BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series Interior

It's not an overstatement to mention that the BMW five Series sets the standard for premium sport sedans and up until the present generation, wagons, too. Introduced within the United States for 1972, the midsize 5 Series has long offered a close to-excellent blend of performance, luxury and interior area.

Most BMW five Series cars you'll return across new or used are rear-wheel drive; but, all-wheel drive has been optional in recent years. Most 5s additionally have an inline six-cylinder engine, though BMW has offered V8 versions since 1994 and the current generation now uses a turbocharged four-cylinder as its base engine. When folks ask us to recommend luxury cars, BMW's 5 Series is invariably high on the list. Wealthier shoppers might gravitate toward the newer models loaded with technology, however older 5 Series cars will be simply as satisfying to drive and own.

Current 5 Series

Unlike past versions, the BMW 5 Series is on the market solely as a sedan, since the wagon has been replaced in North America by the 5 Series GT (mentioned in a very separate review). The bottom 528i options a turbocharged two.zero-liter four-cylinder that produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Stepping up to the 535i gets you a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-half dozen that produces 300 hp and three hundred lb-ft of torque. Finally, the 550i encompasses a four.four-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 400 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque. Every model comes standard with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. An eight-speed automatic and every one-wheel drive are optional.

Commonplace features embrace a sunroof, power seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth and a 12-speaker sound system. Typical luxury upgrades (depending on the model) embrace adaptive xenon headlights, parking sensors, navigation, night-vision camera, active cruise control, an automatic parallel parking system, ventilated front seats and heavenly fourteen-method "multicontour" front seats.

In reviews, we tend to've found the 5 Series does not have the identical level of sport sedan zest that the automotive has historically provided. But the upside is that the automotive is more snug, spacious, economical and opulent. For a majority of patrons in the class, this can be the best 5 Series up to now. Although some may scoff at a four-cylinder luxury sedan, the 528i's engine is excellent, delivering strong acceleration and wonderful fuel economy. That same majority of patrons ought to be more than happy sticking with the bottom engine, although the added oomph provided by the 535i and 550i certainly will not disappoint. Downsides are few, and really only the lofty price and stiff competition forestall the five Series from being an straightforward choice.

Used BMW 5 Series Models

The present-generation BMW five Series debuted for 201one. Compared to the previous-generation 5, this automotive returns to a more conservative appearance, one that shows a stronger family resemblance to different BMW sedans. It is additionally bigger and heavier, whereas mechanically sharing much with the 7 Series. Interior controls and electronics were conjointly upgraded to the most recent BMW norm, and the planning itself came back to a a lot of driver-focused dash layout. In many ways in which, the newest five Series represents a visible come to the past while carrying on the technological advancements of the current and future.

For 201one, the 528i was rear-wheel-drive solely and powered by a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated six-cylinder that created 240 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque. Its fuel economy wasn't nearly as impressive because the turbocharged four-cylinder that replaced it. Used buyers of this initial model year should additionally note that each 5 Series engine suffered from significant throttle lag that could create the automotive tough and worsening to drive. Complaints from shoppers and automotive reviewers alike were common.

The previous, fifth-generation five Series was made from 2004-'10. On the surface, this 5 Series incorporated bold styling cues that departed from BMW's traditional styling language established over the preceding four generations. Inside, the 5 boasted one in all the most spacious and comfortable cabins in its category, notably when optioned with the fantastic multicontour front seats.

There were a range of various model designations used for this generation, as well as a wagon body style. For 2004 and '05, it absolutely was offered only in sedan form and solely with rear-wheel drive. There were two six-cylinder models, the 184-hp 525i and 225-hp 530i, together with a high-line V8 version, the 325-hp 545i. Throughout this generation, a six-speed manual transmission was standard and a six-speed automatic optional. For 2006, the complete engine and model lineup was refreshed. The six-cylinders both displaced three.zero liters, resulting in an exceedingly additional spirited 215-hp 525i and a 25five-hp 530i. The high-of-the-line sedan became the 550i and featured a 360-hp 4.eight-liter V8.

The five Series wagon additionally arrived for 2006. It absolutely was offered during a single 530xi model and every one-wheel drive came normal. Additionally, all-wheel drive became optional for the 530 sedan. For 2007, additional commonplace equipment was added like an auxiliary input jack and BMW Assist, whereas new choices include high-definition radio, BMW's Night Vision system and twenty-method-adjustable front seats.

For 2008, the six-cylinder engines were replaced. The bottom engine was currently found in the 528i, which featured a three.0-liter 230-hp inline-6. The midgrade choice became the 535i with its twin-turbo 3.zero-liter inline-six smart for 300 hp. Indeed, we'd argue this was the best alternative because it offered similar performance for less cash than the unchanged 550i. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system was now standard on the 528i and 535i sedans, while the wagon might only be had in 535i xDrive kind.

Another space a second hand shopper ought to note is that the system known as iDrive, that corralled audio, climate, navigation and communication functions using a central LCD screen and console-mounted control dial. This system was particularly cumbersome to use and may make seemingly simple tasks a confusing, multistep affair. For 2009, the five Series received an updated iDrive management knob and menu buttons, however the old cumbersome menu structure remained the same. For 2010, the complete iDrive system was updated with the menu structure of newer BMWs so long as you ordered the navigation system.

