Auto Review: 11/21/14

Friday, November 21, 2014

2014 BMW Z4 Roadster

Roadster heads into the future with enhanced appeal and individuality.

The BMW Z4 Roadster represents the interplay of classical proportions and state-of-the-art technology. An updated version of the modern classic is set to arrive in BMW showrooms in time for spring 2013.

The new BMW Z4 represents a time-honored and yet contemporary interpretation of the traditional roadster concept. New exterior features, detailed interior refinements, the new Hyper Orange design package, as well as availability of the full range of BMW ConnectedDrive features all provide fresh impetus and lend the BMW Roadster even greater appeal and individuality.

The new BMW Z4 takes to the stage 25 years after the legendary BMW Z1 began the modern era of BMW Roadsters. That Roadster turned heads when it was unveiled at the 1987 Frankfurt Auto Show not only for its revolutionary door concept, but also thanks to its agile and responsive handling. With the BMW Z1 began the latest chapter in the history of BMW Roadsters – a tradition which stretches back to the 1930s and reached the first of many high points with the BMW 328 (winner of the 1940 Mille Miglia) and BMW 507 from 1955. The BMW Z3 and BMW Z8 triggered a fresh wave of excitement for the classic open-top two-seater concept in the 1990s. And they also paved the way for the first-generation BMW Z4 and its successor, the brand’s first Roadster fitted with a retractable hardtop.

2014 BMW X5 M50d

A compelling combination of sportiness, exclusivity and everyday utility distinguishes the new BMW X5 M50d. Its six-cylinder in-line diesel engine boasts detailed refinements and comes with three-stage turbocharging and common rail direct injection. From a 3.0-litre displacement it develops output of 280 kW /381 hp and a peak torque of 740 Newton metres (546 lb-ft). BMW BluePerformance technology as standard means the M Performance Automobile is also EU6-compliant. The diesel unit’s power is transferred to the road by an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW xDrive all-wheel drive.

2014 BMW X5 M Performance Package

As of March 2014 a large selection of BMW M Performance parts will be available for all model variants of the Sports Activity Vehicle, giving the new BMW X5 an even more athletic look as it lines up at the start. Its powerful appearance can be further highlighted by means of a black decorative grid for the BMW kidney grille, a front splitter and exterior mirror caps in carbon, air ducting elements, a diffuser insert for the rear apron and side sill foils with M Performance inscription. For individual flair with a sporty touch in the cockpit, there is the BMW M Performance sports steering wheel with red central marking, gear lever with carbon surface, accelerator, brake pedal and driver footrest in high-grade steel and BMW M Performance floor mats. The product range in the suspension area comprises an BMW M Performance brake system with brake calipers finished in blue and 21-inch BMW M Performance light alloy wheels in Bi-Color finish.

2014 BMW X5

The BMW X5 – the founder of the Sports Activity Vehicle segment and globally best-selling car in its class, with more than 1.3 million units sold since the launch of the first generation – is entering a new chapter in its successful history. The third-generation X5 sees BMW once again setting the benchmark for powerful design, interior spaciousness and luxury, versatility, driving pleasure, efficiency and innovative equipment features. The new BMW X5 offers customers an assured all-round package equipped to meet the most exacting and varied demands.

Customers keen to make the configuration of the exterior and interior a little more individual can vary the car’s basic equipment with the M Sport package and Pure Experience and Pure Excellence “design worlds”. The defining features of the on-board experience of the new BMW X5 are an exclusive interior ambience with luxurious design, high-quality materials and innovative comfort-enhancing functions.

A supreme combination of high performance and luxury

A third body variant of the BMW M6 high-performanc e sports car is set to be presented for the first time as the BMW M6 Gran Coupe joins the existing Coupe and Convertible models in the line-up. The new member of the M6 family brings together customary M performance characteristics with extra helpings of luxury and aesthetic appeal. The high-revving V8 enginewith M TwinPower Turbo technology and 412 kW/560 hp propels the BMW M6 Gran Coupe from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds. And the elegantly sporty lines of the four-door Coupe are complemented by bespoke features, such as the carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof. The greater interior space of the BMW M6 Gran Coupe allows two rear passengers to enjoy generous levels of on-board comfort, and there is also a third rear seat for use on shorter journeys.

