2011 AC Schnitzer BMW 550i ACS5 Sport S Saloon Concept

Engine V8, Aspiration twin turbochargers, HP 540 hp, 0-62 mph 4.5 seconds, Top Speed 199 mph

Superb, powerful and individual: the AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S Saloon reveals new and unusual aspects of driving pleasure



With the new BMW 5-series saloon and the new BMW 5-series Touring, in 2011 two new 5-series models have been awarded the prestigious iF Award for outstanding product design. Equally prizeworthy is the AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S Saloon based on the BMW 5-series saloon, which celebrates its premiere at the Geneva Motor Show from 3rd to 13th March.

With this concept vehicle, the Aachen-based tuning specialist AC Schnitzer is demonstrating new and unusual aspects of driving pleasure. With a performance upgrade from 407 to 540 HP, the AC Schnitzer engineers are pushing the boundaries of the possible - for greater dynamics and efficiency. The driving performance is at thoroughbred sportscar level: the sprint from 0 - 100 kph takes just 4.5 seconds, and the top speed is around 320 kph. A glance under the bonnet with the AC Schnitzer engine and engine bay styling shows just who is responsible for the revolutionary refinement. The AC Schnitzer limited slip differential with up to 75% effect ensures that the tremendous power reaches the point where it is needed.The AC Schnitzer twin sports rear silencer with chromed "Sports Trim“ tail pipe trims left and right combines exciting appearance and sound.

What does the sophisticated driver expect from perfect brakes? Perfect braking of course! With the AC Schnitzer high performance brake system with 8-piston fixed calipers left and right, and an 8-piece kit of brake pads and caliper holders for the front axle, all expectations of optimum deceleration and maximum stability are amply fulfilled. And the driving dynamics leave nothing to be desired. The AC Schnitzer racing suspension guides the saloon perfectly through the corners.

The AC Schnitzer tuning specialists will be focussing on the reactions to the new aerodynamic components for the body of the 5-series saloon. As well as the familiar AC Schnitzer front spoiler and chromed front grille, a new carbon front spoiler centre part gives the ACS5 Sport S Saloon an even more striking aspect. The carbon air ducts for the brakes left and right ensure adequate ventilation for the high performance brake system, and the new AC Schnitzer carbon side skirts clearly enhance the side view of the concept vehicle. The engine bay is ventilated by the bonnet vents from the current AC Schnitzer range. Together with further accessories already available, such as the AC Schnitzer rear roof spoiler, the rear spoiler and the rear skirt extension, new elements such as the AC Schnitzer sports wings left and right with Chromline Set and the carbon rear diffusor contribute to the great appearance. The AC Schnitzer loading sill protection film and the BiColor film trim harmoniously complete the sporting elegance of the body conversion. Possible and probable reactions to such a well-equipped vehicle are envious glances, which the proud driver seated behind the AC Schnitzer sports airbag steering wheel with painted spokes can enjoy in the new AC Schnitzer sports mirror.

The AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S saloon appears at the Geneva Motor Show with full leather trim in BiColor, painted interior trim strips and racing bucket seats with AC Schnitzer logo, which form part of the overall concept for the interior. The AC Schnitzer range already contains the

AC Schnitzer "Black Line“ aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, the aluminium foot rests and pedal set, velours boot mat and foot mats.



For the BMW 5-series saloon, AC Schnitzer also provides an unusual range of custom wheel/tyre combinations in both 20 and 21 inch diameter. The largest variants are the racing forged rim in BiColor and the new forged alloy wheel in BiColor in sizes 9Jx21“ front and 10Jx21“. Alternatives are the AC Schnitzer Type IV BiColor wheel and Type V BiColor forged alloy rim.



The AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S Saloon - an extraordinary concept vehicle which embodies the state of the art of technical achievement in more than just power. The AC Schnitzer definition of "Performance" will certainly inspire BMW tuning fans throughout the world.

BMW i8 Concept – emotional, dynamic and efficient

The BMW i8 Concept and the fascinating approach that underpins it embody the vision of a sustainable contemporary sports car brought to life. Its innovative plug-in hybrid concept combines the modified electric drive system from the BMW i3 Concept – fitted over its front axle – with a high-performance three-cylinder combustion engine producing 164 kW/220 hp and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) at the rear. Working in tandem, they allow the two drive systems to display their respective talents to the full, delivering the performance of a sports car but the fuel consumption of a small car.

Acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under five seconds combined with fuel consumption in the European cycle of under three litres per 100 kilometres (approx. 94 mpg imp) are figures currently beyond the capability of any vehicle powered by a combustion engine of comparable performance. Thanks to its large lithium-ion battery, which can be charged from a domestic power supply, the BMW i8 Concept can travel up to 35 kilometres (approx. 20 miles) on electric power alone. Added to which, the 2+2-seater offers enough space for four people, giving it a high level of everyday practicality.

The LifeDrive architecture of the BMW i8 Concept has been carefully adapted to enhance the vehicle’s sports car character, and therefore to deliver unbeatable performance and excellent driving dynamics. The motor in the front axle module and combustion engine at the rear are connected by an “energy tunnel”, which houses the high-voltage battery. This gives the car a low centre of gravity – and the dynamic benefits that come with it. The positioning of the electric motor and engine over their respective axles and the space-saving and well-balanced packaging of all components result in an optimum 50/50 weight distribution.
The emotional design of the BMW i8 Concept ensures its qualities are clear for all to see. Its dynamic proportions give the BMW i8 Concept the appearance of surging forward before it even turns a wheel and lend visual form to its extraordinary performance.

The sporting character continues into the interior. Boasting a driver-focused environment unmatched by any BMW Group vehicle before it, the BMW i8 Concept immerses the driver fully in the unique driving experience. The BMW i8 Concept is the sports car for a new generation – pure, emotional and sustainable.
Driving dynamics.
Thanks to the two drive systems, all four wheels of the BMW i8 Concept can be driven at the same time, similarly to an all-wheel-drive vehicle. This solution combines the advantages of front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive to ensure the optimal dynamic drive configuration as required. Depending on traction conditions and driving situation, intelligent dynamic driving systems ensure maximum energy recuperation without compromising dynamics and stability. This allows very high levels of energy recuperation even in the wet or in snow.

Efficient and dynamic – the BMW i8 Concept
The design of the BMW i8 Concept is as special as the car’s overall concept, embodying the perfect synthesis of technology and aesthetic allure. Its sweeping lines and flat silhouette lend the vehicle a strikingly dynamic appearance even when standing still. A large, transparent greenhouse lends the exterior an extraordinary feeling of lightness and highlights the exceptional efficiency of this vehicle concept. Short front and rear overhangs round off the sporting overall impression. Despite its dynamic appearance, the 2+2-seater can accommodate four people, giving it a high degree of everyday practicality.
As with the BMW i3 Concept, layering again serves as the central design element of the interior and exterior. The individual vehicle components are also clearly visible from the outside, the black and transparent Life module clearly setting itself apart from the silver-coloured body components around it. This layering approach lends the BMW i8 Concept an extremely technical and cutting-edge appeal.

BMW i3 Concept – dynamic, urban, emission-free.

The BMW i3 Concept is an uncompromisingly sustainable vehicle designed for urban areas. Driven purely by electric power and purpose-built to meet the demands of sustainable and emission-free mobility, it embodies an intelligent form of urban transportation and commuting.

The BMW i3 is a well-resolved all-round concept, with every detail conceived and optimised to fulfil its eventual purpose. Its innovative LifeDrive architecture renders the BMW i3 Concept light, safe, spacious and dynamic. Innovative use of materials and intelligent lightweight design, moreover, not only enable the i3 Concept to travel long distances on a single charge and provide superb safety in the event of a collision, they also help give the car its excellent driving dynamics. The electric motor over the rear axle – which generates output of 125 kW/170 hp and impressive torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) from a standstill – and a small turning circle combine to deliver pleasingly crisp driving characteristics. The BMW i3 Concept accelerates from 0 to 60 km/h (37 mph) in under four seconds and from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than eight seconds.
All-electric – the BMW i3 Concept.
The electric motor of the BMW i3 Concept is designed primarily for operation in an urban environment, developing 125 kW/170 hp, with peak torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft). Typically of an electric motor, maximum torque is developed from standstill, in contrast to an internal combustion engine where torque increases with engine rpm. This makes the BMW i3 Concept highly agile and provides impressive acceleration. The BMW i3 Concept accomplishes 0-60 km/h (37 mph) in under four seconds and 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in under eight seconds.
At the same time the abundant torque is delivered over a very large rpm range, resulting in very smooth power delivery. The single-speed gearbox provides optimal power transmission to the rear wheels and accelerates the BMW i3 Concept to an electronically governed 150 km/h (93 mph) without loss of power. The electric drive also allows for deceleration by means of the accelerator pedal. After the driver eases up on the accelerator, the electric motor acts as a generator, converting the kinetic energy into electricity which is then fed back into the battery. Energy recuperation generates a braking effect which makes a significant contribution to vehicle deceleration.

