BMW

Senin, 13 Juli 2015

BMW Considers RWD Next-Gen 1-Series

BMW has had to do some very deep soul-searching when it comes to the 1 Series. On the one hand, its rivals are all front-wheel-drive, and the rear-wheel-drive 1 Series suffers by comparison when it comes to interior space, something which is important in a hatchback. But this is a BMW, not a Mini, and while all-wheel drive is a generally acceptable alternative to rear-wheel drive, the purists would not be happy with a car that sends power to just the front wheels. Of course, Porsche has shown that sometimes ignoring purists is the most profitable option.

There is some good news for those purists though, as BMW has a new board member, Klaus Frohlich. Frohlich seems very much of the opinion that the emotional element of BMW’s cars is very important, and that means rear-wheel drive "from the 7 Series down to the 1 Series." BMW has a new scalable rear-wheel-drive architecture, making its production debut in the new 2016 BMW 7 Series, which will make implementing rear-wheel drive in the 1 Series easier. Luggage space will still suffer, but Frohlich is confident that other BMW vehicles can fill that roll.

BMW X4 M40i is Set to Arrive in 2016

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BMW is falling in love with SUVs, as it's already added the X4 to its growing lineup, and the X2 is just around the corner. What's also right around the corner is the X4 M. According to a new report out of Europe, it appears as if BMW will actually release an X4 M40i just ahead of the full-blown M version.

The report continues by saying that the X4 M40i will come equipped with a 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine that puts out around 350 horsepower. This would give it 50 more horsepower than the current range-topping xDrive35i version of the 2015 BMW X4.

Mated to this more powerful engine will reportedly be a revised version of the existing eight-speed Steptronic transmission. Of course, this model will come standard with Bimmer's xDrive all-wheel drive. With this drivetrain, we'd likely be looking at a 0-to-60 time of just about five seconds.

In addition to the extra pep, BMW will also work on this sportier X4's chassis. Look for stiffer springs, larger anti-sway bars, a revised steering system, and better brakes. Also look for some styling bits, like an M Performance aero kit, special wheels, and an upgraded cabin.

According to sources close to BMW, this model will hit the market in the U.K. in the first quarter of 2016. With such a short time between now and its debut, don't be shocked to see a concept sometime soon. What's more, reports indicate spy shooters have already caught this model testing.