What’s up next for BMW future lineup and Rolls-Royce Ghost?
Even though BMW had just recently revealed the all-new BMW M5 Concept, there’s much speculation as to what the German make has planned for the next couple years.
Some journalists were invited to Munich for an update on BMW’s latest efforts. Next to the F10 M5, a number of updated 1er hatchbacks were spotted lurking around BMW’s R&D center in Munich. Due for a mid-cycle refresh, the differences seem to limited to new front and rear fascias that mimic the new 5er. Other differences noticed, especially on other recently updated BMWs, is the taller and more upright nose to meet new pedestrian safety requirements. Included are bigger, wider kidney grilles and updated headlights.
Also spotted was a fully camoed 3er, which because of its extensive camo suit and non-production taillights, was a little harder to render. It was parked next to a five-door 1er and due to the obvious proportions of being slightly longer than the 1er, a short trunk and short front and rear overhangs. Rumors were that the new 3er would be revealed at the Frankfurt auto show later this year, but BMW immediately debunked this rumor.
Additionally, even though the new 6er was just fully revealed earlier this year, another 6er prototype was spotted with an all-glass roof, which we assume could be a Mercedes “Magic Sky” glass roof competitor that like the Benz version, changes transparency either automatically or at the touch of a button.
Alternatively, BMW announced that the new X1 crossover is put on indefinite hold because of unexpected demand in other markets, which has its plants running at capacity. To fix this, BMW’s working hard around the clock to meet the demands of the US market. Equally, BMW plans on replacing the current straight-six with a 245hp turbocharged 2.0L four-banger that offers a better torque curve, a quick 0-60 time (.7 seconds to be exact), and better fuel economy than the current straight-six. BMW’s legendary straight-six will remain an option however.
More diesel models are also in the works as the current X5 is selling more diesel models than the gasoline V8, and the current 335d makes up 10-15% of 3er sales. A 335d xDrive is also in the list of things to work on for the German mark, as well as more efficient 2.0L turbocharged diesel four-banger models.
Lastly, a camouflaged Rolls-Royce Ghost was spotted, probably suggesting a mid-cycle refresh in the works complete with new taillights, headlights, and even a new grille and front fascia.
– By: Chris Chin
Source: WOT