2014 BMW M6 Coupe Competition Package

They are high-performance sports cars, each with an individual character and all sharing the claim of turning superior performance attributes into an incomparable driving experience. In the BMW M5 and in the BMW M6 Coupe, BMW M6 Convertible and BMW M6 Gran Coupe models, race track technology is brought to the road. The ensuing hallmark M driving characteristics now present themselves in an even more intense, concentrated and impressive guise. From July, BMW M GmbH will be offering the Competition Package as an option for the four most powerful automobiles in the model portfolio. Its features open up a new dimension of dynamics in customary BMW M style.

The Competition Package was specifically conceived to enhance handling properties, in adherence to the principle applied to the development of all BMW M automobiles: fine-tuning the suspension technology to the performance curve of the engine to bring maximum performance in line with consistently superlative responses that are precision-controllable even in highly dynamic driving situations.

2014 BMW M5

Emphasisplaced judiciously on certain areas of design enhances the enjoyment of the superior driving experience in the BMW M5 high-performance sedan. In parallel with the launch of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, the new BMW 5 Series Touring and the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW M GmbH’s most successful model is also undergoing a carefully devised revision. Fine-tuned design underscores the hallmark M athleticism and challenging presence of the new BMW M5, while the optional Competition Package, new equipment features and a further extended range of BMW ConnectedDrive features emphasise its innovative character.

The BMW M5 is driven by a 4.4-litre V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and peak output of 412 kW/560 hp. In combination with the seven-speed M dual-clutch transmission, the Active M Differential at the rear axle and model-specific suspension technology precisely tuned to the performance curve with racing know-how, this high-revving power unit guarantees outstanding dynamic driving performance. For a further boost in performance, the Competition Package now comes as an optional extra with features that tap into a new dimension of dynamics in trademark BMW M style.

2014 BMW M235i Coupe

The market launch of the BMW 2 Series Coupe also heralds the arrival of an imagination-capturing performance model in the premium compact segment. The BMW M235i Coupe is the latest member of the BMW M Performance Automobile family. It embodies intense driving pleasure that is instantly signalled by its specially modified, aerodynamically optimised body design, and is propelled by the most powerful petrol engine developed so far for a BMW M Performance Automobile. The six-cylinder in-line engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology generates maximum output of 240 kW/326 hp and accelerates the BMW M235i Coupe from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.0 seconds. Other ingredients in the unique character of the BMW M235i Coupe include the interplay between engine output, bespoke chassis technology and brake system as well as aerodynamic balance that is achieved with hallmark M precision.

The vehicle concept of the BMW M235i Coupe responds to the desire of sporty drivers for more driving pleasure without compromising on everyday usability. Its handling properties are defined by impressive agility and precision, the result of extensive modifications made by BMW M GmbH to the components involved in maximising the car’s sporting ability. The precisely adjustable driving characteristics of the BM M235i Coupe reflect the expertise and experience of BMW M GmbH in both motor sport and the development of high-performance sports cars.

2014 BMW Individual 760Li Sterling inspired by ROBBE & BERKING

A manufactory implies one-off products, traditional craftsmanship, perfection and the fulfilment of the most discerning requirements. Those are the principles which the BMW Individual Manufaktur has followed for more than 20 years now. What began in the early 1990s as a bespoke BMW 750Li for Karl Lagerfeld has since evolved into a byword for customisation at the very highest level. “The BMW Individual Manufaktur is not so much a place as an idea that becomes reality on a daily basis. That idea is total customer orientation,” explains Friedrich Nitschke, President BMW M GmbH. “Here each vision of exclusivity is turned into reality.” But BMW Individual not only creates one-of-a-kind automobiles, it also designs and completes market-specific special editions and models, for example in its collaborations with watchmaker Girard Perregaux or with the renowned concert grand manufacturers Steinway & Sons. Besides the BMW Individual Manufaktur there is also the BMW Individual Collection, which rounds off the BMW Individual offering with equipment ranges that are perfectly matched to the various BMW model series and include exclusive paint finishes, high-quality leather appointments and interior trims.

