Introducing New BMW 3 Series Business Edition Models

Over five generations, the BMW 3 Series has set the benchmark for exceptional dynamics and compelling style. 50:50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive and a range of advanced petrol and diesel engines all combine to produce an unrivalled driving experience.

Continuing to raise this benchmark even higher, all 3 Series models feature BMW EfficientDynamics technologies as standard to help reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions whilst simultaneously enhancing performance.

This unbeatable combination of dynamics and efficiency has helped the 3 Series win both the WHATCAR? ‘Best Executive’ green award and the Fleet World ‘Best Fleet Car’ award, whilst retaining the WHATCAR? ‘Best Compact Executive’ award for an unprecedented 4th consecutive time.

With new four-cylinder Business Edition models, this award-winning package becomes even better, with up to †£3,545 worth of additional specification for £1,000.

Find out more about these new Business Edition models by following the link below to your nearest Vines dealer website:

Gatwick
http://www.vinesofgatwickbmw.co.uk/currentoffers/3_Series_Saloon.html

Guildford
http://www.vinesofguildfordbmw.co.uk/currentoffers/3_Series_Saloon.html

Redhill
http://www.vinesofredhillbmw.co.uk/currentoffers/3_Series_Saloon.html

Labels: BMW 3 Series, BMW Business Cars, New BMW

BMW named Which? Best Car Manufacturer 2009

BMW has been named Best Car Manufacturer in the prestigious Which? Awards 2009, at the British Museum in London.

The company was rated higher than its short listed rivals by the members of Which? who number more than a million. Which? is long established as a champion of the consumer and a trusted advisor to buyers of all manner of goods and services, lending particular weight to this award.

Chief Executive of Which?, Peter Vicary-Smith, said: “BMW drivers seem to love their cars with 87 per cent in our survey describing themselves as very satisfied with the ownership experience. The company’s vehicles always excel in our road tests, while BMW’s innovative EfficientDynamics measures mean some of the best cars to drive have also become incredibly fuel efficient.”

Accepting the award, BMW Group UK’s Managing Director, Tim Abbott, said: “We are delighted to have won such a prestigious award, particularly as it is our customers who have rated us so highly. We take great pains to ensure that the quality of service we offer both directly and through our dealers matches the excellence of our cars.”

The BMW Group is the most sustainable car company in the world – as the latest Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) recently confirmed for the fourth year in succession. The company offers the most efficient cars in the premium segment courtesy of EfficientDynamics technologies and the BMW 118d was named World Green Car of the Year 2008.

Labels: Green Car, New BMW, Which? Awards 2009

BMW is renowned for pushing back automotive boundaries and the new BMW X5 M and X6 M are two models that set a new benchmark. Never before has the marque offered such powerful and dynamically capable vehicles in a four-wheel-drive package with a command driving position. As the first xDrive four-wheel-drive cars, the BMW X5 M and the X6 M are a journey into new territory for BMW, while the twin-turbocharged 555hp V8 engine heralds the launch of the most powerful road-going M car the company has ever launched.

BMW X5 M
Power Hp: 555
@rpm: 6,000
Torque Nm: 680
@rpm: 1,500-5,650
Zero-62mph: 4.7
Top Speed Mph: 155*

BMW X6 M
Power Hp: 555
@rpm: 6,000
Torque Nm: 680
@rpm: 1,500-5,650
Zero-62mph: 4.7
Top Speed Mph: 155*

*Electricly Limited

The new range flagships to the X5 and X6 portfolio are both powered by the same 4,395cc twin turbocharged V8 engine producing a maximum power output of 555hp at 6,000rpm. Such prodigious performance equates to a zero to 62mph time of 4.7 seconds – comparable to the critically acclaimed BMW M3. The X5 M and X6 M, courtesy of twin-scroll twin-turbo technology, are also capable of near diesel-powered engine flexibility with a peak torque of 680Nm from just 1,500rpm through to 5,650rpm.


Aiding the high performance characteristics of both vehicles is the unique configuration of the V8 engine. In a world first for an M badged vehicle, both the turbochargers and the catalytic converter are located within the vee of the powerplant. This arrangement results in an engine that breathes better and operates at a higher efficiency due to the shorter exit manifold. It also results in better packaging as the unit is more compact. The 4.4-litre engine features High Precision Direct Injection technology with piezo crystals for the optimum in fuel efficiency and combustion characteristics. As a result the powerplant for both cars meets the latest stringent EU5 emissions regulations.

Transmitting the power to the road in the X5 M and the X6 M is a drivetrain incorporating a new six-speed M Sport Automatic transmission, the class-leading xDrive four-wheel-drive system and Dynamic Performance Control, all refined by M GmbH engineers to suit the new high performance vehicles.

