BMW testing the next generation 3 Series platform

Three years before the official launch and BMW has already started testing the next generation 2012 BMW 3 Series. The F35 platform will be quite different from the current E9x models and the first visual change that we noticed is the increased wheelbase along with a wider body.

As we learned from sources close to BMW, we are still a year away from the time the first 2012 3 Series prototypes will hit the road for testing and the final design will be chosen this spring.

An interesting fact pointed out by our friend at BMW is that the Progressice Activity Coupe based on the next 3er platform will be launched prior to the new 3 Series. This is similar to the Progressive Activity Sedan coming out before the 2010 BMW 5 Series. The PAC will be introduced when the Progressive Activity Sedan is officially announced.

2010 BMW 5 Series Rendering

The image below gives us an approximate look of what the next generation 2010 BMW 5 Series front-end might look like.

All the credit for this image goes to VroomVroom and AndyValencia, members if Germancarzone. With the help and hints from people close to BMW and who have seen the final design, the rendering is said to be about 95% accurate, with one exception: the BMW roundel or logo, will be going to be placed on the front bumper rather than the hood.

What we learned recently is that the mirrors and the handles on the F10 5-Series are the same that on the F01.

BMW reconfirms 3 Series Crossover

No breaking news here, but according to Autocar UK, BMW’s CEO Norbert Reithofer has confirmed the future launch of a smaller, more affordable luxury crossover, internally named V3.

The PAC, Progressive Activity Coupe or V3, as it is known internally, is expected to based on Long Wheel Base 3 Series. The Progressive Activity Coupe has a higher roof when compared to the existing 3 Series Wagon and of course, a longer wheelbase as well. According to Autocar, it will fill a slot between the 3 Series Touring and the BMW X3, a statement that might not be entirely true, since the next generation X3 will grow in size and the X1 will be taking its place.

The idea of a PAC vehicle is that the little less wealthy 3er customers might find 5 Series too expensive, X3 too big, so they might find the V3 PAC being the right choice.

As Autocar mentioned as well, we learned a while back that the 3-series crossover will come with rear-wheel drive as standard, but four-wheel drive will be offered as an option.

The engines are likely to be the ones from the BMW 3-series models, with a future line-up of turbocharged four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, basically expect all the “goodies” from the 3 Series to make it into the PAC as well.

First BMW M7 Spy Photos?

Though not officially so, BMW has on occasion admitted to cooking up a hotter version of the new 7 Series. Could these spy pictures be representing that top of the range BMW called the M7? The pictures landed on the laps of our friends at Motortips after being sent to them by a German reader named Francisco.

Francisco had been at his local supermarket about 100km west of Munich when he spotted a different-looking black BMW parked outside. Thinking it was a 2011 5 Series he went for a closer look. Upon realising the vehicle was a 7 Series he noticed other features that set it aside from normal 7ers. For instance, the carhad big black wheels with low profile tires and a dual exhaust system with trapezoidal tips, which is different from other models in the 7 Series lineup. Only M cars are fitted with double tailpipes at BMW.

Was it a special owner-tuned version perhaps? That would have made sense had the badges not been deliberately covered to protect the car's true identity. Apart from the badges there is no other disguise visible enough for the eye to see, pointing to an imminent public reveal.

It's the first time that BMW is producing an M-badged 7 Series after many years of speculation. The BMW M7 will go head to head with the Mercedes-Benz S63 / S65 AMG and the upcoming supercharged Jaguar XJR. It should produce in excess of 600hp (447kW).

2011 BMW 1-Series

Following a mid-cycle facelift performed in 2007, the next generation BMW 1-Series is due to arrive in 2011. Prototype mules using the current 1-Series body (E87) have already been spotted testing around Germany and as a result artist renderings are starting to fill the speculative void.

Despite the early stage of testing, some details have been revealed. According to AutoBild, who spoke to BMW's product development chief, Klaus Draeger, BMW is keeping to the recent philosophy of fast developing new segments. Although a decision has not been made yet, the new 1-Series lineup may feature a type of elongated shooting-brake two-door wagon/ hatch variant. Such a variant, which can accommodate adult size rear passengers unlike the current 1-Series, would allow BMW to offer it to the US market.

