Audi BMW

At the 2010 Geneva Auto Show, BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer revealed that the entry-level SAV X1 would be the third BMW model to be made at the company’s China venture. BMW and Chinese partner Brilliance Auto already have an agreement on building the BMW 1 Series and a stretched BMW 3 Series. It is unclear if the stretched 3 Series will be the past rumored 3 Gran Turismo or simply a long wheelbase of one of the current models.

Earlier this year, BMW Brilliance stopped manufacturing the BMW 3 Series cars to expand the venture’s capacity and began importing the BMW sedans in large quantities to pick up the sales. The new factory will be coming back on stream soon for a new range of models.

In the highly competitive Chinese market, BMW’s X1 will compete against the Audi Q5 and also its “step-brother”, the VW Tiguan. All three models are expected to go head-to-head for the premium compact SUV/SAV segment.

BMW 3 Series and 5 Series sedans have been manufactured at the venture based in the northeastern Chinese city of Shenyang.

According to a report by Chinese automotive magazine Gasgoo, the stretched BMW 3 Series sedan will be launched in August to take on the Audi A4.

Before we let these speculations run wild, we would like to mention that no new information on the 3 GT have come our way.

[Source: Gasgoo ]

The BMW X1 is the latest welcome addition to the compact vehicles segment, and brings the characteristic BMW “Driving Pleasure” to this class. AC Schnitzer BMW X1 celebrates its world premiere at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

The BMW X1 is available with choice of a 6-cylinder petrol engine and three 4-cylinder diesel power plants. Here again, AC Schnitzer is setting totally new standards for driving pleasure in the premium compact segment. The BMW X1 xDrive23d has been upgraded from a 150 kW/204 HP diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and Common Rail injection to 240 HP. The 2.0 d and 1.8 d units in the BMW X1 also feature Common Rail injection and a turbocharger, and with the AC Schnitzer tuning package achieve 210 and 171 HP respectively. Naturally, the power upgrades are available for both the sDrive and xDrive versions. The AC Schnitzer engine styling including capacity logo is available for vehicles with and without performance upgrade.

Acoustically, the sporting driving experience is enhanced by the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer for the petrol BMW X1 xDrive 28i. Visual elegance is provided by the chromed “Racing” tailpipe trim which is also available for all other models.

The superb driving behaviour of the BMW X1 with its focus on agility, precision and handling is the direct result of the sophisticated suspension technology used on the extremely solid body structure. AC Schnitzer has built on this and with its suspension spring kit and an aluminium strut brace, ensures the perfect balance between sporting performance and driving comfort.

The AC Schnitzer aerodynamics package is far more than mere decoration, although it harmonises effectively in the overall concept. The front spoiler and rear skirt extension, in combination with the rear roof spoiler, improve downforce and ensure additional ground adhesion. Engine bay venting is optimised by the AC Schnitzer Bonnet Vents. These are enhanced further with chromed centre webs available as an option. In aesthetic terms, the AC Schnitzer aerodynamic conversion emphasises the expressive styling and reveals to the observer on first glance the universal sporting ambitions of the AC Schnitzer BMW X1.

Impressive design elements also lend a sporting and youthful note to the interior of the AC Schnitzer BMW X1. These elements include silver “Exclusiv” carbon interior trim, illuminated leather gear knob, aluminium gear knobs with or without digital gear display, “Black Line” aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminium handbrake handle and pedal set, foot rests and velours foot mats.

The finishing touch comes from a set of attractive wheels, so the BMW X1 retains its stylish appearance not only on twisty or changing terrain, but also outside a fashionable cafe. An ideal choice is the brand-new Type VIII wheel in 19″. The new wheel with its 5 double spokes in BiColor Finish is an evolution of the well-known Type VI wheel, and complements perfectly the styling language of the BMW X1. AC Schnitzer Type IV wheels in silver or in BiColor in 18, 19 or 20 inch, together with the Type VI rim in 18″, complete the range available for the BMW X1.

