Category: BMW

With only a few weeks to go before its expected debut BMW is slowly revealing more of the new 3 Series GT.

In this latest set of shots from F30Post we get a good look at the wider kidney grille that will front the F34 GT. Its headlights will be placed a little higher than the F30 saloon, giving the model a quasi SUV look.

It’s difficult to tell at this stage, but it appears as though BMW’s famed hofmeister kink has been given a more rounded look. We’ll have to wait for the final model, we expect, before making final judgement on that.

Expect the 3 Series GT to source its engines directly from the regular 3 Series range.

[Source: F30Post]

With the emergence of the M Performance Automobile model lines it’s no  surprise to see BMW will increase its M profile. Current models already released under the M-lite portfolio are the diesel powered X5 M50d and X60d duo, along with the M135i (due in Australia next month).

However, in future, models such as the Z4 sDrive35is will likely carry much simpler model designations; possibly Z4 M35i.

Although any such changes to model nomenclature would not take place until facelifted or new-generation models are launched.

“We won’t make the change right now as it would confuse customers, but with the next model generation change, the successors of these models will be M Performance vehicles,” a BMW source confirmed with Car and Driver.

[Source: Car & Driver]

When it was first announced the BMW 1 Series M Coupé was coming to Australia we were told “around 100” would be shipped down under. After quickly selling out the initial batch, BMW Australia soon confirmed the rumours it had secured an extra 100 vehicles, bringing Australia’s offical allocation of 1Ms to 200.

Now, over 12 months since the first 1M’s arrived in Australia, brand new models are still being delivered. Thanks to an unofficial tally provided by internet sleuths at the 1addicts forum, the latest shipment of cars unloaded this week brings the local 1M tally to 301, and counting.

For interest’s sake the current breakdown of 1M deliveries across Australia’s four shipping docks according to 1addicts is as follows:

• Brisbane (QLD) 57
• Fremantle (WA) 22
• Melbourne (Vic) 110
• Port Kembla (NSW) 112

Great news for BMW fans all around the country. Better news for buyers keen to pick up a well cared for 1M second hand!

[Source: 1addicts | Thanks to John for the tip]

BMW continues to celebrate the 40th birthday of M GmbH with this short video discussing where it all began—on the track. Iconic models like the 3.0 CSL, M1 and M3 are featured. We think you’ll enjoy reflecting back on four decades of M; who knows, you may even learn a thing or two.

Autocar brings word that the facelifted BMW Z4 is expected to get the M Performance Automobiles treatment, in addition to the cosmetic makeover from the styling team.

That means we should start getting used to the Z4 M35i badge. If nothing else, it’s less convoluted than the current range topping Z4, the sDrive35is. Given the basic numbers of the sDrive35is currently match the fantastic 1M, namely 250kW/450Nm, we’re left wondering what BMW could have in store for the M35i.

With its first petrol powered M Performance model, the M135i, BMW has tuned the N55 3.0 litre turbocharged six to 225kW/450Nm. The same powerplant set for use in the M351. Yet, it stands to reason that any model wearing an M badge, even if it’s M-lite, must have more power than any model in its range that has gone before it. But can an M-lite Z4 have more performance, on paper, than the mighty 1M? Or will M-sourced suspension tuning and cosmetic enhancements be enough?

We think we know the true answer to those questions but we rather expect BMW’s marketing team will be in overdrive explaining why an M badged Z4 is better than the sDrive35is, when they both have the same on-paper spec.

The facelifted Z4 is due for release at the Detroit Auto Show in January next year. So, we’ll definitely have an answer to our questions then, if not before.

[Source: Autocar | Pic: CarPix]

With the BMW 3 Series GT reported to debut in concept form at next month’s Paris Motor Show it’s quite timely that a new series of spy shots have emerged.

The 3 Series GT will sit rather oddly between the saloon and Touring versions and, surprisingly, we’re desperate to like it. Alas, we fear, in profile view at least, it’s just going to look like a Holden Cruze hatch. And, we think, that’s not something BMW should be proud of.

Adding somewhat to the practicality of the F34 GT is the expectation it will follow the lead set by the 5 Series GT and feature a two-piece opening liftback, or tailgate, or hatch; call it what you will.

Check the source link below for more pics and tell us what you think.

[Source: WCF | Pic: Automedia]

Next month’s Paris Motor Show promises more new metal than we can remember. Joining the list of premieres is expected to be a concept model of the new BMW 3 Series GT. It’ll probably be placed alongside its little 1 Series GT sibling, and for good measure why not include a 5 Series GT as well.

According to UK mag Autocar, pre-production versions of the 3er GT, carrying the internal code of F34, are rolling down the line already. A longer wheelbase compared to the F30 3 Series saloon is expected for the GT, although probably not quite as long as the extra 110mm offered in the Chinese market 3 Series Li.

Showing BMW has no fear when it comes to providing niche options, the F34 is likely to prove the basis for a 4 Series Gran Coupé come 2015.

As much as we probably shouldn’t care to admit, we’re quite keen to see what the 3 Series GT has to offer.

[Source: Autocar]

BMW M has used Facebook to give the world these photos of a one-off V12 powered Z3. Believed to be the 5.4 litre engine from the mid-1990s, as used in the 750i and 850Ci, it’s said the bulk of 320hp unit resulted in a weight distribution of 70:30. That may have something to do with why the car didn’t go any further than what you see here.

We’d love to get a personal tour of the secret M garage one day and, although we quite like the thought of a big V12 in the relatively little Z3, we still think the M3 ute is cooler.

In this short video BMW presents the key aspects of the M135i. Powered by a turbocharged 3.0 litre six cylinder engine the M135i will be hitting Australian shores in a few months.

The hot tip is the M2 will use a four cylinder engine, so for all we know the M135i could be in for a short lifespan, which will add to its provenance and may help overcome its face only a BMW designer’s mother could love.