering the market in spring 2009 as BMW’s entry-level diesel available with both five and three doors. The drive unit – a further variant of BMW’s four-cylinder diesel with turbocharging and common-rail direct fuel injection lauded everywhere for outstanding efficiency – develops 85 kW/115 hp and offers peak torque of 260 Newton-metres/192 lb-ft.

With average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 64.2 mpg imp) and a CO2 emission rating of 118 grams per kilometre, the BMW 116d comes right at the top on the list of BMW’s particularly fuel-efficient, low-emission models.

The entry-level petrol model, the BMW 116i likewise available with both five and three doors, also offers an even better balance of sporting performance and efficient fuel economy. The 90 kW/122 hp four-cylinder power unit with direct gasoline injection (High Precision Injection) featured in the BMW 116i now displaces 2.0 litres and offers an increase in torque by 25 Newton-metres to 185 Newton-metres/136 lb-ft.

Optimisation of this kind clearly enhances the performance of the BMW 116i, the five-door model accelerating to 100 km/h in 9.9 seconds (three-door: 9.8 seconds) and reaching a top speed of 204 km/h or 126 mph. Fuel consumption nevertheless remains remarkably low at 6.2 litres/100 kilometres or 45.6 mpg imp in the EU test cycle, as does the car’s CO2 emission rating of 143 grams per kilometre. As a result, the BMW 116i now also complies with the EU5 emission standard.

Three other engine variants of the BMW 1 Series – the BMW 123d, the BMW 120i, and the BMW 118i – now also meet the EU5 emission standard, the 150 kW/204 hp four-cylinder diesel with Variable Twin Turbo Technology available in the five-door, three-door, coupé and convertible versions of the BMW 1 Series again proving its outstanding strengths versus the competition. Offering the most powerful diesel engine and three four-cylinder petrol engines, BMW has no less than 19 models with EU5 in the 1 Series alone.

Pointing into the future: BMW ActiveHybrid and BMW BluePerformance.

Yet another version of BMW EfficientDynamics, featured this time in the BMW 7 Series, will be reaching production standard this year: At the Geneva Motor Show BMW is proudly presenting the BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid shown to the public for the first time a few months ago – a breakthrough in technology combining an eight-cylinder petrol engine with a 15 kW/20 hp electric motor and a lithium-ion battery.

Integrating hybrid components, this unique vehicle with its ultra-modern drivetrain technology offers yet a further improvement of driving dynamics in that typical BMW style, combined with a reduction of fuel consumption and emissions by approximately 15 per cent in the EU test cycle versus the “basic” model with its conventional combustion engine.

Entering the year 2009, BMW is also increasing its worldwide leadership in the development of particularly clean, low-emission diesel engines. The new BMW 330d with optional BMW Blue Performance technology was already launched in autumn 2008 as the first car in its class to fulfil the EU6 emission standard even today thanks to a significant reduction of nitric oxides (NOX).

Innovations for more driving pleasure, comfort, and safety.

At the 2009 Geneva Motor Show BMW is also informing the public on a wide range of innovations further expanding the diversity of BMW’s model range and enhancing the appeal of BMW models throughout all series. One outstanding example is the innovative services offered by BMW ConnectedDrive in the interest of extra safety and comfort, also to beadmired at the Geneva Motor Show.

BMW ConnectedDrive offers features truly unique the world over in networking the car with its surroundings. And now the range of functions available from BMW ConnectedDrive is even greater than before, efficient exchange of information making the process of driving a BMW not only more pleasant, but also safer.

A particular highlight in this context is the BMW Enhanced Emergency Call Function which, in the event of a collision, not only sends an alarm to the rescue services, but also gives them data in advance allowing them to appreciate the type and intensity of the collision.

The other new services offered by BMW ConnectedDrive help to promote the carefree and comfortable joy of motoring, innovative networking of the car with its environment giving the customer a significant increase in comfort, infotainment, and safety.

As an example, BMW is the world’s first car maker to offer unrestricted use of the internet in the car. Innovative route planning likewise offered by BMW ConnectedDrive provides attractive options in using the navigation system, allowing the driver and passengers to configure particularly attractive tours right from the start on their PC and download the route chosen directly through the BMW Online Portal into the car. And last but not least, the new remote control functions provided by BMW ConnectedDrive offer the possibility, as just one further example, to lock and unlock the car from a BMW Call Center.

The wide range of optional extras and Original BMW Accessories available throughout virtually all model series is likewise being enlarged in spring 2009. The new BMW 7 Series, for example, is available with additional, particularly exclusive paintwork options, light-alloy rims as well as upholstery and trim options from BMW Individual. The BMW 3 Series and 1 Series as well as the BMW X3, in turn, may be retrofitted with two new portable navigation systems, BMW Navigation Portable Plus and BMW Navigation Portable Pro reflecting the high standards of the BMW Group in their design and technology. Using these sophisticated systems, the driver is able to reach his destination safely and reliably also in cars not equipped with a built-in navigation system fitted from the start.

As yet another highlight, the BMW Performance Range presented last year in the BMW 1 Series has been updated and supplemented by further features and highlights in the new BMW 3 Series. Retrofittable options for the drivetrain, suspension, aerodynamics and the cockpit available specifically for the new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring, for example, convey know-how gained in motorsport directly to the road.

Yet a further feature available for the first time in spring 2009 is a BMW Performance Power Kit for the top models in the BMW 1 and 3 Series. This unique kit offers an increase in power and torque on the 3.0-litre straight-six with Twin Turbo Technology and High Precision Injection effective under all driving conditions. The kit is therefore a perfect match for the respective models, the BMW 135i Coupé, the BMW 135i Convertible, the BMW 335i Saloon, the BMW 335i Touring, the BMW 335i Coupé, and the BMW 335i Convertible.

