BMW has announced pricing details on the new 2013 BMW X6 M, which will hit dealerships in spring 2012.

The updated 2013 BMW X6 M will get minor styling changes and a price jump of $1,600 – bringing the total price tag to $91,900.

Options:

• Active Ventilated Seat Package (ZAV) - Active Ventilated Seat package no longer includes SA456 and has been re-priced to $900.
• Full LED Headlights (552) now available as a stand-alone option for $1,900.

The 2013 BMW X5 M will also see a price jump of $1,600 to a total of $88,850.

Both are powered by a 4.4-liter, 32-valve twin-turbocharged V8 engine with direct injection making 555-hp at 6,000 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque between 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed M Sport Automatic transmission with Adaptive Transmission Control – 0 to 60 mph comes in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed limited to 155 mph.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: BMWBlog

There’s a new report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stating that there are six specific examples of the 2012 BMW X5 being recalled for a supposed faulty parking gear. As a result, these six X5s could roll away if the parking brake is not applied.

BMW recognized this fault and is working with the NHTSA to remedy these six particular examples. They said that a free fix to replace the automatic transmission is available for affected owners and those who own an X5 and are concerned can call BMW directly at 1-800-525-7417.

The X5s in question were built between December 19, 2011 and December 21, 2011. No deaths or injuries have been reported and linked to the recall.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: MotorTrend

The two models are also powered by the new 3.0 liter 6-clyinder in-line diesel engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology with three turbochargers. The engine makes 381-hp at 4,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 546 lb-ft between 2,000 – 3,000 rpm and is mated to a 8-speed automatic transmission.

BMW X5 M50d:

• Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 5.4 seconds
• Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
• Average fuel consumption: 7.5 litres/100 kilometres (37.7 mpg imp)
• CO2 emissions: 199 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5

BMW X6 M50d:

• Acceleration [0 – 100 km/h (62 mph)]: 5.3 seconds
• Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
• Average fuel consumption: 7.7 litres/100 kilometres (36.7 mpg imp)
• CO2 emissions: 204 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5

- By: Omar Rana

BMW has announced that it will be investing nearly $900 million USD and adding 300 new jobs at its plant in South Carolina to support production of the upcoming BMW X4 at the Spartanburg facility. The announcement came during a ceremony to celebrate a major production milestone – 2,000,000 vehicles that have rolled off the assembly line since the company began U.S. production in 1994.

“I am delighted to announce today, over the next three years, we plan to invest nearly $900 Million U.S. dollars. With this investment, we will be able to produce 350,000 units here in the mid-term,” said Arndt. “This is one reaction to the rising global demand for our BMW X Models.”

As we already know that new BMW X4 will be a smaller version of the X6 and will be based on the same platform as the BMW X3.

Check out more news on the BMW X4.

BMW says that with the addition of 300 jobs this year, the plat will increase production to 300,000 units annually. By the end of the year, the plant will employ close to 7,500 workers.

Since 1994, the plant has undergone four major expansions and produced 6 different BMW models and their variants (318i, Z3, Z4, X5, X6, X3). Employment has grown from 500 in 1994 to more than 7,000 today.

- By: Omar Rana

BMW of North America has announced that it is ‘modestly’ increasing prices on its vehicles starting Jan. 1, 2012. All BMW vehicles (except the 7-Series) now see a less than one percent increase. The reason? BMW says that”tough economic times a careful balance was attained between the competitive situation, inflationary conditions, and market realities.”

The destination and handling charges for all models will be bumped up to $895 on Jan. 1 as well.

Check out the full pricing list after the jump.

- By: Omar Rana

The new M models will have options for BMW Individual Paint, piano black, eucalyptus, or walnut trim and Merino leather, soft close functions, both front and rear DVD systems, BMW Internet, along with additional Individual options. A panorama glass roof is available for the X5 M, while the X6 M gets an electric glass roof.

As for performance, both models come with xDrive, powered by a V8 with TwinPower Turbo that produces 555-hp, with a 0-62mph time of 4.7 seconds.

