The BMW 1-Series M Coupe is pretty fast on paper. Reaching the 60 mph (96 km/h) mark in just 4.7 seconds is no small feat, but nowadays, it seems that performance cars need to have a respectable “Ring” time under there belt to command respect. Now, a forum member of the 1Addicts fan site who calls himself "SteveD" claims that the Ring time for the 335-horsepower strong M model is 8 minutes and 12 seconds.
If true (and according to the Nürburgring lap times list posted on Wikipedia), this means the entry-level M model is 10 seconds faster than the E46 M3, on par with the E86 Z4 M Coupe, but 7 seconds slower than the E92 M3 .
Of course, just because something is posted on a forum, doesn’t necessarily make it true. However, it seems that “SteveD” is none other than Steve Davies, a UK journalist who writes for Skiddmark. When asked where did he received the info, "SteveD" wrote “directly from BMW when we filmed the car”.
And indeed, Skiddmark does feature a piece about the 1-Series M Coupe and it contains the information posted on 1addicts. Still, we’re going to take this one with a grain of salt until we have the official confirmation.
You can see how the 1 Series M Coupe's alleged 'Ring lap time compares with other models from BMW and other makers in the list below.

Nurburgring Lap Times as Posted on Wikipedia:
• E46 M3 CSL - 7:50
• E90/E92 M3 - 8:05
• E63 M6 - 8:09
• 1 series M coupe - 8:12
• Z4 M-Coupe - 8:12
• E60 M5 - 8:13
• Alpina B3 Biturbo - 8:14
• Z4 M-Roadster - 8:15
• Alpina Roadster S (Z4) - 8:15
• E46 M3 - 8:22
• 335i E92 Coupe - 8:26
Other Models Compared:
• 911 Carrera S PDK (997.5) - 7:50
• Audi R8 4.2 - 8:04
• Cayman S - 8:04 (by Walter Röhrl)
• Audi RS4 - 8:09
• Audi TT-RS - 8:09
• BMW 1 series M coupe - 8:12
• Aston Martin V8 Vantage - 8:13
• Mercedes C63 AMG PP - 8:13
• Corvette C6 - 8:15
• Cayman S - 8:16 (Sport Auto)
• Porsche Boxter S (987.5) - 8:18
• Lexus IS-F - 8:18
• 2010 VW Golf R - 8:23
• Audi S5 (2007) - 8:26
• Audi TT-S (2008) - 8:29

Source: Skiddmark , Via: 1Addicts

As a founder of the segment SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle), BMW presented in Paris in 2008 a new world in the segment of premium compact cars a Concept Car BMW X range, the BMW X1 Concept.


BMW X1 Concept

The extraordinary potential offered by new vehicle category BMW dreaming now allows "small", almost confirming the lines of BMW X1 to come. Built on the platform of the 1 Series, and it follows the forms of Coupу, the X1 wants to retrace the path that led to the success of BMW X6, and offering the typical combination of driving pleasure and high functionality. For the first time these features were transferred to a car in the segment of premium compact cars.


BMW X1 Concept

In presenting this new BMW X1 Concept, the House of Monaco meets the requirements of a modern target that is suited to a car to drive every day to an active lifestyle and a fun driving ever again, like all other BMW models in the range "X".


BMW X1 Concept

The success story of the models of the BMW X range has again provided the inspiration for the development of innovative vehicle concepts. The BMW BMW X1 Concept exudes the charm of mobility agile, versatile and safe even on the dirt, made in a new automotive category.


BMW X1 Concept

The design of the Concept car is clearly the merits of the model. The BMW X1 Concept is a symbol of agility and versatility both in terms of driving characteristics and universality of use.


BMW X1 Concept

The style of a model range of BMW X was combined with the slender and elegant proportions. The BMW X1 Concept comes with its own well designed within the family of BMW models in the range X. The front incisor form that accentuates the width indicates the robust and athletic coach. An element of protection in contrasting color emphasizes the width of the carriageway.


