Showing posts with label BMW. Show all posts

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Bmw 135i

Bmw 135i

BMW�s EfficientDynamics philosophy continues with the 2011 135i Coupe and Convertible models which feature the company�s latest twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six cylinder engine. Both models will feature the 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT) as an option.The new six-cylinder (N55 designation) develops maximum output of 300 hp at 5,800 rpm, with peak torque of 300 lb-ft available all the way from 1,200�5,000 rpm. This is the same level of performance as the current 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder but with the innovation of twin-scroll technology and the integration of VALVETRONIC throttle-less intake technology, this new engine promises even better throttle response and even more fuel efficiency. Thanks to VALVETRONIC, VANOS, and the twin-scroll turbocharger housing, peak torque is reached 100rpm earlier than with the previous engine, and engine boost response is improved across the entire engine speed range.In order to enhance the sporting character of the optional 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission, the shift paddles now feature dedicated paddles for upshifting and down shifting. The driver now pulls the right paddle for upshifts and the left for down shifts. Manual shifts may also be accomplished via the console mounted e-shifter.Harman Kardon Surround Sound System replaces HiFi System Professional as the upgrade sound system option.The 2011 BMW 135i Coupe and Convertible will go on sale in the United States as 2011 models in Spring 2010.

Bmw 135i

Thursday, August 4, 2011

2012 bmw 1-series features

For the first time, every last trace of the petrol and diesel motors for the BMW 1 Series now offer brand new BMW TwinPower Turbo engineering. A unique cycle of 1.6-litre petrol motors: BMW 116i with 100 kW/136 hp, BMW 118i with 125 kW/170 hp. Profoundly updated 2.0-litre diesel motors: BMW 116d with 85 kW/116 hp, BMW 118d with 105 kW/143 hp, BMW 120d with 135 kW/184 hp. Likewise planned for launch soon is the BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition, with a 85-kW/116-hp 1.6 litre diesel motor and extra fuel-safeguarding advances that will keep CO2 discharges over the EU testing cycle down to unequivocally 99 g/km.

2012 bmw 1 series

Monday, August 1, 2011

Bmw 525d

Bmw 525dFrom entry-level 520d to flagship 507bhp M5, the BMW 5-Series never fails to impress � dynamically at least. In terms of styling, it�s a different matter. The kindest thing we can say is that the design has grown on us over time, although the bodywork remains clumsy and heavy-handed.Exactly the same criticism can be levelled at the driving environment. With its tall, slabby console

Bmw 525d

Bmw 525d

From entry-level 520d to flagship 507bhp M5, the BMW 5-Series never fails to impress � dynamically at least. In terms of styling, it�s a different matter. The kindest thing we can say is that the design has grown on us over time, although the bodywork remains clumsy and heavy-handed.Exactly the same criticism can be levelled at the driving environment. With its tall, slabby console and bulky binnacles, it�s the least attractive layout here. Worse still is the interior�s lack of stowage � there�s no handily accessible compartments on the transmission tunnel console.As a result, the BMW�s cockpit isn�t as welcom�ing as that in any opponent here. That�s a shame, because the driver is very well catered for. The seat is very comfortable and also the most supportive on test, with a spot-on position.Occupants in the back have plenty to be happy about, too, thanks to the well shaped, high-backed rear seats. And the 520-litre boot is generous.The engine is the best here for keen drivers � smooth and cultured, with minimal turbo lag and consistent power delivery across the rev range. But the 525d doesn�t perform any better than its riv�als, and the springy clutch action of the otherwise good six-speed manual box is hard work in traffic.BMW now seems to be getting to grips with run-flat tyres. The ride still isn�t as smooth as the Merc�s, but most ripples, ruts and ridges are dealt with well. The car�s sporty image means firm suspension, yet the handling makes this worthwhile. The 5 really enjoys being thrown into corners, and has the best steering feedback and body control.