- By: Alexandra Koken

BMW has announced that it is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 5-Series, 5-Series Gran Turismo, 7-Series, X5, X6 vehicles with a V8 or 12-cylinder turbocharged engine. Apparently there could be an issue with the circuit board for the electric auxiliary water pump that can overheat.

“This could lead to a smoldering of the pump or an engine compartment or vehicle fire,” the NHTSA said in a statement.

BMW said it will start notifying owners later this month and will replace the auxiliary water pump free of charge. The recall consists of over 32,000 vehicles.

Owners can contact BMW Customer Relations and Services at 1-800-525-7417.

- By: Omar Rana

The obvious exterior upgrades start with a wide body kit that adds 2.75 inches onto the overall width of the BMW, and adds new bumpers, rear diffuser, fenders, and spoiler. A carbon-fiber hood replaces the stock part fitted with vents to keep the motor cool and using the material to cut down on weight. The package rides on 315/25R23 Michelin tires that house a set of twenty-three-inch wheels.

On the inside the X5 gets a new steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and the option to upgrade the upholstery. A new speedometer puts the top speed at 160-mph, to accommodate for the extra horsepower G-Power pulls out for the Typhoon.

A stainless-steel sport exhaust and a chip are responsible for the few extra horses.

- By: Alexandra Koken

BMW of North America announced today that it is recalling 2,120 units of the X5 xDrive35d SUV due to an issue with the fuel-filter heater. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration said that the fuel-filter heater could overload and possibly cause a fire.

Models involved in the recall include 2009 model year units that were produced between Oct. 1, 2008 and June 12, 2009.

NHTSA said that the the X5 xDrive35d fuel-filter heater, used for heating up diesel fuel in cold temperatures, could electrically overload and become activated even when the car is turned off. That would in turn cause the battery to die or a vehicle fire.

BMW will inform owners and will replace the fuel-filter heater for free.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Detroit News

In an article about the next-generation BMW X5 and BMW X6, Automobile Magazine says that the Bavarian automaker is considering a ‘long-wheelbase X7 based on the X5/X6 platform.

Internally known as the F17, the 7-seater BMW SUV would take on the likes of the upcoming Audi Q9 and the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. However, BMW continues to face some issues, one being that SUVs of that size aren’t socially acceptable and they don’t look good on CO2 balance sheets either.

Nonetheless, BMW could make the X7 full-size SUV acceptable by building it on an aluminum space frame architecture. The model will only appeal to three markets including the United States, China and Russia.

This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about BMW considering a full-size SUV known as the X7. The model has been rumored many times before and BMW itself has continuously denied that it is considering such a model.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automobile Magazine

Rolls-Royce Ghost - BMW Concept M5

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

2011 BMW X5

The BMW X5 is one of the most popular SUVs for luxury car shoppers – it also happens to be the favorite car to steal for luxury car robbers.

A study done by a firm called Tracker shows that car thieves are more likely to steal a BMW X5 than any other premium car. The X5 is followed by the Range Rover, BMW M3, Audi RS4 and the Audi TT, helping round out the top 5.

Click here for more news on the BMW X5.

If you check out Tracker’s list, you’ll notice that UK thieves love premium vehicles – the only affordable car that made the list is the Volkswagen Golf.

Hit the jump for the full list.

The top 10 most stolen and recovered cars in the UK:

1. BMW X5
2. Range Rover
3. BMW M3
4. Audi RS4
5. Audi TT
6. Mercedes-Benz SL
7. Mercedes-Benz CLK
8. Porsche 911
9. Volkswagen Golf
10. Mercedes-Benz ML

- By: Omar Rana

Source: CarEnthusiast (via BMWBlog)

2011 Volkswagen Jetta

In these days, nothing seems to be built like they used to be. The simple answer is that it’s all about the money. In desperate bids to increase profits and expand into markets to raise volume, much has been sacrificed in the realm of build quality, reliability and handling performance.

