Are you in the market for a luxurious and high-performance vehicle that offers both style and functionality? Look no further than the 2023 ALPINA D3 S Touring. With its sleek design and top-of-the-line features, this car is sure to turn heads on the road. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the 2023 ALPINA D3 S Touring such an exceptional vehicle, from its powerful engine to its advanced safety features and technology.

The ALPINA World as we know it is coming to end in 2025. With the sale of the name rights to their brother from another mother, the Bovensiepen family has made a clear decision about the future of their beloved brand. This doesn’t mean that you, as a customer can’t buy ALPINA vehicles between now and 2025, on the contrary even. According to the spokesperson at ALPINA, sales of ALPINA cars are currently skyrocketing, with sales records being broken month after month.

Still, the amount of cars sold are minuscule in comparison to its family member from Munich. ALPINAs are rarer than mainstream supercars. Just take a moment to think about that. One of the models which are part of the brand’s success is the ALPINA D3 S, which has a rich history in the world of performance cars. As a special edition of the BMW 3 Series, ALPINA has added its own unique touches to the car, which offers a combination of improved handling dynamics, everyday practicality and mile-crunching capabilities.

Facelift for the ALPINA D3 S

Available as a sedan and touring model, the D3 S is based on the platform of the M340d, which received a lifecycle update in 2022 and therefore now comes with new headlamps, plus different daytime running lights, alongside a slightly revised, octagonally-shaped kidney grille. The rear bumper is new as well and is styled to match what’s going on at the front.

While the exterior changes are more evolutionary rather than revolutionary, the changes inside the cabin are more noticeable. The immediate change visible inside the cabin is the BMW Curved Display, which comes as standard and is made up of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, set beside a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. The display gives you access to BMW Operating System 8, which offers a whole plethora connected services, media inputs, smartphone connectivity, 5G support and voice control as standard in a new, funky-looking interface.

ALPINA would not be ALPINA if they hadn’t changed the iDrive 8 interface to their liking. The gauges of the digital instrument panel are designed in a trademark ALPINA Blue and Green colour scheme. Clicking through the drive modes will get you specific colours for each mode. The animated D3 S shown on both screens is matching my Touring test car up to the level that you can even read the exterior ALPINA badges.

Enhanced performance

Where the base 3 Series got its lifecycle facelift, the engineers at ALPINA kept their package pretty much the same and upgraded the D3 S in a similar fashion we have seen before. The aerodynamic attachments at the front and rear are known to the brand as is the aerodynamic strip between the front windshield and the sunroof improving wind flow allowing to reach 270+ km/h in the Touring.

A set of ALPINA Dynamic 19 inch wheels, shod in Pirelli winter rubber and the signature quad tailpipes complement the unmistakable premium and understated exterior appearance, 20 inch wheels are available in either silver or Anthracite, if you prefer. Same goes for the decal set and the choice to opt for the ALPINA logo on the front and back in black, gold or Anthracite.

On the topic of technical modifications; the changes are considerable. One of the main points is the modification of the hybrid diesel engine with its new 48-volt starter generator. ALPINA has increased the power output of the straight-six 3.0 liter engine with bi-turbo charging from 340 horsepower to an impressive 355 horsepower, and the torque increases by 30 Nm to 730 Nm. A new ALPINA-specific cooling system with two external radiators, enlarged intercooler and fan are fitted.

The D3 S is even quicker off the line than its base sibling, more responsive through the mid-range and has a wider top end, too. It is adding that unique level of flavor that’s missing in the M340d, mainly because the Germans at BMW had to cut corners during the development to favor cost over refinement and performance. That is no negative but an observation where ALPINA can flourish and offer you something unique and limited.

Superb handling

In terms of handling, the Alpina D3 S is equipped with stiffer suspension, offering a more connected driving experience with tighter body control. The driveshafts have been reinforced and new springs, bump stops and stabilizers were fitted, alongside greater camber on the front wheels. The car also features upgraded brakes compared to the base model, which provide more stopping power and a better feel.

The engineers not only fitted new hardware. The important bit is bringing all those upgrades together with improved software maximizing the capabilities of the 3er diesel platform. By utilizing the variable damper control, rear limited-slip differential and steering unit, the ALPINA engineers developed a set up that has no competitor in this market segment. They even installed their own torque split for the xDrive four-wheel-drive system.

The package handles with the precision and accuracy of a small sports car while it sometimes has the tendency of showing its weight just shy of two tonnes. The D3 S proves itself more as a long distance cruiser within ALPINA’s 3-series line-up offering a wide range of driving modes – COMFORT+, COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ – which allow for excellent everyday ride comfort and dynamic handling.

Interior refinements

Inside the car, there are some notable upgrades as well, with ALPINA including luxury features such as branded leather upholstery, a new sport steering wheel dressed in Lavalina leather, new ALPINA floor mats and high-quality trim pieces caring the ALPINA crest.

Up on request, there are two Lavalina interior packages available upgrading the whole interior with the same leather that you will find in a Rolls-Royce. A special plaque on the central console will remind you of the production number of your D3 S and oozes that ALPINA-specific interior ambience.

