The 2011 BMW 328i

The rear-wheel drive BMW 328i is available in coupe, sedan, wagon and cabriolet bodies, while the xDrive all-wheel drive system is available in coupe, sedan and wagon only. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all variations, with a six-speed automatic transmission optional.

As BMW runs a war path with new model introductions — two gigantic, turtle-shaped crossovers a year, at this pace — they haven't forgotten where the profit margin lies. It's in the little 3 Series. Young maverick-type men and attractive suburban women can't, for the life of themselves, stay away from this car. So BMW's getting generous. It's a no-charge combo of 17-inch alloys, leather and iPod integration. In other words, BMW looked dumb selling a luxury car with 16-inchers, fake leather, and a $400 USB cable when Audi, Acura and even Mercedes do more for less.

At about the same time the 2011 BMW 328i Sport Wagon became available at U.S. dealers the all-new 5-series was also. If BMW’s X3 or X5 Sport Activity Vehicles meet your need, then you are still OK. If you wanted a car with space and versatility, then the 3-sport wagon is it.

The interior of the 3-wagon is stylish, comfortable and ergonomically friendly. For those bad weather conditions especially winter, in addition to the xDrive all-wheel–drive system, Dynamic Stability, Traction and Brake Control systems enhance the driving experience and overall safety. Looking at the X3, BMW’s smaller Sport Activity Vehicle or crossover, pricing starts at $38,850 whereas the Sport Wagon starts at $37,700. The X3 is a little quicker 0 to 60 mph at 7.1 sec. v 7.3 sec. for the Sport Wagon but there is a fuel economy tradeoff with the Sport Wagon at 17 city mpg and 26 highway mpg and the X3 at 17 city mpg but 24 highway mpg.

The Sport Wagon holds 25 cu. ft. behind the rear seat and the X3 holds 30 cuft. On the outside, the Sport Wagon is 1.3 inches shorter and a significant 10.2 inches lower. The empty-nester couple will be very comfortable in the Sport Wagon and the 4-doors and rear seat allow for easy accommodation of friends or family.

Most BMW dealers will provide a BMW loaner if you schedule it in advance…always a quick test drive opportunity

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BMW M version of the 1-Series has finally debuted

Long rumoured and then long anticipated, the BMW M version of the 1-Series has finally debuted. Originally expected to be much more powerful, the 1-Series M Coupe ends up using a mildly-upgraded version of the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6, with 335 hp at 5900 rpm and 450 Nm of torque from 1500 rpm to 4500 rpm, an engine already found in the 2010 BMW Z4 sDrive35is. A 6-speed manual is standard.

That figure marks the "BMW 1 Series M" out as the most “powerful” car in the compact sector. A 3.0-litre powertrain smacks out 340 ponies, helping to propel the BMW 1 Series M Coupe from 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds, while on its way to a top speed of 155mph. The aforementioned stealthy exterior comes courtesy of widened wheel arches, 19-inch Y-spoke M alloy wheels, and dual chrome tailpipes – made to make your mouth water. Crack open the 1 Series’ doors and you'll find standard sports seats in Boston leather with Kyalami orange stitching. Everything else on display comes exclusively with the "BMW 1 Series M Coupe", this includes the use of Alcantara with Kyalami orange contrast stitching on the door trim, door inserts, handbrake, gear lever gaiter and instrument binnacle cover.

Changes to the M1 are extensive over the standard BMW 1 Series Coupe, a fact made most obvious by its jutting wheel arches, widened axles and huge 19-inch alloy wheels.

There are also quad exhaust tailpipes, aggressive front and rear bumpers with scooped air intakes, racing-style door mirrors and just three paint colours: Alpine White, Black Sapphire and Valencia Orange.

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BMW 5 Series sedan launched

CHENNAI- German luxury car maker BMW India has launched the new BMW 5-series priced at Rs 36.9 lakh (ex-showroom all India). The new BMW 5 Series sedan, since its launch in April 2010, has successfully emerged as a leader in the luxury sedan segment in India.", BMW India President Andreas Schaaf said.

BMW India on Wednesday launched its new BMW 5 Series sedan, BMW 520d, here.

Andreas Schaaf, President, BMW India, said “The 5 Series is the core model in our product portfolio.

Individual upholstery designs in Dakota leather will be available in black, vento, beige, cinnamon brown/black and oyster/oyster dark.

THE GERMAN car maker BMW, famous for producing luxury car, has launched new 5 Series sedan, BMW 520d for its Indian customers. The "BMW 520d" is placed as an entry level sedan in BMW's best selling 5 Series models with a price tag of 36.9 Lakhs ex-showroom in Delhi.

BMW India Chief, Dr Andreas Schaaf, launched the car on December 8 and said, "The new BMW 5 Series sedan, since its launch in April 2010, has successfully emerged as a leader in the luxury sedan segment in India. The new BMW 520d sets a new benchmark for four cylinder diesel sedans by combining outstanding performance with incomparable fuel efficiency."

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