At the opening of  BMW’s largest showroom worldwide, Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG who is also responsible for Sales and Marketing thanked the investors and owners for their strong commitment in completing the new building. He commented “The Middle East is an important region for the BMW Group. The AED 300 million investment in this impressive and unique facility that makes the world’s biggest BMW Group showroom, is testament to the continued opportunities that lie ahead in Abu Dhabi and in the region.”

The multi-car showroom will show case cars from BMW, Mini and Rolls Royce. It has taken BMW Abu Dhabi Motors three years to build this showroom. Being the official importers of BMW cars, they plan to house over 70 cars as well as 10 motorcycles. Apart from this BMW also focuses to make this facility an extensive shopping and boutique area, with a wide selection of BMW and MINI fashion items and other merchandise, as well as original parts and accessories. An entire line up of different colors and packages will be placed inside the showroom along with a huge television screen, café, entertainment amenities for children, a mosque and an F1 simulator.

The new BMW M6 cars are equipped with a 4.4 liter twin-turbocharged V8 S63Tu engine that produces an output of 560 hp (412 kW) at 5750-7000 rpm and can reach a maximum torque of 500 lb-ft (680 Nm) across an especially wide rev range of 1500-5750 rpm. The engine is mated to a 7-Speed M-Double Clutch Transmission and an innovative Active M Differential. Though the manual option has not been announced yet, but one can anticipate for getting one just as the new M5. The car can reach a top speed of 155 mph / 250 km per hr (electronically limited) and can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.3 seconds.

Built on the standard 6-Series the BMW M6 gets a much more aggressive body kit with a 19 inch or optional 20 inch alloy wheels and are the first cars in the history of BMW M series to be offered with an optional M Carbon-Ceramic brake in gold color. The aggressive external air intakes and the LED corona rings enhance the overall front look of the vehicle. The coupe features a carbon fiber composite roof to help shed weight, while the convertible features a traditional cloth top with a heated glass rear window.

BMW hasn’t released any figures on the fuel economy, but the company promises a 30 percent savings on fuel compared to the previous M6 cars. Pricing of the BMW M6 Coupe is expected to be around £93,795 and the Convertible to be £98,995 in the European market.

Exterior

The exterior of the 2012 BMW Z4 doesn’t have much of the changes from its previous models. However reports state that the new Z4 will have some of the design elements used in the CS Concept revealed in the year 2007.  The BMW Z4 is a two seater roadster with a classic look and features a modern two-piece power retractable hardtop. The car carries the same large upright kidney grille of BMW, dual round headlights, wide air intake which is all typical for a BMW brand. The steering of the BMW Z4 has a rack and pinion arrangement with electric assistance. Safety features include 6 airbags and 2 seat belts. Front Suspension is made independent with wishbone suspension, while the rear suspension is also independent but with multi-link suspension. All these features make the car look elegant that blends the sportiness of a coupe, as well as giving the enjoyment of convertible.

Interior

Having increased the price of the vehicle to a base price of $49,525 or $1,200 more than last year’s model, the 2012 Z4 sDrive28i is equipped with a number of additional standard equipment, including Bluetooth and USB, alarm system, loading function, floor mats, etc. Other features includes the front air conditioning that’s manual, voice activated navigation system, driver and passenger heated front seats, ABS & driveline traction control, entertainment system with DVD, Front fog/driving lights..

Engine

The sDrive 28i version of the BMW Z4 will be powered by 4-cylinder turbocharged powerplant and will be producing an output of 255hp, however the sDrive 35i will be powered by the same 3.0 liter 6 cylinder inline engine that delivers a power of 300 hp. Accordind to BMW the new 2012 BMW Z4 can hit a speed of 60mp in just 5.6 seconds, which is 0.5 seconds quicker than the previous 6-cylinder engine powered car.

Price

The 2012 BMW Z4 comes in three varients: the sDrive28i which costs about $48,652, the sDrive35i priced at $55,150 and sDrive35is that costs about $59,065.

Competition

Some of the cars competing against the BMW Z4 are: Lotus Esprit, Porsche Boxster, Nissan 370Z, and Mercedes Benz SLK.

With the new 2011 BMW X3 now launched, the company wants to bring in a lot more changes in the car. The new X3 is almost of the same size as the first launched type but has noticeable mechanical revisions. The suspension is redesigned to soften the stiff ride of the previous version of X3. The new BMW X3 which is more rigid and stable, aided by the all wheel drive now provides a more appreciable ride. This makes the car a prime competitor in small luxury crossover SUV segment. The other prime contenders in this section are the Mercedes-Benz GLK350, Audi Q5 and the Volvo XC60.

Exterior

BMW X3 is a compact five passenger luxury crossover SUV that is available in two variants: the xDrive 28i and xDrive 35i. The xDrive 28i features 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, windshield wipers that are rain sensing type, and headlamps which are automatic. Similarly the xDrive 35i features 18 inch alloy wheels, roof rails, sport front seats, and the premium package includes the sunroof.