Bmw 525d

Sunday, July 17, 2011

2012 BMW 7 Series High Performance Technology

Drivers not only appreciate the agile handling of the aluminium chassis with optional integral Active Steering but also the wide range of intelligent assistance systems such as Head-Up Display, BMW Night Vision with person recognition and Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. The generation of the 2012 BMW 7 Series Sedan As a rule a luxury-class sedan has reached the highest of all aims. However, there is one sedan that is the exception to this rule and which constantly creates new aims to set new standards: the BMW 7 Series Sedan. The twelve-cylinder BMW 760i and BMW 760Li models represent the top of the fifth generation BMW 7 Series. The BMW TwinPower Turbo V12 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

The unique sound of the V8 engine in the BMW 750i/Li is instantly recognisable. The BMW 740i/Li and 740d/Ld are classic straight six-cylinder petrol engines. Particularly efficient is the BMW 730d, without the feeling of any loss in power thanks to 540 Nm. The same applies to the long versions (for example, the BMW 730Ld) that, with 14 centimetres of increased legroom in the rear, make this chauffeur sedan the first choice of those who want to relax without compromising on dynamics.

2012 BMW 7 Series

2012 bmw 7 series

The eight-cylinder power unit in the BMW 750i provides highest level power and performance while at the same time reducing both fuel consumption and emissions to an even lower level. The V8 with Twin Turbo technology offers maximum output of 300 kW/407 hp. Peak torque is 600 Nm maintained consistently between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm, and accelerating from a standstill to 100 km/h takes just 5.2 seconds. But what are mere numbers in comparison to the unique sound of a V8?

The straight six-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 740i with an output of 240 kW/326 hp, the BMW straight six-cylinder engine is the most powerful ever. The power unit featured in the BMW 740i comes with the combination of Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection exclusive to BMW, offering unparalleled power and performance combined with truly impressive all-round economy. 5.9 seconds is all it takes to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. Engine weight is also much lower, inter alia on account of the all-aluminium crankcase, which naturally benefits the agility of the entire car. Imposing at the front, powerful at the rear, the BMW 7 Series Sedan is a vehicle that exudes confidence. The large kidney grilles emphasize the new BMW 7 Series' imposing presence while the striking shoulder line extends uninterrupted from bonnet to boot, making the car seem longer. The door handles are integrated seamlessly into this shoulder line, creating an inimitable effect even at night.

2012 BMW 7 Series

The straight six-cylinder diesel engines in the BMW 730d, 730Ld and 740d. Sporty performance paired with maximum efficiency: the defining mark of the BMW 740d. An impressive output of 225 kW (306 hp) is delivered by the combination of one large and one small turbocharger, coupling powerful acceleration with heavy drive in the high rev range. With a combined fuel consumption of only 6.8 litres per 100 km and 540 Nm performance, the BMW 730d demonstrates its unique efficiency and confident power in every situation.

2012 BMW 7 Series Interior

The exterior of the BMW 7 Series is 14 centimetres longer than the short version - and all of this is used to increase space and comfort in the rear. The rear door is noticeably bigger, making it significantly easier to enter the vehicle. The interior is the most generously sized in the luxury sedan class, and the roofline and C-pillar have been redesigned to provide additional headroom, for a feeling of greater spaciousness.

The 8-speed automatic transmission Steptronic in the BMW 760i and 760Li. Only the tachometer will reveal how fast and seamlessly the new 8-speed automatic transmission Steptronic shifts gears. The additional gears reduce the engine's rev interval between shifts, so the transmission process is barely noticeable. The eighth gear reduces the number of revolutions at high speeds, tangibly increasing comfort while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The six-speed automatic transmission Steptronic in the BMW 7 Series Sedan. The perfectly-spaced gear ratios of the responsive six-speed automatic transmission Steptronic ensure that the vast power of the BMW 7 Series engine is transmitted to the drive wheels with maximum efficiency. A newly developed control shifts gears faster, and when the driver kicks down the accelerator, the automatic transmission will shift back immediately by up to four gears. Minimum converter slip and exact selection of gears increases spontaneity and efficiency and the gears can be shifted manually thanks to the electronic gear selector lever.

Thanks to their particle filter and exhaust-gas recirculation system, the BMW 7 Series Sedan diesel engines have no problems complying with strict EU5 requirements. In 2014, EU6 will mandate a further reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, but the BMW 730d with BMW BluePerformance already meets these EU6 standards today. An oxidising converter collects nitrogen oxide emissions and breaks them down cyclically, unnoticed by the driver. The result: nitrogen and water, which occur naturally in the air we breathe.