The M Sport Automatic transmission features an electronic management system that has been fine tuned to cater for the sporting demands of the vehicles. With the capability to select a Drive mode, a Sports mode and a Manual mode the driver can choose his preferred programme depending on mood and prevailing road and traffic conditions.


Enhancing the package is the specification of Dynamic Performance Control on both vehicles. Dynamic Performance Control is a new style of differential, that first appeared on the BMW X6, which diverts power to the driven wheels rather than brakes the spinning wheel. Its working thresholds on the X5 M and X6 M have been tweaked to permit for greater cornering capability.
Like every new BMW currently on sale, the X5 M and the X6 M come with elements of BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics programme fitted as standard. Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand delivery of the air-conditioning and the volume flow control of the hydraulic fluid in the steering all serve to improve fuel consumption and CO2 emission figures.

The X5 M and X6 M customer can fine tune the chassis of their new vehicle for greater enjoyment. The customer can configure the Electronic Damper Control, Head-Up Display, Dynamic Stability Control setting and the degree of assistance from the Servotronic steering system. Via the M Drive Manager, a menu system that lets the driver tailor the car’s characteristics and is activated with a button on the steering wheel, the desired response of all these settings can be engaged with a single press of a button. Thus, the driver can have an outright sport setting on standby while riding in a more comfortable mode day to day. As the X5 M and the X6 M are true M cars they both feature the renowned Launch Control function for optimum acceleration from standstill is available for use via the M Drive Manager function. All of this electronic architecture is co-ordinated by the Integrated Chassis Management system, a highly advanced electronic brain.


The BMW X5 M and X6 M both feature a suspension set-up of a double wishbone front and a four control arm integral rear arm suspension. This arrangement allows for the best configuration for on-road performance for this style of vehicle. Compared to the BMW X5 and X6, the M versions have a 10mm lower ride height, feature stiffer springs for a sportier ride and come as standard with a revised version of Adaptive Drive. This last feature sees the Electronic Damper Control work with an active anti-roll bar to counteract the natural lean of a vehicle in a corner or road imperfections that would normally unsettle the ride for those inside.

Design

As is befitting vehicles from a stable of performance engineers, the striking exterior design underscores the sporting potential of the car, while serving an aerodynamic function too. There are a number of key M design traits. The bespoke 20-inch light alloy wheels featuring differently sized tyres front to rear, M-badged side gills on the front wing, quad exhaust pipes and discreet badging are all M hallmarks. Compared to the front profile of the original X5 or X6, the bodywork has been reworked to enhance the aerodynamic efficiency needed to provide the extra downforce a 555hp vehicle requires. The rear also features a revised rear valance to ensure the exiting airflow leaves the vehicle with the minimum of fuss.


Inside, and the interior of both vehicles is as luxurious as you would expect. Leather upholstery is complimented by M Sport seats, M leather steering wheel, M footrest, M specific instrument cluster, full electric seat adjustment, front seat heating, two-zone air-conditioning and a Professional Multimedia Navigation system incorporating BMW’s ConnectedDrive. This offers all buyers the latest hard disc based infotainment network with facilities ranging from pure navigation needs through to the Emergency Assist functions and MP3 music storage. A top-of-the-range 12-speaker HiFi system with 230 watts amplifier and, on the X6 M, an automatic tailgate, are also standard.

Despite the sporting nature of the vehicles both still offer a high degree of practicality. The BMW X5 M has a possible luggage storage capability ranging from 620 to 1,750 litres while the X6 M manages 570 to 1,450 litres of boot space. Six airbags and impact activated head restraints are standard, with High Beam Assistant and Adaptive Headlights available as an option, on top of five star EuroNCAP ratings underscore the safety credentials for both vehicles.
The BMW X5 M and BMW X6 M go on sale 24 October, 2009. Prices will be announced at a later date.

Labels: Approved Used BMW, BMW X5M, BMW X6M, New BMW

The new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo


Character

With the future still offering sufficient room for an exciting new driving experience, BMW has once again defined a brand-new vehicle segment: The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is the series-based adaptation of the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) in the upper midrange segment, offering an impressive outlook on the extension of the BMW 5 Series by a new, additional concept.

With its stylish appearance and comfortable driving experience, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo transfers the characteristics of a classic Gran Turismo to a very special four-door vehicle with four seats. These features so typical of a Gran Turismo are then enriched by the highest standard of intelligent, versatile functionality.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines elegance, space, comfort and variability. In a combination never seen before on any other car, the characteristic features of a prestigious sedan, a modern and versatile Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo are all united in this unique Concept Car.

Besides the typical BMW proportions, the coupe-like roofline accentuates the elegant yet sporty character of the car and the sheer length of the car's body. In addition, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo has four frameless doors and elegant aluminium highlights.

