Very few vehicles can compare to the majesty of a new BMW. Aspiring for more, the company has always gone above and beyond its calling, producing only the best. Ready to unveil its newest creation, BMW has recently crafted a new range of 6 series Coupe vehicles, each offering something new for the company as well as its customers.

Ready for release in June 2012, the Gran Coupe models are the company’s first four-door coupes, combining the class’s well known elegance and sporty nature. The characteristic long bonnet with its shark nose is kept here, giving us an even smoother sweep from the roofline to the back of the vehicle. This executive saloon also comes with dual Xenon or LED headlamps as well as powerful wheel arches that allow for greater air intake but also emphasize the cars wide stance.

The inside is as gorgeous as one would expect.  Indeed, the coupes cabin follows the same driver-oriented layout as before. You’ll be greeted with an automatic gear selector as well as iDrive controller all located on the centre console. Passengers at the back of the car will have a great deal more space than the average sports car. Lightweight and durable, the 6 series is without a doubt a great step in the right direction.

The vehicles will come armed with BMW’s new 450 bhp V8 engines. BMW stated that their TwinPower Turbo range will include both petrol and diesel powered cars. Helping you along your way, the car will come with eight-speed automatic transmission, and it will have a maximum power ranging from 5,500 to 6,000 rpm. The vehicle also comes with new Valvetronic variable valve time system that improves performance and drivability. Those that like speed will not be disappointed as this car races from 0-62 mph in just 4.6 seconds.

BMW also allowed for a great deal of optimisation in every model.  Whether you select the SE or M sport grade you’ll be treated to a range of different features. For example, there are choices between 18-inch and 19-inch V spoke wheels. While certain standards like the Dakota leather upholstery and BMW professional navigation system are kept in all models, different seats and interior trim can be customised.

Offering unprecedented comfort and class, BMW has once more created a masterpiece that will be remembered in the annals of history.

BMW has been known for producing high quality vehicles for nearly a century. Constantly innovative, the company reshapes its cars to conform to the latest styles. Having prepared for months, BMW has just announced its latest 3 series sedan, reforming itself to conform with its future aspirations.

Released in Munich, most car enthusiasts know that the 3 series represents their core luxury brand. Originally based on a racing breed, it is now a balanced model providing the driver with a great ride at a reasonable price.

In many ways the car company is looking to its past for inspiration. Drawing from the 1970’s 320i models, BMW is paying tribute to a legacy. However, beyond a certain aesthetic appeal the new car comes ready to pack more than a few punches.

The vehicle has been made bigger (much bigger), being given more than a single session of steroids.  The new F30 saloon will be longer, wider as well as taller than the previous E90 model. The car has even gone to the gym and lost an additional 88 pounds.

The car also boasts a new engine system that does away with the previous straight-sex and introduces a rather powerful N20 turbocharged four cylinder engine. Designed to create even more power, the new engine generates 240 bhp and reaches 300 bhp in the 335i model.

Moving in the same direction as many manufactures, BMW is fully aware that it must create greener cars. In this model it has introduced an automatic stop-start technology as well as a brake energy generation system that will drive the cars fuel economy well down. Not to be outdone the company is even planning on introduce a ActiveHybrid version of the vehicle relatively soon

Set to arrive in showrooms around the world in February 2012, the vehicle will certainly continue to account for the 40% of the company’s revenue. While the 3 series was originally the introductory model in the BMW line-up, it is now a prestigious symbol of what the entire company stands for. Let us hope that the car is as impressive as its statistics, it looks to be a great new ride.

The new BMW Z4 range is now available to lease with prices starting from just £416.95 + VAT a month.

Two new engine options are now available on the new BMW Z4 including a new all-aluminium 2.0 litre four-cylinder unit with BMW’s twin-turbo technology.

The new BMW Z4 sDrive20i replaces the existing SDrive23i model and boasts an impressive 184bhp at 4800rpm with 270Nm of torque. The new model also features Kanas leather upholstery, along with a rain sensor with automatic headlight activation.

A new BMW Z4 sDrive28i is also available, producing a whopping 245bhp at 5000rpm and 350Nm of torque, replacing the previously available sDrive30i model.

Both engines feature BMW’s twin-scroll turbocharger technology. Standard equipment has also been improved across the range with all models now boasting Bluetooth and USB audio interface.

The new BMW Z4 range is now available to lease with Nationwide Vehicle Contracts with prices starting from just £416.95 + VAT a month for the new BMW Z4 Roadster 2.0 sDRIVE20i.

To view the full BMW Z4 Roadster range and to get an instant quotation on any model, simply follow the above links or call Nationwide Vehicle Contracts on 0844 482 9595.

Above prices are based on a 4 year, 10000 miles per annum contract. Prices exclude vat, processing payment and initial payment. Terms and conditions apply.

Blimey! BMW have been busy.

One way of getting yourself into New Car News is, amazingly enough, to release news about new cars and also to release new cars. And that’s just what they’ve gone and done!

So let’s look at the ‘available now and coming soon’ section.

BMW 1-Series M Coupe

Normally, the M Division of BMW is hard and sporty like the M3, M5 and M6 (like to Motorways in a motor kind-of way!) – the jocks of the BMW university, flexing their muscles and showing off their abs in the bar after a game, as well as playing silly games. But the new 1-Series M Coupe shows a slightly softer side; the side that might just walk you home afterwards to make sure you got there safely.

Admittedly, a lot of it is based on the M3, but it does have a 3.0 litre engine with two turbos (producing 335bhp; which is more than the Prsche Cayman R. So there!), but is easy to drive in traffic with its 6-speed gearbox.