High Precision Injection and Twin Turbo in the BMW 740i, 750i and 760i. Two milligrams of petrol � that's how precisely the High Precision Injection (HPI) controls the fuel-air mix. The right dosage of injected fuel is meticulously ensured by the piezo injectors, with only part of the combustion chamber being filled under lower partial loads. Thanks to the Twin Turbo, it is now possible for the straight six-cylinder engine to provide a supreme standard of power and performance previously only conceivable with far larger engines. Engine weight is also much lower, in part on account of the all-aluminium crankcase, which naturally benefits the agility of the entire car and offers more power on less fuel.

The interior of the BMW 7 Series Sedan is generous space, precise elegance and charming functionality form the character of the BMW 7 Series Sedan. The interior's finish, including a wide range of high-class materials and a handcrafted look, conveys a new interpretation of inviting modernity. A particularly eye-catching feature of the cockpit is the instrument cluster with black panel technology - when not in use, the display is matt black, and it comes to life in several stages when the ignition is started. High-tech, special ceramic material is also offered as an option on selected control elements and switches. The spaciousness offered by the BMW 7 Series Sedan long version is as exclusive and individual as its passengers. The extra 14 centimetres is used to increase legroom while the roofline has been redesigned to provide additional headroom. Individually adjustable seats, extended rear air conditioning and rear-seat entertainment further enhance the modern ambience. Because driving pleasure is not just a front-row experience.

The camera systems in the BMW 7 Series Sedan. Surround View reveals new perspectives. Two front-end cameras are integrated in the front bumper, one on the left and one on the right, to provide an advanced view at crossroads and on narrow roads. The images obtained, transmitted to the Control Display, allow you to identify any oncoming traffic before it can be seen from the driver�s position. Two additional cameras in the wing mirrors monitor the side areas and also generate a bird�s eye view image of the BMW 7 Series Sedan for optimum vision in tight manoeuvres. The Rear View camera also provides welcome support when parking. Interactive lane lines in the image inform the driver whether or not the parking space is large enough.

2012 BMW X1 xDrive28i and sDrive20d Series

This is the formula on which the 2012 BMW X1 is based. At first glance it is a compact BMW X model. The second glance comes with the challenge to explore something new. For example, an efficient SUV with BMW driving dynamics. Either with sDrive, with characteristic BMW rear-wheel drive that separates steering from the engine so that every wheel can carry out its own task to perfection. Or as xDrive, with the intelligent all-wheel drive system and optional Performance Control that combines traction and agility. The powerful straight six-cylinder petrol and four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines work alongside BMW Efficient Dynamics, a package of intelligent measures such as the Auto Start Stop function, the gear shift indicator and Brake Energy Regeneration, to guarantee outstanding efficiency. The maximum five stars awarded in the Euro NCAP crash test unite a clear conscience with a reliable safety.

2012 BMW X1

Diesel engines are still good for surprises. The BMW X1 features the world�s first four-cylinder diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo. Alongside the ultra-lightweight aluminium engine block, two different-sized turbochargers are deployed sequentially to deliver blistering power of up to 150 kW (204 hp) at any speed range. At the same time, fuel consumption is a surprisingly frugal 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres.

The BMW X1 also boasts BMW�s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Performance Control systems. Arriving at a test track consisting of loose gravel constructed to demonstrate the capabilities of these systems, the X1 engineers described how the systems work in conjunction with each other and then allowed us to try them out firsthand. Having the opportunity to briskly circle the track in various modes allowed me to feel how good the systems really are. Instead of applying abrupt slaps on the wrist like many vehicles, the X1 seamlessly reduces throttle where traction is lacking and even applies braking when needed. No understeer, no oversteer, no funny business.