Highlights at a Glance.
BMW EfficientDynamics: new concepts for even lower emissions and enhanced driving pleasure.
The BMW Group steadfastly maintains its leading position in several areas. As the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium cars, BMW also has the most effective strategy for reducing both fuel consumption and exhaust emissions: BMW EfficientDynamics.

Each month, BMW sells more cars with such efficiency-boosting technology than other manufacturers in the course of a whole year. Reducing fleet consumption by more than 25 per cent between 1995 and the end of 2008, the BMW Group has indeed over-fulfilled the self-commitment made by ACEA, the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers, for all BMW Group brands.

Source: BMW / Fotos © BMW

Post from: Cars On The Blog

BMW at the 79th International Geneva Motor Show 2009

A BMW with driving dynamics, compelling style, and versatility; the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo.
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – EMBARGOED UNTIL: February 13, 2009, 12:00PM EST… With the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW opens a new segment in the automobile market by incorporating BMW driving dynamics, quality, and style into a new type of vehicle. As was the case with the BMW X5 as the world’s first Sports Activity Vehicle and the BMW 1 Series, to this day the only rear-wheel-drive premium small car, BMW is again developing a new market segment and giving additional driver groups the unique experience of The Ultimate Driving Machine.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the production-destined rendition of the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) development idea. For the first time, this concept car combines the looks and appearance of a sporty BMW Sedan, a modern Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo. Perhaps the most outstanding feature of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is its combination of stylish quality, luxurious comfort, and remarkable convenience.

As the name indicates, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the ideal car for long journeys while still offering a dynamic driving experience in everyday traffic or short jaunts. The design of the body presents the character of a BMW dedicated to sporting performance.

A brilliant concept for modern mobility.
The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo conveys modern mobility by focusing on the requirements of a discerning driver who appreciates first-class ambience and enjoys all the benefits of a flexible interior.

With this in mind, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo projects an individual flair oriented to each occupant’s needs and preferences. Such flair makes it possible to win over new driver groups for BMW. The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is an attractive offer to the driver wishing to retain classic features such as presence, luxury, and quality while living a versatile and spontaneous lifestyle.

The interior of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines spaciousness, personal luxury, and an exquisite choice of materials to provide a first-class experience. The entryways allow ergonomically ideal access to all seats, the driver-oriented design of the cockpit, in typical BMW fashion, suggests sporty performance, and the slightly elevated seating position promotes good outward visibility.

Unique design in the rear provides a modern, generous atmosphere. With the rear seats adjustable fore-aft by up to 4”, both legroom and the seat angle may be set to the preferences of the passengers. Headroom is virtually the same as in the BMW X5, giving driver and passengers a genuinely comfortable experience.

Luxury, comfort, and impressive usefulness.
With the rear seats slid aft, legroom will be roughly the same as in the BMW 7 Series and luggage capacity amounts to 15.1 cubic feet. With the rear seats moved forward and the rear bulkhead partition opened, luggage capacity increases to almost 20 cubic feet. Even in this position, legroom in the rear still meets the demands for a full-size sedan.

After completely folding the rear seats as well as the bulkhead partition leading to the luggage compartment, large and bulky objects may be loaded into the rear. With the bulkhead partition stowed in the floor of the luggage compartment, maximum luggage capacity becomes nearly 58 cubic feet. For convenience, the rear seats fold by pushing a button on the side panel of the luggage compartment. The option to fold down the rear seats individually provides even greater flexibility.

Optimum visibility thanks to the elevated seating position.
In the front seats, both driver and passenger benefit from a slightly elevated seating position. This “semi-command” seating position offers an optimum outward view, much like in the BMW SAV models.

Elegant interior design accents the unique feeling of space.
In the cockpit, the horizontally arranged, cascade-like surfaces finished in different materials strongly accentuate the width of BMW’s new concept car. The displays and controls are grouped according to their functions. Through its design, the instrument panel enhances the very good visibility provided by the elevated seating position, giving the driver a clear view from above of the control elements for the lights and the start/stop button on the middle level. Also important in this context, the horizontal orientation of the entire cockpit accentuates the generous character of the interior.

The trim bar stretching out as an arch through the entire width of the instrument panel continues into the door panels. The interaction of ascending and descending lines throughout the interior optically connects the front and rear seats. All lines and surfaces, finished with sophisticated materials, taper out behind the rear seats, and give the interior its comfortable and spacious character. The flow of lines, uninterrupted by the B-pillar, emphasizes the length of the interior. Last but not least, the feeling of spaciousness is augmented by the center console, which extends all the way to the rear.

Special concept materials and colors within the interior.
The colors and materials for the interior further enhance the impression of personal luxury and the interplay of surfaces and lines. All surfaces within the interior are finished in high-quality natural leather, the surfaces on the seats and the door armrests form a “comfort zone” in Glacier White leather. This creates the impression of a bright brand extending around the lower section of the instrument panel, the cool and elegant color giving particular emphasis to the generous and luxurious feeling of space.
The bright surfaces in the comfort zone are surrounded by a dark, warm reddish brown, this special color referred to as Copper Brown providing a smooth link to the exterior paintwork.

The impression of modern luxury is further enhanced through the use of authentic materials such as polished billet metal and ceramic elements. The quality of the interior finish is borne out particularly by the solid wood trim with metal inlays extending generously across the instrument panel.