This should not be news to anyone as we’ve been forced to adapt to the slow degradation that has been affecting nearly every manufacturer. Some have recognized their faults and are putting solid efforts in to redeeming themselves. Some have completely gone the opposite way. And of course, there are the reasons why cars have become less involving and cheaper than they used to be. But to keep this short and sweet, Consumer Reports just issued a little assessment.

CR found that in models such as the Honda Odyssey, Mercedes-Benz E350, and Toyota Sienna had slightly deviated from the standards that their predecessors have set. Others include the current BMW X5, Toyota 4Runner and the Volkswagen Jetta, all of which have fallen short of their expectations.

Just to give you an idea, Consumer Reports devised a little chart. Check it out after the jump.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: Consumer Reports

2011 BMW X6 (5-Seater Option)

If you’re in the market for a crossover and have your heart set on the BMW X6, the fact that the model only seats four might sway you away from the sexy German sports activity coupe. Well, BMW is changing all that in April 2011 with a three-seater rear seat option.

The new three-seater rear seat option is available on BMW X6 models with the exception of the BMW ActiveHybrid X6. It is also available on the BMW X6 M. The option replaces the storage unit in the rear center of the original four-seater model. The five-seater X6 is optionally available in Nevada and Exclusive Nappa leather as well as BMW Individual Merino leather.

2011 BMW X6 (5-Seater Option)

BMW also confirmed that the X5 and X6 both will be available with new 20-inch Y-spoke design wheels with a black high-gloss finish. Both models will also feature a new range of BMW ConnectedDrive services that will move them to take advantage of the BMW Apps option. This feature allows owners of an Apple iPhone to stay in touch with the online services Facebook and Twitter while in the car. Something Ray LaHood loves dearly.

2011 BMW X6 (5-Seater Option):

- By: Omar Rana

BMW Security Vehicle Training

Deep Inside East Germany on a former soviet military airport, BMW offers its toughest driver training. Here, drivers and owners of BMW armored vehicle can upgrade their driving skills and push the cars to their limits.

Would we like to receive some training like this? Of course we would seeing as zombies one day may take over the world.

- By: Zain Haq

BMW is toying with the idea of producing more cars in the United States with a possible option of bringing production of the 3 and 5-Series to the stateside. Board member Ian Robertson told German daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung that there are currently no concrete pans right now but “I would not rule it out altogether.”

BMW currently produces the X3, X5 and X6 in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The company has a 2.3 percent market share in the United States and sold 266,000 units last year, up from 242,000 in 2009. Jim O’Donnell, CEO of BMW of North America, said that the U.S. will eventually pass German in terms of sales.

President of the company’s U.S. production Josef Kerscher said that BMW Spartanburg factory will produce at full capacity of 240,000 units. The newly expanded plant boosted capacity by 50 percent last year as it added production of the new X3.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Automotive News

BMW Performance Accessories for 2011 BMW X5

Own a BMW X5? Want it to look a little more aggressive? BMW has just announced the North American availability of BMW Performance brand accessories for the X5 SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle). The upgrades for the BMW X5 include a bunch of aerodynamic components, aluminum pedals, special kidney grilles, and a new flat-bottom Sport steering wheel.

The BMW X5 Aero Kit, includes a redesigned front and rear bumper covers and side skirts and an available set of black kidney grilles. On the inside, BMW is offering a new steering wheel and pedal set which includes pedal, brake pedal, and footrest pedal, crafted of aluminum with rubber inserts.

BMW also offers an available unique multifunction steering wheel for X5 models. The steering wheel features a thick, racing-style, flattened lower rim and is fully covered in hand-stitched Alcantara material.

The new accessories go on sale at Authorized BMW Centers this month.

BMW Performance Accessories for 2011 BMW X5:

- By: Zain Haq

Hamann Flash Evo M

Hamann is back with another BMW X5 modification package – known as the Flash Evo M (for the BMW X5 M). The bodykit and power upgrades are much more aggressive than any other X5 package we’ve seen from Hamann.

