As you may have picked up from our recently posts, BMW is being very aggressive with changing to relatively new models across the range this spring. So aggressive in fact that they’ve decided to begin 2011 model year starting with Spring production of most models. Some highlights:
The M3 Competition Package is real and includes 10 mm lower suspension, 19” M3 GTS wheels, remapped Electronic Damping Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems.
X5 now comes with the N55 single turbo inline six
BMW has introduced value packages to the aging 1 and 3 series models
Most models equipped with the twin turbo N54 inline six will be transitioning to the N55 single turbo for 2011.
Most vehicles receive minor changes for MY2011 in the form of options and new or revised packages, but some models are either all-new (for example, the new BMW 5 Series sedan and BMW ALPINA B7) or substantially updated (3 Series Coupe and Convertible). For existing models, what will not change for the start of the MY2011 are base Manufacturer Suggested Retail Prices. You can get all the details for the entire range in the official release below:
With NAIAS behind us it’s time to look back on the show and what was released. For starters this was the public debut of the ActiveE 1 Series, Z4sDrive35is, an upgraded 135i with the new inline six N55 and Dual Clutch Transmission as well as the US debuts of the 740i and 535i GT. For the full wrap-up we’ve taken it upon ourselves to bring you every second of video from BMW’s press conference. If that wasn’t enough, we’ve also included our full gallery of images and video from the two days. Enjoy.
Todd and I sat down with Head of BMWNA Product Planning and Strategy/BMW Motorsport Manager Martin Birkmann amidst all the debuts yesterday for a candid talk about all things BMW. It was clear that our readers wanted not only hints and future products, but a clearer understanding behind some of the recent decisions involving the DCT transmission. Specifically why it’s the sole option for a few forthcoming performance related BMW products.
We also talked about M, motorsport and of course effeciency and how it relates to BMW as a brand. It’s rare that anyone gets a chance to talk so candidly with Mr. Birkmann. Enjoy!
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These new models will go on sale in the United States as 2011 models in Spring 2010. The MSRP of the 740i is $71,025 and the long wheelbase 740Li will retail for $75,425 (prices Include $875 Destination and Handling charge). Both models will be available with the full complement of well-known 7 Series options and packages, including the M Sport Package, Driver Assistance Package, Luxury Seating Packages, Rear Entertainment Package, and even the BMW Individual Composition Package.
The introduction of the Z4 sDrive35iS embraces the “iS” tradition of BMWs of yesteryear with both enhanced performance and the addition of standard sport-oriented features.The base price of $61,050 includes the DCT transmission, Adaptive M Suspension, Enhanced Servotronic steering, M Sport Package equipment, 18” alloy wheels, Specially tuned exhaust sound, Exterior mirror caps in oxide silver, Special 35is-labeled interior items and an exclusive aerodynamic package. In addition to options already available for the Z4 the “iS” model will also make available exclusive options of M 19″ wheels ($1,200) and an Exclusive Ivory White Leather Pkg $1,650 (Anthracite Wood Trim Ivory White Nappa Leather).
Before the holiday break I was lucky enough to spend some seat time behind the wheel of a BMW Performance 335i sedan with Eric Riehle. Eric is the new Accessory Development Manager for BMW Performance and Motorsport. In other words, he is every enthusiast’s best friend as he helps create and bring to market the accessories we all would like.
So without further delay here is our exclusive interview with Eric.
The North American International Auto Show in Detroit will see the World debut of the BMW Concept ActiveE and BMW Z4 sDrive35is, as well as the North American unveiling of the twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine version of the BMW 740i and 740Li Sedans and the six-cylinder turbocharged version of the BMW 535i Gran Turismo.
BMW Concept ActiveE
BMW Concept ActiveE is the latest electric vehicle project under BMW Group’s initiative to produce vehicles that explore solutions to minimize environmental impact while preserving the dynamic driving experience for which BMW has long been known. The BMW Concept ActiveE will follow the all-electric MINI E as the second large-scale electric vehicle test program to be conducted in the hands of interested customers.
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We believe in the old school BMW ownership experience. We believe in garage nights with a six pack and some friends. We believe in 2002s, in E30 M3s and E34 540s with the 6 speed. We believe in progress in both design and engineering but we haven't lost sight of what made the brand and its products great all those years ago. And yes, we believe in the manual transmission.
We long for the days of the wave and for the days of roll-up windows. Yet we love the gadgets on the inside and the xenons on the outside.
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Sections: //M3\\, //M5\\, //X5 M\\, //X6 M\\, E63/E64 6 Series, E89 Z4 Roadster, E90 3 Series, F01 7 Series, F07 PAS, F10 5 Series Jan 28th, 2010 7 Comments 