The luxurious interior is surprisingly generous considering the coupé-like silhouette of the car, creating a spontaneous feeling of well-being for driver and passengers. This impression is further enhanced by a comfortable entry to the car, the slightly elevated seating position, and the panorama roof providing a particularly pleasant travel experience.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo is highly versatile: a flexible interior comprising the rear seats, the partition wall wall, and the luggage compartment allows the adjustment of the interior individually to personal requirements - from a separate luggage compartment, like in a sedan, all the way to a loading capacity of 1,650 litres or almost 58 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This flexibility is rounded off by a two-piece tailgate with separate openings for additional convenience.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo addresses a demanding and modern target group - discerning individuals who attach great importance to genuine style, luxurious comfort and flexibility in use. This gives BMW the opportunity to win over customers who today drive either a sedan, an SUV or an wagon model in the respective competitive segments.

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo extends the BMW's model range by an intelligent, new and indeed unparalleled vehicle concept for modern mobility at highest standard. Through its unique combination of elegance, space, comfort and variability, the car creates a powerful impression of relaxed presence. Indeed, these new characteristics enrich Sheer Driving Pleasure to an even higher standard and appeal to additional target groups. And last but not least the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo authentically visualises premium quality and a new standard of sporting performance borne out by the car's dynamism and efficiency.


Interior design

The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers a spacious and luxurious ambience with inspiring and modern interior design. As the world's only combination of variable spaciousness and uncompromising premium quality, this new concept car also stands out through the most
sophisticated materials and excellent quality of finish. Supreme harmony in interior design, reflected by the trim surfaces extending from the front to the rear doors, creates a modern symbiosis of the two seats at the front and the seats at the rear. The panorama glass roof, in turn, further intensifies the light and generous ambience inside the car, while the stylish cockpit
emphasises the sheer width of the vehicle through its horizontal lines, black panel technology and a fully integrated 10.2-inch Control Display.

Supreme seating comfort, ample headroom and elbow room in the front provide the standard of a luxury performance automobile, the slightly elevated seating position ensures an optimum overview and makes access to the car particularly comfortable. Tilted slightly to the front, the instrument panel, finally, optimises the degree of control comfort on the driver's seat.

Convenient and ergonomically optimised access as well as significant freedom of movement characterise the generous atmosphere on the rear seats. Extending all the way to the rear, the centre console in the concept car emphasises the length of the interior. Outstanding variability, in turn, is ensured by single seats at the rear infinitely adjustable fore-and-aft, their backrests folding forwards individually and under electric power at the touch of a button and the adjustable backrest angle ensuring further comfort and style.

With the rear seats in their regular position, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo offers the passengers at the rear the same legroom as in the BMW 7 Series and virtually the same headroom as in the BMW X5. In this configuration, luggage compartment capacity is 430 litres or 15.1 cubic feet. The partition wall behind the rear seats separates the passenger and luggage compartments from one another in terms of both acoustics and climate conditions, like in a sedan. If necessary, the rear seats move fore-and-aft by up to 100 millimetres or more than 3.9" - so that with the seats moved as far forward as possible, the occupants still enjoy the same legroom as in the BMW 5 Series Sedan, with luggage capacity increasing to 570 litres or almost 20 cubic feet. Then, once folding down the rear seat backrests and the partition wall, the luggage compartment further increases in size to its maximum capacity of 1,650 litres or nearly 58 cubic feet. The firm cover on the luggage compartment may be stowed away in the floor of the compartment, again in the interest of extra convenience.

The two-piece tailgate allows unique variability in loading the luggage compartment: Opening the small, sedan-like tailgate beneath the rear window enables the driver and passengers, in combination with the closed partition wall, to load the luggage compartment without creating any
drafts into the passenger compartment or changing the temperature the passengers wish to enjoy. To conveniently load bulky objects, in turn, all the driver has to do is open up the large tailgate similar in its configuration to that of a Sports Activity Vehicle.

Exterior design


The BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo combines the modern, up-todate interpretation of a Gran Turismo with four doors and all the prestige of a Sedan and the variability of a Sports Activity Vehicle. The proportions so typical of a BMW are borne out in particular by the long engine compartment lid, the long wheelbase, the coupé-like roofline, and the greenhouse moved far to the rear.

The dynamic character of the car's front-end design is accentuated by the large BMW kidney grille positioned low down and standing upright at the front, as well as the large air intake. Tilted to an angle, extending far round to the side and highlighted by a striking surround, the dual round headlights give the front end of the car a particularly modern look. The corona rings of the daytime driving lights, finally, come for the first time in LED technology.