A coasting facility makes this unique “single-pedal control” of acceleration and braking using just the accelerator even more user-friendly. When the driver eases off the pedal, the electric motor’s zero torque control keeps the drive train disconnected as long as the pedal is in this position. The vehicle now coasts without consuming power, driven by its own kinetic energy.
Compact and powerful – the electric motor.
The electric motor of the BMW i3 Concept not only offers attractive driveability; its innovative nature is particularly evident in the favourable power-to-size ratio. As a result of continuous development and refinement, the space requirements of the electric motor used in the BMW i3 Concept have been reduced by 40 per cent compared with the motor used in the MINI E. This compact drive unit is mounted over the rear axle, together with the power electronics, transmission and differential, and does not intrude into the interior. The power needed to drive the vehicle and to operate all other vehicle functions is supplied by specially developed lithium-ion battery cells. The BMW i3 Concept’s battery system has undergone detailed optimisation which significantly reduces the extent to which external factors can influence the vehicle’s power. Furthermore, an intelligent heating/cooling system keeps the battery at its optimal operating temperature at all times, which helps to significantly boost the performance and life expectancy of the cells.

The battery can be fully recharged in six hours at a standard power socket. If a high-speed charger is used, an 80 per cent charge can be achieved in just one hour.
Range extender increases the driving range.
As the MINI E field tests showed, 90 per cent of the mobility requirements of the pilot users could be met with the range of the MINI E. However, some customers want a longer driving range, or want their vehicle to be as flexible as possible. The BMW i3 Concept therefore offers an optional range extender, the REx, which allows the driving range to be increased. REx, a small, very smooth-running and quiet petrol engine, drives a generator which maintains the battery charge level to ensure that the vehicle can continue to run on electric power.

MWDesign BMW Z4 White Flame

MWDesign Project BMW e89 Z4 “White Flame”

Modern minimalist design is an important influence in the tuning aesthetic at MWDesign Technik. Each vehicle is a unique project that can be expressed through layers of texture with materials, color and specific custom parts.

Our E89 “White Flame” project is a follow up to the highly successful black and lime green “Slingshot” project that was featured in many prestigious publications including Performance BMW magazine. We wanted our next project to be totally different while being clean, complex and exciting at the same time.

A long time friend and client of ours liked our golf club inspired concept of the Slingshot Z4 project and requested that we base his brand new 2011 Alpine White/Coral Red Z4 off the unreleased at the time Taylormade R-11 golf club. The white/red/grey theme couldn’t be more perfect for this integration of design elements between the car and club. Without being too explicit, we tried to translate some of the key design cues and coloration off the club into the car. The white, red and grey theme worked perfectly on the car to capture the essence of the highly technical R-11 driver.
The intermittent color blocked pinstripe theme was run from the nose of the vehicle, closely following the bold character lines of E89 Z4. Our friends at Blitzgear carefully laid two silver pinstripes in a near intersecting style, highlighting the two main character bulges on the side of the car. This had to be carefully planned out as pinstripes often go terribly wrong. Some of the key characteristics of the R-11’s pinstripe were translated onto the rear rollbars of the Z4. They were first painted alpine white to match the body with the striping and red triangle pattern applied afterward.
The red/black sport striping continued onto the large 20×9F / 20×10.5R Forgestar F10 wheels with classically styled stepped lips. A neutral painted silver face, carbon fiber center cap and polished outer lip was selected to match the factory silver and chrome kidney grills. Our long time partners at Toyo Tires sponsored the project vehicle with a set of Toyo T1-R in 245/30/20 F 285/25/20 R configurations, perfectly balanced to handle the various weather conditions in Vancouver, BC.

