Automotive news, reviews and commentary from an average consumer's point of view.
Showing posts with label BMW. Show all posts
Showing posts with label BMW. Show all posts
Thursday, January 23, 2014
International Auto Industry, Detroit True "SURVIVORS!"
Images from the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit set to "Survivor - Victor Calderone Club Mix" by Destiny's Child.
Following the 2008 economic downturn and the current municipal bankruptcy situation in Detroit, both have proven to be true survivors.
Photos: Mike Woolfolk/TWG Media
Music: "Survivor-Victor Caldrone Club Mix" by Destiny's Child/Copyright 2001/Columbia Records
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Redesigned Cadillac CTS Scores Second Motor Trend Car of the Year Award
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| Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Ed Loh presents Car of the Year Award to CTS Chief Engineer Tony Roma. Photo: Jeffrey Sauger for Cadillac |
Motor Trend’s Car of the Year program is open to any all-new or substantially upgraded 2014 automobile. Rather than being compared against one another, contending vehicles are first put through Motor Trend’s full battery of performance tests to measure acceleration, braking, and limit handling.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
2013 North American International Auto Show
Slideshow of photos from Media Preview of the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. (All photos courtesy of NAIAS)
Sunday, January 22, 2012
A Show to Remember: NAIAS 2012 Closes with Smiles, High-Fives, and Optimism
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| 2012 NAIAS at Cobo Hall Detroit, Michigan |
"From the press to the public, everyone realized that this was a very special show," said Perkins. "People want to feel good again about the industry, which is now obviously in a better place than it was a few years ago. As a result, this year's show was a 'must-see' event, as the attendance numbers indicate," he said. "Everything that could go right.did."
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
BMW Confirms 6-Speed Manual Transmission for the 2013 M5
Monday, January 9, 2012
GM Kicks-Off 2012 NAIAS with Debut of New ATS Sedan
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| GM-North America President Mark Reuss unveils all-new Cadillac ATS in Detroit on January 8, 2012. |
The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the all-new Cadillac ATS sedan, which GM officials say will challenge the world's best premium cars.
The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.
“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
National Geographic Channel to Feature BMW's South Carolina Plant in Documentary, Ultimate Factories: BMW X3
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| BMW assembly plant in South Carolina. (Photo: BMW) |
Spartanburg, S.C. (BMW) – BMW announced today that the National Geographic Channel (NGC) will air an hour-long documentary on the making of the BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle as part of the popular Ultimate Factories series.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
BMW announces pricing for new X3 SAV
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| 2011 BMW X3 SAV Photo Credit: BMW USA |
BMW announced pricing for its all-new 2011 X3 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) models on Wednesday. The X3 xDrive28i will start at $37,625 which is $2,100 less than its 2010 predecessor. The X3 xDrive35i will have a base price $41,925. Both prices include a Destination & Handling fee of $875.
The second-generation BMW X3 draws inspiration from the original X3 which had a seven-year life cycle. The X3 xDrive28i has a 240-horsepower engine while the X3 xDrive35i will sport a turbocharged, 300-horsepower engine. Both models will arrive in dealer showrooms by the end of this year.
Among the new feature is the latest BMW ConnectedDrive technologies, including an available rearview camera with Top View. BMW also offers what officials call "the most comprehensive integration for the latest Blackberry smartphone devices allowing owners to read emails from a Navigation screen while the car is stationary and, through innovative text-to-speech technology, listen to e-mails while driving.
The BMW X3 is manufactured at the companies North American plant in Greer, South Carolina. New models will be in dealer showrooms by the end of this year.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Auto Test: 2009 BMW X6 xDrive50i
The Crossover Redefined
Small sport utility vehicle, modified minivan, or new age station wagon. Any of these might describe what is commonly referred to as a crossover vehicle. None of them describes the BMW X6. The company that claims to produce the ultimate driving machine has created the ultimate new-style crossover in the X6.
Where the typical crossover looks like a sport utility vehicle and feels like a car, the X6 looks like a car and feels like a sport utility vehicle; a truly refreshing concept that BMW calls the “Sports Activity Coupe.” Keep in mind that what every other automaker calls a “utility” vehicle, BMW calls an “activity” vehicle.
The X6 comes in two models: the six cylinder xDrive35i and the eight cylinder xDrive50i . Both are produced at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina assembly plant alongside the X5 model. BMW delivered an eight cylinder version for me to evaluate.