From the side, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo clearly visualises its innovative character, the striking waistline and the coupé-like roofline accentuate the elegant look of the car and the sheer length of the body. Following the example of a sporting coupé, the BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with four doors and frameless windows. The aluminium surrounds on the side windows are milled out of one solid unit and holding the elegantly designed exterior mirrors as yet another important design feature. Yet a further striking element on the side is the exciting re-interpretation of the famous "Hofmeister kink" so typical of BMW at the rear end of the window graphics.

Horizontal lines at the rear emphasise the width and sporting character of the car, further accentuated by the waistline extending from the side into the rear panel, a three-dimensional chrome bar and the flared wheel arches. The outer rooflines merge into the air spoiler and encompass the rear end in its sporting fastback design. And as yet another feature typical of BMW, the L-shaped rear light clusters come with horizontal rows of lights extending far round into the side of the car.

Labels: 5 Series GT, BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, New BMW

BMW’s most fuel efficient car announced

BMW is pleased to announce the launch of the new 116d – the marque’s most fuel efficient and least polluting vehicle. With a combined consumption figure of 64.2mpg and a CO2 emissions figure of 118g/km, the BMW 116d even trumps the current World Green Car of the Year, the BMW 118d.
Available in both three- and five-door guises, the BMW 116d is powered by a four-cylinder diesel engine producing 116hp. The 1,995cc powerplant with its 260Nm of torque from 1,750rpm ensures it is capable of a zero to 62mph time of 10.2 seconds (10.3 seconds for the five-door) before going on to a top speed of 125mph.

The BMW 116d costs just £35 a year to tax courtesy of a Band B Vehicle Excise Duty rank, while its 13 per cent Benefit-in-Kind rating also ensures it makes economical sense for the business user. The new three-door BMW 116d costs from £17,605 OTR, while the five-door 116d is priced from £18,135 OTR. Both models go on sale in March 2009.

Labels: BMW 116d, Fuel Efficient Car, New BMW

The new 3 Series is fast approaching (using less fuel and emitting less CO2)

Experience the Ultimate Driving Machine at our dealership open weekend – from Saturday 20th September.

It is the epitome of sporty flair in its segment and for years it has maintained the leading position as the mostly widely sold premium vehicle in the world.

Now the BMW 3 Series sets out to extend its lead even further. Specific design modifications, a further refined interior design, the new generation of the optional operating concept BMW iDrive, new services provided by BMW ConnectedDrive, a revised range of engines and innovations in the areas of drive technology, safety and comfort make both the new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring more attractive than ever before. With rear-wheel drive, harmonious axle load distribution, outstanding steering precision and highly sophisticated chassis technology, the BMW 3 Series sets unsurpassed standards for driving dynamics in its segment. More than ever before, this unique driving pleasure can now be combined with an awareness of economy and minimised pollutant emissions. Thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics the new BMW 3 Series achieves significantly lower fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels with each of the ten engine variations available than those of the relevant competitors in the premium segment.

The new features in the powertrain field include the further optimised electronically controlled all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. This intelligent all-wheel drive system which variably distributes the drive force between front and rear wheels to enhance driving dynamics as well as ride stability and traction can now be combined with five engine types. The new BMW 320d xDrive is available as a Saloon and Touring model. Another new feature for both body versions: the BMW 318d – by far the most efficient vehicle of its category with an average fuel consumption of just 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres – is now also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Parallel to the market launch of the new BMW 3 Series Saloon and the new BMW 3 Series Touring, a new 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch will be presented for the Coupé and the Convertible of the series. This allows further improved acceleration figures in the models BMW 335i Coupé and BMW 35i Convertible, and combines this added dynamic performance – as compared to the standard 6-speed manual transmission – with the comfort features of an automatic transmission. The 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch shifts without interrupting traction.

New design accentuations for a sporty, elegant appearance.
With striking design accentuations to the front section, the side perspective and the rear, the dynamic character of the new BMW 3 Series Saloon has been given additional emphasis, while the new BMW 3 Series Touring enhances its sporty, elegant profile with new visual features which are recognisable from all perspectives.

Front section with bold shapes and an emphasis of width.
The front view of the Saloon and Touring models of the new BMW 3 Series is characterised by a clear emphasis of vehicle width. The characteristic brand look of the double circular headlights is underscored by means of chrome tubes, and their corona rings can now also be used in the BMW 3 Series Saloon and the Touring model with optional bi-xenon headlamps as daytime running lights. The light sources of the direction indicators have a ribbed structure and LED direction indicator lights are installed in conjunction with the optional bi-xenon headlamps.

Side view with elegantly elongated lines.
Powerfully taut surfaces and striking character lines dominate the side view of the new BMW 3 Series. The contour edges of the side skirts have been set higher and modelled in a more distinctive fashion. Another new feature is the exterior mirrors with two distinctive character lines, echoing the interplay between the convex and concave shaping of the surfaces. The mirrors also offer an enlarged field of vision.

