BMW X1

BMW is adding another ‘X’ in its family SUVs box! Following in the tyre tracks of the X5, X3 and X6 comes the X1 – the baby of the range and the fourth X model in the firm’s portfolio.

These first official pictures reveal the newcomer is virtually identical to the concept, with conservative styling that looks strikingly similar to the X3. In fact, it’s only 10cm shorter.

For the first time on an X model, BMW is offering a choice of rear or four-wheel-drive variants, badged sDrive and xDrive respectively. The X1 also marks the SUV debut for the firm’s Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration technology – albeit only on manual cars. Other options include sat-nav, the iDrive cabin control system and a host of stowage compartments throughout the interior. There’s also a design package, bringing sports seats and upgraded trim.

The X1 is a strict five-seater, and prices start at £22,600 for the sDrive 18d. This is the most economical model, with its 143bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel promising 54.3mpg. xDrive versions with the same powerplant start at £23,940.

Topping the range will be the 23d. This 4WD-only car has a 204bhp 2.0-litre twin-turbo engine, and costs £29,055.

All cars come in SE trim, and there will be no petrol option in the UK at the launch in late October. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard on all models except the xDrive23d. It gets a six-speed Sport automatic transmission with paddleshift changes.

BMW Z4

Metal roof for BMW’s new Z4

Our spies have lifted the lid on the next-generation BMW Z4 – and the big news is that it’s getting a folding metal roof for the first time!Look closely at these prototypes, and you’ll see that instead of a fabric affair, the new Z4 is following in the footsteps of its 3-Series Convertible big brother, plus its Mercedes SLK rival, with a retractable steel top.As our artist’s impression shows, the car will also get a more muscular look. And the convertible has another trick up its sleeve. BMW isn’t content with raining on the SLK’s parade, as it will seek to outgun the Porsche Boxster with a new range of powerful engines for the car. These are likely to include the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder unit.

There’s even the possibility that the Z4 will be available with diesel power for the first time, too. And a flagship M model could get the new 4.0-litre V8 from the M3 – although a broad line-up of four-cylinder and normally aspirated six-cylinder petrol powerplants will continue to be offered.
All cars will benefit from BMW’s Efficient Dynamics programme, which helps to cut CO2 emissions and boost fuel economy with features such as an engine stop/start facility. Under the skin, the platform is shared with the latest-generation 3-Series, so the rear-wheel-drive Z4 will continue to provide driver-pleasing handling. Although these prototypes appear to be much bigger than the current model, this is down to the bulky disguise. Peel back all that plastic camouflage, and the newcomer measures only around an inch or so longer and wider than the existing Z4. Our sources have also discovered that production is likely to shift from South Carolina in the US to BMW’s plant at Regensburg, Germany. Sales will start in the UK late in 2009.Source

BMW 7-Series

Sensational pictures of the new BMW 7-Series spied by Auto Express

We’ve seen the disguised test mules before, but now our spies have caught BMW with its guard down and snapped the production ready 7-Series without its black plastic cloak.These are the very first pictures of the new German luxury model which isn’t set to go on sale until the end of the year. As you can see, the controversial styling of BMW’s largest model remains, but a new high waistline gives the luxury four-door a more modern look.The newcomer is bigger than the outgoing car, and borrows styling cues from the CS Concept, which debuted at China’s Shanghai Motor Show last year.We’ll get our first chance to see the newcomer in the metal at the Paris Motor Show in September.Source

Lexus IS F

No luxury car range is complete with-out a super-saloon these days – so Lexus has come up with this. The IS F is the Japanese manufacturer’s answer to the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG. It lacks the heritage of its Euro­pean rivals, but can it match the old guard on UK roads?
Judged on looks alone, this version of the IS is a rather sober piece of kit. Lowered suspension and 19-inch alloys give a ground-hugging stance, yet the new front bumper, side sills and large bonnet bulge are surprisingly discreet.Our model’s black paintwork also reduced the impact of the standard anthracite wheels, and on our drive no other road users paid the sporty Lexus any attention. The only details which spoil its Q-car credentials are the two pairs of stacked oval tailpipes that protrude from the back bumper.It’s a similar story inside, because the cabin is pretty much unchanged from the standard IS 250. You do get loads of kit, including sat-nav, sports seats and a 14-speaker stereo, but the new silver trim on the centre console is somewhat underwhelming.