ALPINA-themed synthesis

Even though, all of these enhancements are a welcoming addition to the vehicle and the standard package of the base model, the true nature of an ALPINA and therefore the D3 S is not felt through each of its components, but through the strength of their composition. The ALPINA-themed synthesis makes this D3 S so powerful in its abilities and therefore a very well-sorted daily. Its reassurance while driving feels up there combining a sense of quality and poise through all of its touchpoints.

Of course, the enhanced price tag is one that needs to be considered as a point of note which should not be left untouched. It therefore requires yourself to ask the question if it is worth the upgrade over the base BMW model. I would say yes, and that is mainly due to the fact that the enhanced level of sportiness, exclusivity and performance is not offered elsewhere in any other BMW diesel or similar competitor on the market today.

The D3 S is the best and most desirable diesel-powered car on the market, and it makes you feel special in the process. It would definitely be my personal choice in this form factor if the magnificent ALPINA B3 wouldn’t have been around.

[Photos by instagram.com/alessio_lp670]

2023 BMW Z4 Overview

BMW Z4 Engine, Transmission, and Performance 

Fuel Economy and MPG

Interior and Cargo Space

2023 BMW Z4 Technology and Connectivity 

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

BMW Z4 Pricing 

2023 BMW Z4 FAQ

The BMW M2 G87 has officially touched down in Austria where a Zandvoort Blue example was filmed at the Salzburgarena exhibition center. This second-generation sports coupe has a few niceties inside and out compared to the standard model, including the carbon fiber roof and the 50 years of M anniversary roundels. Eagle-eyed viewers will also notice the Shadowline option, giving certain exterior elements a glossy black finish.

The interior is just as special, featuring a clutch pedal for the six-speed manual gearbox. Much like in Germany, BMW Austria makes the eight-speed automatic transmission standard, so you’ll have to pay more to row your own gears. Indeed, the new M2 with the Steptronic retails from €88,000 whereas the 6MT starts at €90,356. In the United States, both types of gearboxes are a no-cost option.

Another highlight of the interior is represented by the optional M Carbon bucket seats with illuminated M2 logos and the famous three colors. They’re more than just for show as aside from providing greater lateral support, the front seats are almost 11 kilograms (nearly 24 pounds) lighter than the standard sport seats. The lightweight roof we mentioned shaves off another 6 kg (13 pounds).

This is pretty much how we’d order our M2 G87, but with two-tone wheels instead of this all-black look. BMW has promised new colors will be added later next year, but none of them will be from the Individual catalog. In the meantime, buyers can customize their cars by ordering items from the vast catalog of M Performance Parts, which also includes the center-mounted quad exhaust tips.

The new M2 is sure to make a splash starting in April when early adopters will get their long-awaited cars. BMW is making the baby M in Mexico at the San Louis Potosi plant rather than in Leipzig where the old F87 was produced in about 60,000 examples.

Source: SDA Dan Cars / YouTube

The BMW Group is still selling V12-powered cars, but you’ll have to step up to a Rolls-Royce. Should you want the BMW roundel instead of the Spirit of Ecstasy, you’ll have to go back a generation into the 7 Series lineage and get an M760i. This isn’t it, but rather its predecessor, the 760i. Specifically, it’s a long-wheelbase (F02) with the mighty 6.0-liter engine featuring a pair of turbochargers.

The sporty luxobarge was taken to an unrestricted section of the Autobahn where it was subjected to several acceleration tests. If there’s one BMW model built to devour the German highway at high speeds without breaking a sweat and in ultimate comfort, it’s certainly a V12 7 Series. Fans have criticized the company for its decision to skip an M7, but seeing this video, was it really necessary?

With the N74 engine making a generous 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) from just 1,500 rpm, the 760i feels like it has endless resources. Onboard footage shows the fullsize luxury sedan picking up speed in an impressive manner while providing a more than decent soundtrack. In-gear acceleration shows there is no replacement for displacement unless we’re talking EVs with their instant torque delivery an ICE will never match.

The video is also a good opportunity to see how well the fifth-generation 7 Series’ cabin has aged as the dashboard still looks classy, 15 years since the F01/F02 originally went on sale. BMW has moved away from integrating screens into the dashboard, while the days of conventional buttons and knobs are numbered.

Overall, the video is a trip down memory lane to the days when V12 engines were not an endangered species. It’s all about increasingly stricter emissions regulations nowadays, hence why BMW’s larger engines are living on borrowed time. Indeed, you can’t even get a V8 in Europe on the 7 Series anymore while the next 5 Series will only have a V8 in the M5 because the M550i is going away.

Source: AutoTopNL / YouTube

The upcoming BMW i5, the first 5 Series with a fully electric drive system, has undergone a series of grueling winter tests to prove the stability of its electric powertrain and dynamic performance qualities. The testing program on ice and snow lasted for a year and included a wide range of driving scenarios, from country roads to motorways and specially prepared test tracks. The main focus of the tests was on the car’s ability to drive at low temperatures and on surfaces that offer little grip.

Winter testing

BMW i5 Fahrzeugerprobung Arjeplog/Schweden

BMW says that the electric drivetrain of the BMW i5 is optimized for traction, driving dynamics and stability. The electric sedan was tested in winter conditions, such as driving on a solid blanket of snow, icy mountain roads, or frozen lakes. The winter testing took place in the BMW Group’s winter test center at Arjeplog, northern Sweden. This is where the BMW i5 began its testing journey and where it ended it.

