BMW's two-wheel product expansion takes another step forward for 2008, with six new or extensively revised models in four different categories. In addition, the company moves into yet one more displacement class this year with another all-new off-road design.
The company's HP, Supersport and Adventure-Touring ranks also expand via new or extensively revised models in those areas. In all, BMW's 2008 model offerings rank as the most diverse the company has ever offered, with 20 models that cover the world of motorcycling from cleated footpegs and knobbies, to clip-ons and slicks, to saddlebags and GPS units -- in any mixture you can imagine.
2008 BMW G 450 X
The cleated footpeg crowd is covered by the all-new competition-oriented G 450 X, which joins a lineup that includes the three single-cylinder G 650 X models. Even more off-road oriented than the G 650 Xchallenge , the 450 boasts an engine and chassis designed to optimize the lightweight bike's off-road intent.
The 50-horsepower liquid-cooled single sits in a frame that combines stainless steel and aluminum components. A Marzocchi fork and Ohlins rear shock are just two of the top-drawer components on this fuel-injected off-road-ready tool.
2008 BMW F 800 GS
Also new this year is the latest version of BMW's parallel-twin, the F 800 GS (See the wBW Special Report on the new F 800 GS). Neatly slotted in between the previous F 650 GS and the company's R 1200 GS Boxer-twins , this 85-horsepower Adventure-Tourer provides another choice in BMW's legendary line of all-road tourers.
2008 BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure
Those looking for a higher-performance alternative can choose from either R 1200 GS or R 1200 GS Adventure, this year thoroughly updated with more power, revised gearing and optional Enduro ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment). True to their character, the new GS models ensure that 2008 will provide a wider range of treatments for chronic wanderlust.
2008 BMW HP2 Megamoto and HP2 Sport
BMW's high-performance HP2 series gains a pair of stablemates with the addition of the HP2 Megamoto and HP2 Sport , both designed to provide a significant boost in power, performance and excitement.
The Megamoto boasts a 113-hp Boxer-twin, premium chassis components and upright riding position with sticky 17-inch tires, lowered suspension, and dual front discs. The 130-hp HP2 Sport is the most-powerful Boxer-twin yet, and the first production DOHC Boxer in BMW history. Awash in carbon-fiber, it looks particularly fetching fitted with slicks.
Rounding out the remaining 2008 lineup is an appealing array of encore performers. The F 800 S (2007 model) and F 800 ST parallel-twins retain their positions as superlative sport or sport-touring middleweights.
BMW's four-cylinder K 1200 S and K 1200 R Sport (2007 model) inject an additional dose of horsepower to that formula while still maintaining a modicum of civility. BMW's traditional touring niche is neatly-and exquisitely-filled by the R 1200 RT Boxer , the K 1200 GT and luxury-touring K 1200 LT.
And those who prefer motorcycling's purist approach can still find the R 1200 R and K 1200 R fill that bill with just a hint of attitude.
Tuesday, 27 November 2007
BMW M3: Automotive Excellence Awards 2008
The new M3 isn’t the quickest or fastest performance car you can buy. Cars like the 600-hp Dodge Viper will likely beat it in a drag race. So why is this Bavarian hustler our performance pick for ’08? Because nothing can touch BMW’s mastery of refining and redefining the entire performance envelope. This is one of the few performance cars that can triumph at weekend track days and still carry four friends in perfect comfort and luxury to an evening movie. It’s as at home tearing up a winding mountain road as it is commuting on the freeway. The original high-spirited asphalt eater from the 1980s had the heart and soul of a race car. Today’s M3 is much more sophisticated and elegant. But don’t let a new suit of armor fool you into thinking this road warrior has gone soft. Under the hood, you’ll find a 414-hp, 4.0-liter V8—an M3 first—that produces 81 hp more than its predecessor. To handle the power, BMW heavily modified the 3 Series chassis. And many components are made of aluminum for weight savings. The V8 is backed by a slick six-speed manual gearbox. But a new seven-speed, double-clutch unit is on the way. The M3 is elegant and powerful, and it does its job at a comfort level not many cars can match.
Curvier 7-Series is shaping up - BMW 7-Series
Bigger than ever before, sportier and more luxurious – that’s BMW’s 7-Series replacement. But will it be better to look at when it’s revealed in 12 months time?
Auto Express’s exclusive pictures are the first to show that it will. Our spies caught a new prototype of the luxury model testing in the south of France.