[Source: AC Schnitzer ]

Our other sister blog, BMWBLOG.ro had the opportunity to attend the BMW xDrive tour, an event taking place across Europe where a large fleet of xDrive vehicles are being made available to customers and selected media.

The event focuses on driving situations in heavy snow, both uphill and downhill, and also car handling in challenging situations. The fleets consists of the popular BMW X5 and X6 models, along with the latest addition to the X family: BMW X1.

While the X5 and X6’s snow capabilities have been demonstrated before, the X1 is fairly new to this challenge and BMW wanted to take this opportunity to showcase its somewhat offroad handling. The X1 sits closer to the road than its “bigger brothers”, so a snow covered road will present bigger challenges, but was the X1 one able to overcome this, despite the less experienced drivers behind the wheel?

Let’s have a look.

P.S. All we want to add to this is that we wish we would have this kind of events in the U.S. and truly experiment the xDrive technology.

[Photos and Video by Gabriela P. | Event by BMW Romania]

With their typical fun-to-drive qualities, superior all-wheel-drive technology and powerfully expressive styling, the BMW X models occupy a position all their own in their respective classes.

The unique attractions of this concept, now successfully established in four different market segments, received further confirmation recently with an excellent showing in the latest readers’ poll by the German magazine Off Road. The BMW X5 was voted “Off-Roader of the Year” in the “Luxury SUV” category, while the BMW X1 and BMW X6 came first and second in the “Crossover” category and the BMW X3 took second place in the “SUV” category.

Topping off this strong result was a special award for the newest arrival in the BMW X family – with its launch countdown already under way, the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 took the Eco Award for its innovative powertrain. This first full-hybrid model from the BMW brand uses its highly intelligent combination of internal combustion engine and electric drive to maximise both performance and efficiency. These latest successes in the Off Road readers’ poll seamlessly continued BMW’s strong performance of the previous years. The “Off-Roader of the Year” awards, which are decided by the votes of an exceptionally knowledgeable readership, were first presented in 1982. This year readers chose from a field of 97 models in eight categories.

The BMW X5’s first place in the “Luxury SUV” category is a further indication that the Sports Activity Vehicle concept – a segment first pioneered by BMW in 1999 with the predecessor of the current model – is still a firm favourite. The combination of sporty on-road handling and surefooted off-road traction was a hit right from the start. With its intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive, powerful and efficient engines and an interior which is both flexible and luxuriously equipped, the current BMW X 5 is doing even more to set the standards in its class.

In the “Crossover” category, first and second places both went to BMW. After some internal jockeying, last year’s winner, the BMW X6, was beaten into second place by its brand sibling the X1, which was launched on the market just five months ago. The X1’s concept – which extends the hallmark fun-to-drive qualities of a BMX X model to the premium compact segment – was instantly voted into the number one spot by Off Road’s readers. The BMW X1 impresses with its sporty handling, versatile interior and unrivalled efficiency for a vehicle in this category. The most fuel-efficient X1 is the BMW X1 sDrive18d, which achieves average fuel consumption of 5.2 litres/100 km in the EU test cycle. The X1’s outstanding safety standards also earned it the highest Euro NCAP crash test rating of 5 stars. In spring 2010, two new engines will be added to the range with the arrival of the new BMW X1 sDrive18i entry-level model and the six-cylinder BMW X1 xDrive25i. The X1 line-up will then comprise three petrol and three diesel engines.

Meanwhile, the appeal of the BMW X6 remains as strong as ever. The world’s first Sports Activity Coupé delivers typical BMW driving pleasure in a unique form. Agility, responsive steering, directional stability and traction have been taken to a new level – in part thanks to Dynamic Performance Control, a technology that made its debut in this model. While the electronically controlled BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system splits the drive in a seamlessly variable ratio between the front and rear wheels to suit the current driving situation, DPC performs the same function between the rear wheels. The BMW X6 combines its outstanding dynamics with impressive efficiency, which will be further boosted by a revised engine line-up scheduled for spring 2010. The BMW X6 xDrive30d will then set new benchmarks, with an output of 180 kW/245 hp from its six-cylinder in-line diesel engine and improved average fuel consumption of 7.4 litres/100 kilometres in the EU test cycle.