BMW i5 Roadtrip, München-Arjeplog/Schweden, Etappe 2 Lüneburg – Helsingborg

As part of the development process, the BMW i5 had to undergo a road trip from Munich to the BMW test center at Arjeplog, covering around 3,000 kilometers. Additional testing was conducted at other BMW Group test facilities and in everyday driving in and around Munich, as well as in the vicinity of BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The second round of testing in Sweden was designed to fine-tune all powertrain and chassis control systems. The test areas sited on frozen lakes around Arjeplog were particularly well-suited for delicately adjusting the drive torque control system under precisely reproducible conditions.

Rumored i5 specs

BMW_Projektfahrt G60G61_Dingolfing

Unfortunately, BMW has yet to reveal any of the i5’s specs, but here are some things we heard through the grapevine. BMW is set to introduce two introductory models of the i5 – the BMW i5 eDrive40 and i5 M60. While the i5 40 will be the smart choice when it comes to pricing, the BMW i5 M60 is the non-logical, yet more exciting option. The BMW i5 uses the BMW’s 5th Generation eDrive. In the case of the i4 eDrive40, it’s a 250 kW electric synchronous motor, so we expect a similar power output in the i5 eDrive40.

BMW i5 Roadtrip, München-Arjeplog/Schweden, Etappe 3 Uppsala-Umea

The BMW i5 M60 is anticipated to have a power and performance that is comparable to the iX M60. It is projected to generate nearly 600 horsepower on both axles and produce 811 pound-feet of torque. As the i5 M60 has a lower center of gravity and is substantially lighter than the iX crossover, it is expected to deliver driving dynamics that are similar to those of the popular i4 M50. The acceleration time from 0 to 60 mph is predicted to be around 3 seconds, which will make the i5 M60 one of the quickest BMWs available today.

We anticipate receiving further information about the upcoming BMW i5 sedan and the i5 Touring in the near future, so make sure to keep an eye out for exclusive content.

Here is a first look at the new ALPINA B5 GT! The limited-run special edition is a powerful and exclusive car available in Sedan and Touring body styles. ALPINA has installed the most powerful engine it has ever used in a road car, a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces a colossal 625 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque.

Performance

With its impressive engine and an updated launch control system of the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the ALPINA B5 GT sprints to 62 mph in less than 3.4 seconds in the case of the Sedan. The ALPINA B5 GT Touring takes an extra two-tenths of a second due to its slightly heavier body. From 0 to 124 mph, the Sedan requires 11.3 seconds while the wagon does the job in 11.9 seconds. Flat out, the B5 GT sedan can reach speeds of up to 205 mph, while the Touring can travel at speeds of over 200 mph.

Design and Features

In addition to the upgraded V8, the ALPINA B5 GT features a sports exhaust system equipped with a newly developed middle silencer for a throaty soundtrack. The pairs of dual tips are coated with titanium nitride and have an intricate black finish. ALPINA installs its latest take on the 20-inch Classic forged wheels featuring an exclusive Marron Volciano color and “B5 GT” lettering. Behind the alloys are Brembo brakes with 395-mm front and 398-mm rear discs for superior stopping power.

The ALPINA B5 GT also gets a front-end reinforcement taking the shape of a dome-bulkhead-strut, while the B5 GT wagon rides slightly lower at the back compared to the regular B5 Touring. Customers can choose from a variety of colors and customization options for the interior.

Pricing and Availability

Limited to 250 units worldwide, the ALPINA B5 GT is priced at €145,500 as a Sedan and €148,500 as a Touring in Germany. ALPINA is already taking orders, and the first cars will be delivered in July. [Photos: Marc Rutten]

The BMW 3.0 CSL is a legendary racing car and icon in the BMW Motorsport portfolio. Built by Karmann between 1968 and 1975, the BMW 3.0 CSL was a svelte 2,400lbs with 3.2-liter (340 hp) and later with 3.5-liter (440 hp) engines. Its aerodynamics earned it the nickname “Batmobile,” and established BMW as a premier racing team.

History of the BMW 3.0 CSL

The BMW 3.0 CSL had an impressive racing history. In 1973, Toine Hezemans won the European Touring Car Championship in a 3.0CSL and co-drove a 3.0CSL with Dieter Quester to a class victory at Le Mans. Hezemans and Quester also drove to second place at the 1973 German Touring Car Grand Prix at Nürburgring, being beaten only by Chris Amon and Hans-Joachim Stuck in another 3.0 CSL.

This final version of the 3.0 CSL was homologated in July 1973 along with an aerodynamic package that included a large air dam, short fins running along the front fenders, a spoiler above and behind the trailing edge of the roof, and a tall rear wing. The rear wings were not installed at the factory, but were left in the boot for installation after purchase.

First BMW to wear the ///M stripes

The BMW 3.0 CSL IMSA was bound to take to the track in the U.S. wearing Texaco stickers on it, as the American company and BMW had agreed on a deal. Unfortunately, things went south on the deal and the Texaco name wasn’t used on the car but the three stripes were kept on. This is how we got the famous M stripes.

The BMW 3.0 CSL was more of an experiment, as BMW wanted to race badly and created these cars as homologation specials back in the day. The rules for various motorsport events required that the car you wanted to race in a limited series must be sold beforehand. This is how the 3.0 CSL took shape, both the road-legal version and the racing alternative.

