2012 BMW 1-Series Convertible
Each successive generation of BMW's iconic 3-Series has grown in size and price, leaving the door open for a new entry-level model. BMW has introduced the 1-Series coupe and convertible to fill that opening. When compared to the 3-Series, the 1-Series is about 9 inches shorter, 2 inches narrower and a couple hundred pounds lighter. The good news is that the same two six cylinder engines power the smaller car. A 230-bhp inline-six resides in the 128i, whereas a 300-bhp turbocharged version powers the 135i. A smaller car with the same power could make the choice between the two tough for prospective BMW buyers. Although the starting price is low, options and packages can add thousands to the price.
2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe
Each successive generation of BMW's iconic 3-Series has grown in size and price, leaving the door open for a new entry-level model. BMW has introduced the 1-Series coupe and convertible to fill that opening. When compared to the 3-Series, the 1-Series is about 9 inches shorter, 2 inches narrower and a couple hundred pounds lighter. The good news is that the same two six cylinder engines power the smaller car. A 230-bhp inline-six resides in the 128i, whereas a 300-bhp turbocharged version powers the 135i. A smaller car with the same power could make the choice between the two tough for prospective BMW buyers. Pricing starts at around $31,000 for the 128i, which is about $7000 less than the 328i, but options add quickly to the price. The 1-Series coupe is one of the best price / performance values on the market.
2012 BMW 3-Series Convertible
The BMW 3-Series convertible is a compelling choice for drivers looking for open-air motoring with the security of a retractable hardtop. Competition includes the convertible models of the Audi A5, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Infiniti G, and Lexus IS. Available as a normally aspirated 3.0L inline-6 (328i), a single-turbo variant (335i), a twin-turbo variant (335is), or 4.0L V-8 (M3), the convertible retains most of the performance and handling of the coupe. Torsional and bending rigidity is surprisingly good for a convertible, but this convertible weighs in at nearly 2 tons. A comprehensive set of active safety enhancements such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying, and Cornering Brake Control ensure the best possible accidence avoidance capabilities. The M3 model is the ultimate 3-Series experience. It shares the same 414-bhp/295 lb.-ft. 4.0L V-8 as the M3 Coupe, mated to 6-speed manual or a new 7-speed double-clutch gearbox. BMW adds MDrive to the M3, which allows the driver to set the vehicle power, suspension, steering, and stability control to his preferences. M3 models also benefit from a unique suspension tuning, and upgraded tires/wheels.
2012 BMW 3-Series Coupe
The 3-Series has long been the standard-bearer in one of the industry's most competitive segments. BMW offers an impressive combination of styling, performance, and luxury features for a German luxury coupe priced from the low thirties. Offered in RWD and AWD versions, the 3-Series model range includes multiple models with alphanumeric designations corresponding to their driveline. Most 3-Series models are powered by a inline six-cylinder engine which produces 230-bhp when normally-aspirated or 300-bhp when turbocharged. The ultimate 3-Series is the M3 which is powered by a V8 producing over 400 horsepower. Like most BMW models, the 3-Series includes a healthy list of driver aids and available technology, but some common items like heated leather seats require hitting the option list. Despite the numerous improvements to the 3-Series, there are compelling alternatives available from Infiniti and Audi.
2012 BMW 3-Series sedan
The sixth generation 3-Series wears all-new styling on a platform that is wider and longer than before. At launch, the US models consist of the four-cylinder 328i and six-cylinder 335i. Both models are rear-wheel-drive with a standard 6-speed manual transmission and optional 8-speed automatic. BMW will add all-wheel-drive 328i xDrive and 335i xDrive models later in the model year. A hybrid model is also planned in 2012. Shoppers of the 3-Series will need to take note of the vast number of configuration options which can quickly add thousands of dollars to the sticker price. Base models are equipped without common luxury features like power seats or leather upholstery. These items must be added as individual options or as part of larger option packages. In addition, the new 3-Series offers a choice of three lines: Modern, Luxury, and Sport. Each of these lines has subtly different appearance options such as unique grilles or color combinations. Selecting these appearance packages will add significantly to the sticker price.
2012 BMW 3-Series Wagon
The 3-Series has long been the standard-bearer in one of the industry's most competitive segments. This smaller BMW wagon offers an impressive combination of styling, performance, and luxury features for a German vehicle. The current generation 3-series has grown in size yet retains the agility and balance for which it is known. Offered with RWD and AWD, the 328i/328xi wagon is available only with a 230-bhp inline-six. Buyers can choose a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Starting at around $38,000, the 3-Series wagon offers all the style and amenities of the sedan, with an extra dose of utility in the back.
2012 BMW 5-Series
The mid-sized 5-Series is a technological tour-de-force. A host of electronics, electronic driving aids, exotic materials and construction techniques set the 5-Series apart from the mainstream. Three engines are offered including a fuel-efficient four cylinder turbo (528i), an inline six-cylinder (535i), and a powerful turbocharged V8 (550i). The 5-Series also offers the xDrive all-wheel-drive system. All models are available with a choice of 6-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. The interior is relatively uncluttered given that a large number of functions are located within the iDrive system that dominates the center console. Unlike many of its competitors, the 5-Series emphasizes the "sport" in sport sedan.