Instrument cluster with color display in black panel technology.
The instrument cluster of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is a high-resolution color display in black panel technology presenting the four round instruments in traditional sports car style, including status displays, navigation data, and information from the Check Control.

Introduced in the new BMW 7 Series, black panel technology ensures precise and sophisticated presentation of the instruments and displays. In Rest mode the entire panel forms a homogeneous black surface. When activated, the numbers on the circular instruments are generated electronically along with other symbols on the display.

The iDrive Control Display screen, arranged on the same plane as the instrument cluster, is integrated into the dashboard as a free-standing element. The Control Display forms one common design unit with the black panel and houses the controls for the audio system and climate. For optical purposes, this unit is separated by the horizontal trim bar with its central ventilation grid and a storage box. In the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, the special look of black panel technology continues into the center console: dynamism in typical BMW style combined with the elegance of a Gran Turismo.

Exterior Dimensions
The body design of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo ensures an exciting balance of innovation and tradition. The concept car stands out as a genuine BMW, as the overall look of the exterior clearly alludes to the extension of BMW’s model portfolio made by this unique automobile. Indeed, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo enters new terrain in the history of The Ultimate Driving Machine.

In its exterior dimensions the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo fits perfectly between the BMW 7 Series and BMW’s various SAV models. Its length of 196.8″ is second only within the BMW model range to the 7 Series, while the car’s height of 61.2″ is exceeded only by BMW’s X models. The width is 74.8” and the wheelbase is 120.9”.

The characteristic look of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo results from the car’s proportions – the long hood, long wheelbase, and the greenhouse moved aft bear out the athletic characteristics of a BMW. These features are combined with elements that highlight the qualities of the new concept; the large passenger cell bears testimony to the luxurious, versatile interior. The coupe-like roofline extends into the spoiler at the rear, and represents the sporting elegance of a Gran Turismo.

Paintwork in Fluid Cuprite, a new color developed specifically for this concept car, again highlights the unique design of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. The extremely fine surface flair reminiscent of liquid metal impressively models the surfaces on the body through its powerful contours. And to provide an appropriate supplementary touch, the brake calipers and the inner surfaces on the exhaust gas tailpipes are finished in a new color called Copper.

Front view with forward-pushing motion.
The front view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is characterized in particular by the strong presence of the low-slung BMW kidney grille, the large lower air intake, and BMW’s characteristic dual round headlights. The BMW kidney grille is slanted slightly forward, its upper edge marking the foremost point on the body. The kidney grille is further accentuated by surrounding surfaces.

All contour lines flowing along the engine compartment out of the fenders aim at the kidney grille at the front of the car. The air intake, in turn, is lower in the middle where it extends beneath the kidney grille. And last but not least the contours on the headlight units taper out smoothly towards the middle of the car.

Just as the size of the BMW kidney grille demonstrates the engine’s need for cooling air, the power dome in the middle of the engine compartment lid emphasizes the sheer muscle of the engine itself. The outer flanks of the hood facing downward form a cascade-like contour together with the widely flared wheel arches, giving the front view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo a wide and powerful look.

The frontal impression is further enhanced by the foglamps positioned at the outer edges of the lower air intake, while the aluminum bars separating the two outer elements on the air intake and extending beyond the foglamps further enhance the look of width at the front.

Dual round headlights typical of BMW; new LED corona rings.
The dual round headlights typical of a BMW come with new contour lines and a new technology for the daytime running lights on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. Slanted to a distinctive angle and extending far into the fenders, the headlight units are highlighted by surrounding bars, the headlights themselves cylindrical in shape bordering at the top on a matte headlight cover. This emphasizes the unique look of the front end, with its clear, penetrating focus. Apart from the turn signals, the new LED corona rings for the daytime running lights generate bright, even light.

Side-view: coupe-like roofline and waistline emphasizing the sleek elegance of the car.
Appropriate lines along the side create the harmonious symbiosis of the front end, the side view and the rear section on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. The dominating feature from the side is the character line of a BMW extending from the outer edge of the headlights and moving back at the same level as the door handles along the entire length of the car, rising up slightly in the process and continuing into the contours of the rear light clusters.

The equally striking sill-line continues into the upper edge around the air intake at the front and the contour in the rear diffuser, this interplay of the waistline and the sill-line making the car look lower and more crouched down on the ground and emphasizing the dynamic wedge of the body.

The unusual presence of a coupe-like roofline adds character to the car’s design and is a visual expression of the features and qualities the car has to offer. With its sporting flair, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo leaves a positive impression through its spacious and generous interior.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with frameless doors, a feature of particularly sporting cars now to be admired for the first time on a 4-door BMW.

The door cutout bars are another special feature, forming one unit across both entry areas and thus corresponding with the overall harmonious flair conveyed by the door panels inside the car.

Large, flared wheel arches symbolize the sporting potential of the car: The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo showcases 21-inch light-alloy wheels offering excitement and elegance through their unique multi-spoke design. Yet another feature of particularly sporting cars the short overhang, which keeps the fenders low and long. This effect is further intensified by the horizontal lines of the car borne out by the waistline as well as the joint and contour line on the engine compartment.

The “Hofmeister kink” re-interpreted in modern style.
The design of the side windows also presents a re-interpretation of a classic BMW feature: on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo the window surrounds are one-piece, this three-dimensional shape giving the aluminum frame a sophisticated and dynamic look around the famous “Hofmeister kink”. The exterior mirrors also represent a new design element, with the mirror base forming part of the foot of the A-pillars and thus blending harmoniously with the fender of the car.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers a new rendition of the “Hofmeister kink.” In this case the inner radius of the “kink” is particularly large, the outer radius strikingly small. This creates an exciting contrast to the roofline moving down smoothly and gently to the rear.

