BMW Z4

BMW teams up with eBay

2011-05-11T23:23:00.000-07:00

Designed to maximize convenience, the new service is called BMW Direct and will be offered in the United Kingdom. At launch, the program has 400 parts available and all have free shipping and a two year warranty.

According to Carl Sanderson, General Manager of Aftersales Development at BMW UK, "We recognize that there are customers who wish to buy BMW products but do not necessarily want to travel to a BMW dealer to make a purchase. As such we see eBay as the perfect solution for them. By embracing this modern retailing approach, we believe we can engage with and satisfy a number of additional customers through what is a new retail channel for BMW.

BMW 1 Series M

2011-04-29T00:27:00.000-07:00

According to the magazine, the smaller, lighter BMW 1 Series M Coupe is actually faster than the current model BMW M3 around the track. Sport Auto clocked a lap time of 1:14.1 minutes in the 1 M around Hockenheim, and a time of 1:14.2 in an M3 coupe fitted with the DCT transmission on the same day.
The 1 M’s 3.0-litre, 250kW turbocharged straight-six engine, it seems, is a great match for the larger 4.0-litre, 309kW V8 used in the M3. Both cars also sprint from 0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds and go on to an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h (test results do vary).
Despite recent criticisms that the new 1 M Coupe is too ‘tail happy’, Sport Auto says this is a good thing as it returns back to the BMW M car heritage. The reviewers said,
“It’s good to know that not all cars are tuned in to understeer for safety reasons.”
Some of the speculated reasons for the quicker lap time of the 1 M include it being lighter in weight (1495kg versus 1680kg [DCT]) and because it offers more torque than the bigger M3 (the 1 M offers a maximum figure of 500Nm compared with the M3′s 400Nm).

BMW Z4 GT3

2011-04-18T22:47:00.000-07:00

Never one to rest on its laurels, BMW took the car from the winners circle in Dubai and put it right back on a test track. After a good beating throughout March, BMW made aerodynamic and electronic tweaks to get the racer into absolute state-of-the-art shape for customer entries in 2011 GT3 competition.The BMW Z4 GT3 resembles its production cousin in name and basic shape only. Most of its body panels have been significantly altered to keep the car slipping through the air and bolted to the road.
Under the hood, the production Z's six-cylinder heart has been ripped out and replaced with the same 4.4-liter V8 that sees duty in the M3. The V8 feeds power to the ground through a six-speed paddle-shifted sequential manual.

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe concept

2011-03-27T21:26:00.001-07:00

We've heard a few times that BMW is working on a 3 Series Gran Turismo, but a rumor floated at Germany's Auto Motor und Sport claims the GT may instead be an all-new 4 Series. If true, BMW Blog says that a 4 Series could be offered as a four-door coupe that would help BMW compete with offerings like the A5 Sportback. The move would also enable BMW to offer a more stylish vehicle that slots well below the 6 Series in price while still demanding a premium over the 3 Series. And keep in mind that BMW has already green-lit the 6 Series Gran Coupe, which will feature two-door styling and four physical doors when it arrives in 2012.

Given that Audi has feverishly expanded its lineup the past few years, we wouldn't blame BMW for countering with a 4 Series, but this is the first we've heard of it, so we'll keep this one squarely in the rumormill category for now.

2011 Red Bull RB7

2011-03-27T21:09:00.000-07:00

Red Bull is once again looking strong as it heads into Formula One's opening round in Australia. Red Bull ace and last year's champ Sebastien Vettel took pole position for Sunday's race by nearly a second in Saturday qualifying. Mark Webber, Vettel's teammate and Australia's hometown hero, wound up third behind Lewis Hamilton.

Red Bull claims that neither of its drivers used their KERS (Kinetic Energy Regeneration System) during qualifying, which is usually good for .3 seconds a lap. That means, in theory anyway, Vettel has a potential 1.5 second advantage over the competition when the green flag waves tomorrow.

McLaren's Lewis Hamilton is sandwiched between the two Red Bulls in second, while teammate and 2009 champ Jenson Button sits fourth behind Webber. Fernando Alonso is fifth in the first of the Ferraris ahead of Vitaly Petrov for Renault. Mercedes' Nico Rosberg is seventh, ahead of the second Ferrari of Felipe Massa. Kamui Kobayashi sits ninth for Sauber and Sebastien Buemi rounds out the top 10 for Toro Rosso.

Rotary Super Cars

2010-10-06T18:55:00.000-07:00

Based on the photo above, you might think that you're looking at some version of the Ferrari 599. You'd be wrong, though, as this is actually a specially-built rotary supercar from an independent German manufacturer known as – you ready for this? – Rotary Super Cars.