Interior

The new BMW X3 is a bit wider than its predecessor giving the driver a little more room between the door and the front seat passenger. The additional room in the car allows the passengers to feel covered within the superior quality materials on the seats, consoles and the dash. Also with the new BMW iDrive the car is offered with more and better intuitive controls. Some of the other features in the car include an eight way power front seat, steering wheel which is leather wrapped, cruise control, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, CD player with 12-speaker audio system, HD radio, an iPod and auxiliary audio jack, etc.

Engine

Both of the new BMW X3 models are powered by a 3.0 liter 6 cylinder inline engine. While the xDrive 28i produces 240hp and torque upto 221 pd-ft, the xDrive 35i being directly injected and turbocharged produces upto 300 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque. The xDrive 35i can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds.

BMW in India is coming up only the diesel variants, the xDrive 20d and xDrive 30d. Both of which will be manufactured at the BMW Plant in Chennai. The xDrive 20d will start coming in the market in September while the xDrive 30d will come in the month of October.

Price

In India the BMW X3 xDrive 20d will be priced at Rs 41.2 lakhs while the xDrive 30d will be priced at Rs 47.9 lakhs.

The car is equipped with groundbreaking luxury and crisp good looks. A sweeping hood, aft-set passenger compartment, long wheelbase and muscular profile represents the hallmark proportions of a BMW Convertible. The new BMW 650i Convertible combines these features with a classic soft-top roof with flying buttress design. The luxurious ambience of the interior is highlighted by a driver-oriented cockpit which wraps the front and rear passengers in a feeling of aesthetic security.

Engine

The 4.4-liter V-8 engine of the BMW 650i convertible develops a maximum power of 400 hp between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm, and produces a peak torque of 450 lb-ft between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. This unique “reverse-flow” engine, whose turbochargers are positioned in the V-area between the cylinder banks, produces an instantaneous and sustained wave of power, making it an energetic delight for the enthusiast driver.

Performance

The new BMW 650i Convertible reaches from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds with the manual transmission (4.9 seconds with the 8-speed automatic), however the top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. This engine also boasts extraordinary efficiency for a model in its output class.

Interior

BMW 650i Convertible is a 4-seater car with interiors that offers individually tailored seats for the driver, front passenger as well as the rear passengers. The car is covered with high-quality materials, carefully coordinated colors and meticulously formed surfaces which combine to produce an environment defined by luxury, sweeping style and Teutonic functionality. The driver oriented cockpit layout is the hallmark element of BMW’s interior design. The central section of the instrument panel, containing the iDrive system’s Central Display, the air vents and the controls for the audio system and air conditioning, are all slightly angled towards the driver.

The launch function will take place at the Deutsche Motoren, New Delhi in the  afternoon hours of December 23.

BMW India will be launching two variants (Corporate Edition and High line) of the X1. The vehicle  would be priced somewhere between Rs 24-30 Lakh and the deliveries should begin sometime early next year. Since this is the cheapest variant of  BMW cars in india, so there won’t be any  fancy eye-popping gadgets to come as standard fitment.

Features

Exterior

1. Panorama glass roof for the BMW X1.

The optional panorama glass roof adds generous amounts of sunlight and interesting views to the BMW X1. The front half of the glass can be electrically raised by touch control and also has a sliding function, electric sliding roofliner (sun protection) as well as a comfort open/close function with trap release.

2. Light alloy wheels for the BMW X1.

Joy is in the details: Light alloy wheels – such as the 18-inch wheels comb styling 323 depicted here – add an expressive touch to your BMW X1. Before their series launch, these wheels are subjected to a series of tough on-road tests to ensure they meet the highest quality standards. Poured from aluminium, BMW light alloy wheels are very lightweight and, coupled with the chassis, provide optimal suspension comfort. That way, they don’t just look fantastic, they also feel that way.

3. Roof rack system for the BMW X1.

The multi-functional BMW roof carrier rack system is composed of a high-strength aluminium alloy, making it especially lightweight, durable and corrosion-proof. The carriers are precisely fitted for your BMW X1 and have undergone a series of extensive tests. The lockable bicycle racks are available for racing, touring and mountain bikes alike. The bike attachments for the tow bar are ideally suited for transporting two bikes; an extension for a third bike is also available on demand.

4. Comfort access system for the BMW X1.

Driving pleasure with no keys: the optional comfort access system enables the driver to lock and unlock the BMW X1 without the use of a key. Upon approaching the vehicle, your personal remote control emits an identification signal confirming your right of access. Touching the door handle automatically unlocks the doors. To start the car, simply press the Start/Stop button. A BMW ConnectedDrive technology.

Interior

1. BMW HiFi systems for the BMW X1.

The BMW X1 turns the road into a concert hall. A powerful subwoofer under the front seat forms the basis for the sound system, which is completed with an eight-loudspeaker HiFi system and the harman/kardon Surround Sound System for brilliant sound. External devices such as your MP3 player can be connected to all HiFi systems via the standard AUX-IN connection or the optional USB/audio interface. Two BMW radios and a CD changer complete the entertainment options.