2014 BMW i3

The world, and with it the sphere of personal mobility, is in a state of ecological, economic and social upheaval. Global developments such as climate change, dwindling resources and increasing urbanisation call for fresh solutions. BMW i is finding those solutions. The brand stands for visionary vehicle concepts, inspiring design and a new understanding of premium that is strongly defined by sustainability.

In the BMW i3 – the first series-produced model by BMW i – zero-emission mobility in a premium car package proves to be a recipe for pure driving pleasure. The first BMW Group model running on electric power alone offers customers totally new and groundbreaking ways to experience driving pleasure, sustainability and connectivity on city roads. The visionary design of the BMW i3 showcases both BMW’s customary sporting capability and the efficiency of a four-seater with authentic clarity. Its innovative vehicle concept, including a passenger compartment made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), combines lightness, stability and safety with extraordinary spaciousness. Meanwhile, the driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW Connected Drive and the 360° ELECTRIC services – all developed specially for BMW i – turn zero-emission urban mobility into a compelling everyday driving experience.

2014 BMW ActiveHybrid 5

Global bestseller, winner of a string of comparison tests and “Germany’s favourite car” – the BMW 5 Series represents a quite unique success story. Its sales figures, the verdicts of experts and the response of the public make a compelling narrative. And now the BMW 5 Series Sedan, BMW 5 Series Touring and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo are preparing to build on their standout presence in the world’s car markets with the help of cutting-edge technological innovations and sensitively modified design features. The introduction of the new BMW 5 Series provides the latest highlight in the development of the company’s longest-serving model family; the BMW 5 Series has been a fixture in the BMW portfolio since 1972 – longer than any other current model. It didn’t take the 5 Series long to establish itself as a paragon of driving pleasure and aesthetic appeal in its segment. And today it can add efficiency and innovation to the list of disciplines in which it leads the way in the executive car market.

2014 BMW 5-Series Touring

2014 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo

2014 BMW 5-Series

2014 BMW 4-Series M Performance Package

Developed from motor racing expertise, perfectly tailored to the model in question and designed to be combined according to individual preference - this is the BMW M Performance Parts program. BMW is now expanding the range in this product area with the addition of retrofit options for the BMW 4 Series. What is more, model-specific BMW M Performance Parts are available for the BMW M automobiles as well as for the models of the BMW 1 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series and BMW 6 Series. Conceived in close collaboration with BMW M GmbH, the retrofit components in the areas of drive, suspension, aerodynamics and cockpit provide a significant bonus in terms of driving dynamics as well as adding a touch of sporty flair to both the exterior and the interior ambience of the automobile.

2014 BMW 4-Series Coupe

The launch of the new BMW 4 Series Coupe marks the arrival of the fourth generation of BMW’s sporty premium mid-size Coupe. The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe, which celebrated its world premiere at the NAIAS 2013 in Detroit, previewed the evolutionary development of BMW’s design language. And now this progression is enshrined in the series-production model. The BMW 4 Series Coupe represents the epitome of aesthetic appeal and sporty dynamics in the premium segment and reinforces the company’s claims to leadership in the international marketplace. Its stylistic features carry the promise of a powerful presence on the road, stand-out dynamic ability and unbeatable driving pleasure. Indeed, the new BMW 4 Series Coupe represents a paragon of balanced proportions and the final chapter in a story of development. The “4” in its title headlines this new era for the Coupe and emphasises not only its stand-alone design, but also its even sharper sporting dynamics, increased exclusivity and clear technical differentiation from the BMW 3 Series range. At the same time, BMW is using the new nomenclature to latch onto the fine tradition established by the large BMW 6 Series and BMW 8 Series Coupes.