This BMW 5 Series was a well-balanced machine that would handle aggressive driving on winding back roads simply as easily because it dispatched weekday commutes on crumbling expressways. The 5's adeptness at both ride comfort and handling prowess borders on the amazing. The steering was equally sublime, with perfect weighting and a near-telepathic feel -- however, it might be rather stiff in parking lots. If you wish the styling and aren't irritated by its electronics interface, the five Series is a wonderful selection for a used luxury automotive.

The fourth-generation BMW 5 Series was created from 1997-2003. Several purists think about this the finest era for the BMW five Series, as exceptional on-road dynamics, premium furnishings and unparalleled refinement came along in one classically styled package. Resale worth has invariably been high for this generation, therefore expect to spend more than you would for competitors of similar age. Reliability has been sturdy furthermore.

Provided it's well maintained, any automotive from this generation is worth your thought. For 1997 and 'ninety eight, only sedans were offered: a 528i with a a hundred ninety-hp a pair of.8-liter inline-half-dozen and a 540i with a 282-hp four.4-liter V8. The wagon joined the lineup in 199nine and was offered with either engine, both of that gained variable valve timing that year. In 2001, the 528i sedan got a new 225-hp 3.0-liter six and have become the 530i; the 528 wagon was dropped. BMW conjointly added an entry-level 184-hp 525i sedan and wagon to the lineup.

Third-generation BMW five Series cars (1989-'95) are still common likewise. Although not as perfectly balanced as its successor, this automobile was highly regarded in its day. If you find one in smart condition, you may nearly definitely realize it enjoyable to have. The most effective years were 1994 and '95 when BMW offered V8 power in 2 5 Series with the 530i sedan and wagon (215 hp) and also the 540i sedan (282 hp).

 BMW 5 Series

 BMW 5 Series

 BMW 5 Series Engine

 BMW 5 Series Front View

 BMW 5 Series Rear View

 BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series

2012 3 Series Sports Wagon

2012 3 Series Sports Wagon

BMW, along with a rapidly diminishing handful of different European automakers, continues to prove year after year that there's a little niche within the United States for smaller, performance-oriented cargo haulers. Don't decision them station wagons, even though that is what they're -- BMW calls them Sport Wagons.

Based on the outgoing 3-Series sedan, BMW's wagon is offered in 328i or 328i xDrive guise, the latter indicating BMW's all-wheel-drive system.

Until the newest model was introduced, BMW hasn't typically offered a 3-Series wagon within the United States, despite the very fact that the automaker has long sold a cargo-hauling version of its best-seller in it home European market. Introduced to little success with the previous-generation E46 3-Series, the E90, as the current model is called in BMW's coding, is only the second three-Series wagon to be officially imported.

Naturally, cargo area is up substantially over the standard sedans, coupes and convertibles that make up the rest of the fifth-generation BMW three-Series lineup. With the rear seats folded, the 328i wagon can accommodate regarding sixty cubic feet of cargo, compared to the 12 cubic feet the sedan's trunk can hold.

The solely out there engine on each is the automaker's otherwise entry-level (on sedans, coupes and convertibles) 3.zero-liter inline six-cylinder engine, that puts out 230 horsepower at half dozen,five hundred rpm and 200 lb-ft. of torque at two,750 rpm. It mates to either a six-speed automatic, with optional paddle shifters, or a standard six-speed manual transmission.

The xDrive all-wheel-drive is programmed with a rear-axle bias in order to retain the traditional rear-wheel-drive feel of a BMW, though power can be apportioned to the front wheels rapidly when slip is detected.

Though most of the recent changes to the 3-Series were simply cosmetic enhancements, together with a revised front fascia and new LED rear lights, the optional iDrive system was totally revamped with a replacement menu setup, faster processor and better-resolution screen. The solely change of note to the inside was a revised starter button style.

iDrive remains an choice -- bundled with navigation -- for those tired of the system, which controls the audio system. Compared to the sooner iterations of iDrive, the newest system has had the menus thoroughly reworked, promising to make them additional intuitive to operate.

Unlike within the sedans and coupes, the wagon gains a massive normal dual-pane power-retracting panoramic moonroof with an influence sun shade cover.

Like its traditional trunk brethren, the 328i wagons are accessible with two major option packages, as well as a variety of stand-alone options to permit for personalization. The Premium Package bundles power leather seats, BMW Assist emergency and concierge service, Bluetooth and auto-dimming rearview and exterior mirrors. Enthusiasts can wish to require note of the Sport Package, which adds sports seats and steering wheel, high-performance run-flat tires with seventeen-inch alloy wheels and, on rear-wheel-drive 328i wagons, a sport suspension. It's worth noting that 328i xDrive wagons equipped with the Sport Package do not gain the lowered and stiffened sport suspension; the package is cosmetic.

Alternative major options embody the aforementioned navigation system, heated seats, rear obstacle detection, Xenon headlamps and adaptive cruise control.

BMW's Active Steering makes an look on the option chart, further. It lightens up the steering for reduced effort at parking speeds to form the automotive feel more nimble and increased effort for bigger precision at highway speeds.

 2012 3 Series Sports Wagon

 2012 3 Series Sports Wagon

 2012 3 Series Sports Wagon

2012 3 Series Sports Wagon

2012 3 Series Sports Wagon

2012 3 Series Sedan

2012 3 Series Sedan Steering

 The Bangle era of style is over at BMW, and also the revised 3-Series reflects this fact with a new, additional elegant look. Other updates embody a redesigned cabin and also the addition of a powerful and economical turbocharged four-cylinder as the quality motor, but one thing that doesn't modification is the sporty character and fine handling of this small luxury sedan.