Underneath what appears to be replicated fiberglass and carbon fiber Fiorano bodywork sits a four-rotor Wankel engine developed by RSC with parts sourced from that other House of Rotor, Mazda. The supercar is projected to offer four levels of trim including S, RS, RSR and N-Spec, featuring single or twin turbochargers with output ranging from 500 metric horsepower all the way up to 1,200. An in-house eight-speed sequential transmission is also part of the package, along with active aerodynamics and suspension, electronic differential and a carbon-aluminum driveshaft, making its resemblance to its Maranello counterpart (rotary engine notwithstanding) more than passing.
Inside, the RSC Raptor GT is also said to feature a pair of seven-inch digital displays coupled with a five-inch tachometer, gear indicator and shift lights, the entire package supposedly weighing in at a claimed 2,425 pounds. RSC also plans an all-wheel drive, mid-engine project with similar specs, which seems like a lot to bite off while they still appear to be chewing on this one. But in the meantime you can check out the trio of renderings in the gallery below and the press release after the jump.

Magnaflow Exhaust System Performance 5 in. Tubing O.D. Size, 6 in. Tip O.D. Size

2010-07-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

Magnaflow Exhaust System Performance - Side, Stainless steel
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MAGNAFLOW PERFORMANCE SERIES DIESEL TURBO-BACK EXHAUST SYSTEM -- 50-state legal; Designed specifically to meet California Air Resources Board standards; Legal for sale or use in California; 5 in. Tubing O.D. Size, 6 in. Tip O.D. Size, Rear Side Exit Position, Single System, This Is Magnaflow's Premium Line Exhaust System, Features A Fully Welded Giant And Fast-Flowing Mandrel-Bent Stainless Steel Tubing And Polished Stainless Steel Double Wall Tip, Incorporates Mirror Finished Magnaflow Performance Mufflers With A Straight-Through Design, Dyno Tested And Proven To Provide Performance Gains In Horsepower And Torque, Delivers Great Sound With A Smooth And Deep Tone, Built To Last, Easy To Install, With Magnaflow's Limited Lifetime Warranty

Saab declares its independence

2010-06-09T22:03:00.000-07:00

Saab Automobile AB is reinventing itself as an independent automaker.

Since its sale by General Motors Co. to Spyker Cars NV in February, Saab has been re-evaluating every aspect of its business. Big changes are under way or expected.

"We are now in charge of our own destiny, which means we can do anything we want," said Spyker CEO Victor Muller.

Saab is slashing manufacturing and engineering costs. It is looking for tie-ups with other European automakers to share engineering costs, with an announcement expected in the next two or three months. It also is shopping its engineering expertise to automakers worldwide.

It is all part of an effort to reduce Saab's breakeven point to about 80,000 vehicles by the end of 2012 so the automaker can become profitable even as it ramps up its new model line.

Saab is replacing its 13-year-old 9-5 sedan with a redesigned model in July. The 9-4X, Saab's first crossover, arrives in April. The redesigned 9-3 will debut in 2012, and the automaker would like to offer a car smaller than the 9-3 in 2013 or 2014.

Saab has targeted global sales of 50,000 to 55,000 vehicles this year and about 100,000 next year.

In two to three months, the automaker also is expected to unveil its electrification plan.

As part of its cost-slashing efforts, Saab chopped its engineering budget 40 percent, to $151 million for 2011, said Mats Fagerhag, Saab's executive director of vehicle engineering. The cuts reflect reductions in development, material and supplier costs and fewer contract workers.

"We are gradually moving from a GM strategy of shared components and investments," Fagerhag said in an interview at Saab headquarters here. In some cases, Saab wants to improve quality over the GM-prescribed components.

"You are going to have a Saab car that consists of components and systems that we have developed jointly" with other carmakers, Fagerhag said. He said the first vehicle to benefit from the engineering cost savings will be the redesigned 9-3.

Saab is re-evaluating its underused engineering capability. It has worked with a handful of Swedish companies over the years, but that is expected to change.

This year, Saab sold the tooling for the 9-3 and the past generation 9-5 to Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Corp. Production in China begins in 18 months. Saab also submitted proposals for engineering work related to those vehicles.

Muller said Saab "will work much more for third parties."

Saab also is targeting manufacturing costs at its lone assembly plant here in Trollhattan. It has state-of-the-art assembly equipment, installed by GM. But Saab's maximum production is expected to be far less than the plant's capacity.

"We have a huge infrastructure and engineering capabilities for 190,000 cars and overhead costs that are related," Muller said.

Also under review is the amount of assembly automation that will be needed for the redesigned 9-3.

"Automation is a very heavy upfront investment. A high-volume plant in most cases gets the payback because of efficiency, quality," said Saab CEO Jan Ake Jonsson. "But we are only going to be a 110,000-car plant."

president Hugo Chavez joins the highway patrol?

2010-06-02T06:02:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking about taking to the highways of Venezuela any time soon, here's a little tip for you: don't speed. Evidently the country's roads are known for the kind of highway craziness that would make Miami look conservative. While recently driving his own personal motorcade, Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez was harassed by a pickup truck whose driver thought Chavez was going too slow. The driver blew his horn and flashed his lights before passing the president on the shoulder.

According to reports, Chavez proceeded to personally chase down the driver and reprimand him for being such an ass behind the wheel. The whole incident caused el Presidente to address the nation's lawless road system on his weekly broadcast, and to charge the South American nation's police with doing a better job of enforcing the local traffic laws.

