�� BMW �� 2008 - �� 9

�� · #41 03-07-2008, 06:57 PM

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, I.C.E., BMW

We've already gotten a sneak peak of what the 2009 BMW 7-series will look like on the outside ahead of its official launch, but the interior - and iDrive in particular - is still veiled in a cloak of secrecy. However, Bimmerfile has supposedly gotten the inside dope on the new multi-function brushed aluminum mole.

According to Bimmerfile, the new iDrive interface will take a cue from one of our favorite in-dash control units - Audi's MMI - with a new interface that has a similar list design and selection system. The screen resolution is higher, which makes the maps and text "more visually appealing" and the submenus are reportedly "more like bookmarks," which should facilitate an easier flow of information.

The new display will also allow show maps in full screen, rather than the split screen in the previous version of iDrive, and radio and CD functions are now available in two separate menus. When playing a CD, the current song will be displayed in a "frame" at the top of the screen, with the list of tracks shown below it.

The major revision, aside from a new phonebook contact list that allows for multiple numbers, is the date, time and radio station bar migrating from the iDrive screen into a central mounted display nestled between the two gauges on the dash. This is one feature that Audi's MMI has had for a few years and is a very welcome addition to the new iDrive. We'll hopefully have official information about the new system in a few days.

[Source: Bimmerfile]

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�� · #42 03-07-2008, 11:22 PM

Filed under: Wagons/Estates, Euro, Hatchbacks, BMW

While BMW's 335i Touring has been spotted testing in the California Desert, don't expect to see the 300-hp five-door in showrooms anytime soon. BMW has again confirmed that the 328i Sports Wagon, with its 230-hp powerplant and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, will be the most powerful 3 Series wagon in the States in the immediate future. We are not surprised, as this follows BMW's trend initiated when they launched the E46 3 Series Touring to the U.S. market in 2001. That model, like the current version, was never fitted with anything but the entry-level six-cylinder engine. Those who crave BMW's award-winning twin-turbo six-cylinder under the hood of their family hauler can opt for BMW's 535xi Sports Wagon. The engine, and all-wheel drive, are standard.

[Source: Autofiends]

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�� · #43 04-07-2008, 12:31 AM

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Crossovers/CUVs, BMW

Opinions about the BMW X6 are split around the Autoblog virtual water cooler and this teaser from Lumma Design hasn't helped. The German tuning haus will be unveiling a production model of its CLR X 650 at the Paris Motor Show later this year, and much like the standard X6, you'll either love it or loathe it.

What isn't up for debate is the CLR X 650's aggressive demeanor. If the nuclear mishap hue isn't enough to catch your attention, then the new fascia equipped with super-sized air dams, the side skirts, rear fender vents and revised mirrors will keep your wandering eyes in check. The whole package is slammed by 40mm over a set of 23-inch bespoke black rolling stock, while the interior is expected to get a color-matched instrument panel, aluminum pedals and a new steering wheel.

Even those of us partial to the X6's proportions aren't convinced that Lumma is doing the SAV concept right. But we have to admit that its revised stance compliments a few of the pseudo-'utes characteristics, even if it does remove the minimal amount of utility that was there to begin with.

[Source: Lumma via Autofiends]

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�� · #44 04-07-2008, 02:04 AM

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, BMW

Click above image for a gallery of the new 7

We've already seen what appear to be official press shots of the new 2009 BMW 7 Series, and it looks pretty good to our eyes. As expected, now that the pictures are available for all the world to see, details about the underpinnings are starting to leak out. Not surprisingly, the V8-powered 750i and 750iL models will get the new twin-turbo engine introduced on the controversial X6, offering 400 horses and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. Other possible powertrains, though not available at launch time, will be a revised twin-turbo inline six with 326 horsepower and a diesel engine for the European market. But fret not fuel misers, a hybrid model is also being considered. Underneath, active suspension which eschews BMW's trademark front struts in favor of double-wishbones, will offer variable damping with comfort, normal, sports and sports-plus modes selectable from inside the cabin.

As you'd expect, BMW's active steering will brings its oft-questioned benefits to the large sedan and can now direct the rear wheels as well. BMW's flagship sedan will undoubtedly be equipped with plenty of passenger pampering features, including massaging rear seats, to go along with safety equipment like night vision, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Of course, the now-familiar iDrive will get its latest set of enhancements in order to make its sometimes confusing interface easier to use. We'll just need to wait for our first stint behind the wheel to see how all this newfangled technology works in the real world, and check back Saturday for more official details.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

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�� · #45 05-07-2008, 01:03 AM

Filed under: Sedans/Saloons, BMW

Click above for a high-res gallery of the new 7 Series

BMW has officially announced the details pertaining to the 5th generation 7 Series, so let's cut right to the chase. In Europe, there are five models arriving on the market in November of this year: the 730d; the 740i and Li; and the 750i and Li. The latter two are powered by the same twin-turbo 4.4L V8 that debuted in the X6. In the U.S.-market 7 Series, the turbo eight is rated at 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, and it is the sole engine option being made available. If you want a BMW 7 Series in America, it will be a 750.

Europeans get more choices. The 730d's 3.0L diesel I6 pumps out 245 horses with nearly 400 lb-ft of torque. Despite the grunt, it boasts a combined fuel economy number of 32.6 U.S. miles per gallon (39.2 Imperial). The 740 models are powered by the now-familiar 3.0L twin-turbo gasoline engine. In the 7, the 3.0TT's power output is 326 horses and 332 lb-ft -- enough to hustle the 740Li from 0 to 62 mph in six seconds flat. All the engines are connected to a six-speed automatic. Follow the jump for more details and BMW's official press release.

Gallery: 2009 BMW 7 Series

Continue reading Officially Official: 2009 BMW 7 Series

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