The existing BMW and PSA Group alliance which already produces engines for MINI would build engines ranging from 1.4 liters to 3.0 liters for the 1-Series. Turbos are most certainly on the list, but an M version of the 1-Series is out of the question again.

Renderings BMW PAS

The closer we get to the official revealing date, the more spy photos and renderings of the BMW Progressive Activity we will see. The folks at Leftlanenews decided to test their artist skills and based on the information we all have so far, they managed to draw a possible design of the BMW PAS.


In the same time, the German based magazine, Autozeitung, famous for their computer generated images, have put together their own version of the BMW Progressive Activity model.

Two different approaches, while the Leftlanenews artist uses the 2009 BMW 7 Series as the base for the PAS concept, Autozeitung still is importing design elements from the now cancelled CS Concept.

2010 BMW 5 Series - New Information

The fellows at MotorTrend have just posted an article in which they talk about the future 2010 BMW 5 Series. They seem to have received some new information regarding the chassis and the engine.


So, as we mentioned in the past also, the new generation 2010 BMW 5 Series, codenamed F10, will have a new line-up of engines. If the award-winning 3.0 liter twin-turbo engine will be part of the 5er lineup - the upgraded version with 326hp - there will be some other new engines powering the new 5 series. A twin-turbo clean diesel will be one of them, along with a diesel hybrid engine. We should also expect a full hybrid model as the new BMW 7 Series Hybrid.

The BMW M5 will downgrade their engine, from a V10 to a V8 turbo, something that it was reported recently by us as well.

BMW X3 spyed

In less than two years, the next generation BMW will present its second generation X3. The new BMW X3 will grow in size and it will move up in its class to make room for the X1 urban vehicle.

With new competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLK and Audi Q5, BMW is looking to revitalize the current X3 by designing a more dynamic performance oriented activity vehicle with a sleeker design and more appealing to the bimmer fans.

A test mule was spotted in Munich, but compared to the previous spy shots, the new X3 is spotted together with the current X3. Despite the funky camouflage, you can still see the new X3 as growing in size with a roof line slightly lower than the current model. As we mentioned before, the X3 will follow the X5’s steps by getting more round corners and a sportier look. A more dynamic performance oriented activity vehicle is BMW’s goal for this second generation X3.

X6M : new spy shot

The 2010 BMW X6 M seems to be in the final testing stages and it has been spotted once again near the BMW Plant in Spartanburg, SC. Our friend Palbay was there once again snapping photos of this controversial BMW //M model.

The X6 M has never been confirmed by BMW and all the hints that we received over the last months were about “the new performance twins”. The BMW X6 M rumors have been received with skepticism by the bimmer fans, majority of them disagreeing with BMW’s intention of adding more M performance models to the SAV/SAC market. The BMW X5 M is another model that was spotted several times near Spartanburg, but it is expected to make its debut after the X6 M.

2010 BMW Z4 Officially Unleashed with Video

BMW has provided automotive fans with an early Christmas present with the release of the first official details and images of the all-new 2010 BMW Z4 Roadster. Despite bleak economic times, BMW will be looking to continue the long term success of its roadster series. At launch the Z4 will be offered with three different engine options.

The top of the line Z4 sDrive35i features the award winning 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine that has already been successfully deployed in the 135i and 335i. It pumps out 306hp (228Kw) and 400Nm of torque (295lb-ft) and enables the roadster to launch from 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds. For those consumers looking to take the optional Double Clutch Transmission system, an extra 0.1 seconds is wiped off this acceleration figure.The entry level Z4 sDrive23i gets a I6 powerplant with a displacement of 2,497cc, power output lies at 204hp (152 kW) and 250Nm(184lb-ft) of torque. The final engine option is the sDrive30i with a 258hp(192 kW) 3-liter engine with 210Nm(228lb-ft) of torque. All three powerplants abide by the strict EU5 emissions standard taking the BMW roadster into the next decade with much to be excited about.