For the time being, the latest redesign can only apply to the four-door three-Series, as the three-Series Coupe and three-Series Convertible are expected to arrive in one year's time, and possibly carrying the four-Series moniker.Those in want of more cargo space can be happy to hear that the BMW 3-Series Wagon will come back to the U.S. also.

Charting the changes

Visually, the new three-Series adopts the identical style language initial seen on vehicles just like the 5-Series and seven-Series. But, the new 3 is longer and wider than the outgoing model, giving the automotive an overall athletic look. The new three-Series is sort of a pair of-inches wider than the outgoing automobile and over 3.5 inches longer.

Despite a bigger footprint, the most recent 3-Series retains a good fifty/50 weight distribution and is actually 88 pounds lighter than the model it replaces.

As a results of those expanded dimensions, the new three-Series boasts a lot of cabin house, particularly for rear-seat passengers. BMW also says that the three-Series trunk can comfortably hold three-golf luggage.

But perhaps the biggest news is the return to a four-cylinder powerplant. The 328i model is powered by BMW’s TwinPower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, developing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft or torque. As a result, the 328i scoots from zero-to-60 during a relatively brisk five.seven seconds.

BMW’s 335i remains on supply, delivering 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged three.0L six-cylinder. That added grunt is sweet for a zero-to-60 time of 5.4 seconds.

BMW has gone to nice lengths to confirm the 2012 three is additional fuel economical than this model and has included such technologies as auto stop-start, Brake Energy Regeneration and even an air con system that can disconnect utterly from the engine. The 328i offers twenty three town, 33 highway, with the eight-speed automatic, or 23 town, 34 highway with the six-speed manual transmission.

BMW is the first automaker to supply an eight-speed gearbox during this class.

BMW has nonetheless announce the M3 version of the new car, however patrons will go for an M Sport package in the meantime (more information below).

ActiveHybrid 3

Marking a initial for the segment, BMW will launch a hybrid version of its new three-Series throughout the autumn of 2012. The ActiveHybrid 3 will be powered by BMW’s three hundred horsepower 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder paired to an electric motor that can boost power by as much as fifty five horsepower. BMW says to expect performance on par with the 335i.

Packaging explained

BMW offers the latest three-Series Sedan in base configuration and 4 optional “Design Lines:” Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line, as well as an M Sport Line (late introduction).

All models will come back with goodies like a six.5-inch color show with iDrive, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, step-up wheels (17-inch on 328i, eighteen-in. on 335i), while the 335i adds HID headlamps, wood interior trim, a moonroof, powered front seats and an anti-theft alarm.

Sport Line models come with black exterior styling bits, a 10mm-lowered suspension, red piped-and-stitched leather or leatherette seats, a black headliner and varied red accents throughout the cabin. Luxury Line 3-Series models substitute the sport’s gloss black or aluminum interior trim with inlayed wood, wile the exterior receives additional chrome styling bits as well as more grille slats and chromed grille surrounds. Luxury and Modern Line 3-Series models can be offered exclusively with leather seats with a particular seam pattern and either contrasting stitching (Luxury) or piping (Modern). Modern builds on Luxury with matte chrome exterior and interior trim, a selection of aluminum, pearl metallic or textured wood interior trim and a “dark oyster” dashboard and steering wheel.

Options for many models embrace navigation (half of the Technology Package), a rearview camera with surround view, SiriusXM and Harman/Kardon audio, also an M-tuned suspension, variable sport steering and 19-in. alloy wheels.

2012 3 Series Sedan

 2012 3 Series Sedan Interior

 2012 3 Series Sedan

 2012 3 Series Sedan Rear View

2012 3 Series Sedan

2012 3 Series Coupe

2012 3 Series Coupe

Introduction

Don't mess with a good issue. You'll imagine these words hanging higher than the engineers and designers who created the redesigned 2012 BMW three Series. It wouldn't be so much-fetched to call the three Series a legend, as it has collected countless accolades, a loyal client base and excellent sales during its five previous generations. It's consistently been the benchmark for which all others in its value section are judged. In other words, it is a huge deal when a replacement three Series is introduced.

For this year, BMW is introducing the new sedan only. The coupe, convertible and wagon (all of that we tend to still highly suggest) are unchanged other than gaining some further normal equipment. As for the sedan, its evolutionary look attracts liberally from the five Series, but the 3's new nose could be a break from tradition, with headlight clusters that meet widened kidney grilles. The interior gets a way additional visually fascinating style than the rather plain one it replaces. The addition of 3 optional "equipment lines" -- Luxury, Sport and Modern -- bring with them completely different color schemes and trim materials that augment the 3's customization potential.

The new three Series sedan is larger than the outgoing automobile but really weighs less, thanks, in half, to increased use of aluminum in the revised suspension. The steering is currently electrically driven; this helps to increase fuel potency, though it's lost a bit of that trademark BMW steering feel in the process. Like all recently introduced BMW models, the three Series gets Driving Dynamics Control, which permits the driver to select among four modes that alter throttle response, steering effort and shift patterns of the automatic transmission.