BMW X1 Concept

With the aesthetic cog in a central position, the short distance between the front axle and the steering wheel and slightly squared shape of the wheel, the BMW X1 Concept reveals its affinity with other BMW models in the range X.

BMW X1 Concept

Characteristic tail lights with rear L powered LED unit by emitting a light uniform. The slightly slanted rear window gives the BMW X1 Concept sports an inspiration, with the horizontal lines that highlight its width.

BMW X1 Concept

The overall success of the market and the high appeal of the models of the BMW X range is not only the result of precise and target-oriented concept car, but also of the characteristics typical of the BMW brand in the automotive category. The charm of a range of BMW X is always associated with a premium quality that does not descend to compromise.

BMW X1 Concept

The relationship between driving performance and fuel consumption models of the BMW X range reach values which would normally leave behind the comparable models of competition.

BMW X1 Concept

The Concept Car suggests what could be the characteristics of a model of the BMW X range in the segment of premium compact cars. Its design indicates the belonging to the family of BMW X range At the same time, the stylistic emphasize the formal language typical of all BMW. The study describes the goal of offering in the segment of premium compact cars, the highest level of driving fun and efficiency, versatility and functionality, as well as safety, comfort and quality. All these attributes were considered in the BMW X1 Concept in order to provide for the production of a series of car within a year.

BMW X1 Concept

Each model of the BMW X range locked in design and driving characteristics of the unmistakable DNA of its automotive category, offering an interpretation of individual typical of the brand and the concept car, so as to ensure a real transfer of brand values and characteristics of a model of the BMW X range in all market segments. This criterion is also satisfied by the BMW X1 Concept.

BMW X1 Concept

Despite the smaller body compared to the models BMW X6, BMW X5 and BMW X3, the study identified is applicable in any context as a model range of BMW X. At the same time, the final design has provided the stylistic accents typical of a BMW that take into account the special needs of the segment of premium compact cars and which transmit impulses in the perception of new cars in this class.

BMW X1 Concept

With a length of 4457 mm external study measuring 108 millimeters less than the BMW X3. The passage of the BMW X1 Concept is 2760 mm.

BMW X1 Concept

Thanks to its proportions and the pattern configuration of four doors and large rear hatch, the study offers a generous feeling of spaciousness. The purity of the forms leave guess a feature adapted to drive every day.

BMW X1 Concept

The BMW X1 Concept combines these qualities with characteristic elegance Sofi ette rifle that the status of a car premium. These features transform the BMW X1 Concept into a trendsetter for a modern urban mobility and progressive.

BMW X1 Concept

The typical style of the mark accentuate the unique charm of the car. The double-kidney BMW mounted vertically, double headlights cut up, the big wheel and slightly squared, the black ribbon that wraps around the lower section of the body, in the strong rib failure, as well as the horizontal lines of the tail indicate clearly identified as the Concept Car BMW model range X.

BMW X1 Concept

The front end of BMW X1 Concept expresses the strength of a model of the BMW X range into a new interpretation.

BMW X1 Concept

The cut applied to dry the top section of typical dual round headlamps gives the BMW Concept Car at a glance particularly intense and focused. This effect is accentuated by a horizontal cover painted in black along the top edge of the headlights.

BMW X1 Concept

Another innovative Stilema is the frame of three-dimensional headlights. This element of design used in the BMW X1 Concept, which is also reflected in the rear and the graphics side of the crystals, draws attention to the highly technical nature of the units and the lighting design in glass. The fog lights have been mounted, as in models of the BMW X range, at both ends above the air intake.

BMW X1 Concept

Moreover, the robust character of BMW X1 Concept is highlighted by a security device. This indicates that the fitness to drive on dirt is embellished elegant silver paint. The front section of the component serves as both protections from the lower edge of the air..

BMW X1 Concept

In view of the profi recognize both the unmistakable proportions of the BMW X1 Concept that the new interpretation of the style of a model ranges of BMW X. The silhouette of the five-door compact is unusually slender, so as to spread the impression of sportiness and agility. Also, the hatchback of the BMW X1 Conceptfollows the shape of a coupe.

BMW X1 Concept

Equally characteristic is the cog in a central position also aesthetically indicates that in all models of the BMW X range balanced interaction between the front wheels and rear wheels in the transmission of power.

BMW X1 Concept

The BMW X1 Concept this interaction is also underlined by a strip mounted along the bottom edge of the plastic coating which extends along the entire side put spar varnished silver.

BMW X1 Concept

Like the front module, the tail of the BMW X1 Concept is equipped with a protection painted silver. The rear section of the broad protection element creates also a chromatic contrast that accentuates the width of the car.

BMW X1 Concept

In the configuration pattern of rear lights have been combined, the typical BMW design and innovative technology. The lighting units have an L shape also clearly recognizable in the design at night. In addition, the design is dominated by night-an innovative technique. The light is very intense and homogeneous and provides power consumption much lower than that of traditional light bulbs.

BMW X1 Concept

Even the paint of the bodywork of the BMW X1 Concept enhances the innovative, modern and at the same time elegant. The new Meridiangold metallic tint emphasizes the personality and dynamics of young Concept Car.

New information released on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website shows that BMW is recalling all 1 Series models sold in the U.S. between 2008 and 2010 for a potential fire risk.

According to the manufacturer, cars built between December 1, 2007, and May 27, 2010, may not have sufficient clearance between the seatbelt tensioners and the sound insulation in the B-pillars. Should a crash occur, the tensioners could overheat. In rare instances, the excess temperature could possibly ignite the insulation material.



BMW has not yet released a fix for the issue, but has notified NHTSA of the recall and halted sales of all 1 Series models until it rectifies the design issue. BMW will notify owners of the recall shortly and provide updated information to NHTSA when it has a fix. For more information, contact your local BMW dealership.

Source: NHTSA automobilemag

It’s no secret that Saab is hard at work on plans to reintroduce its 92, but it’ll need some help to before the car can be produced. The automaker is preparing to enter into talks with BMW to do just that.

Instead of developing a costly platform from scratch, Saab is in talks with BMW to source underpinnings for the car. Saab is reportedly eyeing Mini’s architecture to underpin the new 92. Saab CEO Victor Muller wants the brand’s new model to closely resemble the teardrop shape of the original car, which was dropped from the Saab lineup in 1956.



According to the report, Saab is also looking into sourcing engines and transmissions from Mini. Mini currently offers 1.6-liter naturally aspirated and turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines here in the States, and 1.4-liter gasoline and 1.6-liter diesel I-4 powerplants are available also. Transmission choices are limited to six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes.

With Saab trying to regain market share, this would be a great move for the marque, but the 92 would be a direct competitor of the Mini Cooper. Although producing components in larger quantities would be beneficial to lower costs, we’re not sure it’s a great idea for Mini to bolster its own competition.

Would it be a good move for Mini to help Saab, or would it cannibalize its own sales?

Source: Reuters and automobilemag

Seventy years after a BMW 328 first won the event, a 328 Touring Coupe managed to win this year's 1000-mile Mille Miglia race in Italy.

Despite the car's age (it rolled off the line back in 1940), drivers Giuliano Cané and Lucia Galliani suffered no technical issues, although arriving at the event was itself a feat. As was the case back in 1940, the BMW wasn't trucked to the starting line, but driven nearly 300 miles from the company's museum in Munich, Germany, to the checkpoint in Brescia, Italy. Such was the case for the 328 piloted by Enzo Ciravolo and Maria Lietner that ultimately finished third.

Although the cars proved reliable, the race was still quite a challenge. The 1000-mile route takes teams throughout Italy, providing them with both 80-degree heat near the Adriatic Sea and frigid temperatures in the Alps. In a brilliant marketing move, BMW provided drivers -- especially those who fielded the roofless 328 Roadster -- with insulated clothing from its motorcycle accessory range.



"Victory by Cané and Galliani, along with the third place finish of Ciravolo and Leitner, is a marvelous example of teamwork," said Karl Baumer, the director of BMW Classic. "Both the blind understanding between the crews inside the cars and the cooperation with the mechanics along the way worked out perfectly. For that, I would like to say 'thank you' to all those involved."

Source: BMW

We’ve seen previews of BMW’s latest Art Car, but we hadn’t seen the finished product -- a M3 GT2 racer decorated by artist Jeff Koons -- until its official unveiling in Paris this morning.

With its 17th Art Car, BMW is returning to its roots, and actually racing the Koons-styled GT2 in the 2010 24 Hours of Le Mans. The first Art Car -- a 1975 3.0 CSL -- was the brainchild of driver Hervè Poulain, who commissioned artist Alexander Calder to dress up the exterior. Poulain ultimately raced the car at Le Mans that year, while two other Art Cars -- a 1976 3.0 CSL decorated by Frank Stella, and a 1979 M1 Procar painted by Andy Warhol -- also competed in the endurance race.



Unlike those early Art Cars, Koons’ product isn’t actually painted. Thanks to both a tight timeframe and the weight-conscious mindset of BMW’s racing directors, Koons applied his radical pattern to the M3 GT2 with a vinyl wrap. Better yet, the vinyl wrap process allows Koons’ design to be applied to a number of spare parts -- important, should the M3 suffer a collision during the Le Mans event.

Before crafting his design, Koons was given the chance to witness the M3 GT2 in action for inspiration. According to the artist, he was reportedly inspired by the “raw, unfiltered performance” of the GT2, and decided to give the M3 a design that gives the impression of motion even when at a standstill.

“These race cars are like life; they are powerful and there is a lot of energy,” Koons said. “You can participate with it, add to it, and let yourself transcend with its energy. There is a lot of power under that hood and I want to let my ideas transcend with the car -- it’s really to connect with that power.”

Koons’ M3 GT2 was unveiled earlier today at Paris’ Centre Pompidou, the same venue Roy Lichtenstein used to unveil his 320i Art Car back in 1977. The car will be on public display today, before the car heads to Circuit de la Sarthe for the 24 Hours on June 12 and 13.

Source: BMW

Two tuners have worked their magic to turn out their own versions of the latest BMW M3 that are, respectively, faster and more carbon-fibery Ultimate Driving Machines.

On the speed side, wheel tuner Emotion Wheels has expanded its business to include full tuning packages. In the case of the E92 M3, Emotion has eked out 707 horsepower from the V-8 that usually produces 414, claiming "significant" improvement in straight-line performance. Emotion's full upgrade also includes 19-inch black matte wheels, exterior styling enhancements, and a carbon-fiber hood.



Speaking of carbon fiber, aftermarket supplier Arkym is now offering a hood, trunk, and spoiler made from the lightweight stuff

Arkym's kit will set you back $1999 for the single-side hood (add $500 to make it a double), and $1249 for the single-side trunk (add $450 for the double). No pricing information has been released for the Emotion power and appearance package.
 source by automobi

Though the M1 name won’t be coming back, we don’t yet know exactly what this car will be called. A number of different names are possible -- 135is, given BMW’s current naming scheme, the 1 Series M, as it is being developed by the Motorsport Division, or even the early return of the tii badge. We saw the 1 Series tii Concept in 2007 and reported that the vaunted tii badge would be coming back in 2011, could this car be it?



Whatever the name may be, the car will have some serious performance credentials. Segler revealed to Autocar that it will produce around 350 horsepower and in excess of 310 pound-feet of torque. Power will come from an M-tuned version of BMW’s outgoing N54 twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter I-6. Autocar reports that it is likely to use BMW’s seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, but we’re hoping a six-speed manual is available as well.

In order to help the more potent 1 Series put the power to the ground, BMW’s M Division is adding an electronically controlled M differential and also reworking the car’s suspension. The 1 Series’ typical suspension layout remains, MacPherson struts in front with a multi-link rear, but with stiffer springs and dampers and a different set of bushings. In addition to helping the car get better traction, the suspension changes should also improve the car’s handling.

In this time and age, even a product from BMW’s M Division couldn’t escape the political pressure to reduce consumption and emissions. BMW’s Efficient Dynamics systems are likely to appear on the car with features such as regenerative braking and possibly even a start-stop system. These features will reportedly keep the high-performance 1 Series’ fuel economy about the same as a regular 135i -- 20 mpg combined in the U.S.

BMW’s high-performance 1 Series will reportedly go on sale in Europe next year. It is likely to make its way to the States sometime next year as well. It will slot in above the 135i and below the M3 coupe with pricing likely to start somewhere in the mid- to high-$40,000 range. Stay tuned for details as the car’s launch gets closer.


Source: Autocar

2011 BMW X6 to Get Single-Turbo N55 Inline-6, 8-Speed Transmission - Car News

BMW is really testing our memory and powertrain-matching skills with its 2011 lineup. One of our favorite current engines is the N54 twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, which produces 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque in nearly every model in which it’s installed. But, as you probably know, it is being gradually replaced by an evolution of that mill, the N55 single-turbo inline-six, which still displaces 3.0 liters and produces identical horsepower and torque figures. The new engine is showing up first in the 535i Gran Turismo, and also will appear in the 2011 135i, 335i, and 535i. Now there are plans to shuffle it into the 2011 X6 xDrive35i, too.
Two More Speeds and New Tech for the X6
Beyond the new engine for the base model, both the 2011 X6 xDrive35i and xDrive50i models will receive a new, ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission, as well as an energy regeneration system that uses a special alternator that charges only when the engine isn’t under load. The changes are being touted as improving efficiency—a hilarious statement given the X6’s inefficient packaging and thirst for fuel. In any event, expect the X6’s engines and transmissions to be available in the refreshed 2011 X5, which begins production in April.


The new transmission is said to increase performance in both X6 models; the xDrive35i is claimed to be quicker to 60 mph by 0.2 second, whereas the twin-turbo V-8 xDrive50i knocks 0.1 second off its time. We’ve clocked the 35i as sprinting to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and the 50i in five flat, so we’re eager to see if BMW’s claims hold true. The company says the changes improve efficiency by seven percent, but didn’t quote specific fuel-economy numbers; the 2010 X6 xDrive35i and xDrive50i are rated at 15/21 mpg and 13/18 mpg, respectively. Other subtle changes for the 2011 X6 include the addition of lane-departure warning ($950) and active cruise control ($2400) as stand-alone options and the bundling of side-view cameras into the Technology package. The base prices will remain unchanged, at $57,375 for the 35i and $68,075 for the 50i.
A Quick Primer on the New Engine
The new N55 combines direct-injection and Valvetronic variable valve timing with a single twin-scroll turbocharger, which BMW says will spool up faster than the N54’s twin-turbo setup, eliminating nearly all lag. It’s said to be both more efficient and less emissions-spewing than the N54. As we said, reported output stands pat, with 300 hp arriving at 5800 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque available from 1200 to 5000 rpm, the latter coming 200 rpm lower than before. But many—including us—believe that the N54’s power was underreported by BMW, so we’re not entirely convinced that we’ll see improved performance numbers among its many applications.
The N54 twin-turbo engine is not going away. Instead, BMW is increasing its output to 315–335 hp and relegating it to higher-performance vehicles; these include the 2011 335is, Z4 sDrive35is, and the 740i/Li. Why not just offer the single-turbo engine across the board with different power ratings? BMW says it had more experience tuning the old N54, and that meant it was easier to tailor it to increased-horsepower applications. Given that, we wouldn’t be surprised if it ultimately does disappear once BMW’s engineers get more familiar with the new N55’s limits.
 source by caranddriver