BMW Team RLL Qualify 1-2 at Mid-Ohio

BMW Team RLL will start 1-2 in tomorrow’s American Le Mans Series Mid-Ohio Sports Car Challenge following the team’s third consecutive GT class front row qualifying effort.

Joey Hand drove the No. 56 BMW M3 GT to his third pole of the year (four total: Hand: Long Beach, Lime Rock Park, Mid-Ohio. Müller: Mosport) with a lap of 1:20.539 minutes around the 2.25-mile, 13-turn road course.

Only 0.116 seconds slower, Dirk Werner qualified the No. 55 M3 GT with a 1:20.655 minute lap to sew up the third 1-2 BMW Team RLL start. The duo of Werner and Auberlen has qualified second to teammates Hand and Müller in the last three races.

Hand along with co-drivers Dirk Müller and Andy Priaulx, won the opening round of the 2011 ALMS season, leading a 1-2 BMW Team RLL GT class finish at the 12 Hours of Sebring. Hand and Müller scored a second and third consecutive victory at Long Beach and Lime Rock Park. The duo finished fourth at Mosport to extend their lead in the driver point standings.

Auberlen and Werner stand third in GT driver points with two podium finishes this season (Sebring – second, Mosport – third).

The two-hour-and-forty-five-minute Mid-Ohio Sports Car Challenge is scheduled to take the green flag at 3:30 p.m. ET Saturday. The race will be broadcast live on ESPN3.com and rebroadcast on ESPN2 from 10:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. ET on Sunday, August 7.

[Source: BMW ] 

Info & Specs: 2012 BMW X3 xDrive20i and xDrive35d

Press Release: From its inception, the new BMW X3 has occupied the top slot among the competition by virtue of its compelling driving pleasure, convincing versatility and commanding presence anchored in high-calibre design and no-compromise premium quality. Now this successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is about to extend its lead even further on the efficiency front.

Autumn 2011 will see additions to the model range in the shape of the BMW X3 xDrive20i and the BMW X3 xDrive35d. All-new engines featuring BMW TwinPower Turbo technology endow both models with a further optimised performance to fuel consumption ratio. Added to which, the BMW X3 exudes even more appeal thanks to a fine-tuned range of standard equipment and special options.



From autumn 2011, the new BMW X3 will come with a choice of three petrol engines and three diesel units spanning an output range of 135 kW/184 hp to 230 kW/313 hp. An exceptionally diverse portfolio of power units thus joins forces with the SAV’s outstanding agility – with intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as standard – and enhanced ride comfort. Thanks to a comprehensive range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology, including the Auto Start-Stop function that can be combined with both the six-speed manual and the eight-speed automatic transmission, the BMW X3 also achieves top ratings in its segment for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

BMW X3 xDrive20i: lively power curve and optimised efficiency courtesy of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

In autumn 2011 the BMW X3 Drive20i will be available as the new entry-level model among the petrol variants. Its newly developed 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit blends a hallmark BMW sporty power curve with exceptionally high efficiency. The new engine’s BMW TwinPower Turbo technology includes a turbocharging system based on the twin-scroll principle, along with High Precision Injection direct petrol injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. Here the new powerplant takes its lead from the technology package of the 225 kW/306 hp multi-award-winning six-in-line unit of the BMW X3 xDrive35i.

Thanks to the use of aluminium, the powerplant of the BMW X3 xDrive20i is particularly light in weight and reaches its peak output of 135 kW/184 hp at 4,800 rpm. Maximum torque of 270 Newton metres is already available at 1,250 rpm. The new BMW X3 xDrive20i features a six-speed manual gearbox as standard with the option of an eight-speed automatic transmission. In both versions, the standard range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology includes, among other features, the Auto Start-Stop function, which automatically switches the engine off when the car is stationary at traffic lights or in congestion in order to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption when idling.

Top athlete with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology: new six-cylinder diesel in the BMW X3 xDrive35d.

A new edition of the world’s sportiest six-cylinder diesel engine will deliver a particularly enthralling experience of driving pleasure in the new BMW X3 xDrive35d from autumn 2011. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology drums up peak output of 230 kW/313 hp, reached at 4,400 rpm, making the BMW X3 xDrive35d the most powerful variant in the SAV’s model range. With maximum torque of 630 Newton metres on tap from as low as 1,500 to 2,500 rpm, the new diesel engine also ensures impressive pulling power.

The BMW TwinPower Turbo technology of the new all-aluminium unit comprises further advanced two-stage turbocharging (Variable Twin Turbo) and latest-generation common-rail direct injection. At low engine speeds the small turbocharger is deployed. The air it compresses is first fed past the larger turbocharger to the combustion chambers, ensuring lossless development of charge pressure. During heavier throttle application, an electronic controller of the bypass unit engages the larger turbocharger. Extremely spontaneous response is thus ensured by a power curve to match the relevant requirement. The injection system features precision solenoid injectors and maximum pressure of 1,800 bar to guarantee particularly efficient and clean combustion. The BMW X3 xDrive35d comes equipped as standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission including Auto Start-Stop.