A quick look under the IS F’s bonnet should be enough to restore faith in the brand, because crammed into the engine bay is an incredible 5.0-litre V8. It develops a mouth-watering 417bhp and powers the sal­oon from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds.However, the car’s pure pace tells only half the story, because the high-revving unit is smooth, with a linear power delivery and pin-sharp respon­ses. It’s muted in normal driving, but once you pass 3,600rpm, a valve in the exhaust manifold opens and the volume instantly rises, creating a fantastic V8 soundtrack.Enthusiasts won’t be as happy with the standard eight-speed paddleshift-operated automatic gearbox, though – this is the only transmission option avail­able. Changing ratios takes a fraction of a second, and in full manual mode the torque converter is locked in all but first gear, which provides the feel and speed of a clutchless manual – it even blips the throttle on downchanges. However, the auto transmission can’t match a conventional box for driver involvement.With 505Nm of torque, the IS F is no slouch in a straight line – it has a top speed of 168mph. Yet any self-respecting performance saloon also needs to handle brilliantly. The Lexus’s stiffened suspension is fine at lower speeds, but once you increase the pace, it doesn’t provide the fluency of an M3 or Audi RS4. There is plenty of grip and feedback through the revised steering rack, although the newcomer simply doesn’t gel like its rivals and rides very harshly.While it’s still fun to drive, most of that enjoyment comes from its mighty V8. And in this class, the IS F’s limited handling involvement won’t appeal to everyone – especially when you’re paying £51,000 for the privilege.

• Rating:

RIVAL: BMW M3 saloon
The latest M3 also uses V8 power, but the German four-door is cheaper than the Lexus, at £49,415. It’s also a much more capable all-rounder, and is available in coupé and convertible bodystyles, too.Source

BMW M3 : First Drive

Four-door super-saloon is back

There aren't many family four-doors that can offer the thrills and performance of the latest BMW M3 saloon. It boasts the same 414bhp 4.0-litre V8 engine as the coupé version and the straight-line speed to worry a Porsche 911. With a practical four-door body, it adds even more desirability to one of the most famous performance badges around. As well as the storming V8, the M3 has a huge bonnet power bulge, side skirts, flared wheel-arches, 18-inch alloys and a chromed quad exhaust. Thankfully, the saloon does without the coupé’s tacky carbon fibre roof, and looks better for it. Bar leather sports seats, a chunky steering wheel and M badges, there’s little difference inside from a standard 3-Series. But with a great driving position, plus the practicality of four doors, decent rear space and a 450-litre boot (up 20 litres on the coupé), there’s much to like.

That goes for the driving experience, too. The big V8 dominates, emitting a throbbing rumble at idle and a roar at high revs. Performance is incredible. The 0-60mph dash takes less than five seconds, there’s mighty urge in all six gears and a savage kick towards the 8,400rpm red line. A Power button sharpens response even more. It’s disappointing, then, that the gearbox has a notchy action. Buyers might want to wait for the seven-speed twin-clutch paddleshift unit due in summer. Our test car had optional electronic dampers, and even with them at their stiffest Sport setting, the saloon rides comfortably. It corners just like the coupé, with little body roll, plenty of agility and huge grip. Purists will moan that its steering should offer more feel, but the result is a fabulously capable grand tourer that can also cover twisty roads at an enormous rate.

At nearly £50,000, the M3 saloon is pricey and has huge running costs, but there’s no denying its epic appeal.Source

• Rating:

Baby Land Rover

Here's proof that Land Rover is set to turn on the style. As the British brand gets ready to push upmarket, Auto Express can exclusively reveal the look of an exciting new model. Our spies have produced these exclusive images from top secret information.Based on the LRX concept cars that wowed the crowds at this year’s Detroit and Geneva motor shows, the newcomer is a sporty five-door SUV. It will slot into the range above the Freelander and go head-to-head with prestige brand rivals, including the upcoming BMW X1 and Audi Q5.The model will showcase technology aimed at increasing efficiency and boosting the marque’s green credentials. A stop-start system and a hybrid drivetrain are likely to appear as top brass attempt to reduce the overall CO2 emissions of the range.But the exterior will get the most attention. The LRX’s aggressive front end has clearly been a big influence, although the new car also benefits from a versatile five-door body and an increase in height to give extra space for both occupants and luggage.It is lower than the Freelander it’s based on, however, while shallower side windows and black pillars give the impression of a ‘floating’ roof. At the rear is a handy split tailgate.Stepping inside, you’ll find a heavily toned-down version of the show car’s cabin. The dashboard and other fixtures are likely to be carried over from the Freelander. Luxurious materials such as leather, wood, carbon fibre and aluminium are expected to be used, while the quality of the plastics will be raised to match.