BMW confirms plans for front-wheel drive models

2010-03-17T20:02:00.001-07:00

One thing is certain in this crazy world, the pleasure of driving the rear wheels are controlled. Of course, all-wheel drive model for randomly thrown in good measure, but even they turn to try to RWD true when additional traction on the two plates before contact is not considered necessary or desirable. So warned the media (oh, wait ...): BMW has confirmed rumors that he will build cars for FWD.

Annual financial report for 2010 Press conference, Dr Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of BMW, said the following:

[Small car] segment will grow even more. And we seize this opportunity. We study the possibility of establishing a common framework for the front and four-wheel drive systems on these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMW in small classes of cars in the future.

Here, fans of BMW? We do not worry too much - it seems unlikely that BMW will do down the wholesale electricity market to the rear wheels at the front, especially for basic models, such as the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7-series - but with the addition of chassis TA will lighter vehicle platforms to exchange information with other companies and "reduce [its] fleet of global carbon emissions by at least 25 per cent between 2008 and 2020."

In fact, it takes Reithofer yourself:

BMW will continue to Sport-inspired brand. We at BMW Group continues to provide maximum performance to meet the new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge.

the Eleanor Shelby GT500 using a fourth generation

2010-01-17T22:31:00.000-08:00

There have been countless efforts to replicate the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Eleanor from the 2000 blockbuster movie "Gone in 60 Seconds" with Nicolas Cage. We've seen Eleanor replicas based on everything ranging from a Toyota MR2 to even -the most ridiculous of all- a Smart Fortwo.

At this year's edition of the Tokyo Auto Salon, the students from Saitama University's automotive course presented their take on the Eleanor Shelby GT500 using a fourth generation (1993-2002) Toyota Supra sports coupe as a base.

The replica, which is called "Moto Supra", maintains the Supra's six-cylinder powerhouse, though it's not clear if the students performed any upgrades on the sport coupe's hardware. More photos after the jump.

Photos by Phil Alex with the help of friends Mike and Aaron

Toyota's in-house customizing and accessories division

2010-01-17T21:21:00.000-08:00

If you couldn't find a modified Prius to your likings at the grounds of this year's edition of the Tokyo Auto Salon in Japan, chances are that you never will. We lost count of how many customized Prius' made their way to the Makuhari Messe exhibition center, but Toyota alone displayed three different concept versions of its popular hybrid model.

Making its debut alongside the Prius G Sports and TOM's Prius studies was the Prius Custom Plus Concept (CCP) prepared by Toyota's in-house customizing and accessories division.

The prototype model looks thoroughly worked over thanks to the wide body kit that further accentuates the Prius hybrid's wedgy shape.

Together with the new nose job that boasts massive Lamborghini-styled air-vents, the Prius CPC gets custom-made fenders, beefy side skirts, new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser and side spoilers, and a large rear wing made out of carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber is also the material of choice for the new hood, roof, the cameras on the doors that replace the exterior mirrors and the rear panel on the trunk door.

The uniquely styled 18-inch alloy wheels that are shod on 215/40 R18 Goodyear tires sum up the exterior modifications.

The Fast and Furious / Racing theme is continued inside with the addition of gauges on top of the dashboard and just above the new steering wheel that's wrapped in Alcantara.

The same material is also used to trim the new Recaro bucket seats and most parts of the cabin.

Despite the go-fast looks, the only performance mods on the Prius CCP concerns the high-performance brake system and the sports suspension that lowers the car's ride height by 10mm up front and 15mm at the rear.

Photos by Phil Alex with the help of friends Mike and Aaron

We've known for a while now that the iQ will be showing up as a Scion

2010-01-07T22:52:00.000-08:00

Scion iQ Concept - click above for hi-res image gallery

You know that Toyota iQ your cousin's seen running around Europe and Japan? It's making its way Stateside, first to next week's Detroit Auto Show, then to a Scion dealer near you as a hybrid. This is according to a scoop by Inside line. We've known for a while now that the iQ will be showing up as a Scion, just not for certain as a hybrid. Also, according to IL, the fate of the brand hangs in the balance. Also-also, they might (yay!) drop the name iQ.

That's right, the diminutive Toyota with the silly name is going to greet us as a youth-branded Scion. In multiple flavors, too. First will come a five-door hatchback, followed next by a four-door sedan. The latter is almost a little puzzling – who on earth wants a four-door sedan version – but then we recall all the other cars PR types tell us the American market forces into four-door guise and we're not surprised one bit. The Scion iQ will also come as a three-door hatch. Expect the five-door to show up first, towards the end of 2011.

The engine options are pretty interesting. If you so desire, a 1.3-liter four-banger will produce 93 horsepower. However, most folks will probably opt for the hybrid version. First of all, the gas and electric propulsion is so cheap that Toyota will be able to sell it for $15,000 or less. Second, expect a 1.5-liter four and some sort of electric motor to produce between 100 and 120 hp and return 60 mile per gallon. Not bad at all. Again, Inside Line ends their scoop explaining that if the iQ doesn't get youngsters buying Scions, nothing will. Er, make that nothing will have a chance to, as Toyota is likely to fold the brand.