By matching the photographs with inside information, we have been able to create the most accurate representation of the car yet – and it’s a stunner!
With a new-look grille and a lower and wider bonnet, the 7-Series takes some of its styling inspiration from the sensational CS concept, revealed at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show. The car also promises to lose the slab-sided look of the current model, thanks to sculpted flanks and a more rounded rear end.
And to match the new design, BMW is also claiming that the new 7-Series will represent a big step forward under the skin. Leading the way is an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and the option of BMW’s xDrive 4WD transmission. Inside, the gearlever will be moved from its current position next to the steering wheel to the transmission tunnel, while a simplified iDrive cabin control system is also promised.
A new range of engines is being developed, with power coming from a choice of 272bhp six-cylinder and 412bhp eight-cylinder petrol units. A new hydrogen model is also planned. Prices have still to be confirmed, but the car is likely to cost from £55,000 – that’s a slight increase over the current model.
More BMW 7-SERIES:
* News, Spy Shots: Seven up!
* News, Auto Express News: Terminator 7's target
* News, Auto Express News: Next 7 aces on space
* News, Spy Shots: BMW 7-Series
* News, Auto Express News: Gas-powered BMW 7
* News, Auto Express News: Gas-powered BMW 7-Series
* News, Spy Shots: Mild seven
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW Hydrogen 7
* Car Reviews, New Reviews: BMW 7-Series
* Car Reviews, First Drives: The air apparent
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 750i
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 7-Series
* Car Reviews, Used Car Tests: BMW 7-Series
* Videos, Spy Shot Videos: BMW 7-Series
Auto Express’s exclusive pictures are the first to show that it will. Our spies caught a new prototype of the luxury model testing in the south of France.
By matching the photographs with inside information, we have been able to create the most accurate representation of the car yet – and it’s a stunner!
With a new-look grille and a lower and wider bonnet, the 7-Series takes some of its styling inspiration from the sensational CS concept, revealed at this year’s Shanghai Motor Show. The car also promises to lose the slab-sided look of the current model, thanks to sculpted flanks and a more rounded rear end.
And to match the new design, BMW is also claiming that the new 7-Series will represent a big step forward under the skin. Leading the way is an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and the option of BMW’s xDrive 4WD transmission. Inside, the gearlever will be moved from its current position next to the steering wheel to the transmission tunnel, while a simplified iDrive cabin control system is also promised.
A new range of engines is being developed, with power coming from a choice of 272bhp six-cylinder and 412bhp eight-cylinder petrol units. A new hydrogen model is also planned. Prices have still to be confirmed, but the car is likely to cost from £55,000 – that’s a slight increase over the current model.
More BMW 7-SERIES:
* News, Spy Shots: Seven up!
* News, Auto Express News: Terminator 7's target
* News, Auto Express News: Next 7 aces on space
* News, Spy Shots: BMW 7-Series
* News, Auto Express News: Gas-powered BMW 7
* News, Auto Express News: Gas-powered BMW 7-Series
* News, Spy Shots: Mild seven
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW Hydrogen 7
* Car Reviews, New Reviews: BMW 7-Series
* Car Reviews, First Drives: The air apparent
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 750i
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 730d
* Car Reviews, First Drives: BMW 7-Series
* Car Reviews, Used Car Tests: BMW 7-Series
* Videos, Spy Shot Videos: BMW 7-Series
2007 LA Auto Show: BMW M3 Coupe & Sedan to Debut
The Fourth Generation Benchmark Performance Car - Now with a V-8
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ - November 6, 2007. BMW will unveil one of the most anticipated new cars of the year as it raises the performance benchmark once again with the North American premieres of the 2008 M3 Coupe and Sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new 4th generation 2008 M3 Coupe and the all-new 4 door M3 Sedan will arrive in the spring of 2008 and will feature a high-revving V-8 engine developing 414-horsepower at 8,300rpm, a first in a series-production BMW M3 and the highest-performing M3 ever offered by BMW's M division.
The BMW M3 Coupe will feature a unique carbon fiber roof panel that reduces weight by 44lbs versus the optional steel roof panel with moonroof. Both the M3 Coupe and Sedan will feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls including steering, damping and stability (and an available steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the preferences) and a sports oriented interior that can be optimized to a driver's desires, including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation system operated through BMW's latest iDrive controller.