Buyers can expect a wide range of engine options. Stop-start technology fitted to the 2.2-litre diesel and 3.2-litre straight-six petrol units will lower fuel consumption and CO2 out-put – helping Land Rover meet EU regulations to cut its overall average output to 130g/km by 2012. There is also the possibility of a hi-tech hybrid system. Using super-capacitors rather than batteries, it will store energy from regenerative braking and a traditional alternator. When the driver wants extra acceleration, the electricity is channelled to motors hidden in the front wheels.All variants get a chassis biased towards composed on-road ride and handling. But, being a Land Rover, it will also perform well off the tarmac. The firm’s smart Terrain Response all-wheel-drive transmission will provide settings for grass, gravel and snow.A name for the newcomer has yet to be decided, although Freelander Sport has been suggested. Expect a showroom version as early as 2010.Source

In-car Internet for BMW 5-Series

Motorists will soon be able to go online when they’re on the road – without even using a laptop!That’s because BMW is about to introduce new software that lets drivers surf the Internet using the firm’s in-car display instead. The kit was unveiled at this week’s Geneva Motor Show, and is based on the BMW Online system launched last year. This allowed owners to use the Google search engine in their car. However, the new device will provide unrestricted access to the Net via the vehicle’s clever iDrive control system, which will act like a conventional computer mouse. Drivers who specify this option can use it to select a URL from a list of stored favourites to access the web page they want. The kit will only work when the car is stationary, unless it is built into the headrests in the back for passengers to use on the move. It will be offered as an optional extra later this year. The German marque has also unveiled new limited-run trims for the 5-Series. Its Exclusive Edition boasts platinum bronze metallic paint, chrome trim, 17-inch alloy wheels and a wood-trimmed interior. The Lifestyle Edition features satin-finished chrome and a lighter interior, plus a mixture of leather and reflex cloth and neptune blue paint. Finally, there’s the Sport Edition, which will come with sport suspension and a bodykit.Source

BMW goes green with X appeal

X Marks the spot for hybrid SUVs! BMW has already confirmed plans for a clever petrol-electric version of its new X6, which our spy snappers have just caught testing (above) with a huge bump in the bonnet. And now the firm has taken the wraps off this ultra-advanced X5.

Set to be unveiled at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, the car looks like a standard version of the 4x4, but the Efficient Dynamics logo on the side signifies that it’s anything but. Underneath the standard body, there’s a hybrid powertrain, which enables the concept to match the ability of a conventional X5, despite only having a 2.0-litre diesel engine.

The twin-turbo unit is supplemented by a 20bhp electric motor mounted to the car’s eight-speed automatic transmission. The result is a 0-62mph sprint time of 8.9 seconds, economy of 43.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 172g/km.

With aerodynamic 19-inch alloys to reduce drag, these innovative technologies show what is in store for buyers after an eco-friendly SUV.Source