Greater variety in the equipment range too: the BMW X3 continues along its path of success.



Thanks to its extended range of engines, the new BMW X3 now offers an unprecedented blend of superior driving characteristics and exemplary efficiency. It also scores with its versatile luggage compartment, providing as it does between 550 and 1,600 litres of space, as well as extremely high-quality and innovative equipment features. The new BMW X3 is the only model in its class, for example, to offer the option of a Head-Up Display and in-car internet access.



For autumn 2011, an already diverse range of standard equipment and special options will be further boosted by a number of specific enhancements. The convenience of the Auto Hold function, for example, will be augmented by the automatic release of the electromechanical parking brake. The range of mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive will likewise be extended. In conjunction with a navigation system, the Real-Time Traffic Information function will also be available for the new BMW X3 from autumn 2011. This innovative system provides particularly accurate and up-to-the-minute congestion alerts as well as information on the traffic situation on motorways, country roads and selected city routes. It allows the driver to take into account any potential loss of time resulting from a diversion when recalculating the route. As an added option on the interior design front, the trim elements on the instrument panel can now also be specified in High-gloss Black.

With its new engines and enhanced equipment range, the BMW X3 has the perfect prerequisites to perpetuate its success story. The extraordinary popularity of the SAV model is expressed not only in consistently strong demand, but also through positive feedback from recent reader surveys. In the poll for the “Four-Wheel-Drive Car of the Year 2011” conducted by car magazine Auto Bild Allrad, the new BMW X3 won from the word go. And that wasn’t long after readers of Off Road magazine had voted the Sports Activity Vehicle “Off-Roader of the Year 2011”.






[source: http://www.bmwblog.com/]
 

The new BMW 1 series (F20)

GENERAL/BODY
Second generation 1-Series retains the only rear-wheel-drive model in its class. Even more sporty and fuel-efficient than before, and significantly more comfortable and spacious.
"Sport Line" and "Urban Line" models available.
Body 85 millimeters (3.35 inches) longer, wheelbase 30 millimeters (1.18 inches) longer, front track 51 millimeters (2 inches) wider and rear track 72 millimeters (2.83 inches) wider than previous model.
50:50 weight distribution.
Highly torsion-resistant body for increased responsiveness and passenger protection. Comprehensive range of safety equipment including front, side and head airbags.
ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS
Two newly developed 1.6-litre petrol engines (twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC and Double-VANOS):
118i: 125 kW/170 hp at 4,800 rpm, maximum torque: 250 Nm at 1,500 – 4,500 rpm
0 – 100 kph: 7.4 seconds, maximum speed: 225 km/h
116i: 100 kW/136 hp at 4, 400 rpm, maximum torque: 220 Nm at 1,350 – 4, 300 rpm
0 – 100 kph: 8.5 seconds, maximum speed: 210 km/h
Radically redesigned 2.0-litre diesel engines (BMW TwinPower Turbo technology package, consisting of variable-geometry turbocharger, common-rail magnetic-valve direct injection):
120d: 135 kW/184 hp at 4,000 rpm, maximum torque: 380 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 750 rpm
0 – 100 kph: 7.2 seconds, maximum speed: 228 km/h
118d: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 320 Nm at 1,750 – 2, 500 rpm
0 – 100 kph: 8.9 seconds, maximum speed: 212 km/h
116d: 85 kW/116 hp at 4,000 rpm, maximum torque: 260 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm
0 – 100 kph: 10.3 seconds, maximum speed: 200 km/h
116d EfficientDynamics Edition: 85-kW/116-hp 1.6 litre diesel engine and additional fuel-saving technologies that will keep CO2 emissions over the EU testing cycle down to just 99 g/km.
Six-speed manual transmission or eight-speed automatic transmission available, the latter is unique in class.
EQUIPMENT/OPTIONS
In addition to numerous efficiency technologies, there is also the start-stop system, a regenerative braking system, and a driving program selector with two modes - "Eco" and "Sport".
High-quality interior with driver-friendly cockpit - optional iDrive system with BMW flatscreen design.
Production will be at the Regensburg plant, public debut at the IAA in September.

COLORS:
Standard colors (non-metallic)
Black
Alpine White
Crimson Red
Optional colors (metallic)
Black Sapphire
Deep Sea blue
Mineral Grey
Midnight Blue
Glacier Silver
Optional colors (metallic) - Available from November 2011
Mineral White
Liquid Blue
Valencia Orange

[source: http://f20.1addicts.com/]

New M3 DTM Concept

Launch of the BMW M3 DTM Concept Car

Just two weeks after the official roll-out of the new racing car for the 2012 DTM season, BMW presented the BMW M3 DTM Concept Car. Dr. Klaus Draeger, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for development, and BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt unveiled the car on Friday evening in the Double Cone building at Munich’s BMW Welt. As part of the DTM event in the Olympic Stadium, the BMW M3 DTM Concept Car will be on show to motorsport fans and visitors to BMW Welt at the weekend.