Under the hood, the base model 328i sedan loses its naturally aspirated inline-vi in favor of a turbocharged four-cylinder that produces more power and torque and additionally achieves actually unbelievable fuel economy. BMW purists might cringe at the words "four-cylinder," but it's quicker than the old car and vastly a lot of economical in addition. Those purists will at least be happy to hear that the 335i's turbocharged inline-vi carries on. A replacement, optional eight-speed automatic transmission and a fuel-saving auto stop/begin system round out the powertrain changes.

The redesigned BMW three Series sedan is, for the most part, improved for 2012, and nevertheless its stronger competition makes choosing one tougher than it's ever been. The Audi A4 and S4, Infiniti G and Mercedes-Benz C-Class are all wonderful choices. Each of these conjointly offers totally different body styles that are for the foremost part similarly appealing. Nevertheless, the new 3 continues to be a winner even if BMW decided to mess with a smart issue.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2012 BMW three Series is obtainable in sedan, coupe, hardtop convertible and wagon body styles. The coupe, convertible and wagon belong to the previous-generation body vogue, whereas the sedan is an all-new model.

Every body vogue starts off in 328i guise. The sedan comes commonplace with 17-inch alloy wheels, adjustable drive settings, automatic headlights, foglights, automatic wipers, cruise control, automatic twin-zone climate management, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, eight-manner manual front seats, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth phone connectivity, the iDrive electronics interface and a premium sound system with a CD player, HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB audio interface.

The coupe differs with a sport-tuned suspension, while the convertible gets a totally powered retractable hardtop and 10-means power front seats with memory functions. Each 2-door body styles add adaptive xenon headlights and a 60/forty-split-folding rear seat. The wagon differs from the sedan's equipment with 16-inch alloy wheels and a panoramic sunroof, whereas not including the auxiliary audio jack and iPod/USB audio interface. None of the higher than embody the sedan's adjustable drive settings or Bluetooth, but the latter is an option.

The 335i primarily represents a a lot of powerful engine and is obtainable on all however the wagon. On the sedan, it additionally adds eighteen-in. alloy wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, automatic high beams, a sunroof, eight-approach power front seats (with four-way power lumbar) and an auto-dimming mirror. The coupe and convertible are similarly equipped, however lack the auto-dimming mirror and automatic high beams. The convertible adds heat-reflective leather upholstery.

The 335is coupe and convertible get an upgraded engine, sport exhaust, a sportier suspension calibration, 18-inch wheels, unique styling parts, sport seats and a sport steering wheel.

Most of the extra things on sure body designs and trims are out there as choices on the others. There are several different options available yet, most of that are available each within packages and as stand-alone choices. These embrace larger wheels, an automatic parking system (sedan only), headlight washers, parking sensors, keyless ignition/entry, a lively steering system, heated front seats, heated rear seats (sedan only), a heated steering wheel, a power rear sunshade (coupe only), BMW Assist emergency communications system (includes Bluetooth), a navigation system (includes BMW's iDrive electronics interface), a head-up show (sedan only), satellite radio and a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system.

Finally, the sedan can be equipped with 3 optional equipment lines -- Luxury, Sport and Modern -- that embrace totally different wheel styles, color schemes, trim varieties, seats, steering wheels and even suspension tuning.

Powertrains and Performance

The 328i sedan is powered by a a pair of.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 240 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission are standard; an eight-speed automatic is optional. Each come back with an auto start/stop function that turns off the engine when the car stops in order to save fuel. In Edmunds performance testing, a manual-equipped 328i went from zero to sixty mph in five.nine seconds -- quicker than all its four-cylinder competitors. EPA-estimated fuel economy is twenty four mpg town/thirty six mpg highway and 28 mpg combined with the automated, and twenty three/34/27 with the manual -- these are each exceptional for the category.

The 328i coupe, convertible and wagon get a 3.0-liter inline-half-dozen that produces 230 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual are normal; a six-speed automatic and every one-wheel drive are optional. BMW estimates a manual-equipped coupe would go from zero to 60 mph in vi.2 seconds -- all other transmissions and body designs would be within a second slower than that. EPA-estimated fuel economy is eighteen/twenty eight/22 for the rear-drive coupe irrespective of transmission. The other body styles and all-wheel drive achieve 1 or 2 mpg worse in each cycle.

All 335i models regardless of body style get a 3.zero-liter turbocharged six-cylinder that produces 300 hp and three hundred lb-ft of torque. Each body vogue gets the same transmission and drivetrain selections as their respective 328i versions. BMW estimates a zero-60 time of 5.four seconds for the sedan, and in Edmunds performance testing the coupe was a very little quicker than that. Fuel economy estimates for the 335i sedan are an impressive twenty three/thirty three/twenty six with the automated and twenty/thirty/twenty three with the manual. The coupe gets a still solid 19/28/twenty two with rear-wheel drive and also the manual. The automatic and every one-wheel drive drop those estimates by one or a pair of mpg relying on body style.

The 335is contains a twin-turbocharged three.zero-liter six-cylinder good for 320 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. There is also a temporary overboost function that bumps max torque up to 370 lb-ft. A six-speed manual is standard, and a seven-speed automated twin-clutch manual known as DCT is optional. In Edmunds performance testing, a manual-equipped 335is Coupe went from zero to 60 mph in five seconds. Fuel economy with the manual is eighteen/twenty six/twenty one and 17/24/19 with DCT.