2014 BMW 4-Series Convertible

The all-new BMW 4 Series Convertible represents the latest chapter in the modern history of BMW Convertibles which dates back to 1987 and the first BMW 3 Series Convertible. As with the new BMW 4 Series Coupe, the 4 Series Convertible embodies the very essence of dynamics and aesthetic appeal in the premium segment. The “4” in its title headlines this new product line for the Convertible and emphasizes not only its stand-out design, but also the fact that any way you look at it, the new 4 Series Convertible represents something more than its BMW 3 Series cousins – 3+1, if you will. The 2014 BMW 4 Series Convertible will again feature a three-piece retractable hardtop with new features and functionality.

The new BMW 4 Series Convertible will be offered in the US as both a 428i, featuring BMW’s award-winning TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and as a 435i with the multi-award winning TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six. Both will feature a standard 8-speed sport automatic transmission. The 428i Convertible will be offered with a choice of rear-wheel drive or with optional xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system, while the 435i Convertible will be available at launch with rear wheel drive. The 2014 BMW 428i Convertible will have a base MSRP of $49,675, and the 2014 BMW 435i Convertible will have a starting price of $55,825. Both prices include $925 destination and handling. The 2014 BMW 4 Series Convertible will arrive in US showrooms in the first quarter of 2014.

2014 BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo

The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo adds an innovative new concept to the successful BMW 3 Series line-up. The third body variant in the current model family combines the Sedan’s dynamic, sporting genes with the practicality and versatility of the Touring, qualities which are backed up by a palpable increase in space and driving comfort. The Gran Turismo exudes aesthetic and emotional appeal, boasts a distinctive presence on the road and offers similarly pronounced driving pleasure. All of which allows the new Gran Turismo to make a compelling case for itself as both an elegant business carriage and a dynamic, comfortable tourer. Typical BMW proportions, four doors with frameless windows, a coupe-style, gently downward-sloping roofline and a large, automatically opening and closing tailgate define the distinctive exterior character of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo. An active rear spoiler – the first of its type on a BMW – provides visual lightness and reduces lift at touring speeds. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is 200 millimetres longer in total than the BMW 3 Series Touring, comes with a 110-millimetre longer wheelbase and stands 81 millimetres taller. However, the clever use of proportions, surfaces and lines ensures that the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is immediately recognisable as a member of the new BMW 3 Series range.

2014 BMW 2-Series Coupe M Performance

The market launch of the BMW 2 Series Coupé clinches pole position in the premium compact segment. The figure 2 in the model designation stands for supreme sporty flair while the letter M refers to the attractive features available for making a dynamic driving experience even more intensive. As in the case of the BMW M Performance automobile BMW M235i, BMW M Performance parts developed for all variants of the BMW 2 Series Coupé will be available as of the market launch in March 2014. The retrofit components designed in close collaboration with BMW M GmbH in the areas of drivetrain, suspension, aerodynamics and cockpit perceptibly boost driving dynamics as well as underscoring the athletic appearance and sporty interior ambience of the new 2-door model. The product selection forms part of the Original BMW Parts program and enables the driver of a BMW 2 Series Coupé to add a touch of individual style in a way that expresses motor racing enthusiasm.

2014 BMW 2-Series Coupe

This is not the first time that BMW has treated the compact segment to its customary brand of driving pleasure. The BMW 1 Series, for example, has fulfilled this role for almost 10 years now, its standout position among its rivals rooted most prominently in its rear-wheel-drive concept (still a unique proposition in this class), powerful engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a compelling premium character. And now the BMW 2 Series Coupe takes the levels of driving pleasure on offer in a compact model to even greater heights. The new two-door cuts a particularly impressive figure with its distinctive body design, a range of extremely powerful engines and specially configured chassis technology.

There is clear water between the BMW 2 Series Coupe and the BMW 1 Series, the new model assuming a character all of its own. This differentiation is immediately recognisable in the design of the new car, but it also makes its presence felt in terms of performance. The BMW 2 Series Coupe is an even more eye-catching creation than its predecessor, the resoundingly successful BMW 1 Series Coupe (of which more than 150,000 units have been sold worldwide). As well as a standalone appearance and increased dimensions, there is also greater depth to its product substance in terms of both technology and standard equipment. The result is a new dimension in driving dynamics, aesthetic appeal and premium allure in the compact segment, highlighted by the “2” in the new car’s model designation. The number 2 has denoted the presence of a supremely sporting driving experience in a compact two-door car for over 45 years – ever since the introduction of the BMW 02 range.