One word can express my feelings about this ride on many levels—WOW! But, since I’m sure you would like more than that, here are some detailed thoughts based on my week in the vehicle.
Appearance
At first glance, the X6 appears imposing and aggressive. It is both. Upon closer inspection, you discover it is also elegant and well mannered. Its footprint is large. My X6 test model, with its wide stance and tall profile, was only made more imposing by its massive 20-inch wheels with fat, performance tires.
The body commands attention, especially the sloping rear. It’s sleek, sporty and like no other crossover on the market. The X6 comes in ten available colors including eight metallic choices.
Power
Under the hood, a 4.4 liter twin turbo V-8 engine producing 400 hp and a peak 450 lb-ft of torque available between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. BMW says the X6 will vault you from 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds. If you’re not a numbers person, suffice it to say this vehicle is quick. The engine packs pure power and the exhaust note is melodically muscular. Get yourself a good radar detector. Before I knew it, the heads-up display showed the number 92 on the windshield. An indication that I needed to slow down or at least do a peripheral scan to make sure “Smokey” wasn’t lurking nearby ready to pounce with an expensive citation since I had just passed a sign with the number 60 beneath the words “speed limit.”
Of course, all of the exhilaration comes at the expense of fuel efficiency. The X6 xDrive50i gets an EPA estimated 12 MPG in city driving and 18 MPG on the highway. My actual mileage pretty much matched the estimates. I got 11 in the city and 17 on the highway. The six cylinder model gets an estimated 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. Both require premium gasoline.
Comfort
Inside, the X6 has what you would expect from a luxury coupe: front and rear, heated leather bucket seats; automatic, digital dual-zone climate control and premium sound system among many features. The cabin is very quiet. You hear minimal road noise and maximum engine rumble. I like that.
Seating is outstanding. The 20-way power multi-contour fronts can adjust in so many ways, it should be nearly impossible to get seat fatigue even on the longest of road trips. Leg, head and shoulder room are more than ample, even in back where you might think head room would be tight due to the sloping roof. You do need to watch your head getting in and out of the rear, but once inside passengers fit nicely into bucket seats that look and feel just like the fronts.
Features
The X6 comes with a long list of standard features including BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, Dynamic Stability Control, Xenon Adaptive headlights which swivel the lights in the direction the car is steering, front and rear Park Distance Control, GPS navigation and more. BMW’s iDrive on-board computer is also standard. Highly criticized when first introduced in 2001, iDrive has been greatly improved. I would prefer direct access buttons to reach features more quickly, but iDrive is user friendly enough. The test model is fully loaded with every option available. Among them-- a 6-disc DVD changer and LCD screen attached to the center console to keep rear-seat passengers entertained during road trips; high-definition radio; iPod and USB adapter (the system can read your music library and give you full access through iDrive); rear-view camera and the aforementioned head-up display.
Visibility
One thing that suffers, noticeably, in the X6 is visibility. Your view of the road through the windshield and front windows is superb. But the vehicle’s high stance, sloping roof and low-slung rear windshield make the rear view seem limited. Also, the wide b-pillars greatly limit your over-the-shoulder view out of the side windows. You are forced to rely almost entirely on the more than adequately large side-view mirrors.
Summary
I’m back to my one word description—WOW! When it comes to European cars, I’ve always preferred Germany’s other big brand. Now, it’s a toss-up. Clearly, BMW has an edge in this “new” SAC category. We’ll see if other automakers decide to compete and whether any try to create a similar vehicle at a more universally affordable price. The X6 is expensive by the average buyer’s standard. The starting price for the xDrive50i is $66,550. The test model, fully loaded topped $84,000! The xDrive35i starts at $55,900. Pricing aside, I think it will be hard for anyone to match what BMW has done with the X6. It gets two “thumps up” and a hearty “high five” from me.
Small sport utility vehicle, modified minivan, or new age station wagon. Any of these might describe what is commonly referred to as a crossover vehicle. None of them describes the BMW X6. The company that claims to produce the ultimate driving machine has created the ultimate new-style crossover in the X6.Where the typical crossover looks like a sport utility vehicle and feels like a car, the X6 looks like a car and feels like a sport utility vehicle; a truly refreshing concept that BMW calls the “Sports Activity Coupe.” Keep in mind that what every other automaker calls a “utility” vehicle, BMW calls an “activity” vehicle.
