Spy Shots: 2010 BMW X3

The next generation BMW X3, due to be unveiled in 2010, has been spotted again during winter testing. Sporting the same camoufalge as in our previous photos, the test mule was seen in Germany again.

Despite the camouflage work, you can still see the new BMW X3 as growing in size with a roof line slightly lower than the current model. As we mentioned before, the X3 will follow the X5’s steps by getting more round corners and a sportier look. A more dynamic performance oriented activity vehicle is BMW’s goal for this second generation X3.

BMW M7 Rendered

BMW has time and time again denied even considering a 7 Series-based M7 luxury high-performance sedan. That doesn't stop the rumour mill from spinning at high speed though. For sure a twelve-cylinder 760i is under production as proven by spy pictures.

But this rendering of a possible BMW M7 may be seen as a nudge to the powers that be by fans that as nice as a 760i might be, it does not replace the craving they experience for something more. The front bumper is certainly M as it resembles other M bumpers from cars like the M5. The side mirrors were strangely left untouched but the wheels got seven double-spoke rims that almost pass as genuine M kit. This artist impression is more like the touch of a feather than a passionate stroke from a Picasso brush.

Sticking with the rumour theme, a BMW M7 would probably use the same 6.0-litre V12 from a 760i and produce in excess of 600hp (441kW) through the use of turbo technology. It would compete with cars like the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG/ S600 and the Audi S8.

Mercedes E-Class Stretch Limo First Spy Photos

Less than a month ago Mercedes-Benz showed the world its new E-Class sedan at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. Now a limousine based on the carhas been spied driving on a public road. One question asked at this point in time would go something like "why would anyone hide an E-Class limo under heavy camouflage"? The answer would be "only if it was an official E-Class Pullman." Of course that is pure speculation right now but any other explanation needs serious scrutiny. Independent limo companies simply start a job using an existing vehicle and finish it inside a workshop. They hardly ever venture out into the open for testing purposes like the big manufacturers let alone hide their unfinished work this way.

If indeed this is an E-Class Pullman what can be expected from it is a car stretched to over 5 metres (based on the fact that a 2009 S-Class Pullman measures 6.4 metres) in length. It would be fitted with all manner of passenger-pampering amenities such as DVD screens, plush leather interior, satellite navigation, a powerful sound system and maybe even a bar fridge. The windows appear thick and green leading to speculation that this is a bulletproof Guard version too.