Lightweight, efficient V8 at the heart of the BMW M3 The move to eight cylinders in the fourth generation BMW M3 provides a powerplant offering the seemingly disparate characteristics of more power, increased efficiency and reduced weight when compared with the previous six-cylinder M3 engine. Displacing 3,999 cubic centimeters (4.0 liters), the new light-alloy engine produces 414 hp at 8,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm with 85 percent of the maximum torque available consistently through 6,500 rpm. This power output represents a 17% increase over the six-cylinder from the last generation M3 yet the new engine weighs 7% less and consumes 8% less fuel than its predecessor.
Manual transmission, twin-disc clutch and Variable M Differential Lock Power from the BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan's V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. The performance parameters of the M3 dictated heat management as a key design factor for both the transmission and clutch. The transmission features integrated temperature-dependent oil cooling management, while internal ventilation maximizes heat dissipation for the twin-disc clutch.
The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock generating up to 100 percent locking action with fully variable action whenever required, ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces.
Latest-generation of Dynamic Stability Control
The electronic Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) monitors driving conditions and intervenes through the application of brakes and reduced engine power to stabilize the BMW M3 and help avoid major over- or under-steer situations.
In addition to engine controls and the ABS, other systems integrated in the DSC are Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which prevents the wheels from spinning on surfaces with reduced traction; the Start-Off Assistant, which prevents the car from rolling back when setting off on a grade, as well as Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which prevents the car from spinning or swerving out of control when applying the brakes in a bend.
The latest version of DSC includes additional functions for even greater driving safety. Whenever the driver is likely to apply the brakes in full within the next few seconds, the system builds up pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit and pre-loads the brake pads to ensure an immediate response. The Dry Braking feature removes water film from the discs in wet conditions, thus reducing the chance of water interfering with the braking process.
Electronic Damper Control recognizing the driver's style of driving
The optional Electronic Damper Control (EDC) allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's chassis dynamics to his or her preference through one of three modes: Sport, Normal and Comfort.
The response of all dynamic driving systems is carefully tailored to the power and performance of the new BMW M3, with electronic intervention of the various systems naturally taking the dynamics of the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the option to individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting the response of the car to his personal preferences.
Interior design oriented an active driving experience with luxury
There is no question as to the heritage of the vehicle upon opening the door of the new BMW M3 thanks to the M car logo in the door sills. The unique nature of the vehicle carries to the dash where the dual circular instruments typical of BMW - the speedometer and fuel gauge as well as the tachometer and oil temperature display - are in specific M style. A feature typical of BMW M cars is the variable warning zone on the tachometer that informs the driver of the recommended engine speed depending on the engine oil temperature.
The M3's leather steering wheel, with its thumb contours resting firmly in the driver's hands, provides an optimum grip for precise movement of the steering wheel. The spokes within the steering wheel incorporate the remote control buttons for the audio system and mobile phone, as well as the optional MDrive button. An additional auxiliary button may be programmed through the optional BMW iDrive system.
A premium AM/FM/single-disc CD audio system comes standard with an auxiliary input jack. Individual entertainment options include SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio and a USB-enabled port for control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player. These three options can be bundled together in the Technology Package, should one choose to have them all together.
For vehicles equipped with Navigation, the comprehensive information and entertainment systems are controlled by the refined BMW iDrive. Selecting the Navigation/iDrive option also brings the performance-oriented, steering-wheel-spoke-mounted Mdrive button.
WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ - November 6, 2007. BMW will unveil one of the most anticipated new cars of the year as it raises the performance benchmark once again with the North American premieres of the 2008 M3 Coupe and Sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new 4th generation 2008 M3 Coupe and the all-new 4 door M3 Sedan will arrive in the spring of 2008 and will feature a high-revving V-8 engine developing 414-horsepower at 8,300rpm, a first in a series-production BMW M3 and the highest-performing M3 ever offered by BMW's M division.
The BMW M3 Coupe will feature a unique carbon fiber roof panel that reduces weight by 44lbs versus the optional steel roof panel with moonroof. Both the M3 Coupe and Sedan will feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls including steering, damping and stability (and an available steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the preferences) and a sports oriented interior that can be optimized to a driver's desires, including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation system operated through BMW's latest iDrive controller.