The X6 comes in two models: the six cylinder xDrive35i and the eight cylinder xDrive50i . Both are produced at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina assembly plant alongside the X5 model. BMW delivered an eight cylinder version for me to evaluate.
One word can express my feelings about this ride on many levels—WOW! But, since I’m sure you would like more than that, here are some detailed thoughts based on my week in the vehicle.
Appearance
At first glance, the X6 appears imposing and aggressive. It is both. Upon closer inspection, you discover it is also elegant and well mannered. Its footprint is large. My X6 test model, with its wide stance and tall profile, was only made more imposing by its massive 20-inch wheels with fat, performance tires.The body commands attention, especially the sloping rear. It’s sleek, sporty and like no other crossover on the market. The X6 comes in ten available colors including eight metallic choices.
Power
Under the hood, a 4.4 liter twin turbo V-8 engine producing 400 hp and a peak 450 lb-ft of torque available between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. BMW says the X6 will vault you from 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds. If you’re not a numbers person, suffice it to say this vehicle is quick. The engine packs pure power and the exhaust note is melodically muscular. Get yourself a good radar detector. Before I knew it, the heads-up display showed the number 92 on the windshield. An indication that I needed to slow down or at least do a peripheral scan to make sure “Smokey” wasn’t lurking nearby ready to pounce with an expensive citation since I had just passed a sign with the number 60 beneath the words “speed limit.”Of course, all of the exhilaration comes at the expense of fuel efficiency. The X6 xDrive50i gets an EPA estimated 12 MPG in city driving and 18 MPG on the highway. My actual mileage pretty much matched the estimates. I got 11 in the city and 17 on the highway. The six cylinder model gets an estimated 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. Both require premium gasoline.
Comfort
Inside, the X6 has what you would expect from a luxury coupe: front and rear, heated leather bucket seats; automatic, digital dual-zone climate control and premium sound system among many features. The cabin is very quiet. You hear minimal road noise and maximum engine rumble. I like that.Seating is outstanding. The 20-way power multi-contour fronts can adjust in so many ways, it should be nearly impossible to get seat fatigue even on the longest of road trips. Leg, head and shoulder room are more than ample, even in back where you might think head room would be tight due to the sloping roof. You do need to watch your head getting in and out of the rear, but once inside passengers fit nicely into bucket seats that look and feel just like the fronts.
Features
The X6 comes with a long list of standard features including BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, Dynamic Stability Control, Xenon Adaptive headlights which swivel the lights in the direction the car is steering, front and rear Park Distance Control, GPS navigation and more. BMW’s iDrive on-board computer is also standard. Highly criticized when first introduced in 2001, iDrive has been greatly improved. I would prefer direct access buttons to reach features more quickly, but iDrive is user friendly enough. The test model is fully loaded with every option available. Among them-- a 6-disc DVD changer and LCD screen attached to the center console to keep rear-seat passengers entertained during road trips; high-definition radio; iPod and USB adapter (the system can read your music library and give you full access through iDrive); rear-view camera and the aforementioned head-up display.
Visibility
One thing that suffers, noticeably, in the X6 is visibility. Your view of the road through the windshield and front windows is superb. But the vehicle’s high stance, sloping roof and low-slung rear windshield make the rear view seem limited. Also, the wide b-pillars greatly limit your over-the-shoulder view out of the side windows. You are forced to rely almost entirely on the more than adequately large side-view mirrors.
Summary
I’m back to my one word description—WOW! When it comes to European cars, I’ve always preferred Germany’s other big brand. Now, it’s a toss-up. Clearly, BMW has an edge in this “new” SAC category. We’ll see if other automakers decide to compete and whether any try to create a similar vehicle at a more universally affordable price. The X6 is expensive by the average buyer’s standard. The starting price for the xDrive50i is $66,550. The test model, fully loaded topped $84,000! The xDrive35i starts at $55,900. Pricing aside, I think it will be hard for anyone to match what BMW has done with the X6. It gets two “thumps up” and a hearty “high five” from me.
Auto Test: 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d
This is a Diesel?