To perfect the stance, we used H&R sport springs, which lower the center of gravity and close the wheel gap to perfection. To enhance the modern look of the vehicle, we contacted our good friends at 3D Design in Japan for the front lip spoiler for the project. The polyurethane construction of the pieces makes for an extremely durable bumper with perfect fitment, two qualities that are very rare in the aftermarket world!
For the rear diffuser section, we opted for the factory M-sport 3.5is piece. This was painted in alpine white to match the body with a contrasting grey lower trim. To up the performance and fill the large new diffuser, we fitted a Milltek 2×100mm Catback Exhaust System and powdercoated the entire system matte silver in a ceramic-like finish. To complete the power upgrades, a Dinan Stage II ECU upgrade to 400hp and OEM BMW Performance big brakes are coming on the next phase.

In building this project E89 Z4, we wanted the car to be a “White Flame” as bold as a magnesium fire. Extremely clean looking, eye-catching yet gone out of your sight in a few seconds.

2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe - Kelleners Sport KS1-S

The BMW 1-Series M Coupé (Type E82), the Kelleners Sport KS1-S high-revving inline six-cylinder engine with twin-turbochargers boosts the output of the KS Power SW 35M by a good 20 percent. Instead of the standard 340 hp (250 kW), the Kelleners Sport KS1-S produces max. 410 hp (301 kW) while max torque jumps from 450 to 550 Nm. The result is a decline in weight to power ratio from 4.4 to 3.8 kg per hp. And emphasising all this power are special Kelleners Sport rear silencers. With four 83 mm tail pipes, the stainless-steel system is optimised for unrestricted flow and distinguishes the car from the series model with a significantly more exciting exhaust sound.
The aerodynamic components of Kelleners Sport are designed to minimise wind resistance and ensure maximum down-force at high speeds. The MS front spoiler lip and the three-part MS grill insert made of electro polished stainless steel underscore the aerodynamic qualities of the car and create a supplementary visual impact. Naturally, this does not affect the BMW air curtains, which improve the aerodynamics by channelling the air stream around the front wheels. Visually, the improved agility is accentuated by decorative strips on the bonnet, roof and side sills.

The Kelleners Sport light-alloy wheels also contribute to the sporting characteristics and image. The extremely light, one-piece wheels reduce the unsprung weight and thus ensure dynamic handling. At the front, the 9×20-inch wheels are fitted with 245/30 high-performance tyres while the rear axle comes with 10×20-inch wheels and 265/30 tyres.

With their 15 elegant spokes, the “Hamburg” wheels are available in the following finishes: polished graphite-silver, polished platinum-silver and matt black. The ‘Berlin’ wheel with slender double spokes is available in platinum silver polished, matt black polished and matt black.

BMW 6 Series Coupe 2012 - Sporty Sedan

European manufacturers, BMW plans to release a new variant of the sixth generation of the series, the BMW 6 Series Coupe which is also their icons in the spring in Germany. BMW 6 Series Coupe will come with two different engines as optional consumers. Model 650i Coupe 8 cylinder engine has 407 HP degan power, and models that meet the 640i Coupe 6-cylinder engine and a power of 320 HP. Both of these models has increased staff from 40 to 46 hp from the previous model and as a result of these changes bring results that are quite impressive, to take time from point 0 to 60 meters only be reached by 4.9 seconds. While the maximum speed reached 250 km/h with gasoline consumption diangka 9.6 km / liter.

Each model is equipped with 8-speed transmission Automatic Sports, and EfficientDynamics technology that aims to economize fuel so that users do not often visit the gas station. Other equipment that is the Auto Start-Stop, Eco Pro, Electric Power Steering, Dynamic Drive Control or Drive Damper Control.

Besides BMW 6 Series Coupe also comes with LED Headlights that can adapt to low-high beam with cornering function. For the foglamps and Rearlights also features LEDs. Other features of the BMW 6 Series Coupe is BMW's ConnectedDrive is the Head-Up Display technology with High-Definition, Full-Color-Spectrum Graphics, Rear-View Camera, Surround View, Speed ​​Limit Info, BMW Night Vision, and the Parking Assistant.