The rear: sporty and tight with a new lighting design.
Greater emphasis of the vehicle’s power and sporty character likewise characterises the rear view of the new BMW 3 Series. To achieve this effect, the rear bumpers, rear lights and luggage compartment handle have been completely redesigned. The dual section rear lights are now structured according to the characteristic BMW L shape. The two LED rear light clusters and the direction indicators in LED technology are designed to create a striking, high-quality appearance.The widened track of the new BMW 3 Series especially contributes to its powerful appearance. Depending on the model, the track of the rear axle has been widened by up to 24 millimetres by means of a new wheel carrier and other modified details.

High-quality materials and optimised ergonomics in the interior.
The modern, high-quality interior of the BMW 3 Series has been further enhanced by means of specific modifications in the selection of materials and surface design. Here the modern design concept is also applied, with its convex-concave surfaces, sporty elegance and technology-oriented aesthetic style.

Premiere for the new generation of the operating concept BMW iDrive.
The operating system BMW iDrive is optionally available in the new BMW 3 Series for the activation and control of entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunications functions, whether standard or optional. The new generation of iDrive is available in conjunction with the optional navigation system Professional. What is more, the new iDrive supports multi-mode operation by voice entry. With the new iDrive generation, BMW extends its lead over comparable systems made by other manufacturers in terms of display quality and intuitive operation. Using the four direct selection buttons grouped around the Controller, it is especially easy to switch spontaneously between CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The functional bookmarks are supplemented with three control buttons.

Control Display with high-resolution graphics and variable layout.
The new iDrive in the BMW 3 Series is presented with a 8.8 inch Control Display whose dimensions surpass all graphic displays available to date in the automobile field. With its high image resolution it offers significant improve-ment in the display of detailed graphics. The structure of the user menu also makes it easier to locate desired functions. All functions controllable by iDrive are listed in the starter menu.

Hard drive for audio files and navigation system.
The features of the navigation system Professional include a hard drive integrated in the vehicle. The storage medium with a capacity of 80 GB provides outstandingly fast access to digital maps for navigation purposes and can also be used for an extensive collection of music files. The system enables music files to be transferred to the hard drive from a CD, MP3 player or USB stick.

World premiere for unlimited internet use inside the vehicle.
BMW ConnectedDrive makes BMW the first automobile manufacturer in the world to enable unlimited use of the internet inside the vehicle when stationary. Internet access is available for the new BMW 3 Series as a special equipment option at attractive flat rate conditions. The transfer of data is based on EDGE technology (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution), which unlike UMTS offers full geographical coverage and is three to four times faster than the mobile phone standard GPRS. The basis for internet use in the vehicle is provided by the further developed functions of iDrive. By pushing the Controller in different directions, the mouse can be moved across the web page shown in the Control Display.

BMW ConnectedDrive with extended range.
As a dynamic concept, BMW ConnectedDrive offers the products BMW Assist, BMW Online, BMW TeleServices and BMW Tracking, depending on the country in question. At the same time BMW ConnectedDrive is designed for the ongoing further development of services to increase mobility and information convenience. The Enhanced Emergency Call with automatic positioning and remote control functions are examples of safety-related options which are already available, extending the lead of BMW ConnectedDrive over the competition.

The new BMW 3 Series: the engine of success for BMW EfficientDynamics.
With its further optimised engine range, the new BMW 3 Series further extends its leading position in the segment in terms of driving dynamics and economy. With all engine types, both the Saloon and the Touring model boast superior fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels than those of their competitors of comparable output.

Depending on the model-specific constellation, the new BMW 3 Series features the latest measures for increased efficiency. All petrol and diesel engines available for the new BMW 3 Series represent the state of the art in engine development. What is more, an extremely wide spectrum of efficiency-promoting measures has been applied within the engine environ-ment so as to further reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

This includes Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start/Stop Function, Shift Point Display, the needs-oriented control of auxiliary units, electro-mechanical power steering, tyres with reduced rolling resistance and Automatic Air Intake Flaps. With the comprehensive application of these technologies in what is the most successful BMW model series in terms of sales figures, the development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics achieves an especially broad impact.

New 6-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW 330d.
In accordance with BMW EfficientDynamics, every new BMW offers increased driving dynamics in combination with reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels as compared to its respective predecessor model. An especially striking example of this is the BMW 330d. Its 3.0 litre all-aluminium engine has common rail injection of the third generation, whose piezo injectors operate at a pressure or up to 1,800 bar, and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. The new diesel engine achieves its maximum output of 180 kW/245 bhp at an engine speed of 4,000 rpm, while its maximum torque of 520 Nm is available from 1,750 to 3,000 rpm. The new BMW 330d accelerates in 6.1 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, its maximum speed is electronically cut off at 250 km/h. The average fuel consumption of the new BMW 330d according to the EU test cycle is 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres, its CO2 level is 152 grams per kilometre.