Powerful rear design.
The design of the rear end offers a striking impression of this unique concept with its exceptional strengths and features. The two outer roofline as well as the shoulder lines merge into the spoiler on the tailgate, giving the rear in its fastback style a surrounding line while adding a compact touch to the car.
The rear view of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is split by horizontal lines highlighting the width and powerful stance of the car. The rear reaches its full width around the wheel arches, with exhaust tailpipes positioned far to the outside also directing the eyes to the wheels. The distinctive light edge in the lower part of the bumper adds a further touch, while a diffuser finished in black marks the gap between the rear valence and the road.

Impressive versatility: two tailgates in one.
With the rear panel of the car appearing to start directly beneath the rear light clusters in order to convey a sporting impression, the low loading sill on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is not visible at first sight.

Another innovation crucial to the mission of the car is only recognizable when opening the rear hatch: To stow luggage, the bi-modal trunk may be opened in traditional fashion or the entire hatch may be opened to load larger objects. When only the lower section is opened, one loads the luggage compartment as in a sedan, benefiting in the process from the low loading sill. Using the trunk in this way keeps the interior of the vehicle from being disturbed by outside climate effects.

The L-shape of the rear light clusters typical of a BMW is re-interpreted on the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, with the two rows of light following a dynamic sweeping motion. The rear lights extend far into the side panel, emphasizing the full width of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo even at night.

The rear light clusters are connected by a chrome bar continuing from the waistline at the side into the line extending into the rear lights and thus accentuating the width of the rear end.

BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo: new momentum in a demanding market.
With the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW is again demonstrating its ability to develop innovative vehicle concepts. The world’s most successful manufacturer of premium cars follows the challenges created by the need for up-to-date mobility solutions.
This new concept addresses a demanding driver group seeking to combine style, luxury, and impressive versatility with individual style, while meeting the demands and requirements of an active lifestyle. The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers these qualities and reaches beyond BMW’s existing customer groups.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo thus stands out as a modern interpretation of the Gran Turismo segment so rich in tradition, cars which at all times have combined athletic driving qualities with a truly comfortable interior.

Stylish elegance, luxurious spaciousness, and impressive versatility all come together in the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. Features never before combined in one car make the new concept a truly progressive innovation serving ideally to set new standards in the most demanding upper midrange segment.

Establishing a new vehicle segment in this process, BMW is continuing its successful development strategy. Qualities typical of the brand are again carried into a new market with an innovative concept. Hence, BMW is using all of its innovative power to give new customers that unique thrill of The Ultimate Driving Machine® and to continue the ongoing growth of BMW in a lasting, long-term process.

A replay of the Internet livecast of the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo preview unveiling, featuring a background presentation by Chris Bangle, is available at the following link (runtime 35 min): http://www.thomson-webcast.net/de/dispatching/?bmw_090213

Concept Vehicle Highlights
Character:
• With the future still offering sufficient room for an exciting new driving experience, BMW has once again defined a brand-new vehicle segment: The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the series-based adaptation of the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) in the premium midsize segment via a new concept.
• With its stylish appearance and comfortable driving experience, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo transfers the characteristics of a classic Gran Turismo to a very special four-door vehicle with four seats. These typical features of a Gran Turismo are then enriched by the highest standard of intelligent, versatile functionality.
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines style, space, comfort, and versatility. In a combination never seen before, the features of a prestigious sedan, a modern and versatile Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo are all united in this unique Concept Car.
• Besides the typical BMW proportions, the coupe-like roofline accentuates the stylish, sporty character of the car and the sheer length of the car’s body. In addition, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo has four frameless windows and striking aluminum trim.
• The interior is surprisingly generous considering the coupe-like silhouette of the car, creating a spontaneous feeling of luxury for driver and passengers. This impression is further enhanced by the slightly elevated seating position, and the panorama roof provides a particularly pleasant travel experience.
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is highly versatile: a flexible interior comprised of the rear seats, the bulkhead partition, and the luggage compartment allows the adjustment of the interior to personal requirements – from a separate luggage compartment, as in a sedan, all the way to a capacity of almost 58 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This flexibility is rounded off by a bi-modal hatch with separate openings for additional convenience.
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo addresses a demanding and modern driver group – discerning individuals who attach great importance to genuine style, luxurious comfort and flexibility in use. This gives BMW the opportunity to win over customers who currently drive a sedan, SUV, or wagon model in the respective competitive segments.
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo extends the BMW model range through a fresh, intelligent vehicle concept for modern mobility at the highest standard. Through its unique combination of style, space, comfort, and variability, the car creates a powerful impression of relaxed presence. Indeed, these new characteristics enrich the driving experience to a higher standard and appeal to new groups of drivers. Last but not least, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo authentically projects quality and a new standard of sporting performance borne out by the car’s dynamism and efficiency.

Interior design:
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers a spacious and luxurious ambience with inspiring and modern interior design. As the world’s only combination of variable spaciousness and uncompromising premium quality, this new concept car also stands out through the most sophisticated materials and excellent quality of finish. Supreme harmony in interior design, reflected by the trim surfaces extending from the front to the rear doors, creates a modern symbiosis of the two seats at the front and the seats at the rear. The panorama glass roof, in turn, further intensifies the light and generous ambience inside the car, while the stylish cockpit emphasizes the sheer width of the vehicle through its horizontal lines, black panel technology and a fully integrated 10.2-inch Control Display.

• Seating comfort, ample headroom and elbow room in the front provide the standard of a luxury performance automobile, the slightly elevated seating position ensures an optimum overview and makes access to the car particularly comfortable. Tilted slightly to the front, the instrument panel, finally, optimizes the degree of control comfort on the driver’s seat.