The All-New BMW X6 M Features & Specs 2012

Base 4dr SUV (4.4L V8 Twin-turbo AWD 6-speed Automatic)

MSRP from $89,500

Exterior
Tires and Wheels
* Alloy wheels
* 20 x 11.0 in. wheels
* 315/35R20 110W tires
* Run flat tires

Roof and Glass
* Variable intermittent rain sensing wipers
* Privacy glass
* Rear defogger
* Intermittent rear wiper
* Power glass sunroof
* Remote sunroof operation

Doors
* Fixed lifgate window
* Rear power liftgate door

Towing and Hauling
* Cargo tie downs

Measurements
* Width: 78.1 in.
* Height: 66.3 in.
* Length: 192.0 in.
* Front track: 65.4 in.
* Rear track: 65.8 in.
* Wheel base: 115.5 in.
* Cargo capacity, all seats in place: 25.5 cu.ft.
* Maximum cargo capacity: 59.7 cu.ft.
* Maximum towing capacity: 6000 lbs.
* Maximum payload: 937 lbs.
* Gross weight: 6261 lbs.
* Gross weight: 0.38 in.
* Curb weight: 5324 lbs.

Exterior Options
* Soft-Close Automatic Doors
* Space-Saver Spare

Mechanical
Engine & Performance
* Base engine size: 4.4 L
* Cam type: Double overhead cam (DOHC)
* Cylinders: V8
* Valves: 32
* Valve timing: Variable
* Direct injection
* Torque: 500 ft-lbs. @ 1500 rpm
* Horsepower: 555 hp @ 6000 rpm
* Turning circle: 42.0 ft.
* Base engine type: gas

DriveTrain
* Drive type: all wheel drive
* Mechanical center differential
* Descent control
* Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
* Center and rear limited slip differential
* Brake hill holder

Suspension
* Double wishbone front suspension
* Multi-link rear suspension
* Four-wheel independent suspension
* Front and rear stabilizer bar

Fuel
* Fuel type: gas
* Fuel type: premium unleaded (required)
* Fuel tank capacity: 22.5 gal.
* Range in miles (cty/hwy): 270.0/382.5 mi.
* EPA mileage est. (cty/hwy): 12/17 mpg

Safety
Safety & Security
* 4-wheel ABS
* Front and rear head airbags
* Dual front side-mounted airbags
* Child seat anchors
* Remote anti-theft alarm system
* Emergency braking assist
* Front and rear ventilated disc brakes
* Rear door child safety locks
* Daytime running lights
* Engine immobilizer
* High pressure washers headlamps
* Auto delay off headlamps
* Dusk sensing headlamps
* Xenon high intensity discharge headlamp
* 2 front headrests
* 2 rear headrests
* Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
* Front seatbelt pretensioners
* Stability control
* Traction control
* Electronic brakeforce distribution
* Front power adjustable headrests
* Rear integrated headrests
* Post-collision safety system
* Passenger head restraint whiplash protection system
* Emergency braking preparation
* Driver head restraint whiplash protection system
* Self-leveling headlights
* Tire pressure monitoring
* Brake drying

Safety & Security Options
* Side-View Camera

Warranty
* Basic: 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
* Drivetrain: 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
* Free Maintenance: 4 yr./ 50000 mi.

Interior
Front Seats
* Front head room: 38.3 in.
* Front leg room: 40.4 in.
* Front shoulder room: 59.9 in.
* Multi-level heating passenger seat
* 8 -way power passenger seat
* 8 -way power driver seat
* Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
* Multi-level heating driver seat
* Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
* Height adjustable driver seat
* Height adjustable passenger seat
* Premium leather
* Sport front seats

Rear Seats
* Rear head room: 37.2 in.
* Rear leg room: 35.9 in.
* Rear shoulder room: 57.0 in.
* Split-folding rear seatback
* Folding with pass-thru center armrest
* Rear ventilation ducts

Power Features
* Remote power door locks
* Reverse tilt passenger mirror provides curb view when vehicle in reverse
* Power mirrors
* Heated mirrors
* 4 one-touch power windows
* Remote window operation

Convenience
* Cruise control
* Front console with storage
* Front and rear cupholders
* Front and rear door pockets
* Retained accessory power
* Front seatback storage
* Speed-proportional power steering
* Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
* 12V front, 12V rear and 12V cargo area power outlet(s)
* Front and rear parking sensors
* Tilt and telescopic steering wheel
* Transmission controls and audio controls on steering wheel