According to Jochen Neerpasch, the BMW 3.0 CSL served as a perfect exercise back in the day, as BMW learned it was better to develop the race car first and then turn it into a road-legal model rather than the other way around because it was a lot cheaper. This is how things are done to this day over at the BMW M headquarters.

In conclusion, the BMW 3.0 CSL is a legendary racing car that left a lasting impact on the motorsport world. Its impressive racing history, innovative design, and iconic livery make it an unforgettable piece of BMW’s heritage. In this video, we explore the history of the BMW 3.0 CSL, as narrated by Marc Thiesbürger, car and racing historian for BMW Group Classic, who also has a few secrets to share with us.

By being the Head Of M Engineering, it’s safe to say Dirk Hacker knows everything there is to know about the second-generation M2. In an extended interview with The Fast Lane starring a Toronto Red example, he shared some of his vast knowledge pertaining to the G87. He explains how it’s closer to big-brother M4 than ever before, using the same wheels and tires. It’s also just as wide while having a shorter wheelbase to make it more tossable.

Dirk Hacker went on to describe the new M2 as being a “more adult” version of the original F87 as the new sports coupe is bigger (and heavier) than the model it replaces. We are also given the opportunity to have a look underneath the hood where the S58 engine calls home. It was first installed in the X3 M and X4 M before it arrived in the M3 and M4. BMW took it to new heights of power with the M3 CS and M4 CSL, topped by the 3.0 CSL.

Naturally, the new M2 uses a detuned version of the twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six, but there are already signs of more power being on the way. Dirk Hacker said his personal car arriving in a few weeks will have the six-speed manual since it makes the car more fun to drive even though the eight-speed automatic is objectively quicker. The pre-production car had the stick shift and the standard seats instead of the optional body-hugging carbon seats.

An additional weight reduction can be achieved by getting the carbon roof but the M2 in this video had the sunroof with an electrically sliding cover. The Head Of M Engineering goes on to explain the highly configurable M Menu, giving owners the possibility to make changes to the chassis, steering, brakes, and driving modes as well as adjusting the level of intervention of the traction control system.

Already in production in Mexico at the San Luis Potosi factory, the BMW M2 will celebrate its global market launch in April. Additional colors will be added later in 2024, and there are rumors of a more powerful version arriving further down the line. Closer to the end of the life cycle, so well after 2025, an xDrive model might be launched.

When one’s imagination can match their talent, anything is possible. With today’s modern tools, it has never been easier for artists to put their wildest dreams on digital paper. Such is the case here as Chris Labrooy has created a BMW M3 E30 from an alternate universe and timeline. He found the original sports sedan appealing because it’s an “odd-looking car,” and decided to express his appreciation for the original M3 with a truly bonkers design exercise.

Officially known as the “MMMM3,” the purely hypothetical M3 E30 has a wide body with perforated metal combined with a partially translucent fiberglass hood. It has also been imagined with a prominent rear wing eclipsing the ones installed by BMW on the hardcore Evolution versions or even on the DTM race cars.

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A post shared by Chris Labrooy (@chrislabrooy)

The overfenders give the side profile a meaner stance without making the M3 look overly wide while the taillights are represented by a slab of light lurking from behind the perforated bumper. An M logo adorns the front wheels while the rear ones carry the BMW roundel, a recurring theme also noticeable on the unusual mesh-like rear. Eagle-eyed viewers will notice the dual exhaust tips have been moved from left to right.

Chris Labrooy must be doing something right because his radical interpretation of the M3 E30 has been appreciated on Instagram by none other than BMW Head of Design Domagoj Dukec and BMW Group Head of Design Adrian van Hooydonk as well as by the official BMW channel on the social media platform.

Now, if someone could actually turn this rendering into an actual body kit, it should look even more spectacular in real life. With some people buying a brand-new M4 to convert it into a pickup truck, anything is possible, and hopefully, we’ll see this contraption in all of its perforated metal glory at the SEMA show.

Source: Chris Labrooy / Instagram

If you’ve purchased yourself a BMW in the last ten years, it’s almost guaranteed to have had Michelins from the factory. In fact, if you’ve bought any performance car in the last ten years, you most likely have Michelin rubber. That’s because Michelin has been absolutely dominating the performance tire game for a decade now. More specifically, its Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S (PS4S) tire has been the go-to performance car tires for every brand for the past seven years. Now, though, there’s finally a replacement, the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 (PSS5) and it could be BMW’s next generation of performance tire.

The Michelin PS4S is probably the most loved and well-known tire in the world. It’s the tire to get if you own anything even kind of sporty, as it simply dominates the market. The reasons for the PS4S’ dominance are many. It’s steering response and lateral grip are exceptional, thanks to its unique outer tread blocks, its wet handling has always been among the best in the performance category, thanks to its vertical groove channels, and its compound allows it to be sticky in most temperatures. It’s also a quiet tire and comfortable tire. So the new PSS5 has a lot to live up to.

According to Michelin, the new PSS5 is improved in ever way. Its outer tread blocks are slightly different, with longer lateral grooves, and they’re made from a new motorsport-derived rubber compound, so its steering response and lateral grip should be even better than before. It also features a new belt design that’s designed improve steering feel, something the PS4S was already the best at.

But it’s not just the physical nature of the tire that should make the PSS5 an upgrade. It also has new technology that the PS4S never had. For instance, it has new acoustic foam, available in more sizes, to keep tire noise down. There are new internal sensors with RFID chips that for larger cars, such as SUVs and EVs, allow owners to connect to the tire via smartphone to keep on eye on pressures and temperatures. While Michelin has had such tech already, the PSS5 expands it to far more sizes and models.

Nearly every excellent handling BMW and BMW M car has worn the Michelin PS4S since its debut (with the odd exception of the M5 CS, which used a bespoke Pirelli P Zero that aided its brilliance). Now, though, we could see a new era of tire with the Michelin PSS5 that could last another decade.

With 5,806 cars sold, South Korea was the sixth-largest market for BMW M in 2022. To show its appreciation for the growing interest in high-performance cars, the luxury brand held a special event this week to celebrate the local launch of the XM. Timo Resch, Vice President Customer, Brand, Sales at BMW M made the trip to the country in East Asia to bring the plug-in hybrid SUV onto the stage.

The XM is one of the several M products coming this year in South Korea where BMW intends to sell the recently facelifted X5 M and X6 M as Competition-only models, along with the unreleased i7 M70. The M2 Coupe and M3 Touring have also been confirmed. At the very end of the presentation, Timo Resch teased the XM Label Red and said the company’s most powerful production vehicle has entered the late development stage and will be launched in the country this fall.

While the next-generation 5 Series debuting soon with an electric i5 will also spawn an M60 version, it wasn’t mentioned during the presentation. For the event held in South Korea, BMW invited local artist G-Dragon to generate more buzz around the XM.

BMW South Korea did mention other electric M Performance vehicles already sold in the country, namely the i4 M50 and iX M60. The former was actually BMW M’s best-selling product globally in 2022. The M760e plug-in hybrid based around an inline-six engine is also available locally and will likely be complemented by an M560e.

As previously reported, BMW M projects purely electric vehicles will outsell ICE and PHEV models combined as early as 2028. Just two years later, most performance cars will not have a combustion engine.

In the meantime, more plug-in hybrid M models are on the way, with the M5 Sedan and M5 Touring due around 2025 with a little over 700 horsepower or about 50 hp less than the XM Label Red special edition.

Source: BMW South Korea

BMW is gearing up to introduce the BMW i5 M60, an exciting electric vehicle that builds upon existing electric vehicles such as the i4 M50 and BMW iX M60i. It’s also the third – maybe fourth by then – M Performance electric car. Ahead of its unveil this Spring, rendering artist Nicolas Cavero (@futurecarsnow) put together a new Photoshop image of the BMW i5 M60 based on recent spy photos. The i5 render is based on the latest spy photos and uses the Frozen Portimao Blue color.

It is uncertain whether the BMW G60 will resemble the digital design exercise, but it will definitely be an evolution rather than a revolution. The overall appearance of the G60 is expected to be sharper, with some test vehicles evoking an E60 vibe. The 2024 BMW 5 Series will adopt flush door handles and sleeker-looking headlights, as is common with recent BMW models. Additionally, the front grille will not be unusually large, a relief to some. The rear end of this render shows some aggressive lines, with a massive rear diffuser and additional inserts into the bumper. As you’d expect, the slim taillights emphasize the character of a 5 Series model – business but sporty at the same time.

Instant Torque and Power

The BMW i5 M60 will likely pack a similar power and performance as the iX M60, with nearly 600 horsepower at both axles and 811 pound-feet of torque. With a lower center of gravity and significantly less weight than the iX crossover, the i5 M60 will deliver similar driving dynamics as in the already high-selling i4 M50. 0-60 mph springs are likely to be in the 3 seconds range, making the i5 M60 one of the fastest BMWs today.

The interior of the BMW i5 M60 will raise the luxury levels found in the i4, with more refined materials, leathers, and trim choices. We expect some of the exclusive features from the i7 to trickle down to the i5 lineup, making it a top choice within the luxury EV segment. The large curved display will be part of the interior design, powered by iDrive 8.5. Just like all M Performance models, the i5 M60 will use M Sport seats, an M Sports steering wheel and likely some carbon fiber inserts.

Additional electric variants

BMW is set to introduce two introductory models of the i5 – the BMW i5 eDrive40 and i5 M60. While the i5 40 will be the smart choice when it comes to pricing, the BMW i5 M60 is the non-logical, yet more exciting option. The BMW i5 uses the BMW’s 5th Generation eDrive. In the case of the i4 eDrive40, it’s a 250 kW electric synchronous motor, so we expect a similar power output in the i5 eDrive40.

With DC fast-charging, we expect the BMW i5 to charge at up to 200 kW, with just 10 minutes of charging at this speed giving the car 90 miles worth of juice. Using a Level 2 wall box with AC power and a charging rate of 11 kW, the BMW i5 could recharge its battery from a completely depleted state to 100% in under eight hours. Of course, those figures might vary if BMW fits a larger battery pack in the i5.