The original pioneer in its segment, the BMW X3 too impresses with still unsurpassed agile handling and surefooted traction on unsurfaced terrain. Its enduring popularity has played a major role in introducing new target groups to the benefits of the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Second place for the BMW X3 in the “SUV” category reflects the high popularity the BMW X3 continues to enjoy in its – now substantially expanded – segment. This model, which has raked in numerous awards for its outstanding reliability and safety, now comes in a choice of three petrol and four diesel versions, with power ratings ranging from 105 kW/143 hp to 210 kW/286 hp. The entry-level BMW X3 xDrive18d boasts exemplary fuel efficiency, with average EU fuel consumption of 6.2 litres/100 km.

While the German ADAC office (the German equivalent of AAA) didn’t take an official position, the colleagues from OEAMTC Austria concluded a comparison test in Pedestrian Safety by using as a reference mid-size and compact SUVs.

The new BMW X1 comes at the top of this test and OEAMTC expert Max Lang says: “The Bavarians demonstrated responsibility and have invested a lot in the passive pedestrian safety.”

The X1 scores high in all the safety categories, but it particularly shines in the passenger safety:  five stars in Euro NCAP crash test.

In the evaluation of pedestrian protection, the BMW X1 has been compared with other small SUVs, including the VW Tiguan, Mercedes GLK and Audi Q5. The BMW X1 scored 23 out of 36 possible points for pedestrian protection, and shows a clear improvement over the first generation BMW X3 (E83). This model achieved only 5 points back in 2008, but the second generation is getting close to the launch time.

Responsible for the good performance of the X1 are the optimized shape of the front end and the use of numerous ductile and energy absorbing elements for body, bonnet and front bumper. The BMW X1 shows that small SUVs can certainly do well for pedestrian protection, despite the assumption that a smaller and compact cars achieve higher pedestrian safety ratings.

Competitors VW Tiguan and Mercedes GLK scored 16 points, respectively 17, but a big improvement over their “older brothers”, VW Touareg Group (7 points) and Mercedes ML (6 points).

However, the new Audi Q5 disappointed by earning only 12 points, behind the Q7 with 15 points and even the non-premium automaker Kia with its Sorento model scoring 16 points.

[Source: BimmerToday ]

The BMW X1 is already a thrilling competitor the world over – and now the range of power units ideally suited for the most compact BMW X model is becoming even more convincing and straightforward.

Starting in March 2010, BMW’s new all-round talent will be available in a new entry-level version and with an additional six-cylinder power unit: the new BMW sDrive18i is powered by a 110 kW/150 hp four-cylinder gasoline engine featuring VALVETRONIC variable valve management, the new BMW X1 xDrive25i comes with a straight-six power unit again featuring VALVETRONIC for maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp. This enlarges the engine portfolio available in the BMW X1 to a new grand total of three gasoline and three diesel engines.

The number of power units available as an option with automatic transmission is also being enlarged as of March 2010. The six-speed automatic transmission already featured as standard in the BMW X1 xDrive28i, the new BMW X1 xDrive25i, and the BMW X1 xDrive23d excels through its dynamic gearshift, a high level of shift comfort and a particularly high standard of internal efficiency enhancing the all-round efficiency of the vehicle as such to an even higher level.

Now the same six-speed automatic transmission is also available in the BMW X1 xDrive18d, the BMW X1 sDrive18d, and the BMW X1 sDrive20d. And as an option the BMW X1 sDrive18i may also be equipped with six-speed automatic transmission as an alternative to the six-speed manual gearbox otherwise featured as standard.

BMW X1 sDrive18i: sporting and economic entry-level version leading into the world of BMW X models.

Introducing the BMW X1 sDrive18i, BMW now offers an attractive and economical entry-level model also in the gasoline range. Sporting performance and efficiency are provided all together by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder delivering a substantial 110 kW/150 hp. To optimise the flow of power and the general standard of motoring refinement, the engine also comes with fully variable VALVETRONIC valve management, variable double-Vanos camshaft adjustment, and an adjustable intake system (DISA).