Scion iQ Concept

Here's a police vehicle guaranteed to make you move out of the fast lane pretty quick

2010-01-07T22:27:00.000-08:00

Here's a police vehicle guaranteed to make you move out of the fast lane pretty quick! This liveried lorry, complete with flashing blue lights, has been unveiled as part of a crackdown on dodgy HGV drivers.

The aim is to give cops some much-needed height so they can see directly into lorry cabs. It allows them to catch drivers using mobile phones, watching DVDs on laptops or committing other offences.

The initiative is the first of its kind in the UK, and is being run by the Central Motorway Police Group (CMPG). This is part of the West Midlands force, which looks after 450 miles of road between Cheshire and South Wales. A spokesman said: “One officer drives the truck while another sits in the passenger seat armed with a hand-held video camera, ready to film into the lorry’s cab as we overtake.” If an offence is being committed, or the driver’s behaviour arouses suspicion, the officer will radio an unmarked police car following behind, which pulls it over. If the driver disputes the reason for being stopped, the video footage can be used as evidence in court.

The liveried HGV was created for the launch of the scheme, but isn’t actually taking part. Unmarked lorries supplied by local hauliers will be used instead.

his will comprise 89bhp or 108bhp 1.0-litre units and a 170bhp 1.6. Diesel

2010-01-07T21:59:00.000-08:00

When it comes to show-stopping unveils, the Focus is on Detroit! Rumours are gathering that Ford is preparing to reveal its third-generation Focus in saloon and hatchback form at the US expo next week.

As Auto Express closed for press over the Christmas holidays, news had leaked on to the North American International Auto Show’s own website. We brought you pictures of the whole new Focus family in Issue 1,092 (right), and the four and five-doors will get a bold face characterised by triangular lights and a stylish grille.

Don’t expect the latest Focus to be too radical, though. As a global car, it will need to have mass-market appeal. Contrary to previous reports, the car is believed to be based on a front-wheel-drive platform from the Mondeo, to ensure class-leading handling and increased space.

A new range of EcoBoost turbo petrol engines will be available. This will comprise 89bhp or 108bhp 1.0-litre units and a 170bhp 1.6. Diesel choices include a 1.6 giving 128bhp, plus a 2.0-litre with 168bhp or 197bhp.

Stop-start is expected to be standard on most cars, while Ford’s dual-clutch Powershift transmission should also help reduce emissions. In addition, the Focus will come with adaptive dampers, a lane departure warning system and traffic sign recognition. Wi-Fi is likely to be offered, too. Sales will start towards the end of this year.

they recently brought out a modified 911 Turbo dubbed the TR 1000 for a high speed romp

2010-01-03T21:36:00.000-08:00

Click above to watch the 9ff TR 1000 reach 391.7 km/h at the Papenburg test track after the jump

There aren't too many places you can cruise at over 200 mph in relative safety, but the Papenburg test track is one of them. The high speed oval located in Northern Germany is a pavement playground for supercars in search of straight line speed, and various manufacturers and tuners regularly use the track to see just how fast their projects can go.

Take, for instance, 9ff. The Porsche super-tuner previously used Papenburg to reach v-max in its GT9 supercar, and they recently brought out a modified 911 Turbo dubbed the TR 1000 for a high speed romp. While not quite as fast as the GT9 (409 km/h), the TR 1000 still reached an impressive 391.7 km/h -- just over 243 mph. Fortunately the cameras were rolling, giving us an opportunity to see just how quickly a 1000 horsepower Porsche can triple the legal speed limit. You can watch it for yourself after the jump.

9ff TR 1000

Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey

2009-12-08T16:33:00.000-08:00

Not only does Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey, it ranks number two as well. The top ranking system, according to Power's study, is the one found in the Lincoln MKS, followed by a nearly identical system (if not 100% identical) in the Ford Flex. And get this, Ford took down five of the top ten spots with the F-150 coming in fourth and the Escape and Edge taking seventh and eighth place, respectively.

To anyone that's driven a modern Sync-equipped Ford with navigation, these survey results probably won't come as any sort of shock, as FoMoCo has been making some of the best systems in the business ever since they released Sync with Sirius Travel Link. Here's what Ford user interface design engineer Jason Johnson had to tell us about why Ford got ranked tops:

"I think what really makes our system stand out is the fact it's designed with the user in mind. Yes, it has all the features you'd expect from a high-level navigation system -- the 3-D maps, the digital jukebox, the customizable home screens, and of course we pride ourselves on SYNC and SIRIUS Travel Link -- but it's more than that. This system is easy to use. It's intuitive. The buttons are where you'd expect them to be, the grouping is logical and the graphics are bright and easy to read. Everything is integrated, so it all works together, simply and easily."