2014 Land Rover Discovery

Land Rover announces upgrades to the multi-award winning 2014 Discovery. The 2014 Discovery receives a new look, new badging, new fuel stretching technology, improved audio systems and a new range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features to broaden its appeal even further. The core attributes are carried over into the 2014 models which will be available to order now with deliveries from mid-November.

“The hugely popular Discovery continues to move from strength to strength and the addition of improvements in fuel economy and emissions underpins our commitment to delivering power with sustainability. As one of the world’s most stylish, capable and versatile SUVs, the Discovery is the perfect vehicle for people who enjoy living an active lifestyle to the full,” said Land Rover Global Brand Director, John Edwards.

For 2014, Discovery has been given a new ‘face’ and numerous detail exterior changes. A new front grille, new front bumper, new headlamp design, new daytime running lights with a distinctive LED signature, plus two new alloy wheel designs, further enhance the Discovery’s appearance. To give vehicles a heightened level of distinction, the optional ‘Black Design Pack’ remains available for 2014 models, with revised detailing, plus 20-inch black alloy wheels.

Five new paint finishes offer greater customer choice
Striking new alloy wheel design
Red Brembo brake callipers for Supercharged model
Wider choice of interior colour combinations
New carbon fibre veneer pack

For 2013, the Range Rover Sport consolidates its position as the most dynamic and luxurious sports tourer in its class with fresh new colours and a greater choice of interior trim and alloy wheel designs.

"The Range Rover Sport was substantially revised in 2011 with major powertrain enhancements and raised equipment levels to reinforce its outstanding breadth of capability. This year we're going one step further, offering even more choice with some great new colour combinations and detail improvements to redefine the Range Rover Sport's class-leading levels of comfort and customer appeal," says John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

2013 Range Rover Sport Limited Edition

Land Rover revealed a new Range Rover Sport Limited Edition at the 2012 New York Motor Show.

Powerful and elegant, the Range Rover Sport goes one step further with a combination of exterior treatments and interior detailing to deliver even greater levels of refinement and customer appeal.

Based on the HSE, the Range Rover Sport Limited Edition comes in Firenze Red, Orkney Grey, Fuji White and Santorini Black. The Santorini Black mesh grille is highlighted by a Noble (satin chrome) bezel and black surround. Bonnet badges and tailgate finisher are in Atlas Silver (gloss silver finish) and the rear 'SPORT' badge is striking in Salsa Red. The fender vents sport a similarly bright red logo bar set against a Santorini Black grille, finished by an Atlas Silver surround. Unique 20-inch alloy wheels add the finishing touch to a dynamic and distinctive look for this Limited Edition model.

"The Range Rover Sport Limited Edition adds an extra dimension to what is already one of the most dynamic vehicles in the premium SUV class. The striking exterior and subtle interior treatments, unique alloy wheels and beautiful upholstery detailing will appeal to customers for whom exclusivity is important," says John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

2015 Toyota Prius C

Toyota’s most affordable hybrid vehicle is also its most fuel efficient. The Prius c with EPA-estimated 53 MPG city / 46 MPG highway / 50 MPG combined, offers the highest MPG of any vehicle on the road today (MPGe vehicles not included).

There’s much more to the Prius c than super-high fuel economy. A restyled front with standard single LED projector low- and high-beam headlights, new exterior colors whose names demand almost as much attention as their hues (Electric Lime Metallic, Tangerine Splash Pearl and Sparkling Sea Metallic), and new “light pipe” taillights add a futuristic touch to the design. Add to that a cabin upgraded with premium materials, and Prius c makes a compelling choice among compact cars, hybrid or not.

For years, the iconic Prius liftback has been synonymous with “hybrid.” Today, the Prius is available in four different flavors. The Prius Family includes the larger standard Prius liftback, the even larger and roomier Prius v and the Prius Plug-in Hybrid that can handle daily driving for many people without using gasoline. In addition, Toyota offers hybrid versions of its Camry and Avalon sedans and Highlander SUV, making Toyota the clear leader in the number of hybrid vehicle offerings and sales volume.