Honda Accord i-DTEC

Meet the British-built family car that Honda says will finally take the fight to the BMW 3-Series for honours in its class.At a top-secret photoshoot, Auto Express became the first magazine in the UK to climb behind the wheel of the new Accord to deliver an all-important verdict.On sale in June, the Accord will offer a choice of saloon and estate versions. The range will debut a new engine line-up, including a powerful 148bhp diesel, and the car is tipped to be the first in its class to get advan­ced safety features such as lane keep and collision avoidance technology.Inspired by the concept seen at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the road-ready version takes on a similar, sharp look, with a lower and wider stance than the existing car.As a result, there’s greater space inside, as well as a smart dashboard and more comfortable seats. Backlit instruments help create a quality feel, and the advanced sat-nav system is clearly presented and easy to use via steering wheel-mounted controls. In the rear, our saloon provided impressive legroom. Head space is also reasonable and access to the back is easy. The cabin ergonomics are good, with the driving position offering lots of adjustment. A generous boot, tog­ether with split-fold rear seats, adds practicality and versatility.Under the bonnet, the main focus is the new, second-generation Honda i-DTEC diesel – it makes its production debut in the Accord. We sampled the 2.2-litre version, which delivers 148bhp and 350Nm of torque, at a special event in Tokyo, and our first impressions were favourable.This unit is more powerful than the i-CTDi it replaces, and it’s hooked up to a new six-speed automatic gearbox. The other engine options are both petrols: a 154bhp 2.0-litre and a 2.4-litre i-VTEC with 197bhp, which features in the flagship. At present, there is no plan for a high-performance ver­sion – although Honda has promised greater emphasis on sportiness with the latest-generation model, together with a more driver-oriented chassis. New springs and dampers, as well as revised anti-roll bar settings, should mean that this Accord is the best yet in terms of driving enjoyment. The chassis is stiffer than before, too, thanks to new lightweight steels incorporated into the structure. And this hasn’t only provided a benefit in terms of handling; the materials will also enhance the car’s safety rating. According to a Honda insider, it should perform at least as well in crash tests as the very best in the class.The really good news for potential buyers, though, is that all the improve­ments and additional features haven’t driven up the cost. Prices are likely to be similar to those for the current car – and that means entry-level versions of the Accord should be available from around £18,000. Perhaps BMW will finally sit up and take note!Source

BMW 6-Series

Excellent engine and package prove that diesel GTs can work.

Driving
The 635d has a straight-six twin-turbo 3.0-litre turbodiesel that’s hard to fault. It offers even more torque than the V10 M6, and there’s no arguing with 0-60mph in a mighty 5.7 seconds. On the road, it feels extremely fast, especially in kickdown. However, it’s the effortless nature with which it gains speed that really impresses, while the engine remains unruffled even when pushed hard. Through corners, the BMW continues to impress. There’s lots of grip, the steering has good feedback and it remains composed. However, this involvement does lead to a firm ride and a surprising amount of road noise. It’s not comfortable enough to be a true GT.

Marketplace
The diesel 6-Series is a take on the two-door, 2+2 luxury coupe that BMW expects to account for three-quarters of UK sales. It’s a significant car alright. It was launched in 2007, along with a facelift for the entire 6-Series range. Now the controversy over the car’s styling has worn off, it’s easy to appreciate what an aggressive, distinctive-looking machine it is. This visual impact is likely to appeal to younger buyers. The 635d is available in both coupe and convertible guise, with a choice of two trims – standard and Sport, the latter offering more focused suspension, larger wheels and delectable sports seats. There currently isn’t a premium two-door diesel rival, but Mercedes offers the four-door coupe CLS in diesel guise, and there are also oil-burning versions of the cheaper Audi A5. No Jaguar XK diesel yet, though.

Owning
Like all BMW models, build quality is immaculate, but there are grips. There’s a lack of stowage, and the iDrive control system is fiddly – though eight programmable buttons do make things easier. The 635d is well suited to accommodating two people as well – the cabin is spacious up front and the electrically adjustable, figure-hugging seats of the Sport model offer excellent support and comfort. However, the two-door body means access to the rear is tricky, and the seats themselves are cramped. The BMW is also expensive, as are options – so it’s a good job retained values are rated at well over 50 per cent. It’s also economical, as you would expect from a diesel. Even during testing, it averaged over 30mpg, with 37mpg potential on a cruise. Source

• Rating:
• On the road price: £53,910 - £61,800
• For : Diesel is best engine in 6-series line-up, agility, looks
• Against : Expensive, firm ride

BMW 3-Series Touring

Lifestyle estate pioneer is still a front-runner.

Driving
On a favourite road, the BMW is extremely satisfying and enjoyable to drive. It changes direction immaculately well and exhibits excellent body control. The penalty for this is a fidgety rode. It’s not hard, but fails to be relaxing and is a little loud at speed, too. Nor is it as great around town. The clutch can be awkward, the steering is heavy and rear visibility is poor. However, BMW boasts some superb engines. The straight-sixes are beautifully smooth (if deficient in torque) and the four-cylinder units are comparable, too: indeed, the 2.0-litre diesel is a class act, and not for nothing is it the best-selling engine in the 3. The twin-turbo 335i, moreover, makes this one blisteringly fast estate.