We expect to learn more about the new BMW i5 sedan and the i5 Touring in the upcoming days, weeks and months, so as always, stay tuned for some exclusive content! [Render: instagram.com/futurecarsnow]

The next-generation ‘G90’ BMW M5 is going to be among the most important M cars in history. While it isn’t the first plug-in hybrid M car, as that title belongs to the BMW XM, it’s the first plug-in hybrid real M car. The BMW XM is a bean-counter’s car, designed to make BMW loads and loads of money, which it will. The BMW M5 is a proper M car, one with a long history of incredible cars. So if BMW can succeed at making a hybrid version, it will be huge for the brand. Naturally, you probably want to see what it’s going to look like, inside and out, right? If so, you’re in luck, as some new spy photos just dropped and they show off most of its cabin. (We don’t own the spy photos but they can be seen here)

If you’re expecting some radical interior design from the next-gen M5, you might be a bit disappointed. BMW is keeping the G60 5 Series and G90 M5 pretty traditional, in terms of design. So the cabin of this next-gen M5, despite being a hybrid, is fairly straightforward. It’s going to have the same curved dual screen as every other modern BMW, except it will be running iDrive 9, versus iDrive 8, and it’s going to have a similar center console layout to most new BMWs, such as the 7 Series.

On the center console, you’ll find the same toggle switch shifter as with all new Bimmers, which has its pros and cons. It’s good because it cleans up the console area and allows for more elbow room but it’s bad because you can’t use it to change gears. While paddles do most of the shift work, many drivers like to use the automatic gear lever to shift, as it feels more like a manual transmission and it can more easily be used while turning the steering wheel. So bye bye, shifting from the console.

Another notable center console details is the survival of the iDrive rotary dial. We know that some BMW models are phasing it out, as is the case with the BMW X1, and there will be more to do so. However, it seems, as least with the BMW M5, the rotary dial will live on. Many fans will be happy to see that.

The other interior talking point is the steering wheel. BMW just started introducing flat-bottom steering wheels in the 7 Series and X1 and that continues in the BMW M5. The plug-in hybrid M5 will have the same steering wheel as the BMW 760i M Sport, which is a three-spoke wheel with a flat bottom and a skeletonized bottom spoke. It’s a good steering wheel to use, even if it is overly chunky, even by BMW standards.

We can’t wait to see the G90 BMW M5 when it finally debuts, as it will pack the same hybrid V8 powertrain as the XM and potentially make u to 700 horsepower. It will almost certainly become the fastest BMW in history and, if BMW M uses what it learned on the M5 CS, is should be incredible to drive as well.

[Source: Car Magazine]

BMW has a knack for showing off gorgeous concept cars and then never delivering on them. Cars like the 328 Hommage Concept and M1 Hommage Concept are two particularly annoying examples of stunning cars that should have been made but never were. However, it did deliver on a few and one such car was the BMW CS Concept, which eventually became the 6 Series Gran Coupe, easily one of the most beautiful BMWs of this century. It’s one of the closest things to a BMW concept come to life as we’ve ever seen and we think it should return, this time as an electric performance sedan.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is easily one of the most beloved Bimmers of the modern era. Not only did it look great, it had a unique interior (rare for BMW these days) and it drove fantastically. It was this odd sweet spot in a transitioning BMW lineup that looked modern but felt old-school. It had old-school BMW steering feel but new-school design and tech, along with four doors and five seats, making it one of the most unique and exciting packages of any BMW product ever. And despite technically having a successor, in the 8 Series Gran Coupe, BMW was never able to match that magic again. Which is why BMW needs to remake it, this time as an EV.

As good looking as the 8 Series Gran Coupe was, it has been sort of a dud. Its performance is impressive and it does look good—even if it isn’t quite as pretty as the 6 Series Gran Coupe—but its interior/luxury is lacking for its price point and its steering, ride, and handling are all a bit disappointing. It’s too numb and lacks any sort of driver engagement, which would make you think it’s more of a luxury car but its cabin is a bit too boring and its ride is a bit too stiff for that. So it ends but being this ‘tweener that doesn’t really work for anyone.

So if BMW does bring it back, it needs to be as a 6 Series Gran Coupe. What would be the difference between making it a 6er or an 8er? Cost. The 6 Series Gran Coupe was a sportier, more stylish 5 Series, whereas the 8 Series Gran Coupe seems to attempt being a sportier, more stylish 7 Series and it just doesn’t work. At 5 Series+ prices, the 6er GC just works better as a package.

BMW could bring the 6 Series Gran Coupe back on the Neue Klasse platform, making it entirely electric, and give it styling once again reminiscent of the gorgeous CS Concept for 2007. At the moment, all of BMW’s EVs seem rather sensible and boring, so it would be nice to see something more stylish, more exciting come from the blue and white Roundel to give us some hope for the future. A 6 Series Gran Coupe revival could be that car.

BMW and Porsche might just get their wish. It was recently reported that Germany, along with a few other European countries, was trying to postpone the European Union’s effort to ban the sale of new internal combustion engines (ICE) after 2035 until an exception could be made for e-fuels. BMW and Porsche were among the most vocal opponents of such a ban and their squeaky wheels may have just gotten their grease, as the EU just postponed the final vote for the ICE ban.

According to Autocar, both BMW and Porsche feel that ICE engines will still have a large role to play after 2035 thanks to e-fuels. Porsche seems to be the largest advocate of e-fuels, likely because it spent a lot of money on an e-fuel manufacturing facility in Chile. However, German companies do seem to believe in the stuff.