Comfort
* Interior active charcoal air filter
* Dual zone climate controls - driver and passenger
* Extended cabin heating
* Sun sensor
* Cargo area light
* Alloy and leather trim on center console
* Alloy and leather trim on dash
* Alloy and leather trim on doors
* Front and rear reading lights
* Alloy trim on shift knob
* Leather steering wheel
* Front and rear floor mats
* Electrochromatic inside rearview mirror
* Dual illuminating vanity mirrors

Memorized settings
* Memorized settings includes audio system
* Memorized settings includes climate control
* Memorized settings for 2 drivers
* Memorized settings includes steering wheel

Instrumentation
* Clock
* Tachometer
* Trip computer
* External temperature display
* Low fuel level warning
* Compass

In Car Entertainment
* Diversity antenna
* 16 total speakers
* 600 watts stereo output
* AM/FM in-dash single CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo
* Speed sensitive volume control
* Auxiliary audio input and iPod/iPhone integration
* 2 subwoofer(s)
* Radio data system
* USB connection

Telematics
* Hard drive based display w/voice activation and directions navigation system
* Pre-wired for phone
* BMW Assist telecommunications service
* Bluetooth wireless data link for hands-free phone
* Real time traffic

Interior Options
* Nappa Leather Dashboard and Center Console
* 3 Rear Seats
* BMW Apps
* Extended Merino Leather
* Rear Seat Entertainment
* 6-Disc DVD Changer
* Carbon Leather Interior Trim
* Red Brown Grained Wood Trim
* Piano Black Trim
* Full Merino Leather
* Perforated Merino Leather
* Comfort Access Keyless Entry

Packages
* Cold Weather Package
* Active Ventilated Seat Package
* Rear Climate Package
* Premium Sound Package
* Driver Assistance Package

BMW 6 Series Convertible 650i

Perhaps it's the sweeping hood and long wheelbase of the 6 Series' muscular profile. Perhaps it's the 400 hp and 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds. Maybe it's the groundbreaking luxury. Of the many features captivating enthusiasts, one thing is certain: the all-new 650i Convertible is simply irresistible.

Handling, ride and braking
Vehicle-speed-sensitive variable-assist (Servotronic), variable-ratio power steering
Twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers
4-wheel ventilated anti-lock disc brakes (ABS) with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
Sport suspension

Exterior
Star Spoke (Style 367) 19 x 8.5 light alloy wheels, and 245/40 run-flat1 all-season tires 2
Xenon Adaptive Headlights with dynamic auto-leveling, Corona headlight-surrounds and Cornering Lights
Retractable, high-intensity headlight washers
Power-adjustable, heated, body-color, power-folding side-view mirrors with automatic-dimming function
Choice of standard or metallic paints
8-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission with Driving Dynamics Control
The close spacing of gear ratios in this 8-speed Sport automatic transmission makes maximum use of the optimum rev range, reducing fuel consumption and allowing smoother shifts.

4.4-liter, V-8 engine, 400 hp
The 400-hp response of the 650i Convertible's 4.4.-liter V-8 engine is nearly instantaneous. This is achieved thru TwinPower Turbo boost, High Precision Direct Injection, and four overhead camshafts controlling 32 valves with exacting Double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing. 6-speed manual transmission with Driving Dynamics Control

Onboard Navigation System with Traffic Alerts
With the route taken care of, you can concentrate on more important things - like enjoying every twist and turn along the way. Our optional onboard navigation system, controlled via iDrive, uses GPS satellites, a digital map and, where available, Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) to guide you to your destination. Choose the fastest route, the shortest route or the one that avoids traffic. Where available, traffic information is received by a separate radio tuner and then displayed on the navigation system. You don't have to listen to a specific radio station, or even have the radio on, to receive updates every few minutes. And you can see everything clearly on the large, high-resolution screen.

Safety and security
Driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS) with advanced technology: dual-threshold, dual-stage deployment; and front-passenger seat sensors designed to prevent unnecessary airbag deployment
Active Head Restraints in front seats
Front-seat side-impact airbags
LATCH attachment for child-restraint safety installation
Interlocking door anchoring system to help protect against door intrusion in side impacts
Adaptive Brakelights
Coded Driveaway Protection (prevents engine start when your key fob with constantly changing electronic code is not used)
Anti-theft alarm system with keyhead remote operation and interior motion detector

BMW M3 GTS 2011 - First Drive Review

With the launch of the E92 BMW M3 now almost three years behind us, we’ve resorted to testing tuner and racing versions of the car for our M3 fix. Thankfully, BMW is introducing a lighter, more powerful version for 2011, so we had an excuse once again to slide behind the wheel. Awesome side note: BMW M GmbH chief Kay Segler says the internal code name for the M3 GTS was Jägermeister, a reference to the famous German digestif and frat fuel with a history of sponsoring motorsports.