I very distinctly remember my father’s 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado with a 5.7 liter V-8 diesel engine. If we were outside playing in the driveway, we could hear Dad arriving home from work when he was still two or three blocks away. Thirty years ago, that was the norm for diesel engines. They were large and loud. Not anymore. When the new 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d arrived in my driveway the first thing I said to the delivery driver was, “this is a diesel?” I was already impressed because it was so quiet.
The X5 xDrive35d is one of two diesel powered models BMW sells in the United States. Joining the oil burning sports activity vehicle is the 335d sedan. Both part of the automaker’s growing Advanced Diesel lineup. Advanced Diesel uses new technology to meet strict federal standards regarding diesel emissions, which in the past were always black, sooty and smelly. Ultra low sulfur diesel fuel with 97-percent less sulfur content—15 parts per million compared to 500 parts per million previously—burns much more cleanly but still produces nitrogen oxide and soot. Through the use of a urea solution, which is injected into the catalytic process, nitrogen oxide is greatly reduced and soot is captured and burned away in the particulate filter. What comes out of the tailpipes is no dirtier and no more harmful than gasoline exhaust. This is a major step forward for diesel engines.
I stood behind the X5 xDrive35d thinking I would see, at least, some exhaust. Much to my surprise, I did not. I also could not smell any exhaust. No noise, no smoke, no smell. Impressive. Here are my thoughts on the X5 xDrive35d after spending a week with the vehicle.
Appearance
The diesel powered X5 looks no different than the gas powered X5. Its outward appearance is that of a luxury SUV, or in this case, SAV. Aggressive, yet elegant. The look is unmistakably BMW. The test model is equipped with 19-inch wheels and matching performance tires which provide a smooth, quiet ride.
The X5 comes in ten available colors including eight metallic choices.
Power
If you are unfamiliar with diesel engines, don’t let the relatively low 265 horsepower figure fool you. Torque is plentiful at 425 lb-ft which means the X5 has plenty of get-up-and-go. BMW claims the 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged inline six cylinder engine will catapult you from 0-60 MPH in 6.9 seconds. The vehicle accelerates quickly. So quickly, I forgot it was a diesel for a while.
Fuel efficiency is the diesel engine’s best attribute. The X5 xDrive35d has an EPA fuel economy rating of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. My actual mileage easily matched those estimates, under spirited driving conditions.
Comfort
Inside, the X5 has what you would expect from a luxury vehicle: front and rear leather seating for five people; automatic, digital dual-zone climate control; more than ample leg, head and shoulder room; all in a nice, quiet cabin. Once sealed inside, outside noise is held to a bare minimum while driving.
Features
Standard features include all-wheel drive, dynamic stability control, tire pressure monitor and rain-sensing windshield wipers among several others. The test model was well equipped with option features including premium sound system, active ventilated driver’s seat, rear-view camera and navigation system among other options. I think this vehicle had every possible option package added. While that certainly created a comfortable ride, it also created an additional $20,720 dollars in sticker shock. I do like the full iPod integration feature. I’ve never had true compatibility in a vehicle and the ability to access my full library through the car sound system is great. Also, BMW has apparently made great improvements to the iDrive vehicle information system. When first introduced, the system was not well received. It’s still a bit more difficult to navigate than I would like, but it is manageable.
Summary
Nice vehicle. But I prefer a true sports utility vehicle. The X5 is a wonderfully engineered road handler but since it looks like an SUV, it should act like an SUV. The diesel engine is a winner. I would love to drive the 335d and take advantage of its 36 MPG highway rating.
I very distinctly remember my father’s 1979 Oldsmobile Toronado with a 5.7 liter V-8 diesel engine. If we were outside playing in the driveway, we could hear Dad arriving home from work when he was still two or three blocks away. Thirty years ago, that was the norm for diesel engines. They were large and loud. Not anymore. When the new 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d arrived in my driveway the first thing I said to the delivery driver was, “this is a diesel?” I was already impressed because it was so quiet.