• Optimized access as well as freedom of movement characterize the generous atmosphere in the rear seats. Extending to the rear, the center console in the concept car emphasizes the length of the interior. Outstanding versatility, in turn, is ensured by single seats at the rear. Adjustable fore-and-aft, their backrests folding forwards individually under electric power and the adjustable backrest angle ensure comfort.

• With the rear seats in their regular position, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers the passengers at the rear the same legroom as in the BMW 7 Series and virtually the same headroom as in the BMW X5. In this configuration, luggage compartment capacity is 15.1 cubic feet. The partition wall behind the rear seats separates the passenger and luggage compartments from one another in terms of both acoustics and climate conditions, like in a sedan. If necessary, the rear seats move fore-and-aft by more than 3.9″ – so that with the seats moved as far forward as possible, the occupants still enjoy the same legroom as in the BMW 5 Series Sedan, with luggage capacity increasing to almost 20 cubic feet. Then, once folding down the rear seat backrests and the partition wall, the luggage compartment further increases in size to its maximum capacity of nearly 58 cubic feet. The firm cover on the luggage compartment may be stowed away in the floor of the compartment, again in the interest of extra convenience.

• The two-piece tailgate allows unique variability in loading the luggage compartment: Opening the small, sedan-like tailgate beneath the rear window enables the driver and passengers, in combination with the closed partition wall, to load the luggage compartment without creating any drafts into the passenger compartment or changing the temperature the passengers wish to enjoy. To conveniently load bulky objects, all the driver has to do is open up the large hatch similar in its configuration to that of a Sports Activity Vehicle.

Exterior design:
• The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines the Gran Turismo with four doors and all the quality of a Sedan, and the versatility of a Sports Activity Vehicle. BMW proportions are borne out by the long hood, the long wheelbase, the coupe-like roofline, and the greenhouse moved rearward.

• The dynamic character of the car’s front-end is accentuated by the large BMW kidney grille positioned low down and standing upright, as well as the large air intake.The dual round headlights give the front end of the car a particularly modern look. The corona rings come for the first time in LED technology.

• From the side, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo clearly visualizes its innovative character, the waistline and the coupe-like roofline accentuate the look of the car and the length of the body. Following the example of a coupe, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with four doors and frameless windows. The aluminum surrounds on the side windows are milled out of one solid unit and holding the elegantly designed exterior mirrors as yet another important design feature. Yet a further element on the side is the exciting re-interpretation of the famous “Hofmeister kink” typical of BMW at the rear end of the window.

• Horizontal lines at the rear emphasize the width and sporting character of the car, accentuated by the waistline extending from the side into the rear panel, a three-dimensional chrome bar and the flared wheel arches. The outer rooflines merge into the spoiler and encompass the rear in its fastback design. The L-shaped rear light clusters come with horizontal rows of lights extending far round into the side of the car.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 83 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at:
www.bmwgroupna.com
www.bmwusa.com
www.bmwmotorcycles.com
www.miniusa.com
www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Post from: Cars On The Blog

BMW CONCEPT 5 SERIES GRAN TURISMO AT THE 2009 GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

Purchasers of 335d Sedan and X5 xDrive35d Sports Activity Vehicle® qualify for up to $900 and $1,800 tax credit respectively
BMW of North America, LLC confirmed today that both of its BMW Advanced Diesel models with BluePerformance technology have qualified for an Internal Revenue Service Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle Tax Credit. In choosing vehicles that will burn significantly less fuel and produce significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions, purchasers of the 335d Sedan will qualify for up to a $900 tax credit while purchasers of the X5 xDrive35d Sports Activity Vehicle® will qualify for up to a $1,800 tax credit.

“Qualification for these tax credits is further recognition of the remarkable efficiency of our new BMW Advanced Diesel models,” said Jim O’Donnell, President of BMW of North America, LLC.

Both BMW Advanced Diesel models keep the promise of the Ultimate Driving Machine® while delivering class leading fuel efficiency. With 265 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque available from the 3.0-liter sequential twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder diesel engine, the 335d is capable of accelerating from 0 – 60 mph is six seconds flat while the X5 xDrive35d will do it in just 6.9 seconds. In spite of this level of performance the 335d Sedan, the most fuel efficient BMW ever sold in the US, delivers 23 miles per gallon city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway according to the US EPA. The X5 xDrive35d is rated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Both models are capable of traveling nearly 600 miles on a single tank of fuel.

The 335d Sedan and X5 xDrive35d Sports Activity Vehicle® are now available in BMW centers across all 50 states.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and the X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 82 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at:

www.bmwgroupna.com
www.bmwusa.com
www.bmwmotorcycles.com
www.miniusa.com
www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

Post from: Cars On The Blog

BMW ADVANCED DIESEL MODELS QUALIFY FOR IRS ADVANCED LEAN BURN TECHNOLOGY MOTOR VEHICLE TAX CREDIT

The BMW Group presents a redesigned version of its teaching material “H2 – Mobility of the Future”
Munich. The BMW Group’s information package “H2 – Mobility of the Future” presents an updated and reworked version of its course folder on the topic of hydrogen.

“H2 – Mobility of the Future” deals in depth with the many different aspects of “Supplying energy for the future and sustainable mobility”. Within this comprehensive teaching folder the company provides materials that are best suited to use in 1st and 2nd levels at college-prep high schools and secondary schools according to the recommendations of the ISB State Institute for School Quality and Educational Research. “H2 – Mobility of the Future” can also be used at other teaching facilities. The material, which is available in German and English versions, also provides information on the subjects of “Hydrogen, mobility and energy supply” for the interested public.