Non-Ford top ten nav-system finishers include the Acura TL (third), Porsche 911 (fifth), Cadillac CTS (sixth), Hyundai Genesis (ninth) and Infiniti FX-series (tenth). Interestingly, Ford is the only non-luxury/premium brand to make it into the top ten. If you were wondering, seven of the bottom ten nav-systems were made by Toyota, with the Avalon finishing dead last. Complete results list and official press release available after the jump.

Danica Patrick NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2010

2009-12-08T16:24:00.000-08:00

More Danica Patrick news and this time, it's actually racing related. Last week came a report that Ms. Patrick had inked a multi-year deal with the recently restructured Andretti Autosport, putting to rest the rumors that the sometime-swimsuit model was headed to NASCAR. Well, Sporting News is now reporting that the gun might have been jumped on that conclusion. It seems that the GoDaddy pitchwoman is about to announce a deal to drive for Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2010.

SN is reporting that Danica will run the full IndyCar calendar and a limited Nationwide schedule, with GoDaddy sponsoring her stock car. According to the GoDaddy website, the formal announcement will come at 1 PM ET Tuesday, December 8. We'll be sure to watch for that announcement and update as needed.

Mugen-fettled Accord, Fit aren't the big Honda story from SEMA

2009-11-06T21:10:00.000-08:00

Mugen Honda Fit and Accord - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to announcing its plans to reinvigorate its participation in grassroots racing, Honda revealed two Mugen-accessorized models -- a 2010 Accord Sedan and Fit -- each outfitted with a range of parts available at dealers, but not a standalone model, ala Mugen Civic. While the 18-inch chrome wheels, front grille, spoilers, floor mats and machined aluminum oil filler cap are attractive additions to Honda's growing HFP line, needless to say, they leave us a bit cold when it comes the automaker's commitment to the aftermarket and, more to the point, performance.

Uninspiring SEMA efforts aside, the real news came last night during a meeting with Honda execs, where we were able to glean a few more details about Honda's future performance plans, how the CR-Z -- and more to the point, hybrids -- fit in and something to look out for next year.

Honda PR man Chuck Schifsky, told us that the Big H plans to use hybrids as a performance booster in the future, saying, "The CR-Z isn't the last step. It's the beginning." Although the real start of Honda's performance-marketed hybrids began with the last generation Accord Hybrid, Schifsky admits that its introduction was "ahead of its time," one of many reasons the electric-assisted sedan never quite caught on with consumers.

More interestingly, several Honda heads told us to expect something big in the world of motorsports next year -- likely in Japan. What that means is open to interpretation, but with Honda pulling its NSX out of SuperGT for 2010 (due to the front-engine, rear-drive chassis requirements), something interesting could be on the way. NSX revival? Lexus LFA fighter? Consider our interest extremely piqued...

Mugen Accessorized Honda Accord and Fit

While we just said that the Delta Tech Engineering might be our favorite Kizashi

2009-11-06T16:50:00.000-08:00

Delta Tech Engineering Suzuki Kizashi - Click above image for high-res gallery

We totally dig the new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. It's a bold step forward for Suzuki and (hopefully) a harbinger of great things to come, which also happens to be what "Kizashi" means. However, the looks are a little, well... not outstanding. Not that it's particularly bad-looking (it ain't), but what if it were a little more... special? SEMA to the rescue!

We've got a trio of modded Kizashis for you to peruse down in the gallery, but how about some background info up front? First up is Delta Tech Engineering's car which might be our favorite. Delta Tech specializes in lighting and every light on the car is either LED or HID. Even though big mouth-look grilles are on the way out fashion-wise, we like the snout on this guy. We also like the fact that it has a cold air intake, custom exhaust and Koni coilovers.

While we just said that the Delta Tech Engineering might be our favorite Kizashi, the Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi pushes all the right buttons with an even more aggressive body kit. It also features a custom air intake, engine management system and data logger. You also get 13-inch slotted rotors up front (though "only" 10-inches out back). Custom springs, sway bars and chassis stiffeners round the package out.

[UPDATE: We wrongly identified Westside's Kizashi as Import Tuner's car. A total mistake on our (my) part. Sorry 'bout that.]

Lastly, we've got Westside's custom Kizashi – a car we just can't wrap our heads around. From the Frankenstein's Monster neck-bolts as exhaust tips to the bizarre two-tone paint job to the Jianghuai GIGANTIC grill, we're totally, 100% not in love. And that's that.

Suzuki Kizashi Customs

Meet the world's most desirable Lexus RX450h by Branew

2009-11-06T16:43:00.000-08:00

Branew Lexus RX450h - click above image to view hi-res gallery

Let me be blunt: I don't like luxury crossovers. At all. It's a niche with no appeal to me whatsoever. Not a car, not a truck – just a fat sedan jacked up on stilts to woo trophy wives with fancy badges and reassure soccer mammas that their children are "safe." And the Lexus RX gets the sharp point of my spear of anger because it's basically responsible for the high-end CUV craze. Not a fan of hybrids, either. That said, I'm absolutely smitten with Branew's Lexus RX450h.