Segler and crew came about the weight loss the easy way: They removed stuff. There are no rear seats, the center console and the door trim have shed a few pounds, and even air conditioning is optional. The back window and the rear side glass have been replaced with polycarbonate (the front windows and the windshield remain glass). The M3's audio system was discarded, and so was a lot of sound insulation. The only music comes from the ultralight titanium exhaust system.

Weight loss is less than what we had expected—just over 100 pounds. Considering that’s partly because the standard roll bar and the fire extinguisher eat up some of the savings, though, we’re okay with it. Although three-point seatbelts come installed in the car, six-point harnesses are included as well.

Power rises from 414 hp to 444, arriving at the same 8300 rpm as in the regular M3. Maximum torque rises from 295 lb-ft at 3900 rpm to 325 lb-ft at 3750 rpm. It wasn’t easy, though: M had to bore the engine from 4.0 to 4.4 liters, a lot of effort to gain 30 hp and 30 lb-ft.

Specifications

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door coupe

PRICE AS TESTED: $145,280

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection

Displacement: 266 cu in, 4361 cc
Power (SAE net): 444 bhp @ 8300 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 325 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 7-speed dual-clutch automated manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 108.7 in Length: 182.9 in
Width: 71.0 in Height: 54.6 in
Curb weight (mfr’s est): 3550 lb

PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):
Zero to 60 mph: 3.7 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 12.0 sec

BMW 7 Series LUMMA Design 2010

The unique aerodynamics package from LUMMA Design comes with selected applications made from genuine carbon and 22 inch light alloy wheels ensure that the BMW 7 Series with its noble finish exhibits independence while staying true to its sportiness. The fact that LUMMA Design has a sense of BMW’s design language already becomes apparent in the front spoiler bumper. The curvature of the bonnet and the kidney front grille find their match in the new LUMMA front, which integrates grid inserts, fog lights and LED daytime running lights. The new shapely look is completed by the cup spoiler sword.

LUMMA Design offers a set of deep door-sills that has been designed especially for the BMW 7 Series with its extended wheelbase, so as to bridge the parameterisation of the wheels arch extensions. The aerodynamics package is completed by the new rear diffuser. Besides ensuring additional downforce, the diffuser highlights the sporty aspiration of the refined limousine.

The dynamic appearance of the LUMMA BMW is enhanced even further by the genuine carbon applications produced by the refining experts in Germany. These include exterior mirror caps, the kidney front grille frame, all door handle covers, the boot lid trim and the four-piece pillar trim set for doors and mud guards.

Naturally the wheels also contribute to the more sporty appearance. The impressive 22-inch light alloy rims are fitted with 265/30 high-performance Vredestein tyres in the front and 295/25 in the rear.

BMW X3 xDrive20d 2011

The four-cylinder diesel in the new BMW X3 xDrive20d has a maximum output of 135 kW/184 bhp. Power output has been increased by 5 kW compared to its predecessor. At the same time, average consumption in the EU test cycle has been reduced by 14 percent to a mere 5.6 litres/100 km.

The new BMW X3 xDrive20d now offers better performance and higher efficiency than any of its comparable rivals. It is powered by a 2-litre fourcylinder turbo diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and Common Rail direct injection, delivering a maximum power output of 135 kW/184 at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 380 Nm between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. The engine develops sufficient power to allow the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, reaching top speed at 210 km/h.

With an average fuel consumption of 5.6 litres/100 km, the BMW X3 xDrive20d establishes a new benchmark for efficiency in this vehicle segment (CO2 emission level: 149 g/km in conjunction with manual gearbox, 147 g/km in conjunction with automatic gearbox).

The Auto Start Stop function is also a standard feature in the X3 xDrive20d with manual gearbox. The car is additionally equipped with a gear shift indicator. Furthermore, the equipment featured in all model variants, which include brake energy regeneration, EPS Electric Power Steering, demand-controlled ancillary components, intelligent lightweight construction and tyres with reduced rolling resistance contribute towards lowering fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels.