While European journalists are currently enjoying the new BMW 760i and 760Li, BMW has decided to publish the official press release filled with all the information around these two new models. To spoil us even more, a series of videos have been posted as well, showing us the interior and exterior design of BMW’s most expensive production road car – the 760Li sells for $136,000 in the U.S. Here is the press release along with 65 pages of information, technical details and ….more information. Supreme motoring culture and luxurious comfort in perfection: The new BMW 760i and BMW 760Li twelve-cylinders mark the pinnacle of the fifth-generation BMW 7 Series. Superior powertrain technology, generous space and comfort, and unique features all round create an incomparable driving and traveling experience impressively confirming BMW’s leading position in the global market of luxury performance cars. Two body variants and a wide range of customization options provide a huge margin of freedom for enjoying the exclusivity of this twelve-cylinder luxury saloon in your own, very personal style. Together with the BMW 760i, the BMW 760Li with its wheelbase extended by 140 millimeters or 5.5″ and particular emphasis on rear-seat comfort is also entering the market as the absolute climax in motoring luxury. The newly developed V12 power unit with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, -High Precision Injection and double-VANOS infinite camshaft adjustment delivers maximum output of 400 kW/544 hp from engine capacity of 6.0 litres and develops peak torque of 750 Newton-meters/553 lb-ft from just 1,500 rpm. A masterpiece in modern engine technology, the all-aluminum twelve-cylinder power unit stands out through its effortless surge of power, unique acoustic and vibration-damping qualities, and a level of efficiency never seen before in this performance class. Naturally, both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li comply in full with the EU 5 emission standard. Both the BMW 760i and the BMW 760Li come with brand-new eight-speed transmission featured in these outstanding models for the first time. With its innovative gearset configuration, the new transmission offers additional gears while maintaining the dimensions and weight of a conventional six-speed automatic....

When we said that the next year’s main attraction in the BMW community will be the new 5 Series, we weren’t lying at all. Judging by the number of renderings/photoshops of the new 5er that we see daily, the car is already creating lots of buzz on many automobile websites. For a while we tried to refrain from posting the same type of renderings over and over, but this time we gave in again (due to the multiple emails we received on this) and decided to post another…..let’s say, less innovative, but still interesting rendering. At a first glance it seems to be a total knock-off from the allegedly leaked photo that was posted months back, but the artist seemed to have cleaned up the photo a bit and also changed some minor things around the grille area. In our opinion, the front-end still seems to be a bit off and if our sources are correct, then the latest rendering by Huckfeld at Autobild, is at least 90% closer to the real deal. So what’s really wrong with the rendering above? Well, for starters, the headlights resemble too much the ones found in the new 5 Series GT and it is hard to believe that BMW will not try to better differentiate the cars at the front end. Also, the front grille is clearly shorter and less wide than the 5 GT ones and that is something we were told it will reflect in the final production model as well, but judging from the spy shots , the grille seems to be a bit too small and less oval when  compared to these photos. What everyone has gotten right so far is the front bumper, mostly because it was leaked on the web a few months back. Also, the side mirrors are pretty much identical to the ones fitted on the test mules, so that debate can be closed, unless BMW has some surprises for us. As the new 2011 BMW 5 Series keeps losing its funky camouflage, expect to see more renderings, hopefully closer to the “real deal”. See original here:  And the 2011 BMW 5 Series renderings keep coming and coming….

We have all seen all sort of reviews lately, from the BMW 7 Series to the X6 M or 5 GT, but we what we have not seen in a while, is a review, test drive if you with, of AC Schnitzer modded BMW. Since we live in the U.S., it’s sometimes hard to get our hands on some of these exclusive European cars, but thanks to our journalists friends across the world, we can still bring you some of these reviews. The AC Schnizter 7 Series received a series of visual treatments: a new front bumper, larger side skirts, a lifted and widened rear-end and new rear boot and roof spoiler, among others. A new set of AC Schnitzer wheels are available for the new 7 Series: a 22 inches transparent five-spoke alloy wheel and multispoke Type VII, also available in 22 inches. So if you believed the new 7 was a great looking car, then we have no doubt you’ll like the AC Schnitzer version even more. Video after the jump Okay, one more thing worth mentioning, the video was produced by our friends at Autoblog.nl , so unfortunately it’s all in Dutch, but we’re working on getting some English subtitles from them (Vincent, we’re all looking forward to the English version) Update: English subtitles have been added [Source: Abhd.nl ] More here:  Eye Candy: AC Schnitzer ACS7 4.0i – BMW 740i