Lightweight, efficient V8 at the heart of the BMW M3 The move to eight cylinders in the fourth generation BMW M3 provides a powerplant offering the seemingly disparate characteristics of more power, increased efficiency and reduced weight when compared with the previous six-cylinder M3 engine. Displacing 3,999 cubic centimeters (4.0 liters), the new light-alloy engine produces 414 hp at 8,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm with 85 percent of the maximum torque available consistently through 6,500 rpm. This power output represents a 17% increase over the six-cylinder from the last generation M3 yet the new engine weighs 7% less and consumes 8% less fuel than its predecessor.
Manual transmission, twin-disc clutch and Variable M Differential Lock Power from the BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan's V8 is transmitted to the rear wheels through a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox. The performance parameters of the M3 dictated heat management as a key design factor for both the transmission and clutch. The transmission features integrated temperature-dependent oil cooling management, while internal ventilation maximizes heat dissipation for the twin-disc clutch.
The new final drive comes with a Variable M Differential Lock generating up to 100 percent locking action with fully variable action whenever required, ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces.
Latest-generation of Dynamic Stability Control
The electronic Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) monitors driving conditions and intervenes through the application of brakes and reduced engine power to stabilize the BMW M3 and help avoid major over- or under-steer situations.
In addition to engine controls and the ABS, other systems integrated in the DSC are Automatic Stability Control (ASC), which prevents the wheels from spinning on surfaces with reduced traction; the Start-Off Assistant, which prevents the car from rolling back when setting off on a grade, as well as Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which prevents the car from spinning or swerving out of control when applying the brakes in a bend.
The latest version of DSC includes additional functions for even greater driving safety. Whenever the driver is likely to apply the brakes in full within the next few seconds, the system builds up pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit and pre-loads the brake pads to ensure an immediate response. The Dry Braking feature removes water film from the discs in wet conditions, thus reducing the chance of water interfering with the braking process.
Electronic Damper Control recognizing the driver's style of driving
The optional Electronic Damper Control (EDC) allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's chassis dynamics to his or her preference through one of three modes: Sport, Normal and Comfort.
The response of all dynamic driving systems is carefully tailored to the power and performance of the new BMW M3, with electronic intervention of the various systems naturally taking the dynamics of the car into account. Indeed, the driver even has the option to individually configure specific parameters, thus adjusting the response of the car to his personal preferences.
Interior design oriented an active driving experience with luxury
There is no question as to the heritage of the vehicle upon opening the door of the new BMW M3 thanks to the M car logo in the door sills. The unique nature of the vehicle carries to the dash where the dual circular instruments typical of BMW - the speedometer and fuel gauge as well as the tachometer and oil temperature display - are in specific M style. A feature typical of BMW M cars is the variable warning zone on the tachometer that informs the driver of the recommended engine speed depending on the engine oil temperature.
The M3's leather steering wheel, with its thumb contours resting firmly in the driver's hands, provides an optimum grip for precise movement of the steering wheel. The spokes within the steering wheel incorporate the remote control buttons for the audio system and mobile phone, as well as the optional MDrive button. An additional auxiliary button may be programmed through the optional BMW iDrive system.
A premium AM/FM/single-disc CD audio system comes standard with an auxiliary input jack. Individual entertainment options include SIRIUS satellite radio, HD radio and a USB-enabled port for control of an Apple iPod or iPhone media player. These three options can be bundled together in the Technology Package, should one choose to have them all together.
For vehicles equipped with Navigation, the comprehensive information and entertainment systems are controlled by the refined BMW iDrive. Selecting the Navigation/iDrive option also brings the performance-oriented, steering-wheel-spoke-mounted Mdrive button.
BMW 3Q Profit Rises 78 Percent
Luxury automaker BMW AG saw its third-quarter net profit leap 78 percent, driven higher by increased sales, and raised its sales outlook for the rest of 2007 on Tuesday.
The Munich-based automaker earned 803 million euros ($1.2 billion) in the July-September period compared with 452 million euros a year earlier and beating the 605 million euros ($876.5 million) that analysts polled by Dow Jones Newswires had forecast.
Sales at BMW, which also makes the popular Mini, the Rolls-Royce and high-end motorcycles, climbed 19 percent to 13.78 billion euros ($19.96 billion).
Despite some market worries about the company's exposure to the falling U.S. dollar, BMW said it was 'well on its way toward achieving its earnings and sales volume targets for the full year.'
'The BMW Group will focus its attention on profitability and increasing value over the long term,' said Chief Executive Norbert Reithofer.
