Auto Cars Modification 99

BMW X1 Caught Completely Undisguised during Photoshoot

BMW's upcoming 2010 X1 crossover has been caught completely undisguised during a photo shoot thanks to a member of forum-auto.com.

Looking virtually identical to the X1 Concept which debuted at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, the low resolution photo shows the biggest change to the production model is a slightly reworked grille with additional chrome detailing which likely signifies this particular X1 boasts a high-end engine.

Speaking of engines, the X1 will be powered by a variety of naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines as well as several diesel units. Eventually a hybrid version is expected to be launched, but nothing has been officially confirmed as of yet. Base models will come equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and sDrive (rear-wheel drive) while an eight-speed automatic and xDrive (all-wheel drive) will be optional.

The X1 will ride on the E90 3-Series platform which results in a longish 2760mm (108.6") wheelbase and an overall length of 4457mm (175.5"). While this should result in a roomy interior, it puts the X1 perilously close to being the same size as the X3 which is just 108mm (4.3") longer.

Look for the X1 to go on sale in Europe this fall with a base price somewhere in the neighborhood of £20,000.

2011 BMW 6 Series Convertible Starts First Round of Nurburgring Testing

BMW's redesigned 2011 6 Series convertible has been spotted undergoing performance testing on Germany's famous Nürburgring.

While the psychedelic camouflage hides much of the exterior, it's clear that the new convertible is heavily influenced by the 7 Series and the new Z4. Key styling features seem to include a new front bumper with a massive air intake, reshaped headlights, a more prominent double kidney grille, and a redesigned rear end which eliminates the highly controversial "Bangle Butt".

Despite BMW's best efforts to convince us that new 6 Series will feature a soft top like the out going model, it seems rather obvious that poorly fitting fabric is nothing more than a disguise meant to throw off the causal observer. Although the switch to a folding metal roof will undoubtedly result in a more secure vehicle with better rearward visibility, due to its larger rear window, it also means that the convertible's trademark twin flying buttresses roof is no more.

Under the hood, we can expect many of the 6 Series current engines to carry over but the 4.8-liter V8 engine will be replaced by the new 400 horsepower twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 from the 750i. The top of the line M6 will likely adopt the X5 M and X6 M's new 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 555 horsepower and 500 lb-ft (678Nm) of torque.