2016 Fiat 500X

The all-new 2016 Fiat 500X is the latest addition to the FIAT lineup in North America, combining the authentic Italian design and engaging driving dynamics synonymous with the FIAT brand, together with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, unmatched functionality, and a full array of safety, comfort and convenience features.

“The Fiat 500X will significantly expand the reach of the FIAT brand in North America,” said Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand North America, Chrysler Group LLC. “The all-new 500X delivers the Italian design and personality that we are known for, along with an unprecedented level of equipment and technology. In addition, it will be the first vehicle in our portfolio to offer an advanced all-wheel-drive system that will provide customers with peace of mind in all driving conditions.”

2014 Bentley Grand Convertible Concept

The ultimate expression of British automotive luxury is imagined with the Bentley Grand Convertible, the most sophisticated open-top car ever created by Bentley. Iconic yet understated in style and fashioned entirely by hand from the very finest materials, this unrivalled flagship of luxury represents the ultimate in powerful, sensuous roofless motoring.

Bentley Chairman and CEO, Wolfgang Dürheimer, who unveiled the car in Los Angeles, commented:

“This concept demonstrates Bentley’s ability to create a pinnacle convertible Grand Tourer, while embodying elegance beyond compare. With this car we combine the opulent Mulsanne experience with the full sensory indulgence of open-air touring, continuing to unite luxury and performance in new ways.

“We are eagerly awaiting the response of our customers to this car. We will ensure that this car - if it reaches the roads – will be a highly exclusive, extremely limited collector’s piece.”

The Bentley Grand Convertible will be on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show from 19th November 2014.

2015 Volkswagen Golf R Variant

Volkswagen will present as a world premiere one of the sportiest all-rounders in the compact class at the Los Angeles Auto Show (November 18–30): the new Golf R Variant.

For the first time since the existence of the model range, the Golf R, the icon of all-wheel compact sports cars, is being launched as a station wagon. The exclusive model has 221 kW / 300 PS. The turbo engine of the Golf R Variant provides up to 380 Nm torque via a standard 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) to the permanent 4MOTION all-wheel drive. Distribution of the drive power over all four wheels guarantees maximum traction, performance and active safety. Providing for pure dynamic performance are a sport suspension (lowered 20 mm), the innovative progressive steering system and "ESC Sport" – which can be deactivated for use on a race course. Optional highlights include the newest generation of the DCC adaptive chassis control system with driving profile selector that features a Race mode.

5.1 seconds and 7.0 liter fuel consumption. The Golf R Variant accelerates from a standstill to 80

2016 Cadillac ATS-V Coupe

Cadillac today introduced the 2016 ATS-V, expanding the acclaimed ATS product range and elevating the brand’s elite high-performance V-Series to its next generation.

Available in sedan and coupe forms, the first-ever ATS-V will introduce class-leading twin-turbocharged power and a comprehensive suite of design and performance systems when production begins in spring 2015.

Since its inception in 2004, Cadillac’s V-Series has driven remarkable power and performance capability into the brand’s growing luxury car range. Building on the strengths of the award-winning ATS product line, the V-Series adds impressive track capability to what was already the lightest and most agile-driving car in the luxury compact class. The result is a dual-purpose luxury performer – a car with true track capability right from the factory that is also a sophisticated luxury car on the road.

“Cadillac’s V-Series is the best example of Cadillac’s emerging product substance – and the purest expression of the passion at the core of the brand,” said Johan de Nysschen, Cadillac President.

The ATS-V arrives next spring, powered by the first-ever twin-turbocharged engine in a V-Series. Rated at an estimated 455 horsepower (339 kW) and 445 lb-ft of torque (603 Nm), the engine is the segment’s highest-output six-cylinder and enables 0-60 performance in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of more than 185 mph. It is backed by a six-speed manual – with Active Rev Match, no-lift shifting and launch control – or a paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission featuring launch control and Performance Algorithm Shift.