BMW BluePerformance technology: prepared for the exhaust gas norm EU 6.
The new BMW 330d is fitted as standard with a diesel particulate filter and an oxidation catalytic converter. Thanks to the innovations applied to the new 6-cylinder engine, it significantly undercuts the thresholds set for the exhaust gas norm EU 5. In the oxidation catalytic converter, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide are converted to water and carbon dioxide. For further reduction of nitrogen oxides in exhaust emissions, a NOX-storage catalytic converter can be integrated in the exhaust gas treatment system of the new 6-cylinder diesel engine, in addition to the oxidation catalytic converter. In the optional configuration with BMW BluePerformance technology, the new BMW 330d even meets the requirements for classification according to the future exhaust gas norm EU 6. Like the new BMW 6-cylinder diesel engines, the engines of the models BMW 320d and BMW 318d also meet the requirements of the exhaust gas norm EU 5 as standard. Their 4-cylinder diesel engines have been modified in a number of details, and the further reduction of exhaust emission levels has been implemented so as to have no impact on fuel consumption and the acoustic properties of the engines.

Engine selection: the greatest variety and highest level of efficiency in the segment.
The ideal combination of driving fun and efficiency also characterises the other engines available for the new BMW 3 Series. Spontaneously responding, high-torque 6-cylinder and 4-cylinder diesel engines, powerful and high-revving 4-cylinder petrol engines and the 6-cylinder in-line petrol engine well-known for its unique refinement and dynamic power delivery form a portfolio which is unequalled in the segment of the BMW 3 Series.

With five petrol engines and five diesel engines, the new BMW 3 Series offers the most extensive range in its segment. When it comes to both petrol and diesel power units, customers have the choice of four 4-cylinder and three 6-cylinder engines. The output range extends from 105 kW/143 bhp in the 4-cylinder models BMW 318i and BMW 318d to a 225 kW/306 bhp in-line 6-cylinder engine in the BMW 335i. All engines are available for both the BMW 3 Series Saloon and the Touring model, and all are combined with the latest BMW EfficientDynamics measures in the environment of the engine, as suits the specific model configuration. Each of the ten engine types thus has a more favourable relationship between driving dynamics and economy as compared to competitor vehicles of similar output.

As one of a number of features which are unique within the competitive field, all petrol engines are fitted with High Precision Injection and all diesel engines combine an all-aluminium crankcase, turbo charging and common rail direct injection of the third generation. The BMW 335i is especially dynamic, accelerating in just 5.6 seconds from zero to 100 km/h. The outright leader in terms of efficiency in the entire vehicle segment is the BMW 318d with an average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres and a CO2 emission level of 123 grams per kilometre.

Optimised all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive – now for the BMW 320d xDrive too.
The new BMW 3 Series also presents a further expanded selection of engine types for combination with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. For the first time it is possible to fit 4-cylinder models of this series with xDrive. The new BMW 320d xDrive combines outstanding efficiency with superior properties in terms of driving dynamics and traction. Both for the Saloon and the Touring of the new BMW 3 Series it is now possible to combine three petrol engines and two diesel engines with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. The models in question now bear the designations BMW 335i xDrive, BMW 330i xDrive, BMW 325i xDrive, BMW 330d xDrive and BMW 320d xDrive.

The electronically controlled permanent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive offers an incomparable level of comfort, traction and agility over all surfaces due to its flexible distribution of drive torque between the front and rear axles. In order to ensure especially precise control, the computer unit of the drive stability regulation system Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and that of xDrive are networked with each other in the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM). With these capabilities, xDrive supports driving dynamics because it identifies any tendency to oversteer or understeer early on and counteracts effectively.

Superior chassis technology, Active Steering as an option.
The new BMW 3 Series has the most sophisticated chassis technology in its segment. At the rear axle there is a five-link construction which is adapted to the needs of the especially high-power and high-torque engines. The front axle of the BMW 3 Series also reflects a unique standard of engineering. The dual-arm tension strut axle with stabiliser is largely made of aluminium. The standard equipment also includes an electro-mechanical steering system with integrated Servotronic function for speed-related steering support. Active Steering is also optionally available: here, steering transmission is adapted to road speed.