The new 2010 model features a retractable hard-top, the first time we have seen this in a BMW Z series model. Raised or lowered in 20 seconds, the hard-top weighs much more than the soft-top version offered in previous model series which is sure to hinder the performance. To counter this effect, the Bavarian automaker has introduced a host of new technologies, starting with the Adaptive M Suspension system. The ride height can be raised or lowered by up to 10mm with a choice of three different configurations. Additionally, the driving experience is enhanced with the Drive Dynamic Control function (another first for the Z series) which dynamically alters both the steering and throttle responses.

BMW Z4

The first photo of a ready-to-sell BMW Z4 has leaked out of an undisclosed dealership. Not meant to be seen by the public until December 15th, the picture shows the final draft of the shiny roadster.

The BMW Z4 will sport an electro-mechanical differential called sDrive, and will likely have an additional engine option in addition to those already available. This new Z4 is thought to have 2.0-, 2.5-, and 3.0-litre engines, as well as a 3.0-litre twin turbo, and a massive 4.0-litre V8 from the M division.

Still uncertain is the auto show which will receive the new Z4 on a pedestal for its adoring public. The appearance of this photo makes us suspect a Detroit appearance may be imminent.

The new BMW Z4 will be produced at the Regensburg plant in Germany. The previous version was produced in Spartanburg.

BMW 7-Series Security

BMW is once again putting its weight behind, over, under and every other way, on protecting its customers. Proof lies in these great spy pictures of a very heavy 7 Series. Made heavy by its bullet proof windows, and wide fail-safe tyresamong other additions, the 7 is a Security unit obviously made for the safety of occupants sitting inside. Not a security feature itself, the flagpole on the front fender indicates the potential buyers of this vehicle, namely prominent politicians.

Engines supplied with the new 7 Series should be able to handle the extra kilos supplied by the protection elements. Especially regarded is the 407hp (300kW) 4.4-litre V8 twin turbo in the 750i/iL models, as well as the 730D delivering 540Nm of torque and a top speed of 246km/h.

The 7 Series Security will join the other Security-badged BMWs such as the 5 Series and X5.

BMW Z4

Reliable sources state that BMW will debut the new Z4 next month in both a roadster and coupe configuration.

The new Z4 Roadster will feature a folding hardtop this time instead of the previous soft one. BMW claims that the use of lightweight materials will help keep the weight off of the Z4.

The Z4 Coupe will come with a stiffer and lowered suspension to continue to give the Coupe version the serious performance credibility that BMW aims for with the model. The Coupe will also have distinguishing design cues to differentiate it from the roadster.

Engines will max out with top performing inline 6 cylinders, as is usual for the Z series, but BMW is also studying a possible M version that may adopt a V8 powerplant from the M3.

Also coming down the pike is the Z2 hybrid. The Z2 will be a compact roadster that will feature the new BMW eDrive technology in development right now with the MINI-E (a full electric vehicle with a 150 kW/204 hp electric motor that churns out 220 Nm of torque).

It seems BMW is serious about continuing to create roadsters and coupes in this segment.

BMW X6M

The 2010 BMW X6M has made its weekly appearance near Spartanburg, but this time, we’re being spoiled with a different exterior color. Palbay was there one more time and he snapped a photo of a beautiful red X6M.

What makes the M more special than the X6 V8 Twin-Turbo? Well, as far as appearance goes the typical M side vents and dual-exhaust on each side.

As we mentioned many times before, some say that the BMW X6M will be powered by a 5.0-liter V10 with 373kW and 520Nm of torque, even though we believe that a twin-turbo engine will be more suitable for the job. The 4.4 V8 Twin-Turbo can be the ideal choice since the car already weighs around 5,000 lbs and placing a heavy V10 engine in it, would not make much sense.

Everything is being kept under the table as of now, so unfortunately no other details are available, including pricing.

BMW Z4

What we learned today is that BMW are delaying Z4 press release due the sDrive trademark registration issues in US market. Our sources confirmed two weeks ago that the launch was scheduled for the first week in November and everyone, including us, got excited.