The car offers an initial impression of what the BMW M3 DTM will look like when it lines up at the start of the 2012 season. However, the vehicle was not the only star of the evening at BMW Welt: BMW Motorsport also presented the first two drivers to be confirmed as wearing the company colours in the DTM as of next season - Andy Priaulx (GB) and Augusto Farfus (BR). Furthermore, the first partners of BMW Motorsport for 2012 were introduced.

“It is good to see how our DTM project is picking up speed,” said Dr. Draeger. ”Next year, BMW returns to the DTM after two decades. We will be facing our main competitors in the premium sector - and are already looking forward to this challenge. The DTM comeback sees BMW return to its roots. We have enjoyed great success in production car racing in the past, and I am convinced we will follow on in 2012 where we left off. Everyone at BMW Motorsport is working hard to ensure we get off to a successful start next season.”

Marquardt added: “Getting a new racing programme up and running is a bit like doing a jigsaw. New pieces are added almost every day, and we must put them together to create the big picture. The BMW M3 DTM Concept Car is an important milestone on our route to the start of the 2012 season. The roll-out of the car was successful, and we are now starting our test programme out on the track. Drivers Andy Priaulx and Augusto Farfus are also involved and will form part of our driving line-up in 2012. Their impressive performances in touring car and GT racing make them ideally suited to the DTM, and we are sure they will leave their mark on this series too. It is obviously just as important to have strong partners on board, and we were able to present some of them today. The pieces are fitting together perfectly, so we can definitely say: our preparations for the 2012 season are going according to plan.”

Successful drivers from within the own ranks

Priaulx and Farfus have been confirmed as the first drivers to take to the track with the BMW M3 DTM in the 2012 season and during the intense test phase. Both drivers arrive in the DTM with impressive wins and titles to their names. Priaulx won the 2004 European Touring Car Championship for BMW, and followed that up with three World Championship titles between 2005 and 2007. The racing driver from the Channel Island of Guernsey (GB) has also proven his class in GT racing, with victory at the 2005 Nürburgring 24 Hours (DE) and first in the GT class at this year’s 12-hour race at Sebring (US).

“The DTM will be a big challenge for us all,” said Priaulx. ”Together with BMW, I have celebrated success in many different disciplines and behind the wheel of some fantastic racing cars in recent years. I am more than confident that this will also be the case in the DTM. The BMW M3 DTM looks fantastic. I can hardly wait to get to know the car better in the coming tests, to contribute to its development, and ultimately to sit in the cockpit for the first DTM race in 2012.”

Farfus can also look back on a successful career with BMW. This is proven by 15 wins in the World Touring Car Championship, the triumph at the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2010, and many more successful races in BMW racing cars: the Brazilian has all the essentials to be successful in the DTM. “I am delighted BMW is giving me the opportunity to race in the DTM,” said Farfus. “You always need new challenges in life. That is why I cannot wait for my debut in this series. The opposition is tough and has more experience in recent years, but BMW Motorsport is working fantastically to ensure we should be competitive right from the word go. We want to learn as quickly as possible. Who knows, maybe we can already challenge the established manufacturers a bit in 2012.”

[source: http://www.dtm.com]

BMW M3 Coupe in Java Green

Looking for a special BMW M3 Coupe? Look no further than Munich. A local dealership is sporting a BMW M3 Coupe with one of the most interesting BMW Individual Colors we have seen: Java Green.

The Individual color showed up on our radar last year when a Moscow-based customer rocked the Java Green for the first time on an M3. Now, a new M3 Java Green shows up in Munich and the color is just as
eye-catching as the first time around.

On top of the unique color, the M3 Coupe comes equipped with the aggressive-looking Competition Package and inside, BMW offers the Individual upholstery Novillo Black with green contrast stitching. The surcharge for the exclusive and extremely rare color is 4,700 euros.

The M3 also sports the M Driver’s Package and the engine is matted to a dual clutch transmission.

Total price to be special? A mind blowing 102, 450 euros.

Gallery:

















































































[source: bimmertoday.de]

BMW M5 2011 news

BMW will launch the new M5 in 2011, the super saloon variant of the F10-series new 5-series family. Our artist's impression reveals how the hot Five will look at launch next March, after a show debut in late 2010 or early 2011.

We have the full four-page lowdown from Georg Kacher in the latest January 2010 issue of CAR Magazine, but here are some nuggets to whet your appetite:

• 4.4-litre V8 bi-turbo
• 578bhp, 530lb ft
• 155mph limited top speed
• 0-62mph 4.4sec
• Unlimited top speed 188mph

That direct-injection 4.4 lump is the same engine you'll find under the hood of the X5 M and X6 M, but further tweaked by M Division to liberate more power. Forced induction makes it the first M saloon to be turbocharged.

Will there be a new BMW M5 Touring?

Not this time. Dog owners in a rush will have to shop at the neighbouring Audi or Mercedes showrooms for RS and AMG variants.

We interview Klaus Draeger in the new issue of CAR Magazine, and he discusses the need to downsize and explains how even the new M5 will benefit from Efficient Dynamics.

New M5 cleans up its act

Yes, even BMW's fastest saloon now concentrates on lowering its CO2. Internal targets are gunning for a 30% drop in emissions and consumption.