Marketplace
The 3-Series can claim to have launched the whole lifestyle estate sector back in 1989. Today’s fourth-generation Touring model may not be the most dynamic or attractive car in its class, but the M Sport trim of our test model does wonders for its visual appeal. Other trims include company car driver-orientated ES, and the more luxurious SE, while engine choices closely mirror the saloon: there’s a very comprehensive range of four-cylinder and straight-six units, both in diesel and petrol guise. The lifestyle estate sector is dominated by the BMW and two key rivals, the Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes C-Class estate. Other alternatives include the Saab 9-3 Sportwagon and the Jaguar X-Type estate.

Owning
The BMW estate doesn’t have a massive boot, and the load sill is high. However, it’s well thought out. Open the tailgate and, if the load cover is pulled across, it slides up the D-pillars automatically. There’s a large well under the boot floor too, and plenty of hooks, straps and nets. Rear occupants fare well for space as well – explaining the size of the boot. However, up front, the slabby centre console, lack of stowage and small steering wheel all serve to make the driver feel restricted – particularly those with larger frames, who will struggle to get comfortable in the narrow, if supportive, seats. It’s not an elegant cockpit, but is well constructed and easy to get on with. Fuel economy is extremely impressive too, due to BMW’s EfficientDynamics scheme, while Service Inclusive gives extensive maintenance cover for a one-off initial payment. Retained values aren’t quite as good as a Mercedes, but are still very impressive by most standards.Source

• Rating: -
• On the road price: £22,215 - £37,530
• For : Great to drive, beautiful engines, stylish image, practical boot
• Against : Stiff ride, awkward around town, small load area

Jaguar XF

Driving
It's hard to find fault with the XF’s driving experience. The ride is tauter than we expected, but this could be due to launch model’s large alloy wheels. The damping, however, is tuned to perfection. It isn’t soft and silent like a Mercedes, but still glides effortlessly over rough surfaces. Steering is also wonderfully precise, allowing the grippy front end to slice into corners with great grip and poise. A BMW 5-Series, by comparison, simply can’t match the finesse and sensitivity of the Jaguar’s handling. The smooth 2.7-litre V6 diesel continues to impress as well; it’s the most impressive all-rounder in the line-up, which also features a 3.0-litre V6 petrol and two V8s. As before, the range-topping supercharged unit provides superb performance. All models feature a six-speed automatic gearbox – with steering wheel paddles that shift faster than the XK sports car!

Marketplace
The XF is the beginning of a new era for Jaguar, despite being based on a modified version of the old S-Type’s platform. The styling fails to betray these underpinnings, though – and despite reservations about the grille, we reckon it's bold, modern and appealing. Strong shoulder lines, a high rear and a shallow rear screen angle give it the stance of a coupe – although the slanted windscreen does restrict visibility and headroom. The Jag’s key rivals are the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, Mercedes E-Class and, for those after similarly bold styling, the Cadillac CTS. There are three trims – Luxury, Premium Luxury and SV8 – and all are very well-equipped, with standard sat nav, leather, Bluetooth and a host of other goodies.

Owning
Put simply, the cabin is the most striking and beautifully executed we’ve seen in an executive saloon. It’s at its best at night, when a turquoise glow illuminates it. Yet a simple, logical layout proves Jaguar hasn't forgotten the basics. Neat features include touch-sensitive interior lights and glovebox release, but the highlight is the centre console and its JaguarDrive Selector. The gearlever dial pops up when you press the engine start button, and is very logical to use. World-first iPod integration with the touch-screen centre display is also handy.
However, despite the XF's lengthy body, packaging is weak. Rear headroom is only just tolerable, and legroom isn’t great. The 500-litre boot is more impressive, though – and extends to 540 litres if you do without the optional space saver spare wheel. Running costs seem competitive, too: the best aerodynamics of any Jag ever help return real-world economy close to official figures, while servicing costs are low and retained values currently beat both BMW and Mercedes!Source

• On the road price: £33,900 - £54,900
• For : Superbly designed inside and out, fantastic to drive, cost effective
• Against : Packaging could be better