I think it's the stance, has to be. But there is just something very desirable – from an aesthetic standpoint. The big 24-inch wheels help tremendously, perching Branew's at just the right height. And the lower fascia helps the quite handsome – if not distinctive – OEM grill pop. And I know it's going to be a controversial opinion, but the koi fish on the hood totally work. In fact, I know a certain Subaru WRX that could use a koi or two. Anyhow, while I'd rather gargle nails than rock a luxo-CUV, if forced at gunpoint, Branew's RX450h would be my first (and only) choice.

Hummer quartet is a pretty sweet swansong

2009-11-06T16:19:00.000-08:00

2010 Hummer Robby Gordon Off-Road - Click above for high-res image gallery

We almost skipped the Hummer section of the General Motors booth this year at SEMA, concentrating instead on the plethora of Chevrolet Camaro concepts all around them. When we went back for a second look at the day's new design for the Graphics Camaro, we saw the truck above and figured we should probably reconsider avoiding HUMMER after all. We took some pics and scrounged up the press release which you'll find after the jump.

There were four different Hummers on display. The one shown above is a Robby Gordon Off-Road race truck that is absolutely ridiculous -- in a good way. This H3 was built to campaign in the 2010 Dakar Rally and is a full-blown, tube-chassis race truck, just like the Trophy Trucks you'll see running in the Baja 1000.

Next up was the Rod Hall Racing H3 Alpha. This is a stock-class desert runner that ran the 2009 SCORE International Baja 1000., meaning that it features a stock frame, stock suspension design and production-based engine.

The other two trucks were Hummer concepts. First up was the H3 Moab. Said to be inspired by trails like Steel Bender, Moab Rim, and Poison Spyder, it's a 300-horsepower, V8-powered H3 Alpha with dual locking differentials, a Rancho four-inch front suspension lift, custom rear spring-over conversion, and 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires mounted on custom 17-inch two-piece Monster Black Competition Beadlock Raceline Wheels by Allied.

Last but not least is the H3T Sportsman. It's been customized with a combination of powertrain modifications, suspension enhancements and an assortment of genuine factory accessories and aftermarket components. The standard Alpha 5.3-liter V8 has been boosted by a healthy 70 horsepower. Suspension upgrades include Light Racing JounceShocks and two-inch-diameter Rod Hall Racing piggyback reservoir-type performance shocks.

Altogether a pretty nifty quartet of Hummers that we'll probably never own. Check out the gallery and all the details after the jump.

A recent report says the sale will net GM around $150 million

2009-10-10T08:57:00.000-07:00

General Motors has reached an agreement to offload Hummer onto China's Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery, with Tengzhong taking an 80 percent stake and a private investor consuming the rest.

Details on the deal (available in the press release after the jump) include Hummer contacting vehicle manufacturing from GM, with the General's Shrevport and Mishawaka plants continuing to produce vehicles through June of 2011, with a possible extension until 2012. A recent report says the sale will net GM around $150 million, although the transaction still has to be approved by both U.S. and Chinese regulatory agencies, which could come later this year or in early 2010.

Tengzhong, which only produces commercial trucks and industrial equipment, has never entered into consumer vehicles before, but according to Yang Yi, chief executive officer of Tengzhong. "We are excited about some of the initiatives already underway at HUMMER that we believe our investment will be able to accelerate, particularly related to the creation of the next generation of more fuel-efficient vehicles to meet not only future regulations but also customer expectations."

2009 BMW Z4 new rendering

2009-07-05T17:07:00.000-07:00

After yesterday’s almost uncovered spy shot of the future Z4, here as an exclusive TopSpeed rendering of the future sports car. The Z4 will make its world debut in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

From reports, the next generation Z4 will feature a more aggressive and sportier design. The shoulder line has been smoothed out considerably and will be offered with retractable hard top.

Under the hood of the next Z4 there will be both twin-turbo and naturally-aspirated straight six engines; while the flagship M Roadster is likely to get a brand new high-performance turbo six with around 350hp.

Hamann gives the BMW Z4 new wheels

2009-06-30T17:04:00.000-07:00

Shortly after AC Schnitzer revealed some of their future upgrades on the 2009 BMW Z4, the other famous German tuner Hamann follows with their own version of Z4 wheels. While we expect to see a full package for the new Z4 in the near future, for now, Hamann released a set of wheels in two different colors and styles.

Hamann wheels have always been controversial and BMW fans can never fully agree on them, but in our opinion, it all comes down to personal preference and how much you like to “pimp out” your car.

So, what do you think?

BMW Z4 NEW

2009-06-28T17:02:00.000-07:00

Year: 2009
Make: BMW
Model: Z4
Mileage: 0

Address: 2199 David McLeod Blvd, Florence, SC, 29501-4031 View map

vin: WBALM53529E161632

condition: New

color: Black
caid:170331932104

Images
Kijiji: 2009 BMW Z4 NEW

BMW Z4 new

2009-06-24T17:01:00.000-07:00

Considering all the particulars that manage to show themselves from the camouflouge of the new Z4, the final look of the new BMW spider shouldn’t be too different from these two renders published by Left-lane. As we’ve already seen, the style will have some similarities to the series 6, especially in the rear; while the grill will undergo some changes to bring it in line with the new racing style inaugurated on the splendid Concept CS. New front lights should display some eyelash fluttering and are an evolution on what we saw with the series 3.