2012 BMW X1 sDrive20d

2012 BMW X1 xDrive28i

BMW X1 it is difficult to argue with a 2.0-liter powerplant producing 295 ft-lbs of torque at 2000 rpm which sure came in handy heading up that mountain road. The sprint to 62 mph happens in a modest 7.3 seconds and turbo lag is all but eliminated. Power delivery is seamless and always there whether you want or need it. When the X1 arrives on our fair shores, it will likely be with the 3.0L in-line six-cylinder gasoline engine that boasts 230 hp and 200 ft-lbs of torque. It is a shame the diesel I drove is unlikely find itself on this side of the Atlantic. It offers the power of a six-cylinder engine with the economy of a four. In fact, highway mileage is an impressive 44 mpg.

The four-cylinder versions xDrive28i and sDrive18i impress thanks to their precise response and efficient fuel consumption. The BMW TwinPower Turbo in the BMW xDrive28i boasts spontaneous power build-up at all revs. Its rapid response converts the driver�s wishes directly into forward thrust. This 180 kW (245 hp) drive unit lets the facts supply the emotions: from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds with a fuel consumption of only 7.9 litres per 100 km. The sDrive18i has a little less spirit but offers an equal amount of driving pleasure. Modern valve technology supplies the motor with the correct quantity of air at all times. The 110 kW (150 hp) engine consumes 8.2 litres over 100 km and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds.

2012 BMW X1

2012 BMW X1 Interior

The BMW X1 xDrive23d features the world's first four-cylinder diesel engine with Variable Twin Turbo. Two different-sized turbochargers are deployed sequentially to deliver blistering power right across the rev range. At low revs, the small turbocharger works on its own to provide instantaneous throttle response. Third-generation common rail injection in the BMW X1 sDrive18d, BMW X1 xDrive18d, BMW X1 sDrive20d and BMW X1 xDrive20d ensures exceptional performance (up to 130 kW / 177 hp) in hand with unbeatable fuel consumption levels (starting at a frugal 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres). The diesel engines in the BMW X1 meet the EU5 emissions standard.

Only the rev counter will reveal how quickly and comfortably the new 8-speed automatic transmission Steptronic changes gear. The additional gears reduce the rev interval of the engine between shifts making them barely perceptible. At high speeds the eighth gear reduces revs to increase comfort and lower fuel consumption. The system is also supported by the newly developed converter clutch even if you use the electronic gearshift lever or the optional paddle switches on the steering wheel to change manually.

Smooth and responsive, the 6-speed manual transmission in the BMW X1 makes for dynamic driving at its best. Its standout features are the short-throw shifts, perfect ratios and optimum exploitation of torque. The closely spaced gear ratios and the addition of a sixth gear enable the driver to make even more individual use of the engine's characteristics. The optional 6-speed automatic transmission Steptronic delivers smooth driving with exceptional reaction speed, combining instant power when pulling out and reduced fuel consumption at high speeds. Both transmission systems provide maximum dynamic performance in the full speed range and unmatched efficiency for short and long distances alike.

The 2012 BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition

Whether you're at home in the wild or on the city streets, the BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics Edition is always ready for spontaneous activities with fuel consumption of just 4.5 litres per 100 km. Its powerful 2.0-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo engine will set your pulse racing while, at the same time, keeping fuel consumption and emissions to an absolute minimum. To make all this possible, the BMW EfficientDynamics technology package pulled out all the stops, with modified engine design, electric power steering, improved gear shift indicator and aerodynamically optimised light-alloy rims. Never before have performance and common sense been brought so close together.

2012 BMW 5 Series Luxury Touring Concept

The more your BMW 5 Series Luxury Touring Concept conforms to your own desires and wishes the more it gains in character. See that personal touch again with every glance � Rediscover the precious things that make the car truly individual and experience exclusivity that�s reflected in even the smallest detail. The BMW Individual paintwork produces a fascinating interplay of colours and gives your BMW 5 Series Touring a unique appearance. Brilliant iridescent effects make the BMW Individual colour amazonite silver metallic an optical delight. Depending on the way the light falls the colour appears to vary from a warm pastel-coloured grey to a light green, whereby the paint�s special pigmentation makes the colour look particularly intense.