Optimised occupant protection with crash-active headrests.
The safety concept of the new BMW 3 Series is based on a solid body structure, the selective application of high-strength steel types and special deformation elements which divert and absorb impact energy. In addition there are six airbags, 3-point automatic belts and headrests on all seats to offer occupants optimum protection. What is more, ISOFIX children’s seat mounts on the rear seats are a standard feature. The front seats of the new BMW 3 Series are fitted as standard with crash-active headrests which significantly reduce the risk of injury to the cervical spine in the event of an impact. Controlled by the vehicle’s safety electronics system, this feature ensures that in the event of a rear-on collision the front section of the headrest is moved forward by up to 60 millimetres and upwards by as much as 40 millimetres. This reduces the distance between headrest and head, thus increasing the stabilising and securing function of the headrest.

A contribution to active safety is made by the new generation of adaptive headlight, optionally available in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps. It guarantees llumination of the road surface when taking a corner. Here the swivel direction of the headlamps is derived from the steering angle, the yaw rate and the road speed of the vehicle. At low speeds the turning light is activated. This function is performed by one of the two inside headlamps, depending on the direction. Before each turning manoeuvre, the light cone is turned specifically in the appropriate direction to illuminate the road ahead.

Best heating and climate comfort in the segment.
In the area of comfort fittings, too, the new BMW 3 Series has a range of optimised features to offer. The further developed heating and air conditioning technology ensures that the interior maintains the desired temperature throughout the year. The new BMW 3 Series has the most high-performance heating and cooling system in its category. Within one minute the entire interior air volume can be completely exchanged three times. In spite of the outstandingly high air through-flow rate, excellent acoustics are ensured by means of a flow optimisation function in the unit and its feed lines and by means of an air outlet positioned at the centre of the instrument panel. A 2-zone air conditioning system is optionally available with individual temperature controls for the driver and front passenger.

Labels: BMW, New 3 Series, New BMW, Vines BMW

Launch of the new BMW 7 Series announced.

15 November sees the launch of the fifth generation 7 Series – the flagship model of the BMW range.

Set to redefine the benchmark in the luxury saloon car segment, a significantly improved product substance combined with elegant contemporary styling makes the new 7 Series a more compelling product than any of its predecessors.

A luxuriously appointed cabin, enhanced standard equipment and a range of powerful yet efficient engines mean this car offers a unique experience for both drivers and passengers. [ Read More ]

Labels: 7 Series, 730d SE, 740i, 740Li, 750i, 750Li, New BMW

Vines are the fastest growing dealer group in the UK

The UK Top 100 dealer groups have been announced by Automotive Management Magazine and Vines Group are the highest climber with an annual increase in turnover of over 22%.

This excludes dealer groups that have grown by acquisition or by opening additional sites, when these are included Vines is still in the top ten of all franchised dealer groups in the UK.

Sean Kelly, Vines Group Managing Director stated “I am delighted with our continued growth, but we are not complacent because of the results.

Our focus as a regional dealer group is just that, regional. We are interested and committed to meeting our local customers’ needs and delivering an exceptional level of customer service.”

Vines growth is attributed to increased new, used, service and parts sales – driven from their three recently relocated or redeveloped dealerships.

BMW and MINI have, of course, played their part too with some amazing model introductions recently, X6, 1 Series convertible, MINI Clubman and of course the class leading BMW Efficient Dynamics programme.

To experience the service level from the UK’s fastest growing dealer group yourself, please contact us on 0845 045 0971 or by clicking here.

Labels: BMW 1 Series Convertible, BMW X6, New BMW, New Mini, Used BMW, Used Mini, Vines BMW, Vines Mini

Third M3 derivative confirmed for April launchBrand new seven-speed M DCT Double Clutch Transmission makes car cleaner, more frugal, and quicker to 62

BMW UK has announced details of the third M3 derivative, the new BMW M3 Convertible. The fourth generation of BMW’s open-topped M3 becomes the first M car to feature a Retractable Hard-Top.

The launch of the new M3 Convertible also represents another first with the introduction of BMW’s new seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) as an option to the standard six-speed manual gearbox. Offering the highest levels of performance and driving dynamics with instantaneous gear shifts, the new BMW M3 Convertible offers a unique recipe for drivers who enjoy open-topped motoring accompanied by an eight-cylinder symphony.

Engine and Drivetrain

The first generation of M3 Convertible, launched in 1988, delivered 200hp from BMW’s first 16-valve 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine. Subsequent generations of M3 engines have taken top category honours on a record six successive occasions in the Engine of the Year awards.

Wind the clock forward twenty years to the introduction of today’s E93-generation M3 Convertible. The new M3 Convertible’s engine develops more than twice the power of the original, delivering 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc V8-power unit. Like the previous three generations, the engine in the new M3 Convertible easily breaks through the magical 100hp per litre barrier, offering 105hp per litre. The new car also offers a 10 per cent improvement in the power-to-weight ratio when compared to its predecessor E46 M3 Convertible.