With the Hamann Flash Evo M, the BMW X5 M gets a new front spoiler with LED daytime running lights, large air intakes, a carbon fiber bonnet, side sill bars, fender extensions, side wings for the wheel arches, a rear spoiler, roof spoiler and carbon fiber mirror heads. A new sport exhaust system with center-mounted dual-pipes is also integrated into the new diffuser. The Hamann Flash Evo M rides on 22- or 23-inch alloy wheels.

Power upgrades Flash Evo M increase the X5 M’s output to 601-hp with a maximum torque of 575 lb-ft. Hamann is also offering its HM 670 upgrade, which brings output to 660-hp and a peak torque of 700 lb-ft. To enhance performance, Hamann is also offering a suspension upgrade, which lowers the X5 M by 30 mm.

Hit the jump for the press break down and the high-res gallery.

Hamann Flash Evo M:

Press Release:

HAMANN turns the BMW X5 M (E70) into an all-wheel sports car Flash Evo M

When you take your car for styling and tuning to HAMANN -Motorsport in Laupheim, Germany, the end result will always be amazing. This also occurred when customizing the BMW X5 M and turning it into the HAMANN Flash Evo M. Whether you need a bodykit, light alloy wheels, increased performance or visual enhancement of the interior – HAMANN makes it possible.

The BMW X5 M rolls off the assembly-line already with many exceptional attributes that give it a sense of a sports car. HAMANN dresses up this genre, adding the newly developed Flash Evo M-Bodykit. From now on, a striking front spoiler will be fitted with two or four integrated LED daytime running lights, large air intakes that supply the engine as well as the brake system with fresh air. The carbon bonnet presents itself as a perfect match and contributes with its additional air inlets and outlets to optimize the temperature inside the engine compartment. Side sill bars connect the massive fender extensions and give the X5 M a considerably higher presence. The two central tailpipes of the sport exhaust system are integrated into the diffuser that is installed into the rear spoiler. The carbon roof spoiler adds to the necessary downforce. Even the exterior mirror heads present themselves in a stylish black carbon fibre.

Upon request, several 22 or 23 inch light alloy wheels amplify effectively the sporty appearance of the HAMANN Flash Evo M and skilfully fill in the wide wheel housings. The exclusive DESIGN UNIQUE FORGED “ANODIZED” rim, available in 23 inch with matt black anodized spokes, gives it a truly sporty appearance. The special forging technique applied makes the rim super light but at the same time offers a very high bearing load.

By using progressively wound suspension springs, HAMANN is able to lower the center of gravity of the BMW X5 M by 30 mm. This emphasizes even more the sporty appearance of the Flash Evo M bodykit.

HAMANN offers two performance improvement systems: First, the ECU is optimized by removing the factory-installed Vmax restriction of 250 km/h. Then, power is increased from 408 kW/555 hp and 680 Nm torque to an impressive 449 kW/610 hp and a torque of 780 Nm.

For an extra kick, HAMANN supplies the HM 670 sports kit. In addition to the optimization of the ECU, a rear sports muffler and catalyst replacement pipes are being used. This way, between 1500 and 5650 RPM, the torque is increased to 950 Nm. According to the data sheet, 493 kW/670 hp are also available and ensure that the HAMANN Flash Evo M can reach a top speed of 300 km/h.

Stopping at these speeds requires additional safety, for which HAMANN has developed a high-performance brake system, using 405 mm diameter brake discs in front and 340 mm diameter brake discs at the rear. 6-pot callipers provide the delay at the front axle, while 4-pot callipers do their work at the rear axle. Steal flex brake lines prevent the dreaded fading during high stresses.

When checking out the interior, the first thing one will notice is the HAMANN airbag sport steering wheel and the speedometer, indicating a top speed of 320 km/h. But this is only the beginning: Upon request, the in-house saddlery shop can provide you with two-coloured, quilted leather with decorative stitching and Alcantara, as interior finish. To round it all off, an interior package is available with appliqué made of visible carbon fibre and a stainless steel sill plate with an illuminated HAMANN logo. The feet of the driver may rest on pedals and a foot rest available in optional silver or black anodized aluminium. HAMANN floor mats and a trunk mat top off the luxurious appearance.

- By: Omar Rana