2012 BMW 5 Series Touring Concept

Lend a completely different character to the interior of your BMW 5 Series Touring with the fine BMW Merino leather upholstery. You�ll be enchanted by the unprocessed, soft surface of the leather as you enjoy the extremely comfortable seating. The interior trims made of precious wood add further touches of individuality. The specially-selected wood guarantees exceptional grain and colour, while the perfect workmanship ensures excellent quality. Feel at home in your BMW Individual 5 Series Touring.

2012 BMW 5 Series

The BMW Individual optional equipment is available separately or as BMW Individual composition. If a vehicle doesn't look dynamic how are we supposed to believe that it drives dynamically? You have to be able to both see and feel its character. It's the same with talent: It's not enough just to have it, you have to be able to use it." Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. In the interior dynamics and elegance are represented in one flowing movement from the instrument panel to the door. This can instantly be felt. All of the high-quality control elements are ergonomically positioned for a perfect fit as soon as you take a seat."

It is the underpinning concepts that make the difference between a good automobile and an exceptional one. Active drivers know that these concepts deserve appreciation � like the ergonomic concept of the BMW 5 Series Touring. With the position of the centre console rising up slightly towards the driver, all driving functions are positioned on the driver's side while all comfort functions are arranged further towards the middle to give the entire passenger compartment a clear and functional structure.

2012 BMW 5 Series

Every control and display is ideally ergonomically positioned where the driver intuitively expects them to be. Look to the right and your eyes automatically fall on the Control Display. Integrated in the wing mirror on the left is the Lane Change Warning symbol. The Head-Up Display is positioned directly in front of the driver. It projects the most important driving information, for example directions from the navigation system, directly into the driver's field of vision.

BMW 5 Series Touring is a good square metre of sky: the optional panorama glass roof brings a generous amount of light, fascinating views and, if you wish, a lot of fresh air, too, into the BMW 5 Series Touring.
The front half of the two-part glass area can be raised or opened completely, like a conventional sun roof. A net wind deflector protects against turbulence and ensures a pleasantly subdued background noise level for the interior.

2012 BMW 5 Series

In bad weather or in winter, the two-part electric sun shield comes into play: invisible when retracted, it extends to provide a light-proof seal for the interior and, thanks to its unique design, thermal insulation at the level of a normal roof protect against the cold. The design of the panorama glass roof is also unique: the curving lines in the front section run parallel to the edge of the roof causing the large glass surface to blend in harmoniously with the contours of the BMW 5 Series, thus emphasizing its athletically elegant appearance.

How can you improve an engine that has already won six times at the Engine of the Year Awards? In the case of the BMW 535i, with TwinPower Turbo, Valvetronic and direct petrol injection for a start.

The improvements are evolutionary as each one of the three technologies has been developed further. What is revolutionary however is how they compliment one another. In the engine of the BMW 535i with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, they are combined in one complete package. The result: 225 kW (306 hp), 400 Nm across a wide speed range and silky smoothness. And all this at a fuel consumption level of just 8.5 l/100 km.

2012 BMW 5 Series Interior

Impressive smoothness and high performance are also what characterise the straight six-cylinder engines in the BMW 523i and 528i. Alusil cylinders and a magnesium crankcase make place them among the lightest six-cylinder engines in their class, with 150 kW (204 hp) for the BMW 523i, 190 kW (258 hp) for the BMW 528i. An advantage that you not only notice with the driving dynamics but also with the fuel consumption levels of 7.8 l/100 km.

Luxury without waste. Economic performance. With up to 220kW (300 hp), fuel consumption from 5.8 l/100 km the BMW straight six-cylinder diesel engine sets the new standards in excellence for tomorrow, today.

For sprints and long-distance: the engine of the BMW 535d incorporating BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with 220 kW (300 hp) and 600 Nm. The dynamic, free-revving and powerful straight six-cylinder races to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. On the other hand, it uses just 6.3 litres of diesel to cover 100 km.

And in the other models, too, the engines unfold their power dominantly and harmoniously: 180 kW (245 hp) and 540 Nm in the BMW 530d and 150 kW (204 hp) and 450 Nm in the BMW 525d. Three litres capacity and a turbocharger system with variable intake geometry already provide maximum torque as of 1,750 rpm.