Practical, specialized information and ideas for the classroom
In light of the climate debate and the finite nature of fossil fuels, the general public is taking a greater interest in alternative energy issues. The topic of developing renewable energy sources is more relevant than ever, especially at schools. The BMW Group picked up on this issue early on and in response to repeated requests from the educational community started providing comprehensive course material back in 2001.
The new, completely updated teaching folder includes 55 photocopy masters containing practical, specialized information on the central issues of sustainable energy generation and hydrogen. A wealth of graphics, pictures, diagrams and charts illustrate the textual information. Alongside methodical and didactical suggestions for class planning, the “Exercises and solutions” section also includes tasks for completion with recommended solutions. These offer suggestions on how to tackle the subject matter and how to integrate it into interdisciplinary lessons in sciences such as chemistry, physics and technology. While the chapters do follow on from each other they can also be used individually and in project work.
Although the materials are suitable for individual work, they also promote communication skills – rather than just imparting knowledge – when they are used in group work.
The package is completed by an extensive glossary and a long list of useful links which make it an important source of information outside of school, too.

Thinking the future, shaping the future
Above and beyond informed discussion in the classroom, this material helps boost interest in issues to do with sustainability, create an awareness of individual responsibility and encourage thinking about solutions to the problems of the future – especially among the younger generation. In the preface to the folder the Deputy Chairman of the German Council for Sustainable Development, Prof. Dr. Klaus Töpfer, urges: “We all need to become visionaries: to think the future and to shape the future.”
The materials encourage a problem-based approach to topics relating to the importance of mobility and energy, renewable energy generation, hydrogen as a source of energy and its mobile and stationary applications.

“H2 – Mobility of the Future”
The “H2 – Mobility of the Future” course material is just one project on the BMW Group’s long list of activities in the field of “Sustainability, mobility and energy resources”. The automobile manufacturer has spent more than 25 years researching mobile applications for the use of hydrogen in the combustion engine. Its BMW Hydrogen 7 proves that tomorrow’s drive trains can be realised without compromising mobility and dynamic performance. With its innovative drive strategy the BMW Group will continue to champion the development of mobile hydrogen technologies and set the standards for the future of sustainable mobility.

The BMW Group’s commitment to education
The updated edition of “H2 – Mobility of the Future” extends the BMW Group’s educational activities in the field of sustainability. The information package is just one project among a series of teaching aids and activities the company uses to present technical and scientific subjects. All of these projects are developed in collaboration with experienced teachers and scientists.

The course materials may be obtained free of charge from the BMW Group by sending an email to presse@bmw.de or a fax to +49(0)89-35846861 with the recipient’s address and the required quantity.

The complete information package as well as further illustrative material will also be available online for download as of 28th August 2008 at www.bmwgroup.com/socialcommitment under the heading “Educational Projects”.

For questions please contact:

Konstanze Carreras, Corporate Messages and Sustainability, Social Responsibility
Telephone: + 49-89-382-52894 , Fax: + 49-89-382-28017

Media Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com
E-mail: presse@bmw.de

Post from: Cars On The Blog

HYDROGEN IN CLASS – THE BMW GROUP PRESENTS A REDESIGNED VERSION OF ITS TEACHING MATERIAL “H2 – MOBILITY OF THE FUTURE”

BMW Hydrogen 7 Joins Department of Transportation, Department of Energy and Leading Automakers on a Two-Week Tour of 31 Cities, August 11 – August 23
Portland, ME – August 11, 2008… The BMW Hydrogen 7 — the first hydrogen-powered luxury sedan — joins an unprecedented cross-country journey featuring hydrogen-powered cars by the world’s leading automakers in the 2008 Hydrogen Road Tour.

From August 11 – 23, the hydrogen powered convoy will travel from Portland, Maine to Santa Monica, California with one goal: to call on congressional leaders to support the creation of a nationwide hydrogen fueling station infrastructure.

The Hydrogen Road Tour is a partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Department of Energy, the California Fuel Cell Partnership and the National Hydrogen Association. In addition to BMW, participants include Daimler, GM, Honda, Hyundai-Kia, Nissan, Toyota, and VW. Also part of this broad coalition are hydrogen fuel providers Linde, BMW’s hydrogen fuel partner for the Tour, and Air Products.

“BMW has already logged nearly 2 million miles in our fleet of 100 BMW Hydrogen 7s. Being on this tour will show more people that hydrogen is truly the best alternative transportation fuel. An internal combustion engine, powered by hydrogen should play an important role in the future of sustainable mobility,” said Tom Baloga, BMW Vice President of Engineering, US.

What is most unusual about the Hydrogen Road Tour is the partnership between the world’s leading automakers, key federal departments, influential non-governmental organizations and hydrogen fuel providers to bring the reality of practical, clean energy to our nation’s legislators and the public. The tour will visit key members of Congress in their home states to allow them the opportunity to see and drive these cars.

BMW Hydrogen 7 is the only car on the tour that stores liquid hydrogen to power an internal combustion engine. Hydrogen is one of the cleanest energy sources available producing zero emissions. Essentially the only tailpipe emission is water vapor.

Complete Story / Source: BMW Group PressClub

Post from: Cars On The Blog

BMW HYDROGEN 7 HITS THE ROAD WITH THE 2008 HYDROGEN ROAD TOUR

(openPR) – Mods4cars announces the remoteKEY for BMW 3 series (E90).

The remoteKEY E90 offers customizable, useful features, in one easy to install product.