Pretax profit rose 6.3 percent to 765 million euros ($1.1 billion), up from 720 million euros a year earlier, but below the 900 million euros ($1.3 billion) analysts had forecast.
'BMW's (third-quarter) numbers mark a slightly better performance after a very disappointing year so far, with at least some of the top-line strength feeding through into earnings growth,' said auto analyst Stephen Cheetham at Sanford C. Bernstein Ltd.
'However, apart from higher net income due to lower taxes, the numbers came in below our estimates, and do little to dispel investor fears of the company's continued exposure to a weaker U.S. dollar.'
The euro currency hit another new high of $1.4542 on Tuesday, but BMW said it did not expect the negative impact to be bigger than the 666 million euros it posted in 2006.
'All of the main currencies are fully hedged for the business year 2007,' the company said, adding it had been 'confronted with higher purchase prices for steel, precious metals and other materials. The additional cost is likely to be on a similar scale to the previous year's level of 178 million euros ($257.89 million).'
But Cheetham said markets would likely take a 'wait and see approach' to the company's improvement plans, and BMW shares fell 4.5 percent to 42.76 euros ($61.95) in Frankfurt.
In terms of sales, the company said it saw strong demand in all of its markets, including the United States, its biggest market, and it expects to sell more than 1.4 million cars by the end of the year. Reithofer said BMW hopes to sell more than 1.8 million vehicles a year by 2012.
Third-quarter sales rose 13 percent to 364,564 vehicles from 323,064 last year, while nine-month sales rose 7.2 percent to 1.09 million vehicles from 1.02 million in the same period in 2006.
Chief Financial Officer Michael Ganal said he expects the company to post a strong fourth quarter, and added that the earnings impact from the rising euro is likely to ease through the second half of this year compared to the first six months.
BMW earned 2.1 billion euros ($3.04 billion) in the first nine months of the year, down 2 percent from 2.18 billion euros in 2006. It attributed the slip to costs related to new market launches for models and production startups, as well as higher costs for raw materials and the 'development of even more efficient and fuel-saving engines and the ongoing weakness of the U.S. dollar and Japanese yen.'
The company introduced its new 6-Series Coupe and convertible and is developing its new Mini Clubman that is expected to go on sale worldwide later this month.
Nine-month sales rose 11.1 percent to 40.4 billion euros ($58.53 billion) from 36.3 billion euros.
The Munich-based automaker earned 803 million euros ($1.2 billion) in the July-September period compared with 452 million euros a year earlier and beating the 605 million euros ($876.5 million) that analysts polled by Dow Jones Newswires had forecast.
Sales at BMW, which also makes the popular Mini, the Rolls-Royce and high-end motorcycles, climbed 19 percent to 13.78 billion euros ($19.96 billion).
Despite some market worries about the company's exposure to the falling U.S. dollar, BMW said it was 'well on its way toward achieving its earnings and sales volume targets for the full year.'
'The BMW Group will focus its attention on profitability and increasing value over the long term,' said Chief Executive Norbert Reithofer.
Pretax profit rose 6.3 percent to 765 million euros ($1.1 billion), up from 720 million euros a year earlier, but below the 900 million euros ($1.3 billion) analysts had forecast.
'BMW's (third-quarter) numbers mark a slightly better performance after a very disappointing year so far, with at least some of the top-line strength feeding through into earnings growth,' said auto analyst Stephen Cheetham at Sanford C. Bernstein Ltd.
'However, apart from higher net income due to lower taxes, the numbers came in below our estimates, and do little to dispel investor fears of the company's continued exposure to a weaker U.S. dollar.'
The euro currency hit another new high of $1.4542 on Tuesday, but BMW said it did not expect the negative impact to be bigger than the 666 million euros it posted in 2006.
'All of the main currencies are fully hedged for the business year 2007,' the company said, adding it had been 'confronted with higher purchase prices for steel, precious metals and other materials. The additional cost is likely to be on a similar scale to the previous year's level of 178 million euros ($257.89 million).'
But Cheetham said markets would likely take a 'wait and see approach' to the company's improvement plans, and BMW shares fell 4.5 percent to 42.76 euros ($61.95) in Frankfurt.
In terms of sales, the company said it saw strong demand in all of its markets, including the United States, its biggest market, and it expects to sell more than 1.4 million cars by the end of the year. Reithofer said BMW hopes to sell more than 1.8 million vehicles a year by 2012.