Third-generation common rail direct injection uses a pressure of 1,800 bar to disperse the fuel into extremely small drops making combustion smoother and more efficient. So what comes out of this? On the one side a lot: the BMW 530d accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, the BMW 525d in 7.3 seconds. On the other side less thanks to the standard particle filter. Consumption is at a low level of 6.2 l/100 km for the BMW 525d and 6.3 l/100 km for the BMW 530d. If requested, the BMW 530d with BMW BluePerformance can already meet EU6 emission standards which do not come into force until 2014.

Below 140 g/km CO2 � for most estates this is a target for the future. The four-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW 520d undercuts this limit with the same amount of ease as it propels the BMW 5 Series Touring.

380 Nm and 135 kW (184 hp) are power and performance levels most engines never achieve. The engine in the BMW 520d not only achieves these, it does this on just 5.1 litres over 100 kilometres and with just 135 g/km CO2 thanks to the same high-quality technologies used in the straight six-cylinder diesel engines. Frictional losses have been reduced by around 3.5 percent compared with its direct predecessor. A pleasant side effect of the increased levels of efficiency: fuel stops only have to take place every 1,350 kilometres.

One second and 28 metres. This is how long it takes to take your eyes off the road and read 100 km/h on the speedometer. The full-colour Head-Up Display projects your current speed into your direct field of vision on the windscreen. And the BMW ConnectedDrive technology can do even more.High Guiding and Lane Guiding are the names of the functions that make navigating in cities and on unclear road layouts simple. The high-resolution, full-colour display is projected onto the windscreen in the driver's direct field of vision.

If required, the Speed Limit Info can show the current speed limit along with the status of active speed restrictions in the area. Warning notices from the assistant systems are also always displayed such as Lane Change and Lane Departure Warning, pedestrian recognition from BMW Night Vision as well as the possibility of running into the back of the vehicle in front.

Simply specify your desired cruising speed and relax: Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function as well as collision warning with braking function automatically reduces your speed up to a standstill if a slower vehicle appears in the lane ahead. If the vehicle is stationary for less than three seconds, the BMW 5 Series Touring automatically continues. If the vehicle is stationary for longer, a button must be touched on the steering wheel before the vehicle will pull away and accelerate up to your set cruise speed again.

A radar sensor with a range of 200 metres constantly measures the distance between you and the vehicle ahead and recognises which lane the vehicle is in. In critical situations, the optical and acoustic collision warning alerts drivers to the hazard even when Cruise Control is deactivated, and by braking briefly gives them an additional opportunity to avoid the threat of an accident by braking or taking evasive action. The result is to make journeys in the BMW 5 Series Touring, particularly in urban traffic, safer and more comfortable.

Saturday, July 16, 2011

BMW M3

For 2011, the BMW M3 coupe and sedan are now available with a Competition package that adds a lowered suspension, 19-inch wheels, a wider track and reprogrammed electronic damping and stability controls. This isn't as hard-core as the previous BMW M3's Competition package, but it should still deliver
that much more handling acumen -- especially for those who track their cars.BMW M3 is a sports car that doesn't look like a sports car. It has too many seats, and one body style has too many doors. It has a usable trunk. You could drive it to Kansas in complete comfort. And yet the 2011 BMW M3 has a 414-horsepower V8. It goes from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. It stops from 60 so quickly your eyes may find themselves on an outbound journey from their sockets, and it sticks in corners with the tenacity of super glue. The BMW M3 truly is the sports car for people who still need the practicality (and/or anonymity) of a regular old sedan, coupe or convertible.

Of course this wolf in sheep's clothing nature is not new to the BMW M3, which has been kicking other sports cars in the teeth since the 1980s. The car's free-revving engines have always been a big part of that, and this latest BMW M3 is the first (and likely the last) to feature a normally aspirated V8. Essentially the M5's V10 with two cylinders removed, this manic 4.0-liter eight-cylinder sings a glorious wail at full throttle all the way up to its sky-high redline of 8,400 rpm.