This unique comfort controller can be installed by anyone with the help of our detailed installation manual. Installation requires little electronic skills and is done without cutting wires or soldering! The module comes with all wires and parts needed.
No need for extra key fobs. Everything is done with the original key remote.

The control unit was designed by our certified engineer, having years of experience on Porsche and Mercedes Benz vehicle electronics. It was developed according to all European and American (CE, FCC) directives and constitutes a state-of-the-art electronic onboard control unit. Over-voltage protection, reverse polarity protection, safety shut-off and absolutely minimal standby power drain can be taken for granted.

Unique design features only to be found in our product:
• Fully E13 tested and certified: E13 10R-02 4133
• Ultra-low power standby mode (less than 0.1mA).
• InstallAID™ LED shows correct installation and status.
• Intuitive Setup menu for easy customization.
• Universal compatibility to all 3 new BMW 3 Series Models:
o BMW E90 (Sedan)
o BMW E91 (Touring)
o BMW E92 (2 Door Coupe

Product Features:
• Remote window control: One-Touch operation of the windows and sunroof with the original remote on all models (US and Euro)
• Automatic door unlocking when ignition is turned off. Aviod having to pull the door handles twice to get out.
• Automatic folding mirrors by remote (Factory option motorized mirrors required).
• User programmable: The module can be individually enabled or disabled. All settings are retained even if the car battery is disconnected.
• Shop/Diagnose mode: If activated the module is completely passive, as if it was not installed at all. It becomes invisible to diagnostic tools.

By introducing the BMW series of comfort controllers, mods4cars now has the current Porsche cars and technology covered and continues a tradition begun in late 2001, to develop and market high-tech specialty controllers for high-end cars.

More information can be found on www.mods4cars.com.

mods4cars – Wilhelmy-IT Inc.
2925 Hidden Hills Cir.
Corona, CA 92882 – USA
Contact: Sven Tornow
Hotline USA: +1-310-9109055
Hotline DE: +49-30-868705541

Mods4cars was founded in 2002 with the idea to add a highly demanded feature to the otherwise almost perfect Porsche Boxster: Comfort One-Touch roof operation while driving at slow speeds. The resulting product offered not only that, but also allowed quick and easy installation by just swapping out a relay box, thus leaving no traces and no permanent changes on the vehicle. The first smartTOP roof controller was born.
The success of our first products in Germany and Europe prompted us in late 2004 to move operations to the USA, to be able to serve the American market as well as all other English speaking countries such as Australia, UK and South Africa from one central location. Our business has grown to a full fledged international corporation with an office in southern California and a full line of innovative products as well as distributors and installation partners all over the globe.
Being highly specialized in the development and distribution of after market roof- and comfort controllers since 2002 allows us to offer an unsurpassed level of competence and product quality. Our main goal is optimization of each individual product to a maximum in compatibility, usability and intuitive operation. We put greatest effort into development and quality checks of all our products to achieve this goal and meet all expectations of our customers.
All our products are designed by our certified engineers, having years of experience on Porsche and Mercedes Benz vehicle electronics. We develop and manufacture according to all European and American (CE, FCC) directives and deliver state-of-the-art electronic onboard control units. Over-voltage protection, reverse polarity protection, safety shut-off and absolutely minimal standby power drain can be taken for granted.
The extraordinary success of our products is also based on the great communication with our customers, which usually already starts for each new product during the development and prototyping phase.

Source: openPR

Post from: Cars On The Blog

Comfort Remote Control for BMW 3 series

BMW is one of the best known car makers in the entire world. The reason for this is the high quality, the technology employed and the style that has defined all the models of BMWs throughout the years.

BMW as a company was created in 1927, being at first an engine producer and then a motorcycle producer. Even today, BMW is known to be a great motorcycle producer. Only after a while, BMW has become a car manufacturer. The initials stand for Bavarian Motor Works, but not many people pay attention to that, the BMW initials being more famous than anything. BMW was not acquired by other car manufacturer company, being a big company already, too big to be incorporated by others. Instead, BMW has developed into the parent company of the Rolls Royce and the MINI, and these were two very important achievements for the business.

BMW has engaged in producing limited series of models, which are the odd numbered and even numbered series. Some of these limited series models comprise the saloon sedan and the estate wagon on one hand and the coupes and cabriolets on the other. The 6 Series and the 8 Series of BMWs are just a few of the launched models of luxury cars by BMW. These are older models, classic ones, so if you are looking for something fresh and hot, you could check out the Z3 and the Z4. These models are BMW roadsters presented in two door convertible and two door coupe models. The Z3 has even stared in the James Bond movie called Golden Eye.

The 5 Series BMWs have just been launched. The 5 Series cars are mid sized luxury cars or executive cars and can be ordered in sedan and touring body styles. Even if the model is a bit older, being launched in 1972, the technicians from BMW have added a plus of new technology and glamour, making these BMW a treasure to have.

At the sports car chapter, BMW will launch the V/F3, a sports tourer.

In case you are wondering what BMW has in stock for you, here’s a hint: the Z10. This will be a better Z8, which is a two seat, two door convertible car. The Z10 is out in 2008 and will be endowed with a V10 engine of 550 horse power. Only the Z2 can beat that, and you can expect this model to appear in 2009, the Z2 will feature a 4 cylinder engine, being a roadster and coupe.

Find car tuning information and all car models photos here:

Ferrari Performance

Lamborghini Performance

Porsche Tuning

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BMW old models and new models

BMW X5 with high quality BMW cold air intake has been a favorite of most drivers and this is attributed to its fabulous driving characteristics, plush amenities and above all its awesome off-road capabilities.