 2012 3 Series Coupe

 2012 3 Series Coupe

 2012 3 Series Coupe

 2012 3 Series Coupe

 2012 3 Series Coupe

 2012 3 Series Coupe

2012 3 Series Coupe

2012 3 Series Convertible

2012 3 Series Convertible

Though the three-Series sedan recently received an entire redesign, the current 3-Series coupe and convertible can solider on unchanged in the mean time. Even with their aging styles, the 2-door three-Series models still give communicative steering, athletic engines and one of the simplest ride/handling balances in the business.

The E92 3-Series convertible is BMW's first model with a retractable hardtop. BMW says this convertible is the proper car for two-person backroad vacation adventures whenever the weather permits. Built on the identical chassis and with the same engine choices as the three-Series coupe, it provides up just a very little weight and bags area in come for the fun of high-down motoring in an all-season automobile.

The only variation between the 328i and 335i models is in the facility plant. The 328i uses BMW's normally aspirated three.zero-liter inline six, offering 230 horsepower at vi,500 rpm and 200 foot-pounds of torque at two,750 rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a normal six-speed manual transmission; a six-speed automatic with fast-action Steptronic gear choice is optional.

The 335i encompasses a new N54 3.zero-liter inline six-cylinder with a single twin-scroll turbocharger, high-precision fuel injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase, pushing the car to sixty mph in simply 5.three seconds. The motor produces three hundred horsepower at five,80zero rpm. Peak toque is three hundred pound-feet, on the market from a mere one,two hundred rpm, all the way up to five,000 rpm.

BMW says the new N54 engine uses the identical displacement because the previous engine, however solely needs one turbocharger as opposed to two. The new N54 single turbo setup also produces the same peak power however with a lower beginning torque curve, as well as better fuel potency and reduced emissions.

For those seeking even additional power, BMW currently offers a 335is Convertible model, gaining twenty horsepower, for a complete of 320 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The 335is Convertible conjointly features, for the first time ever during a three-Series in the U.S., a seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission (DCT).

There's conjointly no sacrifice to the excellent handling for that BMW is recognized. The automotive is solid on the track at speeds well in way over highway limits, and nonetheless is confident in tight cornering, due to a near-even front to rear weight balance

Stylistically, the three-Series droptop gets new headlamps, LED tail lamps and mirrors, also a widened signature kidney grille with a new chrome frame. The new back and front fascias add a little length to the automobile -- 1.fourteen inches up front and zero.12 inches out back. All Convertibles will now get adaptive Xenon headlamps as customary equipment and the revised lamps gain brighter LED corona rings, a BMW style staple.

Inside, the three-Series Convertible receives some terribly minor updates. New extra wood trim choices are added to the list and also the a number of the formerly black plastic trim takes on a more gray shade. The Convertible's leather trim now comes with a sun reflective pigment to keep the seats cooler when the prime is down -- as a lot of as thirty six degrees Fahrenheit cooler for dark leather.

The folding prime mechanism takes up some trunk house, and the folded prime even more, providing simply concerning enough trunk house for 2 roll-aboard suitcases. But, the rear seat backs neatly fold down to create a useful baggage shelf, therefore every week's vacation within the car can be handled with ease. Fortunately, the hardtop erects in simply a few seconds, so all you've got to do is remember to shut it after you park the automobile so as to keep your bags safe.

The upside to the slightly heavy and house-robbing exhausting-prime roof style is that it closely resembles the planning of a customary coupe when raised while additionally creating for a quieter cabin and a lower probability of leaks on a rainy day.

ABS, stability management and traction control are all normal. Driver and passenger are protected by front, aspect, and knee airbags. Belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by sensor-controlled electronics based mostly on kind and severity of collision.

BMW conjointly added three new colors to the three-Series Convertible lineup, Deep Sea Blue Metallic, Vermillion Red Metallic, and Mineral White Metallic.

 2012 3 Series Convertible

 2012 3 Series Convertible

 2012 3 Series Convertible

 2012 3 Series Convertible

 2012 3 Series Convertible

2012 3 Series Convertible

2012 1 Series M Coupe

2012 1 Series M Coupe Interior

Designed to evoke reminiscences of the first E30-platform BMW M3, the BMW one-Series M Coupe is meant to supply racing automotive-style agility and day-to-day usability. Potential buyers take note: BMW has already sold all the samples of the one-Series M Coupe it plans to make.

Though the 1-Series M Coupe is priced considerably above the standard 135i, BMW says that the added power and suspension tuning makes the automobile a worthwhile upgrade.

Beneath its hood is a 335-horsepower version of the automaker's twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder gasoline engine, whereas in depth suspension and wheel upgrades spherical out the performance side of the M package. Of course, there are a slew of cosmetic changes in addition to form the 1-Series M Coupe stand out from the lesser 1-Series models.

Inline 6

Like the second and third generation M3s, the one-Series M Coupe's heart may be a high-revving inline six-cylinder engine. It delivers 335 horsepower at 5,900 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque from one,five hundred to 4,five hundred rpm before topping out at a 7,0zerozero rpm redline. An electronically controlled overboost perform that momentarily will increase torque under full load by a further thirty seven lb-ft.