The element that will probably remain pretty much the same is the sides, maintaining their current sensual lines and curves. The interior should keep the same current minimalist style but with new instrumentation and air flow design. And it’s now almost certain that lucky owners of the new Z4 will be able to choose from two types of roof - the classic fabric roof, or a more rigid folding version.

BMW Z4: New Photo Gallery

2009-06-21T17:06:00.000-07:00

It has been exactly four months since the new, redesigned 2009 BMW Z4 has been unveiled. Designed by two females, Juliane Blasi and Nadya Arnaout, the Z4 Roadster shines with its evolutionary design. Comparing the new Z4 with the previous generation E85, we can say that the classic roadster is back, more powerful and more stylish than ever.

The Z4 offers a combination of elegance, dynamics and driving pleasure, typical for a BMW car. Even though the official photos successfully managed to relate the message behind this new roadster, “An Expression of Joy”, seeing the car in person makes your appreciate it even more.

BMW Z4 2009

2009-06-21T16:59:00.000-07:00

Time to buy a new 2009 BMW Z4 Convertible? It is important to do your research and know facts like the internet pricing which is $42,090.00, cash rebates and MSRP price of $45,750.00 before going to the dealership in order to get a the best deal possible. Details like a basic warranty of 4 yr. / 50k mi, and a fuel economy rating will help you compare the '09 BMW Z 4 to other car models.

2009 BMW Z 4

SELECTED TRIM

MSRP:	$45,750 \|Get Real Dealer Pricing
Value:	N/A
Recalls:	0 Recalls

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	Select a 2009 Z4 Trim	MSRP Range	Internet Price
Convertibles	Z4 30i Roadster	$45,750	New Price Quote
Convertibles	Z4 35i Roadster	$51,650	New Price Quote

2009 BMW Z 4 Specs

2,996 cc 3.0 liters in-line 6 front engine with 85.0 mm bore, 88.0 mm stroke, 10.7 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder

Premium unleaded fuel 91

Multi-point injection fuel system

14.5 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank 12.1

Power: 190 kW , 255 HP SAE @ 6,600 rpm; 220 ft lb , 298 Nm @ 2,600 rpm

2009 BMW Z4 Price Preview

	Trim	MSRP	Internet Prices
	2009 BMW Z4 30i Roadster	$45,750	GET DEALER PRICING
	2009 BMW Z4 35i Roadster	$51,650	GET DEALER PRICING

Meet Brian Deese, the 31-year-old in charge of breaking up GM 2009

2009-06-06T00:15:00.000-07:00

Many of us ABers being in our early- to mid-30s, we're less amazed that another of our ilk has risen to a decisive government position. We are, after all, a generation on the rise. The surprising part about Brian Deese's story is that he's been instrumental in shaping the Obama administration's moves to save General Motors, and this is his first official tour of duty in Washington. What qualifies a guy who hasn't even finished his Yale Law degree to steer President's automotive task force around? From what's been said about Mr. Deese, his quick ability to boil down the often competing economic and political aspects of any given issue.

Deese piped up in favor of Fiat's rescue of Chrysler, pointing out with a memo that a fire sale of the ailing automaker would send unforseen ripples out into the economy as a whole. Speaking out in such an influential manner is definitely unusual considering Deese doesn't appear to be an auto enthusiast or business propeller-head with his nose buried in studies and reports about the car industry. A childhood spent in the Boston suburb of Belmont, Massachusetts under the parentage of a college professor an an engineer, Deese did his undergraduate time at Middlebury College in Vermont before heading to Washington to work for Nancy Birdsall on international aid. A turn with former Clinton policy wonk Gene Sperling before the move to Yale, Hillary Clinton's bid for nomination brought Deese back to DC. With friends in Washington, Deese found himself hooked into the Obama team, and from there he's been running busily around our nation's capital.

If General Motors can successfully navigate Chapter 11, we'll all get to see just how well Brian Deese has done digesting the thorny chestnut that is saving our domestic auto industry.

How the BMW Z4 is made

2009-05-11T04:07:00.002-07:00

The National Association of Manufacturers brings us an educational treat for a fun TGIF - an insider's look at manufacturing the BMW Z4. The vehicle, built at Bimmer's plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, gets the soup-to-nuts treatment from NAM with subject matter and descriptions accessible enough for non-engineers. Check it out to learn more about BMW's assembly and finish techniques, as well as an opportunity to eat up the eye candy that is the BMW Z4.