Auto publications around the world are starting to get some time behind the wheel of the latest revealed BMW model, the 760i and 760Li. The top of the line 7er is powered by an all new 6.0 liter V12 Twin-Turbo engine which produces 535 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque. For the first time, the new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission is featured in a BMW model, beside the upcoming 550i GT. As expected, the performance is quite impressive even when compared with far more sportier BMW model, 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. In the U.S., the long wheelbase 760Li comes with a hefty price: $136,000. While we haven’t had our turn yet to drive the car, we will let the fellows at Autocar UK to give us their first impression of BMW’s most expensive production road car. What is it like? So how do you distinguish a V12 7-Series from the lesser versions? Other than the badges there are a few tell-tale exterior signs, the most obvious being the quad exhausts, but also V12 labels next to indicator repeaters, and additional chrome detailing. And as with some previous versions, the kidney grille is also more prominent, this time by increasing the thickness of the chrome surround rather than actually enlarging the grille itself. Inside, as you would expect the interior is packed with toys otherwise optional on other 7 Series models. Bespoke to the 760Li is a particularly plush looking leather and alcantara roof lining and wood trim featuring walnut inlays (other trims are available). To drive it is, as you would expect given the outputs, very brisk indeed. BMW claims 4.6 second to 62mph, which seems completely believable. Top speed is as usual limited to 155mph, and as a measure of the performance when the limiter kicks in, even doing so gradually, the reduction in acceleration is marked. What the 760Li isn’t though, is a hot-rod in the vein of Mercedes’ similarly priced and S63AMG. For the most part the BMW’s V12 remains almost completely silent, whether at idle or low to mid range revs, and unless you have an awful amount of space available, you will rarely get the engine spinning much beyond 4000rpm. Continued at Autocar Go here to read the rest: Autocar drives the new BMW 760Li

As we approach the Frankfurt Auto Show, many of the new cars introduced there are stepping up their testing trials and implicitly, showing more “skin”. This time, the spies over at Worldcarfans have picked up the upcoming MINI Crossman or Countryman, the name we think it will be sold under. Despite the same psychedelic camouflage, for the first time we can see some design elements at the front end. The less round headlights are different from what we’ve seen on the Concept revealed in Paris last year. Moving downward, the front bumper appears to have a wider separation between the  top and bottom grille sections. Even though the side mirrors sport those signal indicators, we believe this is the usual MINI/BMW diversion and that the production model will not feature them. At the rear end, the Crossman/Countryman reveal a vertical hatch, opposite from the Concept which showed us horizontal doors. In the engine department, there will be no major changes compared to the other MINI models. According to our sources, the MINI Crossover will be available in two versions: the usual MINI front-wheel-drive and ab all-wheel drive version built on the xDrive platform from BMW. With a driving position higher than the regular MINIs, the Crossover/Countryman/Crossman is longer than any other MINI models out there: 13 ft long(approx. 4 meters). While the concept was called the “Crossman”, BMW has recently registered the Countryman name . The production model will make its debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show and sales will commence later this year. [Source: WCF ] View post:  MINI Crossman / Countryman spied showing more details

This weekend take some time out to sit back, relax, and check out what people are saying about Audi… Truth About Cars writer, Edward Niedermeyer, offers us a very candid review of the 2010 Audi Q7 TDI . Luxvelocity gives us details on the 2009 Audi Sportscar Experience . CarThrottle offers us an Audi A8 teaser . Mark Tisshaw of AutoCar.co.uk is counting the days to the Audi A1 . If you have a tip or Audi-related story you’d like to share, send it to: admin [at] audiblog [dot] info . Guest posts are also welcome! See more here: Audi Blog Weekend Readings

Just barely finished publishing the previous BMW X6 Hybrid spy shots and Larry, one of our readers, hit us back with a new set of photos posted by the “green gurus” at HybridCars.com . Same area – Spartanburg, SC- different car though….in terms of the exterior color and honestly, we dig this one even more. And yes, we are a bit biased since we’ve been long time X6’s fans, even before it launched and when everyone was bashing it. In our opinion, the Sports Activity Coupe brought something new and fresh to the BMW line-up and we’ve enjoyed every moment we spent with it….okay, minus the rear seats which are kinda small for our 6″2 Managing Editor, Horatiu. Judging from these new photos, the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid is moving fast through the final evaluation phases and it’s getting ready for a launch in the next few months. Even though we mentioned this yesterday, it’s worth repeating it: the two-mode hybrid system found in the X6 uses about 20 percent less fuel than than the xDrive50i model. As far as some of the cool stuff that BMW has prepared for us, we will see a nickel metal hydride battery for the initial applications and unlike the other car manufacturers, the BMW hybrid engine will not be using cylinder deactivation. HybridCars fellows speculate on the pricing, around $70,000, but we can’t confirm it with our sources at this time. As we get closer to the launch date, more information will be either intentionally leaked or we’ll just have to work our magic of getting them. P.S. Did we mentioned that an X5 Hybrid is rumored to be in works as well? P.P.S We kinda dig that bonnet on the hood, it just totally fits the muscular front end look. Photos by G the Worm. [Source: HybridCars ] See the rest here:  Here is the BMW X6 Hybrid…again

While the new BMW 5 Series will be the star in the BMW world in 2010, the second generation BMW X3 follows very closely. With the introduction of the new BMW X1, the X3 will move into BMW’s mid-size SAV and if our sources are correct, it will grow in size as well, close to the first generation X5. The friends at Car and Driver managed to snap some new spy shots of a test mule which was tested in the Southwest. The new photos reveal the same sloping hood we’ve seen before and for the first time, aggressive font air intakes. The 2010 BMW X3 will have a roof line slightly lower than the current model and will follow the X5’s steps by getting more round corners and a sportier look. With new competitors like the  Mercedes-Benz GLK and  Audi Q5 , BMW is looking to revitalize the current X3 by designing a more dynamic performance oriented activity vehicle with a sleeker design and more appealing to the bimmer fans. The interior design will import many elements and materials from the BMW X1, an upgrade highly requested by many current BMW owners, including ourselves. While the current X3 is built in Austria by the independent manufacturer Magna Steyr, the 2010 BMW X3 joins the X5 and X6 family at the recently expanded BMW plant in Spartanburg. In a recent visit there, we had the opportunity to see the new paint shop that will handle the X3 production and by luck…we managed to see the X3’s frame going down the production line. Two petrol engines will be offered, along with four diesel choices, but at this time, it is unknown which powerplants will be used. The “usual suspects” are considered, but BMW might have a few surprises for us as well. While the X1 currently targets the European market, the new X3 will focus extensively on the U.S. market and the official unveiling will take place at the Detroit International Auto Show in January 2011. [Source: Car and Driver ] See the original post here: 2010 BMW X3 Spied again

Few cars truly shock onlookers and leave them in awe. Sure, Ferraris and Lamborginis get hearts racing, but there is another segment that really makes people stare and envy those who piloted these handmade crafts. I’m talking about Bentleys. What we have here is the first test of the 2010 Bentley Continential GTC Speed. Yours truly got the chance to drive one back in April around the roads circling Road America before they are available to potential buyers later this summer. What’s new? Well, the most important is this is a convertible. This is the third model to wear the “Speed” nomenclature, following the coupe and sedan. The drop-top receives the same 600 horsepower, 6 liter W12 engine. Spooling two turbochargers under its long, graceful hood help the GTC Speed reach speeds of 200 mph with the top up. If you insist on getting a tan, you can still go a respectable 195 mph sans roof. On the outside, the GTC Speed get the special treatments the others do, including gorgeous multi-spoke wheels measuring 20 inches, tweaked springs and sway bars, darker-tinted front radiator and intake grills, larger exhaust tips, and a small rear spoiler and black lower bumper. Subtle changes are made on the inside as well, but it’s still all Bentley. All leather surfaces are still stitched by hand in the softest hide possible, but now have a diamond-shaped pattern sewn in. The wood looks so rich and deep. There’s a new three-spoke wheel, special scuff plates on the door jam and custom pedals to accentuate the new model. On the road, there is nothing like driving a Bentley. No other convertible, hell, no other car, is built with such high quality packed into a rigid structure. The acceleration from the W12 is immense. Nail the throttle and hold on. You’ll be doing 60 mph in 4.5 seconds as all the power is sent directly through all four wheels to the road. The engine does not hesitate in the slightest going far past the posted speed limit, and the six-speed automatic rips of quick, uninterrupted shifts. The topper, though, is how the car acts while accomplishing this feat. While hurtling down the road, the GTC Speed is so quiet and subdued it’s disturbing. The massive wheels and Pirelli tires are quiet and don’t intrude into the cabin. There is zero cowl shake...

It’s becoming a tradition now for BMW to host an yearly event with their Sauber F1 Team fans. Just last November, BMW in collaboration with Formula One put together a fan day event at the BMW branch in Munich-Fröttmaning . That weekend, over 1,000 BMW Sauber fans had a chance to see their idols live: Nick Heidfeld, Robert Kubica. Moving forward to 2009 and this past Monday, another fan event took place at the Nurburgring track in Germany. For the first team the team was founded, the event took place at a race circuit, a far more exciting adventure and once again, BMW’s pilots along with BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen were present at the ‘Ring. The BMW Sauber F1 Team Race Club also hosted a raffle where the winners had the opportunity to take an M3 and even a Formula 1 BMW race car on the track. To make things even more exciting, BMW Sauber’s drivers, Kubica and Heidfeld, swapped places with the BMW Superbike Two-times World Champion  Time Corser. Others watched from the co-driver seats as professional race drivers went about their tasks in a BMW 320si WTCC or BMW M5. Germancarzone’s member, BMW M Power, attended the event and beside its amazing experience behind the M3, he took the time to take some photos and share them with the BMW world. Of course, after seeing them, we kinda wish we were there also, but hey…we’ll make sure we’ll be there next year or maybe even at a future F1 race. The rest is here: BMW Sauber F1 team fan event 2009

Speculation that Toyota would pull the trigger and bring the Smart-fighting iQ microcar to the US as a Scion may have just come one step closer to fruition in Death Valley. You'll recall that a Scion iQ concept , based directly on the European-market Toyota iQ, debuted at the 2009 New York Auto Show. This week our photographers caught a Toyota test group putting a Toyota-badged iQ through rigorous hot-weather tests, climbing mountains in the 120-degree heat. Although the iQ is already on sale in Japan and Europe, the Toyota engineers were strangely protective of the test car, covering the car when they stopped for lunch, and using their support vehicles as shields during fuel stops. When a test car wasn't at the ready, engineers were quick to step in front of the iQ when at rest, all in an effort to prevent any clean shots. More details and another photo after the jump. See the rest here: Spy Photos: Toyota iQ, AKA 2011 Scion iQ See the rest here: Spy Photos: Toyota iQ, AKA 2011 Scion iQ

Will wonders never cease? After years of turning a blind eye to Honda owners who race their cars, Honda Performance Development (HPD), a division of American Honda, says it want to reach out to racers. HPD announced today that it work to improve private owners' access to original equipment and performance parts. If you race a Honda at the amateur or entry-level pro level, HPD is hoping you'll go its website and sign up for the Honda Racing Line club. Members of the club will apparently get expedited access to parts. "Thousands of our customers are racing Hondas or Acuras today with a need for regular access to parts," Erik Berkman, president of HPD, said in a press release. "A market has clearly been established for a service like the Honda Racing Line. We are pleased to provide that service, and look forward to expanding the roster of benefits and services available to Honda Racing Line members." Alongside this news, HPD announced its developing an open-wheel, Formula Ford-class (FF) car that will put the fuel-injected, 1.5-liter inline-4 L15A7 engine from the Honda Fit into an existing FF chassis. Approval by the SCCA is still pending, of course, and Honda will be gauging reaction to the demo car (above) at the 40th FF anniversary celebration this weekend at Road America. Honda says its FF kit should sell for under $12,000. The package would include a base L15A7 engine, FF race kit (including intake, exhaust, dry sump, restrictor plate and ECU), and a bolt-in chassis kit. Honda Performance Development See the original post: Honda Wants to Support Grassroots Racers, Develops Formula Ford Car The rest is here: Honda Wants to Support Grassroots Racers, Develops Formula Ford Car

Have a British actor, a TV host, and a Subaru rally car and what do you get? A funny video courtesy of Fifth Gear . ShareThis View original post here: Video: Brits in Subies Can Be a Dangerous Thing See the rest here:  Video: Brits in Subies Can Be a Dangerous Thing

Although it's basically a formality since he has neither a sponsor or a team, NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Jeremy Mayfield is suspended from racing once more. The Associated Press reports that today the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals (Richmond, VA) issued a stay on the July 1 federal district court injunction that had cleared Mayfield to race — just before Daytona 500 weekend. However, after Mayfield tested postive for methamphetamine again on July 6, NASCAR moved to have his suspension reinstated . The timing of today's court ruling is a bit interesting – less than 48 hours before the Brickyard 400 . It's almost as if someone really wants to stick it to Jeremy Mayfield. Yahoo! Sports See the original post here: Jeremy Mayfield’s Suspension from NASCAR Reinstated See original here:  Jeremy Mayfield’s Suspension from NASCAR Reinstated

BMW is preparing to bring its first hybrid, the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid, to the market early next year. The spy shots you see here were taken this morning by BMW’s Spartenburg, SC manufacturing facility. The test-driver of the prototype said that the BMW X6 Hybrid has started rolling off the production line and will be introduced officially at the end of this year. BMW’s VP of engineering Tom Baloga, said that the BMW X6 Hybrid will be a “full” hybrid. Power will come from a the X6 xDrive50i’s 4.4L turbocharged V8 mated to the two-mode hybrid technology that was developed from a partnership with Chrysler, Daimler and General Motor. It will offer a 20 percent better gas mileage, which should work out to a combined fuel-economy of 18 mpg, compared to 15 mpg of the gasoline model. Spy Shots: BMW X6 Hybrid Prototype : – By: Stephen Calogera Source: Hybrid Cars                 The rest is here:  Spy Shots: BMW X6 Hybrid spotted at Spartenburg, SC Read more from the original source: Spy Shots: BMW X6 Hybrid spotted at Spartenburg, SC