E-fuels are carbon-neutral fuels made from harvesting the carbon to make the fuels out of the air. So any carbon emitted by burning the fuels is either equal or even less than—depending on the efficiency of the engine—the carbon that was harvested to make it. So e-fuel engines would be either carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative. Cost is still a bit issue, as e-fuels are incredibly expensive to make at this point, far more so than traditional gasoline.

Germany’s transport minister Volker Wissing seems to think the bill will pass with a new exception for e-fuel vehicles, saying “Vehicles with combustion engines can also be newly registered after 2035 if they only use CO2-neutral fuels.”

Italy is one of the countries siding with Germany (don’t worry, it’s not like that again) and actually wants to add more exceptions, such as for vehicles that can run on biofuel made from natural waste products. Ferrari and Lamborghini are among the brands backing exceptions as well. Though, Italy alone isn’t enough to continue blocking the law from passing without such an exception,

Interestingly, Porsche’s parent company Volkswagen isn’t as interested in e-fuels, calling the debate “unnecessary noise” and internal combustion “old technology.” Both Volkswagen and Audi have sort of gone all-in on EVs, as both brands want to become entirely electric electric by 2033, two years short of the EU’s deadline. However, BMW seems to think that ICE engines will continue on long after the 2035 cutoff and, not only that, continue to play a big role in transportation.

It will be interesting to see how automakers and legislators navigate these transitional waters as the years go on but it seems like the EU might have at least bent a little bit for German and Italian automakers.

[Source: Autocar]

Despite its quirky, oft-maligned design, the BMW iX is a genuinely impressive car. In fact, it’s one of BMW’s very best. It’s powerful, great to drive, comfortable, quiet, and boasts a fantastic cabin. However, one of its most surprising attributes is actually its range, something that isn’t typically a BMW EV strong suit. The iX is BMW’s longest-range EV and its most impressive showing to date. And yet the Fisker Ocean—the plucky crossover from Henrik Fisker’s upstart electric car company—actually bests it.

Thanks to decent efficiency, and a whopping 111.5 kWh battery pack, the BMW iX xDrive50 boasts a WLTP-rated range of 612 km (380 miles) of range. Admittedly, the U.S. EPA rates the iX xDrive50 at 315 miles of range, which is a number I’ve achieved pretty easily myself. To be fair, though, Edmunds tested the iX and was able to get closer to that WLTP-rated range, so it’s certainly possible. However, the Fisker Ocean just released its official WLTP range and it’s a whopping 707 km (440 miles) of range. That beats BMW’s figure by 60 miles.

Admittedly, the BMW iX is bigger than the Fisker Ocean, as the Ocean is closer in size to a BMW X3 and the iX is closer to a BMW X5. However, the iX is also significantly less practical than the X5, with less cargo space and rear passenger room, due to being surprisingly poorly packaged, especially considering its bespoke electric architecture. So the Ocean will likely boast interior space that’s closer to the iX than their exterior sizes would suggest, closing the gap between the two. On the flip side, though, the top-sped, longest-range Ocean—the Fisker Ocean Extreme—starts at $68,999, which is almost $20,000 less than the BMW iX xDrive50. So the Fisker offers more range but slightly less size than the iX for a lot less money.

What about power? The BMW iX xDrive50 is a powerful car, with 516 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque, getting it from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds flat. The Fisker Ocean has 550 horsepower from its dual motors that helps it get from 0-60 mph in a claimed 3.6 seconds. So Fisker has the iX beat there, too.

It’a worth noting that the 440 mile figure is European WLTP, making the Ocean the furthest-range EV in Europe. In the ‘States, however, the Ocean has a 350 mile EPA-rated range.

Obviously, these two cars aren’t direct competitors. But in the world of EVs, where segments sort of blend and customers cross-shop vehicles differently, it’s interesting to see the Ocean boasting such impressive range specs. Hopefully that helps it become a more successful EV because, as we’ve covered before, it looks to be a promising one.

[Source: Fisker]

With good reason, many people crave to have the best version of a car the manufacturer offers. The M3 is objectively a better car than the M340i in terms of power and performance. However, the M Performance version strikes the perfect balance between the comfort of a regular 3 Series and the drama delivered by the full-fat M version. It also does away with the oversized grille, which many still find too irritating.

At the ongoing 2023 Belgrade Motor Show in Serbia, BMW has brought the M Lite version and showcases it alongside an X5 M60i. Dressed to impress in an Individual Voodoo Blue paint, the sports sedan rides on 19-inch alloy wheels with a two-tone design (792 M style) and has a black front grille among many other dark exterior accents.

With the Life Cycle Impulse introduced last year, BMW is now offering the M340i and M340d with an optional carbon fiber roof but only in the sedan body style. However, the car filmed at the show has a regular sunroof. Speaking of the interior, it has black Vernasca leather upholstery and a carbon fiber trim as two of the options added to the build.

It’s truly hard to find fault with this car, although we know more than a few people would’ve preferred the old iDrive 7 layout with the driver’s display integrated into the dashboard. Those days will soon be over as only a handful of BMWs feature the old look and it’s only a matter of time before all cars will transition to iDrive 8.5 or iDrive 9.

Perhaps a manual gearbox would be the icing on the cake, but that’s what the base M3 is for. We should enjoy this diversity while it lasts because an automaker’s lineup will be greatly simplified in the inevitable electric era. The current 3 Series G20 is expected to remain in production until early 2027, with the M3 G80 to bow out a few months later.