[Source: The National Association of Manufacturers]

BMW Z4 hits the road

2009-05-11T04:07:00.001-07:00

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 BMW Z4

After releasing photos and information on its new Z4 roadster yesterday, we now have a pair of videos showing the Z4 in action. In the first clip BMW Automobile design head Adrian van Hooydonk and exterior design head Anders Warming discuss the new design. The operative word in the new Z4's design appears to be "Joy" although how joyous this car will be remains to be seen. Certainly the new look should make observers a lot happier than old one but ultimately any car is about the driving experience. Here the second video demonstrates how you can use the Z4 for the automotive equivalent of finger painting. The videos are after the jump. Thanks to Alberto for the tip!

BMW Z4 moons the camera

2009-05-11T04:06:00.001-07:00

We're waiting with bated breath for the December 15 unveiling of the all-new BMW Z4, but as we inch closer to Z-day we're getting a clearer picture of how the redesigned roadster will look. On Wednesday we caught a glimpse of the Z4 that revealed much smoother, very un-Bangle-looking side panels. Above is the newest Z4 teaser, and as you can see, its a booty shot. The first thing we noticed was the bulging rear wheel arch, which gives the Z4 a more sporting personality than its predecessor. BMW designers also added a strong character line that starts from the inside of the headlamp and continues back to the very BMW-looking tail lamps, complete with white LED accent lights. Two healthy-sized exhaust tips reside out back to keep the Z4's naturally aspirated or turbocharged 3.0L in-line six breathing freely.

If you see the hard top and assume that you're looking at the Z4 coupe, you're likely wrong. The new Z4 will come as a hard-top convertible for 2009, with a soft-top variant rumored to be arriving one year later. Future Zs could also include an M-inspired variant with the M3's 4.0L V8 and a smaller Z2 roadster. The new Z4 looks very promising, but we'll hold off on final judgment until we can check out the high-res photos on the 15th.

BMW Z4 M Coupe

2009-05-11T04:05:00.000-07:00

Having seen the BMW Z4 Coupe in person at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, we know first hand that two-dimensional pics of the coupe do its design little justice.

We put together this video (click here to view) of the new Z4 M Coupe to illustrate a little better what BMW's newest M offering looks like in the round. It's still two-dimensional, but at least you can bear witness to the Z4 M Coupe tearing up some track.

Officially Official: 2009 BMW Z4

2009-05-11T04:04:00.000-07:00

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 BMW Z4

BMW will unveil the all-new Z4 roadster at the Detroit Auto Show next month, but there's no need to wait for the show in Motown to see the car in non-spyshot form, as all the Euro-spec details were officially released when the clock struck midnight in Munich. We're into the new bodywork, which is pretty voluptuous compared to the preceding model, with a hint of 507 lineage evident in the car's lines. Follow the jump for the rest of the skinny.

Up front, wide double-kidney grilles establish an aggressive face. Out back, the tail is cleaner and more elegant than the current car's, featuring simpler, wraparound taillamps with attractive lighting effects. The biggest change of all, of course, can be found in the roofline. As was the case in the 3 Series, the soft top has been retired in favor of a retractable metal roof. There's a subtle "double-bubble" effect evident when it's in place, and its use reportedly improves outward visibility with the top up. 20 seconds is how long you need to wait for it to raise or stow.

European models have three engine selections, and the Z4 employs BMW's ridiculous new naming scheme, as first seen on the X6. The Z4 sDrive23i is probably Euro-only, powered by a 2.5L inline-6 making 204 horses via a six-speed manual or automatic. Next up is the Z4 sDrive30i, which features the normally-aspirated 3.0L I6 we're all familiar with. Here, it makes 258 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque. That's enough to get it to 62 mph in 5.8 seconds (with the stick). Fun times. the sDrive30i also comes with either a 6-speed manual or automatic. Those of you looking for the ass-kicker Z4 want the sDrive35i, which gets the excellent twin-turbo 3.0L and 306 horsepower. 0-62 takes 5.2 seconds with the manual tranny, but you shave a tenth off that if you opt for the 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Inside, the cabin is refreshingly simple with attractive wood accents, slick-looking new HVAC controls and a straightforward cockpit layout. iDrive has now made its way into the Z4, but it's the new, allegedly more intuitive version that was first introduced in the new 7 Series. The LCD display sinks into the instrument panel when not in use.

So, best Z3/Z4 yet? Probably. We'll crawl all over it next month in Detroit, after which we'll be impatiently awaiting some real seat time, which ought to be a kick.

BMW Z4

2009-03-23T22:28:00.001-07:00

BMW Z4

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2009 BMW Z4 new rendering

Hamann gives the BMW Z4 new wheels

BMW Z4 NEW

BMW Z4 new

BMW Z4: New Photo Gallery

BMW Z4 2009

2009 BMW Z 4

Select a 2009 Z4 Trim

2009 BMW Z 4 Specs

2009 BMW Z4 Price Preview

Meet Brian Deese, the 31-year-old in charge of breaking up GM 2009

How the BMW Z4 is made

BMW Z4 hits the road

BMW Z4 moons the camera

BMW Z4 M Coupe

Officially Official: 2009 BMW Z4

BMW Z4