Over and above the sporting response and the free-revving performance so typical of a BMW power unit, this combination also ensures efficient use of the energy contained in the fuel consumed.

The four-cylinder power unit featured in the BMW X1 sDrive18i develops its maximum output at 6,400 rpm and delivers peak torque of 200 Newton-metres/147 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm, accelerating this agile performer from a standstill to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds and providing a top speed of 202 km/h or 125 mph. In conjunction with the optional six-speed automatic transmission, the BMW X1 sDrive18i reaches 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds and has a top speed of 200 km/h or 124 mph.

In combination with BMW EfficientDynamics, the four-cylinder power unit featuring BMW VALVETRONIC ensures superior fuel economy and emission management at all times. Average fuel consumption of the BMW X1 sDrive18i in the EU test cycle is 8.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 34.4 mpg imp), the CO2 rating is 191 grams per kilometre. The corresponding figures on the automatic transmission model are 8.4 litres/100 km (equal to 33.6 mpg imp) and, respectively, 195 grams of CO2.

BMW X1 xDrive25i: superior and efficient power from six cylinders.

Benefiting from the second new engine now available in the BMW X1 as of March 2010, customers are able to enjoy the spontaneous agility of this compact BMW X model in conjunction with the supreme power of a BMW straight-six.

The BMW X1 xDrive25i supplements the top-of-the-range BMW X1 xDrive28i , with its straight-six gasoline engine featuring a composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase as well as double-Vanos and VALVETRONIC valve management delivering maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp at 6,100 rpm, together with peak torque of 277 Newton-metres/204 lb-ft at 2,500 rpm.

Apart from a reduction in weight to the lowest possible level, the unique character of this power unit is also borne out by the free-revving performance so typical of a BMW six-cylinder as well as the engine’s supreme running smoothness and refinement. And here again, BMW VALVETRONIC already proven millions of times the world over ensures particularly efficient use of fuel.

Featuring BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive technology as standard as well as six-speed automatic transmission, the BMW X1 xDrive25i accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 223 km/h or 138 mph. BMW EfficientDynamics combines this sporting performance with optimised fuel economy and emission management, the BMW X1 xDrive25i averaging fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 9.3 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 30.4 mpg imp) and providing a CO2 emission rating of 217 grams per kilometre.

Efficient combination: four-cylinder diesel and six-speed automatic transmission. Starting in March 2010, the six-speed automatic transmission already featured as standard on the six-cylinder models and the BMW X1 xDrive23d will also be available as an option on the BMW X1 xDrive18d, the BMW X1 sDrive18d, and the BMW X1 sDrive20d. This combines the comfort of an automatic transmission allowing manual selection of gears through Steptronic with all versions of BMW’s compact X model.

The BMW X1 xDrive18d with automatic transmission accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 10.3 seconds, the BMW X1 sDrive18d completes the same exercise in 9.9 seconds, and the BMW X1 sDrive20d takes just 8.3 seconds to reach 100 km/h. Top speed is 195 km/h (121 mph) in the BMW X1 xDrive18d, 200 km/h (124 mph) with the BMW X1 sDrive18d, and 218 km/h (135 mph) in the BMW X1 sDrive20d, that is the same as with the manual gearbox models.

The superior efficiency of the automatic transmission is borne out clearly by the impressive average fuel consumption and CO2 emission ratings established in the EU test cycle: 6.2 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 45.6 mpg imp) and 164 grams per kilometre on the BMW X1 xDrive18d, 5.9 litres/100 km (equal to 47.9 mpg imp) and 155 grams per kilometre on both the BMW X1 sDrive18d and the BMW X1 sDrive20d.

The BMW X1: unique driving pleasure, outstanding safety, exemplary efficiency.

The BMW X1 is the first premium vehicle of its kind to offer the driving pleasure so characteristic of a BMW X model in the compact segment. Built since September 2009 at BMW Plant Leipzig and winning a range of prizes and awards immediately after its successful launch into the market, the BMW X1 once again proves BMW’s superior competence in the development of thrilling and, at the same time, up-to-date vehicle concepts.