Source: crospotter13 / YouTube

This third-generation BMW 7 Series had certainly seen better days before stopping by professional car detailer Auto Finesse to receive the pampering it desperately needed. An automatic model in the right-hand-drive specification, the E38 was showing visible signs of neglect as evidenced by the mold on the headliner.

Right from the start you can tell it’s not completely stock since it rides on a custom set of 20-inch MK Motorsport wheels and appears to boast air suspension for a lower stance at the press of a button. We’re also not big fans of the roof-mounted spoiler but to each his own. The ALPINA add-on spoiler is a nice touch and it looks as though the interior has been upgraded with bits and pieces from upper-spec E38s.

Add-ons aside, the 7er was in dire need to have its paint refreshed, and thankfully, Auto Finesse came to its rescue. They also thoroughly cleaned the engine bay, polished the taillights, and got rid of the stickers mounted at the top and bottom of the rear windshield. Cleaning the leather interior and its icky headliner was a time-consuming process but it was well worth the effort.

While the car still isn’t perfect, it does look great given its venerable age and the fact it’s been modified throughout the years. As to what we’d change, we would have the front and rear seats match again while removing the large AC Schnitzer badge on the passenger side of the dashboard. The M-branded alloy pedal set is not our cup of tea either.

The video is a good reminder that some designs have aged beautifully as even though the E39 was phased out 20 years ago, it remains as desirable as ever. Time will tell whether two decades from now, we’ll say the same thing about the G70 on sale today.

Source: AutoFinesse / YouTube

Anyone that’s driven any sort of ALPINA knows how special they are. From the moment you set off, you realize that an ALPINA isn’t a normal BMW. It’s different. It’s better. There’s something magical about the way ALPINA’s drive and one of my favorites is the pre-facelift G11 ALPINA B7. Admittedly, there’s a bit of nostalgia there, as it was my first ALPINA drive ever, but it’s also just an incredible car. Which is why this one that’s currently up for sale on Cars and Bids is so exciting.

This specific 2017 ALPINA B7 has 32,900 miles on the odometer, making it still very fresh. It also looks to be in great condition, while also wearing the most desirable ALPINA color combo—ALPINA Green over Cognac interior. It’s absolutely gorgeous. So why is it that the current bid (at the time of writing this) is $38,500 with only one day left on the auction? That seems awfully cheap for a car those original MSRP was around $140,000.

The likely cause of the six-figure price drop (unless it jumps up significantly in the next few hours) is its slightly checkered history. The current seller is the third owner of the car. While the seller lives in California, where the car currently is, this specific B7 spent some time in Florida, where it was stolen. The seller claims that the car was only missing for 12 hours and was returned unharmed but there still could be some concern for buyers. Also, when the current owner bought the car and had it shipped from the east coast to California, its hood was damaged on the car carrier. However, the carrier’s insurance paid for the repair and it looks as good as new, at least from what the pictures show.

It’s also not perfect, with a few scratches here and there, both inside and out. So anyone looking for a perfect, showroom-ready luxury car will be disappointed. However, this still should be a sensational luxury car. Its ALPINA-tuned 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 makes 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, it’s the last good looking 7 Series, it has an incredible interior, and it’s among the best driving 7 Series’ ever. I still remember my week with the pre-LCI B7, which was ironically also in 2017 and my test car wore the same color combo. I adored the car. For around $40,000, this ALPINA B7 is a fantastic luxury car deal, one that any car enthusiast would be glad to own and daily drive.

[Source: Cars and Bids]

The BMW X1 (U11) has already brought an absolute premiere as the U11-generation model is the first to offer a purely electric version. However, the iX1 is not the only novelty the Munich-based marque has in tow for its smallest luxury crossover since it won’t be too long until the wraps will come off an M Performance version.

Although it’s going to receive the M35i suffix and all-wheel drive, the hot derivative won’t bring back the inline-six engine offered during the days of the E84 when BMW was selling an xDrive35i. That being said, engine development has come a long way since then considering the revised B48 will have a bit more power. Indeed, the old inline-six 3.0-liter mill made 300 hp but the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine will have somewhere in the region of 315 hp. Torque isn’t known, although it’s safe to assume it won’t be less than the 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) found in the M135i, X2 M235i, and the M235i. The old X1 xDrive35i had 300 lb-ft (407 Nm).

A new spy video shot at the Nürburgring shows BMW putting the B48 to hard work during hot laps. As if the aggressive soundtrack wasn’t already a dead giveaway this is the M35i, you can see the quad exhausts and the M-specific mirror design. Although camouflaged, the front bumper is already showing much larger air intakes while the rear hosts a sporty diffuser.

You can expect BMW to give the X1 M35i at least one or two new paint jobs and some fresh large-diameter wheels to further set it apart from the lesser trim levels. Chunkier brakes and a stiffer suspension setup are planned, along with possibly a larger roof-mounted spoiler. Inside, front seats with greater later support are likely planned, along with the iDrive 9 since it’s almost ready to debut in the regular X1.

BMW will also be unveiling the second-generation X2 before the end of the year, and we’ve already seen spy shots of prototypes being tested in M35i flavor. It’ll share the same revised B48 engine, which is also planned for the next M135i hot hatch and a new M235i Gran Coupe.

Source: Carspotter Jeroen / YouTube