According to Eny from GCZ (connected with BMW), “the model designations has finally been officially registered this Tuesday (11/11) yet BMW AG are still waiting to obtain official letter (registration certificate) from USPTO, and then press release can be issued.”

So, in the mean time, what can be better than some new spy photos of the BMW Z4.

Next Generation BMW 6 Series Prototype Spied for First Time

BMW’s next-generation 6 Series coupe and convertible, expected to be introduced in 2011, have been spied in early testing. Though heavily camouflaged, the convertible in our photos looks to be longer and lower than the current car, with considerably tighter overhangs front and rear. It’s hard to see the exact lines of course, but the new 6 Series has a smoother, more streamlined look.

The vehicle spotted testing in Germany has a cloth soft top, but closer examination suggests that this may also be part of the camouflage. The wrapped decklid gives the impression that this is a convertible, so the next 6’er just might sport a retractable hardtop, to compete with Mercedes’ SL.

BMW PAS Crossover

Another round of spy shots of BMW’s Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) has surfaced, revealing what appear to be production-ready front and rear light treatments under disguise. The car, which is expected to be a five-door fastback sized between the 5-Series and 7-Series that will debut as a 2010 model, has not yet been officially unveiled. It’s expected to be the first of a possible new range of BMW products, the V-Series.


The PAS--or is it the V5?--will sport “coupe-sedan” styling similar to that of the X6, with a more road-going stance. It’s expected to be a four-seater, also in the same vein as the X6, powered by BMW’s 3.0 liter straight-six in gasoline and diesel permutations. A more powerful 4.0 liter diesel V8 may be offered, and BMW has not ruled out the possibility of a hybrid version.

Underneath the camouflage in these photos, the final hood lines can be discerned, and the dramatically sloped rear glass will give this car a unique profile on the road.

BMW Z4 spied

One of the most controversially-designed but immensely satisfying driver’s cars
, the BMW Z4, is almost at its tail’s end. These are the latest spy photos of its replacement, the 2010 version which has been spied a few times before already. The roof looks like a two-piece hard-top convertible which if it makes it into final production, will mark BMW Z’s first foray into tin top territory.


What makes these particular pictures special, apart from the red colour, is how little effort BMW has put into hiding the car from us. Of course 9 out of 10 times they get found out anyway, which is why we still advocate for a ‘less is more’ policy across the board from all manufacturers in future.


Even in this state a few details are still under wraps, like the front and rear lights, the latter though giving clear clues as to the styling direction the Z4 is taking. We can see how the rear bumper convexes toward the concave boot lid. Z4 is expected to show its first public face at Detroit in January 2009, with production commencing a few months later in Germany.

BMW X4

The BMW X4 will be a smaller version of the BMW’s Sports Activity Coupe, the X6. Today, our friend Palbay confirms one of the speculations: the X4 will be using most of the new second generation BMW X3 components, in a move to reduce costs. This also goes hand in hand with their latest trend of releasing smaller size cars, powered by fuel efficient technologies.

The projected launch date is set at the beginning of 2010 and the X4 will be released in an all wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive models. As mentioned before, the BMW X4 will join the X models production at the Spartanburg plant in South Carolina.

BMW X2

The bimmer fans were greeted today with a new rumor or apparently a confirmation of a new BMW model being launched in the near future. The vehicle in question is the BMW X2 that has been rumored for some time now. We reported back in July, that the BMW X2 might make its way into the BMW line up as soon as 2011.

The initial news and renderings were brought to us by the fellow at LeftLaneNews and today Carmagazine UK came back with more news, but the same rendering.


The BMW X2, codenamed SAR, short for Sports Activity Runabout(yeah, I know, always wonder how they come up with these names), is portrayed as X6’s little brother, a baby BMW, as Carmagazine calls it.

The X2 will be a two-door model with coupe like lines, sharing the same engines as the BMW X1 and most likely similar technologies, one of them being the xDrive.

The conflicting part comes from the fact that Carmagazine UK states the BMW X2 is still on the drawing board and it has not been given a green light, but in the same time, we are being shown a test mule spotted in Munich.