2. Rear seat entertainment in the BMW X1.

Entertainment in 16:9 format – that’s the rear seat Advanced DVD entertainment system. Featuring a 7-inch pivoting monitor and a DVD drive between the front seats, any ride in the rear seats becomes instantly more entertaining. Also included: access to all common mobile audio and data sources, including CDs, USB drives or mobile USB flash drives. Looking for more interactive features? No problem: Through an additional AV input jack, you can connect your own video camera or even a gaming console. And thanks to the optional infrared headphone, the driver remains undistracted by all the amusement in the rear seats.

3. Seat comfort in the BMW X1.

High-quality materials, outstanding workmanship: the BMW X1 standard seats with height adjustment for driver and front passenger seats, as well as optional electric seat adjustment, provide endless possibilities for customising your seating position. And for the sporty driver, optional BMW sports seats with higher seat cheeks and electric seat backrest width adjustment offer optimum lateral support. Find the seating position that suits your needs with manual adjustment of fore-and-aft position, seat height, backrest angle, seat angle and thigh support.

Specifications ( for X1 sDrive 18i)

Wheels

Tyre dimensions front                                             225/50 R 17 H

Tyre dimensions rear                                              225/50 R 17 H

Wheel dimensions front                                         7.5 J x 17 steel

Wheel dimensions rear                                           7.5 J x 17 steel

Engine

Cylinders/valves                                                       4/4

Capacity in ccm                                                          1,995

Stroke/bore in mm                                                   90.0/84.0

Max. output in kW (hp) at 1/min                        110 (150)/6,400

Max. torque in Nm at 1/min                                 200/3,600

Power-to-weight ratio (EU) in kg/hp                10.0

Weight in kg

Unladen weight EU                                                    1,505

Maximum permissible weight                              1,990

Permitted load                                                            550

Permitted axle load front/rear                           915/1,135

Performance

Drag (cw)                                                                      0.32

Top speed (km/h)                                                     202

Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h (in s)                       9.7

Acceleration 0 – 1,000 m (in s)                          31.0

Acceleration 80 – 120 km/h in 4th/5th gear (in s)    9.4/12.2

Fuel consumption

EU urban (l/100 km)                                              11.3

EU extra-urban (l/100 km)                                 6.4

EU composite (l/100 km)                                    8.2

CO2 emissions (g/km)                                           191

Tank capacity in I (approx.)                               63

The M3 Convertible gets it excellent driving potential from the 4.0L new 8-cylinder power unit churning out 420 hp. The car offers a wide range of paint finishes and wheels to choose. The seductive convertible costs Rs. 76,50,000 lakh.

This car is a thrilling combination of racing car technology and exhilarating open-top driving. The BMW M3 Convertible offers first-class, open-air driving all year round with a retractable hardtop that can be opened and closed in just 22 seconds. Also awaiting your command: the V8 high-rev engine with up to 8400 rpm which is transferred by the double-clutch transmission M DKG Drivelogic to the M differential lock and then to the rear wheels without the slightest disruption to tractive force. And a chassis that has mastered the ultimate test on the Nürburgring’s legendary Nordschleife. For efficiency without any waste the BMW M3 Convertible is equipped with an Auto Start Stop function, a BMW EfficientDynamics technology that switches off the engine when the vehicle comes to a standstill.

The press release from BMW says the Concept 6 Coupe “is a fascinating vision that blends traditional values with innovative design language. This concept model, unveiled for the first time at the 2010 Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, showcases the experience the brand has acquired in more than 70 years of building sporty and elegant coupés.”

Two New BMW Technologies Will Be On Display

At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, BMW will also be unveiling a new technology dubbed ConnectedDriver. ConnectedDriver will allow a BlackBerry to be integrated into the BMW. Once synced, the BMW can display emails from the BlackBerry and utilize the text-to-speech functionality.

In 2011 the future will drive onto the roads: the BMW Concept ActivE- an innovative electric vehicle based on the BMW 1 Series Coupe that is completely suitable for everyday use and is equipped with characteristics BMW driving dynamics and zero emissions. This is a vehicle built for the mobile society of tomorrow.

A high-permormance electric motor provides plenty of power and dynamics in the BMW’s ActiveE Concept. With 125kW(170hp) and 250Nm of torque the coupe accelerates from 0-60 km/h in 4.5 seconds and to 100km/h just four seconds later. The Lithium-ion battery, motor and electronics replaces the combustion engine, transmission and tank. This not only provides dynamic balance but also leaves enough space to meet all of your needs with four seats and 200 litres of boot capacity. Three hours of charging can give 160 kilometers of mileage. In 2011 the future will drive onto the roads: the BMW Concept ActivE- an innovative electric vehicle based on the BMW 1 Series Coupe that is completely suitable for everyday use and is equipped with characteristics BMW driving dynamics and zero emissions.