BMW says that the overboost operate helps the 1-Series M Coupe hit sixty miles per hour from a standstill in four.7 seconds before topping out an electronically limited fifteenfive mph. This sporty two-door can conjointly hit the quarter mile in thirteen.a pair of seconds.

A six-speed manual with a 3.15:1 final drive ratio is the only offered transmission - a move certain to please the purists, and enrage most Americans. Fitted with a dry sump cooling system, the stick conjointly features an upgraded flywheel for the higher torque and a short-shift M-designed lever.

A special M-tuned exhaust system comes with the Coupe so as to offer it a sportier growl, that is additionally aided by at least four exhaust pipes poking out of the tail.

Inside, a faucet of the steering wheel-mounted M button from the currently-departed M5 activates M Drive, which increases throttle response for sportier driving.

Handling

Designed with corner carving in mind, the one-Series M Coupe options a chassis "faster than its engine," a reprise of a ancient BMW theme seen since the first 1600-a pair of two-doors. Extensively tuned on Germany's Nurburgring track, the all-aluminum suspension begins with near-excellent fifty one.7/48.three weight balance.

Up front, the strut-kind suspension is created with all aluminum components and also the five-arm rear axle has been totally reconfigured for increased grip.

Internally vented and cross-drilled giant compound disc brakes measuring 14.two inches up front and 13.8 inches out back are wrapped by M-specific light-weight alloy 19x9 (front) and 19x10 (rear) inch wheels cribbed from the M3 Competition Package.

A variable M differential lock generates lock up torque on demand and variably for increased rear wheel traction on a variety of pavement varieties, while the dynamic stability control options a more aggressive M Dynamic Mode accessible by pressing an MDM button between the front air vents on the dashboard. The DSC system can be absolutely disabled, although ABS will stay engaged.

Aerodynamics

In order to reinforce the 1-Series M Coupe's driving experience, BMW focused on innovative aerodynamics. Namely, air curtains - used for the first time in a BMW production vehicle - improve air flow around the rear arches to cut back turbulence.

Openings within the outer section of the front lower fascia route high pressure air through ducts located at each corner. Then, the air is discharged at the next pressure to create a curtain-like air stream over the rotating wheels.

The look

To spherical out the 1-Series M's package, BMW gave it revised front and rear fascias, chrome gills on the front wheel arches and an increased stance with aggressive wheel arches. 3 colours - Alpine White, Black Sapphire Metallic and an exclusive Valencia Orange Metallic - are out there on the one Series M Coupe.

Inside, dark Alcantara with orange distinction stitching covers door panels, door pulls, the dashboard and the gear lever boot. M-specific gauges and M-logoed items more complete the package.

 2012 1 Series M Coupe Gauges

 2012 1 Series M Coupe

 2012 1 Series M Coupe

 2012 1 Series M Coupe

 2012 1 Series M Coupe Rear View

2012 1 Series M Coupe

2012 Buick Lucerne

2012 Buick Lucerne

A full-size four-door sedan, the Buick Lucerne is the most important automotive sold by the GM division. A close mechanical relative of the Cadillac DTS, the Lucerne was introduced at the Chicago Auto Show in 2005 as a 2006 model, with its front-wheel drive platform powered by a selection of V-vi and V-eight engines, coupled to an automatic transmission.

Over its lifetime the Lucerne hasn't strayed from the formula that's created it the selection over the even additional traditional likes of the Ford Crown Victoria and therefore the Mercury Grand Marquis. In 2008, for instance, Buick added a Super edition with an uprated V-8 engine and distinct body trim. In 2009, a new V-6 base engine joined the lineup, together with real-time traffic and Bluetooth and flex-fuel capability.

For the current model year, Buick's adopted the Super styling across the Lucerne lineup. The clean, if aging, shape sports portholes--three for V-half dozen cars, and 4 for V-eight cars. Within, there's real walnut trim, leather seating, and sueded accents to modernize the well-executed cabin.

The drivetrains carry over, and give the Lucerne reasonable to fairly spirited power. The bottom 227-hp 3.9-liter V-6 can run on ethanol-blend fuel, however there's very little reason to suggest it over the a lot of powerful and not a lot of additional thirsty 292-hp four.half-dozen-liter V-8. A four-speed automatic is the sole gearbox. As you can imagine, the Lucerne handles in an old-college means, with moderate amounts of body lean and roll muted somewhat by a magnetically controlled suspension on the Super versions.

What the Lucerne has always done best is provide wide-open area--and it's still true. Giant seats are perfect for those broad of beam, and the inside's quiet, too. Trunk space is as giant as passenger cars provide these days.

The Lucerne's crash-check ratings are a bit of a disappointment, with some four-star ratings sprinkled in among five-star scores. Curtain airbags are commonplace, however the base model, supposed for fleet use, doesn't even supply stability management.

Today, the Lucerne is built at the Detroit/Hamtramck assembly plant that conjointly builds the Cadillac DTS.

The Lucerne likely is at the end of its life cycle. At a background preview held last year for future Buick models, no Lucerne was shown alongside a brace of little sedans and crossovers. If a Lucerne replacement version is constructed, it will possible share running gear with the new generation of Chevrolet Impala and therefore the new Cadillac XTS, both of which are due once the 2012 model year.