Third-quarter sales rose 13 percent to 364,564 vehicles from 323,064 last year, while nine-month sales rose 7.2 percent to 1.09 million vehicles from 1.02 million in the same period in 2006.
Chief Financial Officer Michael Ganal said he expects the company to post a strong fourth quarter, and added that the earnings impact from the rising euro is likely to ease through the second half of this year compared to the first six months.
BMW earned 2.1 billion euros ($3.04 billion) in the first nine months of the year, down 2 percent from 2.18 billion euros in 2006. It attributed the slip to costs related to new market launches for models and production startups, as well as higher costs for raw materials and the 'development of even more efficient and fuel-saving engines and the ongoing weakness of the U.S. dollar and Japanese yen.'
The company introduced its new 6-Series Coupe and convertible and is developing its new Mini Clubman that is expected to go on sale worldwide later this month.
Nine-month sales rose 11.1 percent to 40.4 billion euros ($58.53 billion) from 36.3 billion euros.
Pooja Batra gets BMW for birthday
Pooja Batra's fascination for cars led husband Sonu Ahluwalia to surprise her with a BMW M5 for her birthday.
This adds to her Lexus Hybrid SUV and BMW M3 convertible.
The actress, who is based in Los Angeles and celebrated her birthday Oct 27, said: 'I love this one as its 500 horsepower! It's a mean-looking car and I love its growl plus it has a plethora of airbags and blue tooth connectivity. I'm so looking forward to going back and revving up the engine.'
Now that's quite a gift!!
This adds to her Lexus Hybrid SUV and BMW M3 convertible.
The actress, who is based in Los Angeles and celebrated her birthday Oct 27, said: 'I love this one as its 500 horsepower! It's a mean-looking car and I love its growl plus it has a plethora of airbags and blue tooth connectivity. I'm so looking forward to going back and revving up the engine.'
Now that's quite a gift!!
BMW 335i Power Upgrades - Proven
The debut of the 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged, six-cylinder engine in the 2007 335i heralds a new generation of BMW turbos. It is now feasible to build a motor with the horsepower and torque of a V8, while still achieving the fuel economy of a standard six. It also means it's time to play. We tracked down a 335i sedan to put a few upgrades to the test.
*Baseline
Peak wheel-hp: 254 @ 5588 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft): 255 @ 2144 rpm
*Pros
Engine has long torque curve Twin turbos for quick spool-up Direct injection technology Front-mounted intercooler
*Cons
Each turbo features a pair of restrictive catalytic converters, one directly off the turbo, the second downstream.Diverter valves are integrated
*Notes
The 335i sedan was equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission with its odometer reading 1232 miles at the start of testing. The vehicle was tested using the highest grade of gas available in Southern California: 91-octane. All testing and installation was performed on the same day, during moderate temperatures of 77 to 79 degrees F. The testing location was at sea level with a reading of 46 percent relative humidity.
All dynamometer testing was performed in third gear on a Clayton 'Mustang' dyno.
Split Second Turbo Tuner upgrade
Peak wheel-hp 270 @ 5623 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft) 277 @ 2227 rpm
*Pros
Plug-and-play design allows for easy install and removal when going in for dealer service Retains the smooth power curve OEM plug housings ensure perfect water-tight fit Built-in temperature compensator reduces boost based on temperature
*Cons
Relies on the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust air-to-fuel ratio No speed limiter removal Rev limiter not increased
*Part: Tuning box
*Tools: Small flathead screwdriver
*Price: $599
*Installation time: 5 min.
*Notes
The Split Second Turbo Tuner is a reasonably priced option to increase horsepower and torque output, and the fact that it can be removed easily makes servicing at the dealer less stressful. The Turbo Tuner is installed between the ECU and the TMAP sensor, providing a mild increase in boost pressure. Performance gains are not limited to any specific part of the rev range; they can be felt throughout without a single hiccup. The increased power does not adversely affect the automatic transmission.
Super Sprint Cat-Back Exhaust
Peak wheel-hp 279 @ 5691 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft) 285 @ 2301 rpm
*Pros
Mid-pipes feature an X section, ensuring that the equalization of exhaust gas pulses is optimized60mm mandrel bent tubing 100 percent T304 stainless steel Uses all factory hangers No reduction in ground clearance100mm tips fill the bumper cut-out
*Cons
Adjustable tips are a bit tricky to get lined up Requires cutting of stock one-piece exhaust right after the stock catalytic converters
*Parts: X-pipe, right and left muffler and tips, clamps, muffler cross brace with hardware
*Tools: WD40, T50 Torx socket, long flathead screwdriver, 16 and 17 mm deep socket, three-inch extension, ratchet, 6mm Allen wrench, 12mm wrench, chop saw or Sawzall
*Price: $2,362.91
*Installation time: 60 min.