Undoubtedly the X5 is one of the more fun-to-drive vehicles in its segment. It has been almost seven years since the German automaker has first introduced the first X5. And during that time BMW has given its X5 with a higher sense of refinement, practicality, reliability, versatility and even off-road ability.

The improvements done on the all-new 2007 BMW X5 has started with a stronger and longer body structure. And still in tuned with the popular and agile BMW 5-series, the second generation X5 was made 7.4 inches longer than its predecessor providing it with a spacious interior room that can accommodate third-row seat. But despite the additional measurement still all-new and larger X5 resided in the midsize segment.

The X5’s front suspension is also a break-away from the 45-year-old BMW tradition. The new X5 features a double-wishbone multi-link design which is a departure from its traditional dual-pivot strut front suspension. This results to an improved on-road ride and handling as well as much better all-road ability. Likewise in connection with its original objective, the X5 remains focus on pavement performance keeping it highly competitive.

The previous X5 offers a choice of 6-cylinder (X5 3.0si) or V8(X5 4.8i) performance. The X5 3.0si is equipped with a highly sophisticated 260-horsepower aluminum/magnesium inline-6. The X5 4.8i on the other hand is powered by a 350 horsepower all-aluminum V8. Standard on both models is the new 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission while the manual transmission was removed from its offerings.

For the new transmission it features an all-new electronic shifter that provides three modes of operation namely: Drive, Sport, and Manual. Regardless of which X5 you choose, the xDrive all-wheel drive system is made standard to enhance traction as well as to correct excessive over or understeer.

In addition the refinements to the xDrive allows for it to function in parallel with the standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Chassis Management system that delivers even better handling dynamics. The new DSC system also includes Dynamic Traction Control, Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Standby, Brake Drying, and Start-off Assistant.

The Brake Fake Compensation can sense high brake temperatures and automatically increases hydraulic pressure when the brakes are applied while the Brake Standby helps snug the brake pads up against the brake rotors to minimize brake response time when the driver quickly lifts their foot off the accelerator pedal.

The Brake Drying on the other hand acts depending on the inputs derived from the rain sensing wipers and periodically brings the brake pads up against the brake rotors to remove any water film. Meanwhile, the Start-Off Assistant keeps the vehicle from rolling backward for approximately 1.5 seconds after the driver releases the brakes especially on an uphill incline.

The X5 is also the first vehicle in its class to offer Active Steering as an option. It also possesses plush and comfortable cabin, an optional third-row seat plus the addition of two or more seats for kids and friends.

The pricing for the 2007 BMW X5 starts at $45,900 for the 3.0si while the 4.81 has a tag price of $54,500.

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BMW X5 Made Better and More Fun

BMW releases the latest 2008 model so far for the United States market. After the launch of the 2008 7 Series and M3 Sedan and Coupe models, BMW AG launches its entry in the compact crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment, the 2008 X3.

Like all other 2008 BMW models, the X3 also comes with numerous new standard and optional features. According to a BMW official press release, “The X3 offered a smaller, more nimble, yet in many ways equally versatile alternative” compared to the large domestic and Japanese sport-utility vehicles that currently dominate the market segment.

For the 2008 model year, BMW now offers active headrests as standard equipment for the X3 3.0si. The 2008 X3 will be available with the Sport Activity Package that includes sport leather wrapped steering wheel, running boards, privacy Glass, and star spoke 18-inch wheels covered with all season tires. This package also comes with Shadowline exterior trim.

At the heart of the all new 2008 BMW X3 is the up rated 3.0-liter aluminum/magnesium 6-cylinder engine. The engine now offers more horsepower and peak torque output. With a maximum of 260 horsepower and 225 lb ft. of torque, this engine allows the 2008 BMW X3 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 with the 6-speed manual gearbox. For the new 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmissions, the X3 can do this in 7.1 seconds. The 6-speed transmission transmits power via BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated the 3.0-liter to achieve a fuel economy of 17 mpg City / 24 mpg Highway for the model equipped with automatic gearbox.

The 2008 BMW X3′s aggressive body styling embodies the characteristics of BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept. On the front fascia, the X3 features Xenon Adaptive Headlights and Cornering Lights, while the rear part features reconfigured taillights with LED lamps and Adaptive Brake Lights. Other exterior highlights include body-colored wheel arches, lower bumpers, distinct rocker panels, roof rails, roof spoiler, and one-piece tailgate. A standard wheels and tires combination completes the overall exterior appeal for the 2008 BMW X3.

As expected for a BMW SUV model, the 2008 X3 offers functional, practical, and luxurious interior. The vehicle can accommodate up to 71 cubic feet of cargo capacity and features other functional components like retractable cover, electrical power outlet, longitudinal rails, and available cargo net. A host of interior amenities are also included like the standard Dark Ash wood trim, 8-way power front seats, optional 16-way Comfort Seats, tilt/telescopically adjustable steering wheel, and rear-seat backrest that splits 60/40, just to name the few.

The 2008 BMW X3 also offers a wide array of active and passive safety equipments. These include six airbags, curtain type front and rear Head Protection System, Hill Descent Control, anti lock braking system (ABS), and Intelligent Safety and Information System (ISIS).

Customers can also choose several exciting packages including Sport Activity Package, Premium Package, Sport Package, and Cold Weather Package. In addition, owners of the 2008 BMW X3 can get the company’s services, which include BMW Maintenance Program, BMW Roadside Assistance, BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty, BMW Assist, and TeleService 2. Customers may also want to get a BMW car cover when purchasing this model to protect it from the elements when not in use.

Post from: Cars On The Blog

New BMW SUV Bound for the U.S. Market