 2012 Buick Lucerne

 2012 Buick Lucerne

 2012 Buick Lucerne

 2012 Buick Lucerne

 2012 Buick Lucerne

2012 Buick Lucerne

2012 Chevrolet Volt

2012 Chevrolet Volt

Now offered at selected Chevy dealers in all fifty states, the 2012 Chevrolet Volt vary-extended electrical car has become the favorite automotive whipping boy of politicians and commentators who don't like electrical cars, General Motors, and/or the Obama White House's support for plug-in vehicles.

And that's a shame, because the varied uproars--over Volt sales, a battery pack hearth in an exceedingly wrecked Volt 3 weeks once a crash test, and so forth--threaten to overshadow the actual fact that the Volt could be a remarkably sensible automotive that's fun to drive, economical, and a credit to its General Motors engineers and designers.

The 2012 Chevy Volt may be a compact five-door hatchback with four seats. However calling the Volt a compact car misses the point. It may be about the size of its compact sibling the 201one Chevy Cruze, however the plug-in Volt aims at a completely completely different market: early adopters, electrical-automotive enthusiasts, environmentalists, and people who like the thought of driving on grid electricity rather than gasoline made from imported oil.

The chunky styling is not to everybody's taste, with its narrow windows, high slabby sides, and very high cowl. We tend to've gotten used to it, and the car is definitely noticeable, if not essentially as iconic as the Toyota Prius hybrid. And it doesn't help that the silver grille is obviously pretend, its largely blank panel giving a simulation of the twin-gap Chevy front end.

Inside, wonderful graphics on the digital instrument cluster and the central display screen convey as a lot of or as little operating info as the driver chooses. Flashy abstract graphics for the door panels are an option. The front seats are comfy, though house within the rear is tight, and the controls are straightforward to understand. The dual-cockpit dash uses several controls recognizable from the Cruze, but in a a lot of upscale presentation.

However it's the Volt's unique powertrain, referred to as a series hybrid or a vary-extended electric vehicle, that's the key to its special status. The Chevy Volt plugs into wall current—either a commonplace 120-Volt household plug or, with a Level 2 charging station, a 240-Volt circuit like those used by electrical stoves—through a port within the left front fender to recharge its battery for 25 to fifty miles of all-electrical range.

The T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack is fastidiously packed into the wide tunnel between the seats and also the area under the rear seat, with the 11one-kilowatt (149-horsepower) electric drive motor up front driving the front wheels, and the range-extending 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine and its hooked up generator on high of that. It takes 7 to 10 hours to recharge a totally depleted pack using 110-Volt household current. With a 240-Volt Level a pair of charging station, typically installed in the owner's garage, it takes less than half that point.

Because a lot of than 3-quarters of U.S. vehicles travel 40 miles or less each day, Volts recharged every night may not use their vary-extending engines for weeks at a time. But when the battery is depleted, the range extender switches on—pretty much imperceptibly—to not power the wheels, however simply to turn a generator that produces a lot of electricity to stay the automobile in motion. (There’s one exception underneath that the engine adds power to that from the motor, however never mind—you’ll never grasp.)

That range extender fully eliminates "vary anxiety," which GM argues is that the key drawback of battery-electrical vehicles like the Nissan Leaf. The 2012 Volt is capable of taking occupants on those longer journeys, whether or not spontaneous or long-planned, with all the range of any alternative car--a lot of than 300 miles between battery and gas tank. Refill the 9-gallon tank, and it will knock off another three hundred miles, with the EPA rating its operation in vary-extending mode at 37 miles per gallon. No, that is not so good as the fifty-mpg Toyota Prius, but the Volt is smoother, faster, and more fun to drive than the ur-hybrid.

In electric mode, the EPA rates the 2012 Volt at 93 mpg-equivalent, using a calculation that appears at how way the car will travel on the amount of electricity with the same energy content together gallon of gasoline. That's just slightly but the Nissan Leaf's ninety nine MPGe, and considerably better than the sole different vary-extended electrical car available, the abundant heavier and a lot of luxurious 2012 Fisker Karma--that is rated at a relatively dismal fifty two MPGe.

Thus what sort of MPG a Volt delivers depends entirely on how much of its travels are done on battery power recharged from the grid versus burning gasoline. Some Volt homeowners who plug in religiously and travel short distances report effective mileage well over a hundred mpg--and a few have even complained that the Volt's software maxes out at "250+" mpg.

The 2012 Volt is a prime safety pick of the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, and received high ratings from each the IIHS and also the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Starting with cars built in February 2012, Chevy added reinforcements around the battery pack structure and changed the coolant filler for the pack to avoid the remote risk of pack fires in the days or weeks when a severe accident. However no Volts have experienced battery fires on the road, and whereas Chevy is providing a retrofit to owners of Volts engineered during 2010 and 2011, it's a voluntarily update, not a safety recall. The battery and electric systems are warrantied for eight years or a hundred,00zero miles, so much longer than most gasoline powertrains.

The cars engineered beginning February 2012 additionally have another modification if they're going to be sold in California: They're fitted with the additional emissions equipment that qualifies them as "enhanced advanced-technology partial-zero-emission vehicles," or e-AT-PZEVs, together with a longer ten-year/a hundred and fifty,000-mile warranty on the battery pack and alternative mechanicals.

That e-AT-PZEV standing qualifies their house owners for special inexperienced stickers that can enable them to travel solo in High Occupancy Vehicle lanes. However those enhanced Volts are sold only in California, and consumers in that state want to be aware that not all 2012 model Volts have the updates. If you're considering shopping for a 2012 Volt in California, create very certain you recognize which kind you're getting.