BMW M3

The BMW M3 story isn't all about the engine, though. The ultimate "ultimate driving machine" must go around corners, and the BMW M3's brilliantly balanced and capable chassis gets the job done. There's a level of communication and involvement with the BMW M3 that makes you feel in complete control, and it's one that's increasingly being lost in the new world of electric power steering and selectable driver settings.
Indeed, the 2011 BMW M3 still stands as the most well-rounded choice in the hyper performance luxury car class. Audi offers the same body style choices, but its S4 and S5 trade some all-out performance for better civility, though the new RS5 should be a better match. Cadillac's CTS-V (now as a coupe and wagon, too) will outrun the BMW M3 in a straight line but isn't as agile around corners. The story is similar with the sedan-only Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. Really, you can't go wrong with any of them. But if you really want a sports car that doesn't look like one, the BMW M3 is the only game in town.The 2011 BMW M3 is available in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles. Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, a limited-slip rear differential, automatic and adaptive xenon headlights, automatic wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, eight-way power front seats (with manual thigh extender, adjustable side bolsters and four-way lumbar adjustment), leather-cloth upholstery, driver memory functions and a 10-speaker sound system with HD radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The BMW M3 coupe adds a carbon-fiber roof and split-folding rear seat, while the convertible adds a fully powered retractable hardtop and sun-reflective leather.The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats and retractable headlight washers. The Premium package adds power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, BMW Assist telematics, Bluetooth, leather upholstery and different interior trim. The Technology package adds in BMW M3 electronic damping control, M Drive adjustable settings, keyless ignition/entry, the iDrive electronics interface and a navigation system with voice controls and real-time traffic.BMW M3 most of the above items are available as stand-alone options along with 19-inch wheels, a sunroof (deletes carbon-fiber roof on the coupe), rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, power rear sunshade (coupe and sedan), a split-folding rear seat (sedan), satellite radio, an iPod/USB adapter and a 16-speaker premium sound system.The coupe and sedan can be equipped with the Competition package, which adds EDC (electronic damping control), 19-inch wheels with high-performance tires, a lowered suspension and different programming for EDC and stability control.A 4.0-liter V8 powers every 2011 BMW M3, sending 414 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. BMW M3 six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automated-manual transmission (M DCT) is optional. The latter offers manual operation via steering-wheel paddles as well as a full automatic mode. All M3s feature a specialized locking rear differential.

BMW M3

We've tested just about every variety of BMW M3. The BMW M3 coupe with traditional manual went from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, while the sedan with a manual and the convertible with M DCT did it in 4.8 seconds. With either transmission, EPA-estimated fuel economy is 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined. A manual-equipped convertible gets 13 mpg city.Standard safety features for the 2010 BMW M3 include front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes, traction control and stability control. The convertible lacks the side curtains, but the regular front side airbags extend up to head level, and there are also pop-up rollover hoops. Braking is phenomenal -- in our 60-0-mph braking test, the BMW M3 came to a halt in just 100 feet, which is among the shortest distances we've ever recorded.The BMW M3 itself has not been crash-tested, but the 3 Series sedan scored four stars (out of five) for frontal impacts for both driver and passenger in government tests. It garnered a perfect five stars for side impacts for both front and rear occupants. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests gave the BMW M3 3 Series sedan "Good" ratings (the highest possible) in both frontal-offset and side-impact crash testing, although the convertible received a second-lowest "Marginal" score.The BMW M3's sport seats are at once outstandingly supportive in hard driving and among the most comfortable we've sat in for long trips. BMW M3 backseat is a bit cramped, however -- expected in the two-door models, but not in the sedan, which trails rivals from Audi and Mercedes in rear headroom. In the coupe, an automatic seatbelt arm delivers front occupants their belts, eliminating the need for torso-twisting maneuvers. TheBMW M3 convertible's heat-reflective leather does a wonderful job of keeping the seats from absorbing too much heat from the sun with the top down.Build and materials quality inside the BMW M3 are excellent. However, the overall design lacks visual interest despite the availability of metallic and wood accents. The current version of iDrive -- mandatory with the optional navigation system -- is the best yet by far, featuring extra physical buttons and a revised menu structure for much more intuitive operation. From the driver's perspective, there's a notable lack of bins and cubbies in which to store cell phones, wallets and the like, especially if the iDrive controller has been equipped, as it replaces the storage nook on the center console.