The BMW X1 stands out through its dynamic handling, versatile interior, a standard of efficiency quite unparalleled in a vehicle of this kind, and supreme safety already confirmed by the maximum score of five stars in the Euro NCAP crash test.

The uncompromising premium character of the BMW X1 is clearly confirmed by supreme quality of finish and a high standard of features and equipment. The options available on the BMW X1, quite unique in this segment, include navigation and audio systems masterminded by BMW iDrive as well as BMW ConnectedDrive with its driver assistance systems and services.

The range of paintwork colours is also being extended, the BMW X1 is now available not only in the wide range of colours already featured, but also in Space Grey, Cashmere Silver, Tasman, Sparkling Bronze, and Graphite Blue metallic.

[Source: BMW ]

Another interesting comparison coming out of Germany: BMW X1 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLK and Volvo XC60. To spice up things even more, Autobild went ahead stereotyping the drivers of these three cars: the hunter takes the GLK, the driver goes for the X1 while the self-employed citizen takes the XC60.

The comparison begins with the height of these cars. The X1 measures 1.55 meters high, GLK 1.69 meters and the Volvo 1.71 meters. Despite the lower height, Autobild says that the X1 in-line with the other two models as far as interior space. The X1 interior comes with the driver-oriented dashboard, a different approach from its competitors.

The BMW X1 as tested is powered by a four-cylinder twin-turbo 2.0 liter diesel engine with 204 horsepower and 400Nm torque. The engine is matted to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz GLK also comes with a four-cylinder 2.0 liter diesel twin-turbo engine, same power as the BMW (204 hp) and 500Nm of torque; the engine is matted to a seven-speed. Volvo XC60 uses a five-cylinder diesel turbo engine (2400cc), outputting 295 horsepower and 420Nm of torque; transmission used is a six-speed automatic.

All three cars tested are four-wheel drive.

Performance wise, BMW’s entry level SAV takes the first spot, running from 0 to 62 mph (100km/h) in 7.6 seconds, compared to the GLK at 8.2 seconds and the Sweedish counterpart at 9.6 seconds.  Braking distance is also where the X1 excels, 35.3 meters from 100 km/h, 36.3 meters for the GLK and 38.1 for XC60.

Another points scored by BMW are in the fuel consumption test where the X1 comes on top: 7.8 liter/100km. Mercedes GLK comes second with 8.6 liter/100km and the XC60 is the least fuel efficient with its 9.0 liter/100km.

Since the exterior design can be very subjective and based on personal preferences, we’re just going to let you comment on the photos below.

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BMW’s Joy campaign continues with a new episode. The fun, dynamic and young BMW X1 returns with a Merry Christmas wish for all of us and with some more photos of the entry-level Sports Activity Vehicle that is said be have exceeded BMW’s sales expectations.

The X1 was captured during some snow drifting in the beautiful Austrian Alps. If anyone has ever doubt the sportiness, dynamics and snow handling of the X1, those photos should help its case.

BMW launched the X1 in Europe back in October and the U.S. customer will see the first X1 SAV in early 2011.

As the first premium vehicle in its segment, the BMW X1 makes a striking impression with its unique driving pleasure, versatility and efficiency. Now the compact BMW X model moves into the lead in the area of safety, too. On the current Euro NCAP crash test the BMW X1achieved the highest score of 5 stars. Subjected to a testing procedure which was supplemented with additional criteria at the beginning of this year, the new model put on an impressive showing with its comprehensive standard safety features and an effective system of vehicle occupant protection which covers different types of collision. Of the 12 vehicles which have just gone through the NCAP test, the BMW X1 also has by far the highest level of pedestrian protection.

With the maximum score on the most important crash test procedure in Europe, the BMW X1 confirms the high standard of the safety concept developed for the BMW X models. Its extremely stable body structure provides an ideal basis for ensuring that the passenger cell is subject to maximum protection even in the event of a forceful impact. The forces acting on the vehicle are diverted along the clearly defined load paths of the support structures and absorbed by means of amply sized deformation zones.