*Notes
The stock exhaust sounds good only when completely floored, thanks to the vacuum-operated flapper. The Supersprint exhaust system gives the 335i more presence, offering a range of tones from a mild idle to aggressive full throttle. If cutting the stock exhaust system is not an option, Supersprint offers two alternatives (that are not quite legal, because they replace or remove two of the four factory catalytic converters): a set of front connecting pipes with two 100-cell HJS cats ($3,211.87) or a set of front connecting pipes with no cats ($551.83). With either option, the system will bolt right to the factory downpipes. If future plans are to install a set of downpipes, the front connecting pipes with cats feature O2 sensor bungs, allowing relocation of the sensors to avoid a 'check engine' light.
*Baseline
Peak wheel-hp: 254 @ 5588 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft): 255 @ 2144 rpm
*Pros
Engine has long torque curve Twin turbos for quick spool-up Direct injection technology Front-mounted intercooler
*Cons
Each turbo features a pair of restrictive catalytic converters, one directly off the turbo, the second downstream.Diverter valves are integrated
*Notes
The 335i sedan was equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission with its odometer reading 1232 miles at the start of testing. The vehicle was tested using the highest grade of gas available in Southern California: 91-octane. All testing and installation was performed on the same day, during moderate temperatures of 77 to 79 degrees F. The testing location was at sea level with a reading of 46 percent relative humidity.
All dynamometer testing was performed in third gear on a Clayton 'Mustang' dyno.
Split Second Turbo Tuner upgrade
Peak wheel-hp 270 @ 5623 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft) 277 @ 2227 rpm
*Pros
Plug-and-play design allows for easy install and removal when going in for dealer service Retains the smooth power curve OEM plug housings ensure perfect water-tight fit Built-in temperature compensator reduces boost based on temperature
*Cons
Relies on the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust air-to-fuel ratio No speed limiter removal Rev limiter not increased
*Part: Tuning box
*Tools: Small flathead screwdriver
*Price: $599
*Installation time: 5 min.
*Notes
The Split Second Turbo Tuner is a reasonably priced option to increase horsepower and torque output, and the fact that it can be removed easily makes servicing at the dealer less stressful. The Turbo Tuner is installed between the ECU and the TMAP sensor, providing a mild increase in boost pressure. Performance gains are not limited to any specific part of the rev range; they can be felt throughout without a single hiccup. The increased power does not adversely affect the automatic transmission.
Super Sprint Cat-Back Exhaust
Peak wheel-hp 279 @ 5691 rpm
Peak wheel torque (lb-ft) 285 @ 2301 rpm
*Pros
Mid-pipes feature an X section, ensuring that the equalization of exhaust gas pulses is optimized60mm mandrel bent tubing 100 percent T304 stainless steel Uses all factory hangers No reduction in ground clearance100mm tips fill the bumper cut-out
*Cons
Adjustable tips are a bit tricky to get lined up Requires cutting of stock one-piece exhaust right after the stock catalytic converters
*Parts: X-pipe, right and left muffler and tips, clamps, muffler cross brace with hardware
*Tools: WD40, T50 Torx socket, long flathead screwdriver, 16 and 17 mm deep socket, three-inch extension, ratchet, 6mm Allen wrench, 12mm wrench, chop saw or Sawzall
*Price: $2,362.91
*Installation time: 60 min.
*Notes
The stock exhaust sounds good only when completely floored, thanks to the vacuum-operated flapper. The Supersprint exhaust system gives the 335i more presence, offering a range of tones from a mild idle to aggressive full throttle. If cutting the stock exhaust system is not an option, Supersprint offers two alternatives (that are not quite legal, because they replace or remove two of the four factory catalytic converters): a set of front connecting pipes with two 100-cell HJS cats ($3,211.87) or a set of front connecting pipes with no cats ($551.83). With either option, the system will bolt right to the factory downpipes. If future plans are to install a set of downpipes, the front connecting pipes with cats feature O2 sensor bungs, allowing relocation of the sensors to avoid a 'check engine' light.
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