2012 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo
The BMW lineup has gained another utility vehicle, the 5-Series Gran Turismo. This new model combines the ample proportions of the 7-Series sedan with a fastback/hatchback rear roof profile. Inside, there is two rows of seating for five. The rear hatch features a unique dual hinged mechanism that opens below the rear glass like a traditional trunk and at the top of the glass like a hatchback. Several powertrains are offered including a turbocharged V8 with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2012 BMW 6-Series Convertible
The 6-Series is BMW's most exclusive 2-door model series. With a base price of over $90,000, this four passenger convertible model is almost without equal. BMW's German competitors offer convertible roadsters in this price range, but the 6-Series manages to keep a tight but usable rear seat. There are several four-passenger convertibles for less money including BMW's own 3-Series convertible. The convertible is a power-retractable soft top that opens in 19 seconds and closes in 24 seconds. The 650i equips a 400-bhp 4.4l V8 under the hood which is paired with an either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. The 640i model pairs BMW's 3.0L inline six with an eight-speed automatic to achieve an impressive EPA rating of 21 / 31 (city / highway). BMW claims that the 650i convertible can sprint to 60MPH in 4.9s. Like other modern BMW models, the 6-Series is chock full of exotic materials and cutting-edge driving aids. Owners can brag about the standard 10.2-inch center screen or the 20-way adjustable seats (650i).
2012 BMW 6-Series Coupe
The 6-Series is BMW's most exclusive 2-door model series. With a base price of over $73,000, this four-passenger coupe sits in a grey area between smaller coupe models like BMW's own 3-Series and more expensive luxury coupes like the Bentley Continental GT. Despite its generous exterior proportions, the 6-Series has a tight rear seat which actually has less legroom than the smaller 3-Series coupe. The 650i equips a 400-bhp 4.4l V8 under the hood which is paired with an either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. The 640i model pairs BMW's 3.0L inline six with an eight-speed automatic to achieve an impressive EPA rating of 21 / 31 (city / highway). BMW claims that the 650i can sprint to 60MPH in 4.9s. Like other modern BMW models, the 6-Series is chock full of exotic materials and cutting-edge driving aids. Owners can brag about the standard 10.2-inch center screen or the 20-way adjustable seats (650i).
2013 BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
No Overview
2012 BMW 7-Series
The 7-series continues its tradition as BMW's flagship luxury sedan. The bold exterior styling of the last two generations has proven popular with customers. The wide range of powertrains in the 7-Series include the 740i/740Li powered by a 3.0l inline six-cylinder, the 750i/750Li powered by a 400-bhp V8, and the 760Li with its 6.0l V12. The range also includes a gas/electric hybrid model. Models with an L in the name designate long wheelbase models which add extra-back seat room. This large, heavy car is a technological tour-de-force that includes the complex iDrive system, which centralizes navigation, HVAC and audio system controls. Like most BMW models, the 7-Series is offered with a large number of packages and customization options which allow buyers to tailor the 7-Series to their tastes. In the US, BMW also imports a tuned version of the 7-Series, manufactured by Alpina. Alpina models are built on the same assembly line as the normal production 7-Series models but include a more powerful 500-bhp 4.4l V8.
2013 BMW X3
The BMW X3 is a smaller five passenger SUV/Crossover that competes with models like the Audi Q5 and Cadillac SRX. The second-generation X3 which arrived in the 2011 model year is larger and more luxurious than the original X3. Two model designations indicate the equipped powertrain. The X3 xDrive 28i equips a 240-bhp turbocharged four-cylinder engine and all-wheel-drive. The X3 xDrive 35i equips a 300-bhp turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and all-wheel-drive. The X3 has a base price around $39,000 which does not include leather seating. Like other BMW models, the X3 requires a number of option packages to add common equipment and the price can quickly escalate. The X3 is produced in South Carolina.
2012 BMW X5
Arguably the first SUV that put the emphasis on "Sport", the BMW X5 is now in its second generation. The X5 has grown large enough to add an optional third row seat. Engine choices include a inline-6 gas, inline-6 diesel or V-8. All models are equipped with xDrive AWD. Safety & handling enhancements include Active Roll Stabilization, Dynamic Traction Control, rearview camera, and Adaptive Drive. BMW's iDrive is standard on the X5. The X5 is produced in South Carolina.
2013 BMW X6
The BMW is a highly specialized alternative to the X5. BMW stylists replaced the wagon-like backend and third row seat with a sharply raked fastback profile. The result defies categorization. The X6 has the all-wheel-drive and tall stance of an SUV, but little of the utility. Inside there is seating for up to five and a shallow storage area in the hatch. The X6 comes with a variety of powertrains ranging from the six-cylinder XDrive35i to the X6 M which is powered by a 555-bhp V8. Like other BMW vehicles, the X6 has a long list of technological features. Prices range from about $60,000 to over $90,000.
2012 BMW Z4 Roadster
The Z4 is a small rear-wheel-drive convertible with seating for two. Now in its third generation, the Z4 wears more refined styling and offers a slick hardtop convertible to broaden its appeal. The Z4 sDrive28i features an inline four cylinder engines rated at 240-bhp mated to six-speed manual and eight speed automatic transmissions. The higher performance sDrive35i model features a turbocharged 3.0L six rated at 300-bhp and offers a 7-speed sequential manual in lieu of standard automatic transmission. The Z4 Roadster is manufactured in the U.S. in South Carolina.
Advertisement