In the interior of the BMW X1, front, side and curtain head airbags protect both the driver and other travellers from injury. Likewise part of the range of standard equipment are the belt tensioners and belt force limiters for the front seats as well as the ISOFIX systems for attaching children’s seats at the rear. The restraint systems are controlled by a central electronic safety system which triggers the most effective protection elements taking into account the type and intensity of the accident.

In order to optimise active safety, the BMW X1 is fitted with the driving stability system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) which is networked with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. The precise regulation and extremely wide range of functions offered by the system, including brake assistant, cornering brake assistant and traction mode DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), ensure easily controllable and safe handling even in demanding situations on the road. This makes a significant contribution towards reducing accident risk. The standard equipment of the BMW X1 also includes a tyre damage display function which warns the driver early on when there is pressure loss in an individual tyre.

The test procedure of the NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) is regarded as one of the most demanding tests required for new vehicles worldwide. The Euro NCAP test is a recognised benchmark of crash safety by governments, automobile clubs and consumer protection organisations throughout Europe. The test scenario covers such accident types as the head-on collision, the side crash and the side impact against a steel post. At the beginning of this year more stringent testing conditions were introduced which also address a vehicle’s electronic safety features as well as looking at additional injury risks in a wide range of different collision types.

After analysing the test results, the Euro NCAP testers confirmed that the BMW X1 has an extremely stable passenger cell which provides extensive protection from injury for both the driver and fellow travellers, regardless of their height and seating position. The BMW X1 received a particularly high score in relation to occupant protection for children. The vehicle was confirmed as offering an excellent standard of safety in the use of seating systems for children aged one and a half and three. The vehicle achieved the highest possible score for the protection provided by a seat facing opposite the direction of travel in both a head-on and a side collision.

The NCAP crash test now also attaches high importance to pedestrian protection. The BMW X1 impressed the inspectors in this discipline with by far the most effective precautions of all the vehicles being tested in the current cycle. Here again, the BMW X1 achieved its lead by means of a consistently applied safety concept. In the design of the bumpers and engine compartment lid, yielding structures ensure that the risk of injury to pedestrians and cyclists is minimised in the event of a collision. The test report makes particular mention of the material quality of the engine compartment lid which significantly reduces the risk of head injury, especially to children.

Just a few weeks ago, the new entry level Sports Activity Vehicle from BMW, X1, made its debut in Europe. Those of us that live in the U.S. would have to wait until 2011 to see the X1. Automobile magazine Autoweek shares with us their impression of this car that BMW has high hopes for.

“BMW has been spectacular in its reinvention during the past decade. It moved away from traditional volume-selling models, often becoming the first European luxury-car maker to enter important new market niches–much to the chagrin of Audi and Mercedes-Benz, which have attempted to follow its lead.

But if you thought BMW had every luxury niche covered, think again. With the arrival of the X1, it has become the first European luxury-car maker to make a compact SUV, setting up a likely sales battle against class favorites such as the Toyota RAV4, the Honda CR-V and, from the Europe perspective, the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Ford Kuga.

Slotting beneath the X3–which will grow in size, performance, features and price when a U.S.-built, second-generation model arrives next year–the X1 represents another part of BMW’s plan to achieve more than 2 million sales annually by 2020. It isn’t set to reach North American showrooms until mid-2011, 18 months after it goes on sale in Europe but ahead of the planned arrival of rivals such as the upcoming Audi Q3, Range Rover LRX and Mercedes BLK.

The exterior shape of the X1 was first revealed on a lightly veiled concept at the 2008 Paris motor show. The new four-door follows the BMW trend toward taut surfacing, edgy detailing and provocative shutline architecture. The smallest of BMW’s X-cars is slightly shorter and narrower but taller than the 3-series Touring, the wagon version of BMW’s most popular model, with which the X1 shares its 108.7-inch wheelbase and much of its mechanical hardware, engines included.”

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