For 2012, Chevrolet knocked $1,0zerozero off the value of the Volt, meaning it currently starts at $39,995. However the navigation system is currently optional, joining polished chrome wheels and special paint colours as a number of the few options offered on this otherwise well-equipped car. Volt consumers are eligible for a $7,500 Federal income-tax credit for purchasing a plug-in car, along with a raft of other state, native, and corporate incentives.

That's still expensive for a automobile with less house for individuals and cargo than the 2012 Cruze, that starts at less than [*fr1] the price. But Volt buyers aren't comparing it to the Cruze. It competes with different plug-ins, that in 2012, embrace the Leaf, the Karma, a brand new Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid, the Coda Sedan (in California solely), and perhaps even the Mitsubishi 'i' minicar.

Instead, the 2012 Chevrolet Volt attracts patrons who may never before have thought-about shopping for a Chevrolet or GM product. Volt house owners are fierce and passionate advocates, and they are used to being stopped on the road and explaining the character of the car with two power sources.

Most necessary of all, the Volt could be a real automotive. It’s not a golf cart, or a science project, or some weird two-seat aero-blob. It's all the conveniences you’d expect in a very compact automotive, and some you wouldn’t. It’s fast, it rides well, it prices only pennies to run on electrical power, and it’s enormously sleek and quiet.

And, it's the best owner-satisfaction numbers of any car GM has ever designed. 

2012 Chevrolet Volt Engine

 2012 Chevrolet Volt Front View

 2012 Chevrolet Volt

 2012 Chevrolet Volt Rear View

  2012 Chevrolet Volt Steering

 2012 Chevrolet Volt

2012 Chevrolet Traverse

2012 Chevrolet Traverse Rear View

Chevy's famous for its massive, tough SUVs, just like the Tahoe, Suburban, and the previous TrailBlazer. However nowadays's families want something a very little more road-friendly, a very little less trail-blazing. That is what caused the Traverse, a seven- or eight-seat crossover that's one amongst the most effective vehicles in today's Chevy lineup, due to wonderful safety scores and sensible options. It's not a minivan, however it's nearly as purposeful together, even while not the sliding doors.

The Traverse's styling is inoffensive. It suits the mission, we tend to suppose, however there's not abundant excitement in the mildly contoured form, nothing of the aptitude that you simply'd notice in the chunky, trucklike GMC Acadia and flowing, curvilinear Buick Enclave that share the Traverse's platform. The Chevy's straightforward, elegant, even spare, and that has its own charm. The design influence from different Chevy products is evident, especially up front where a Malibu-like split grille sits tall. The dearth of detail makes the rear finish of the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse as forgettable as any minivan, though, and the identical holds true for the inside--it's purposeful, however not exciting, by any suggests that, and also the sheets of hard, uninteresting plastic that wrap the dash and doors might use an upgrade.

Performance is quick and competent. There is solely one drivetrain offered, an immediate-injection three.half-dozen-liter V-half-dozen engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 288-horsepower six (281 hp in models with a single exhaust) generates leisurely acceleration and a bit of V-half dozen grumble at the high of its powerband, however it does not really feel anemic unless you've taken on a full load of passengers and chosen the optional all-wheel drive. Chevy's six-speed automatic dithers generally when downshifts are requested; it is a bit less on the mark than the Ford transmission that was co-developed alongside it. The Traverse's handling is not nimble--it's simply the predictable norm for its size, with gentle steering feedback and moderate body roll when it's pressed to act a lot of sort of a sport wagon.

The Traverse's strengths lie in its roomy, comfy interior. It's virtually a minivan in terms of raw space, however the dearth of sliding doors does put it at a small disadvantage in a very couple of ways that. Front passengers have it best, with lots of head and leg space, however the second-row seat's nearly as spacious for adults, and seating 3 across is not impractical. You'll want the sliding side doors of a minivan when loading anyone older than ten in the third-row seat, as it isn't simple to clamber in there even when the second row's folded and moved forward, however the third-row seat itself will hold three youngsters while still leaving 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. Flip down the second and third rows and the Traverse parades 117.5 cubic feet of house and a simply-about-flat cargo floor.

One among the safest vehicles moving around today, the 2012 Traverse earns nearly perfect crash-take a look at scores. Overall, the NHTSA offers it 5 stars, with a four-star rating for front impacts and five for side impacts. The IIHS names it a Prime Safety Pick, too. Along with customary airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction management, Bluetooth and parking sensors, the Traverse can be fitted with a rearview camera, to assist with its middling visibility to the rear quarters.

All 2012 Traverse crossovers return with a tilt/telescopic wheel; power windows, locks and mirrors; cruise management; Bluetooth; and an AM/FM/XM/CD sound system. Major options embrace the rearview camera; an influence liftgate; heated and cooled front seats; and a DVD entertainment system. The top-spec LTZ can be equipped with 20-inch aluminum wheels; a rear spoiler; twin exhausts; and a panoramic sunroof.

 2012 Chevrolet Traverse Side View

 2012 Chevrolet Traverse Front View

 2012 Chevrolet Traverse

 2012 Chevrolet Traverse Engine

 2012 Chevrolet Traverse Interior

2012 Chevrolet Traverse

 2012 Chevrolet Traverse