The V8 engine powers the car from zero to 62mph in 5.3 seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. However, even with these supercar levels of performance, BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme ensures that economy is not compromised with the car delivering 21.9mpg on the combined cycle.

In standard specification, power is transferred to the road by BMW M’s six-speed manual gearbox and variable M differential. This conveys up to 100 per cent of available power to the wheel with most grip.

Purchasers of the new M3 Convertible, along with M3 Coupé and M3 Saloon buyers, can now also specify BMW’s new seven-speed M DCT Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. Changing gear using either paddles on the steering wheel or the gear lever, the new M DCT gearbox uses two oil-cooled wet clutches, one controlling gears 1, 3, 5 and 7 and the other controlling gears 2, 4 and 6. With gear changes made in only a few milliseconds and the next gear selected in readiness, the M DCT-equipped car outperforms the manual gearbox car in outright performance, economy and emissions. The zero to 62mph sprint is reduced by 0.2 seconds to 5.1 seconds while the combined consumption improves by 1.1mpg and the CO2 emissions decrease by 16g/km to 293g/km.

In common with the Sequential Manual Gearbox on the M5 and M6 models, the new M DCT gearbox also features Drivelogic to allow the driver the ability to fine tune the shift characteristics of the transmission. With six shift speeds available in the manual mode and five available when the gearbox is pre-selecting its own ratio, the driver can fine-tune the gear change. And to ensure that the gear changes are perfectly tuned to the engine output, the new M DCT gearbox employs eight LED shift lights, located in the rev counter, to warn the driver of the need to upshift.

Finally, to guarantee ease of use in around-town driving situations, the new M DCT gearbox uses a gradient detection system and Low Speed Assistant. These combine to ensure that the car won’t roll back on hill-starts and that the engine’s high levels of output don’t corrupt the driving experience at slower speeds.

BMW EfficientDynamics

Power and performance head the wish-list for most M car buyers, but BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme now also guarantees that efficiencies are optimised. Brake Energy Regeneration is featured as standard on all M3 derivatives, plus M5 Saloon and Touring, and M6 Coupé and Convertible. This standard-fit technology uses an Intelligent Alternator Control and Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recognise when the engine is on over-run. It activates the alternator to charge the battery with what would previously have been wasted energy.

A reduction in weight is another EfficientDynamics facet adopted on the new M3 Convertible, especially in the drivetrain. Using an engine block manufactured alongside the BMW Sauber F1 engines at BMW’s light-alloy foundry at Landshut, Germany, the new V8 powerplant weighs a mere 202kgs; 15kgs less than the six-cylinder engine it replaces. To further highlight the weight advantages, the crankshaft in the new engine is made from one complete forging and weighs only 20kgs.

A bespoke driving experience

In common with the M3 Coupé, the new M3 Convertible features an MDrive button that brings together numerous personalised functions of the car. The settings for the optional Electronic Damper Control (Normal, Comfort and Sport), three DSC+ traction control settings and three specific engine control maps that govern throttle response can be controlled with one button on the steering wheel. As can the response rate of the Servotronic power steering. If the car is equipped with the new M DCT gearbox, the Drivelogic preference can also be saved. Once the desired settings are created in the iDrive menu, part of the standard Professional navigation system, one push of the MDrive button can transform the M3’s driving experience.

Hard-top or open-top?

The new BMW M3 Convertible is the first M3 to feature an electro-hydraulic Retractable Hard-Top as standard. It’s also the first M3 to feature BMW’s innovative Sun Reflective leather technology, allowing the driver the opportunity to leave the roof down for prolonged periods without the seat leather overheating.

The M3 Convertible combines the elegance of the ‘standard’ 3 Series Convertible with the athleticism of the M3 Coupé. A striking powerdome and two air intakes in the aluminium bonnet cover the new V8-engine and help engine cooling. Primarily, the design of the front of the car is defined by the significant volumes of air required for the induction system. As a result, three large air ducts in the front lower apron keep the engine breathing.

The flared wheel arches house the standard 18-inch double-spoke light-alloy wheels, with a striking 19-inch wheel available as an option. Another BMW M trait, a side gill in the front wing, also includes the side direction indicator and the M3 logo.

Aerodynamically-efficient door mirrors channel air flow and reduce drag, as does the rear diffuser, which houses BMW M’s trademark twin double exhaust pipes.

The new BMW M3 Convertible goes on sale in April 2008 and costs £54,655 OTR. (M3 Coupé: £50,725 OTR and M3 Saloon: £49,310 OTR). The optional M DCT Gearbox will be priced at £2,590.

Labels: BMW M3 Convertible, New BMW, Open Top BMW