Filed under: Crossover, BMW, Luxury

When BMW debuted the X6 M last year, we were initially a bit skeptical about how the porky crossover (still having a hard time calling it a Sports Activity Coupe) would be received by enthusiasts. However, after a good deal of seat time, we learned that while the X6 M is ridiculously unnecessary, it’s a total blast to drive, especially on the track. Now, enthusiasts looking to get some of the X6 M’s mystique without shelling out $89,000 can have their own unique version of the X6, thanks to new accessories from BMW Performance.

The list of optional modifications starts with two different power kits, depending on which engine the stock X6 is equipped with. xDrive35i models gain an additional 20 horsepower and 37 pound-feet, bringing the total output to 326 hp and 332 lb-ft. The xDrive50i gets a bit more oomph, with power increased to 448 hp (up by 41) and 479 lb-ft (up by 37). Keep in mind, these power figures are based on of the 2011 X6, which has slightly different powertrains from the current model. What does it all mean? Six-cylinder X6s will be able to do 0-60 runs in just 6.5 seconds, and V8 models will do it in just 5.2.

From there, BMW Performance offers an aerodynamics kit, which includes a revised front bumper, side sills and an insert for the rear bumper. Other aero options include a rear spoiler, matte black rear fins, and a black front grid. Additionally, a new set of 21-inch light-alloy wheels are available wrapped in much sticker rubber. Interior tweaks include a new flat-bottom steering wheel with alcantara coating, as well as aluminum pedals. Given that Bimmer accessories are anything but cheap, plan on writing a substantial check if you’re looking to go all-out with the extra toys.

X6 owners can pick up their BMW Performance accessories through the automaker’s dealer network, and all modifications are fully backed by BMW’s warranty standards. For the full details, click through the jump to read the official press release.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW Performance releases accessory line for 2011 X6

BMW Performance releases accessory line for 2011 X6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Performance, Technology, Videos, BMW, Motorcycle

It takes a ton of engineering prowess to create any functional internal combustion engine, but especially one that’s capable of spinning itself up to 14,200 RPM… without blowing itself to bits in the process, of course. Such high rotational speeds are rarely seen on the street – except in high-performance motorcycle engines such as the BMW S 1000 RR’s new 1000cc four cylinder mill.

BMW’s most powerful production motorcycle engine cranks out 193 horsepower at 13,000 RPM and 82.5 pound-feet of torque at 9,750 RPM. Reliably. Perhaps the most impressive piece of engineering in such a high-strung engine is the valvetrain, which in this case is comprised of two intake and exhaust valves per cylinder made of lightweight and strong titanium. Each valve is operated by tiny single cam followers with camshafts driven by a very short sprocket driven via an intermediate gear.

This technology was borrowed from BMW’s Formula 1 racing endeavor and is put spectacularly on display in the video that you’ll find after the break. Trust us, seeing the valves clicking away at 14,200 RPM is not to be missed, and be sure to keep an especially close eye on those springs as they spin on their perches while constantly being pounded into submission from overhead. Amazing.

[Source: BMW Motorrad USA via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: BMW S 1000 RR valvetrain at full bore shocks and awes

Video: BMW S 1000 RR valvetrain at full bore shocks and awes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Sedan, SUV, Etc., Safety, Technology, Crossover, Acura, Audi, BMW, Honda, Infiniti, Lexus, Luxury, Off-Road

“Don’t hold back.”

Three words I’ve never heard before at a press event and three words that are running through my mind as I tramp down on the throttle and wheelspin my way towards the gray horizon.

Don’t hold back.

Ahead of me lies a three-quarter-mile stretch of perfectly groomed snow sitting atop a thick layer of ice, with over 300 feet of desolation on either side.

Don’t hold back.

From a standing start, the well-worn BMW X6 grapples with a lack of traction and then finally grips through the slush to propel me past 20… 30… 40… 50 mph. Then I slam on the stoppers. The ABS system pulses through the brake pedal and the coupe-shaped ‘ute grinds to a squeaky, squawky halt. Let’s try that again.

Don’t hold back.

This time I get up to 60 mph, lay on the brakes and it’s the same result. Now I’m bored, so it’s time to experiment with a few emergency lane change maneuvers. I get up to 30 mph, stab at the brake, yank the wheel to the right, then back to the left and straighten up. Nothing. No drama. No hesitation. No tail wagging. I do it again, this time at 40 mph with the traction control off. Same result. Then 50 mph. Same result. Then 60 mph. And then I promptly stuff myself into an six-foot-tall snow bank.

Didn’t hold back.

Follow the jump to read about our experience at Acura’s cold weather testing facility in Minnesota.

Continue reading Cold Weather Testing in Minnesota: Where Acura beats on one of the best AWD systems in the business

Cold Weather Testing in Minnesota: Where Acura beats on one of the best AWD systems in the business originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Audi, BMW

BMW and Audi can always be counted on for a good marketing fight. The two German luxury automakers first went kopf an kopf in European print ads, then on U.S. airwaves and next on our billboards. But after a bit of back and forth, the “good natured” ribbing appeared to have died down – at least for a while. We didn’t receive an official notice in the mail stating that the ad battle between BMW and Audi was back on, but the post-jump commercial tells us everything we need to know.

Audi appears to be drawing first blood in round two of BMW v Audi, as the four-ringed automaker gives us a lesson on the dynamics of friendly competition. It appears Audi is very smitten with the fact that its vehicles won three straight Car and Driver comparisons against its German rival; smitten enough to spend bucks on a new 30-second spot to rekindle one of the more entertaining rivalries in the auto industry. We can hardly wait for BMW’s response. Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Audi renews ad wars, takes shot at BMW in new commercial

Video: Audi renews ad wars, takes shot at BMW in new commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Europe, BMW

The BMW M3 is already one of Germany’s best Autobahn burners, but U.S.-based tuning company Active Autowerke has taken BMW’s pride-and-joy M car to the next level.

Active Autowerke has made a few minor tweaks to the engine by way of a performance software upgrade. We’re told that the M3 is now producing around 470 horsepower versus the stock car’s 414 (which still isn’t anything to raise your nose at). Autowerke’s Signature Series Performance Package also includes things like a modified rear exhaust, short shift kit, and performance brake pads. Additionally, the folks at KW have fitted an upgraded coilover system for better suspension dynamics, meaning the coupe should be a bit more lively than the stock car we’re used to.

Visually, Autowerke has partnered with Vorsteiner to add a new carbon fiber front bumper, upgraded rear diffuser, and a carbon fiber boot lid, giving the custom M3 a much more aggressive road presence. The wheels, made by ADV.1 and distributed by Avus Performance, can be built to many different size specifications, as well as being offered in either matte bronze and matte gunmetal. We’ll take those hot 14-spokes, please.

*UPDATE: While the original information about this hotted-up M3 was sent to us by a spokesperson for Avus Performance, we have now learned that the car was, in fact, tuned by U.S.-based Active Autowerke using additional parts from the Vorsteiner and KW companies. Avus Performance is simply the distributor of the ADV.1 wheels pictured on the M3.

[Source: Active Autowerke, GT Spirit]

Active Autowerke BMW M3 headed for an Autobahn near you *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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