The X5 xDrive35d is one of two diesel powered models BMW sells in the United States. Joining the oil burning sports activity vehicle is the 335d sedan. Both part of the automaker’s growing Advanced Diesel lineup. Advanced Diesel uses new technology to meet strict federal standards regarding diesel emissions, which in the past were always black, sooty and smelly. Ultra low sulfur diesel fuel with 97-percent less sulfur content—15 parts per million compared to 500 parts per million previously—burns much more cleanly but still produces nitrogen oxide and soot. Through the use of a urea solution, which is injected into the catalytic process, nitrogen oxide is greatly reduced and soot is captured and burned away in the particulate filter. What comes out of the tailpipes is no dirtier and no more harmful than gasoline exhaust. This is a major step forward for diesel engines.I stood behind the X5 xDrive35d thinking I would see, at least, some exhaust. Much to my surprise, I did not. I also could not smell any exhaust. No noise, no smoke, no smell. Impressive. Here are my thoughts on the X5 xDrive35d after spending a week with the vehicle.
Appearance
The diesel powered X5 looks no different than the gas powered X5. Its outward appearance is that of a luxury SUV, or in this case, SAV. Aggressive, yet elegant. The look is unmistakably BMW. The test model is equipped with 19-inch wheels and matching performance tires which provide a smooth, quiet ride.
The X5 comes in ten available colors including eight metallic choices.
Power
If you are unfamiliar with diesel engines, don’t let the relatively low 265 horsepower figure fool you. Torque is plentiful at 425 lb-ft which means the X5 has plenty of get-up-and-go. BMW claims the 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged inline six cylinder engine will catapult you from 0-60 MPH in 6.9 seconds. The vehicle accelerates quickly. So quickly, I forgot it was a diesel for a while.Fuel efficiency is the diesel engine’s best attribute. The X5 xDrive35d has an EPA fuel economy rating of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. My actual mileage easily matched those estimates, under spirited driving conditions.
Comfort
Inside, the X5 has what you would expect from a luxury vehicle: front and rear leather seating for five people; automatic, digital dual-zone climate control; more than ample leg, head and shoulder room; all in a nice, quiet cabin. Once sealed inside, outside noise is held to a bare minimum while driving.
Features
Standard features include all-wheel drive, dynamic stability control, tire pressure monitor and rain-sensing windshield wipers among several others. The test model was well equipped with option features including premium sound system, active ventilated driver’s seat, rear-view camera and navigation system among other options. I think this vehicle had every possible option package added. While that certainly created a comfortable ride, it also created an additional $20,720 dollars in sticker shock. I do like the full iPod integration feature. I’ve never had true compatibility in a vehicle and the ability to access my full library through the car sound system is great. Also, BMW has apparently made great improvements to the iDrive vehicle information system. When first introduced, the system was not well received. It’s still a bit more difficult to navigate than I would like, but it is manageable.
Summary
Nice vehicle. But I prefer a true sports utility vehicle. The X5 is a wonderfully engineered road handler but since it looks like an SUV, it should act like an SUV. The diesel engine is a winner. I would love to drive the 335d and take advantage of its 36 MPG highway rating.
Going Green: Clean Diesel Technology
As America works to reduce and eventually eliminate its dependence on foreign oil, there is a push to bring alternative fuel vehicles to market. Electric, compressed natural gas and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are under development but will not be major players for several years. Diesel, while derived from oil, can serve as a bridge because of its efficiency. Vehicles travel farther on diesel, thus consuming less oil.
Diesel has not been popular on the U.S. consumer market because the engines were significantly noisier and produced smelly, soot-filled exhaust. However, new federal guidelines have produced new technology that nearly eliminates all of those concerns.
I recently tested the 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d, a clean diesel powered sports utility vehicle. Compared to its gasoline powered version, the X5 diesel is much quieter than expected, produced no noticeable odor, and achieved significantly better fuel economy.
Clean Diesel Information
BMW Advanced Diesel
Mercedes Benz BlueTEC
Mercedes Benz offers diesel engines in ML, GL and R class models.
Diesel has not been popular on the U.S. consumer market because the engines were significantly noisier and produced smelly, soot-filled exhaust. However, new federal guidelines have produced new technology that nearly eliminates all of those concerns.
I recently tested the 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d, a clean diesel powered sports utility vehicle. Compared to its gasoline powered version, the X5 diesel is much quieter than expected, produced no noticeable odor, and achieved significantly better fuel economy.
Clean Diesel Information
BMW Advanced Diesel
BMW offers diesel engines in the 335d sedan and X5 xDrive35d activity vehicle.
Mercedes Benz BlueTEC
Mercedes Benz offers diesel engines in ML, GL and R class models.
Volkswagen offers diesel engines in the Jetta, Jetta Sportswagon and Touareg 2 models.
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