Away from the city, the use of the M button on the steering wheel gives the throttle pedal more oomph, and lets you get to a top speed of 155mph – on a private track, obviously: you don’t want to be doing that on a motorway late at night now, do you?

There’s only 150 of these left to buy at the ‘bargain’ price of £40,020 because 300 were snapped up on pre-order (and simple maths tells you that only 450 are being made); so, if you fancy alloy wheels, leather sports seats, suede dashboard, air conditioning, cruise control, electric windows, CD Stereo, 0-60 in 4.9 seconds, 29.4mpg, a BMW badge on the front and lots of admiring glances – then this is for you.

BMW X3 2.0D

Ooh! It’s another so-called compact SUV which is bigger than you think (70mm on length and 28mm on width to be precise) so you’ll need the dashboard screen display with a view of the car from above to help you park it.

It’s posh inside with leather seats as standard, and with a 2.0 litre diesel engine its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are good, even if it’s not the most thrilling ride you’ll have in a BMW.

Obviously there will be a lot of these on the school run and at football practice (both boys and girls, I know!) but at the weekend it is good for sports equipment, picnics, the shopping, the pram, friends, the dog…

It’s got a stackload of safety features, so that really tells you the market that it’s aimed at, mum (and dad, although I’m guessing dad would want a sportier type but may get shouted down in negotiations.) But it’s there now, so if you want a BMW to show off in in the mornings at the school gates that is actually practical for that use and weekend use, this may be your baby.

Electric Cars (oh yes!)

At the Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW unveiled not one, but two all-new electric ‘i’ vehicles in the shape of the i3 city car and the i8 supercar.

They are actually the first electric cars from BMW (if you don’t count the limited lease MINI E) and according to the German giants, they could be in production as early as 2013.
But considering that both of these little beauties run in part or entirely on electric power, the pair couldn’t be more different.

The i3 is a aimed at the city market, but it can seat four adults and has a 200-litre boot. BMW claims it will be used mostly in cities due to its compact size and fully-electric drivetrain. It can do 100 miles on a full charge (so that would be overnight I guess) and is also available as a ‘range extender’, or what could be considered a plug-in hybrid, with a rear-mounted two-cylinder engine and roughly double the range.

The i8 is an altogether different beast. It’s a stunning plug-in hybrid supercar – almost the spitting image of BMW’s Vision EfficientDynamics concept car of 2008 – has the same electric motor as the i3 up front but in the back, there’s a turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, which gives it a 0-62mph in less than five seconds and an average of 94mpg. However, the i8 can only travel for up to 22 miles on electric power alone. So does that really count as an electric car?

And inside, they’ll have a lot of renewable and recycled materials, too.

Built at BMW’s Leipzig factory, which currently builds the 1 Series, 3 Series and the X1. they will not be cheap; The i3 is likely to cost in excess of £35,000, while the i8 will no doubt command a six-figure sum. But if you really want to ask, I guess they’d tell you.

So thanks, BMW, for making our lives a whole lot harder when it comes to choosing you.

BMW is excited to announce their participation in the upcoming Paramount Pictures release “Mission: Impossible- Ghost Protocol” as the film’s main automotive partner.

One of the BMW vehicles provided for Tom Cruise´s next film will be the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car. It has been recognised as having the most sophisticated technology and striking design among the current concept electric supercars.

In a few years the BMW i8, inspired by the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept vehicle, will enter series production.

Ian Robertson, BMW AG Board Member for Sales and Marketing, said: “We are thrilled to be involved again in another Hollywood Blockbuster.

“The BMW Group leads the way in developing future mobility with a focus on sustainability. One great example is the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car which will be presented in the film.

“With its futuristic design and large glass surfaces, the car offers a fascinating perspective on the future of sheer driving pleasure – in combination with maximum efficiency. Also with BMW ConnectedDrive technology, it is the perfect car for Ethan Hunt to outsmart his pursuers through narrow streets and busy city traffic.”

Having now provided vehicles for outstanding film projects and TV productions for more than 75 years, entertainment marketing is clearly as an important building block for the BMW Group’s long-term image and product communications.

62mph in 6.2 seconds, 149mph and a 208bhp turbocharged engine, all to be found inside the new… Mini? Amazingly, it’s true; the new coupe, which is the 5^th model to be released since the start of BMW’s MINI range in 2001, matches the trademark Mini looks with a sleek coupe body and staggering speed. Nearly 150mph in a Mini is nearly incomprehensible; I mean it’s even got a little spoiler on it!

I have to say I like the look of it. The smart coupe will be released on the 1^st of October according to BMW with entry level process starting at £16,640, not a hugely disproportionate sum for what you’re getting.

The creators stress that the Mini has been designed with the driver in mind and the most driving fun that they could possibly muster ahs been inserted into the coupe, with a ‘go kart like’ driving experience being promised to those who buy it. Boot space is 280 litres ensuring enough space for almost any cargo.

In true Mini fashion the car is very small, as long as the standard hatchback models but with a much lower sloping roof the car is a lot more compact and sleek, with the reduction in weight partly owing towards it major increase in speed compared to its sister models. In economic terms the coupe comes up well too, only churning out a reasonable 114g of CO2 per km with a combined fuel economy rate of 65.7mpg available with the 2.0 litre model. The car benefits from functions such as break energy regeneration, automatic engine start/ stop and a gearshift monitor to make sure it is a frugal and environmentally sound as possible.

The Mini also comes with exciting goodies such as air conditioning, parking sensors and DAB Digital radio all fitted as standard in all variants meaning that the coupe is not only potentially a fast, fun and stylist purchase but a highly technologically helpful one too.

Rumors of its coming have been heard for months, yet they were merely whispers in the halls of car fandom. As the BMW spokesperson entered onto the podium just a few days ago it all became clear: the BMW M5, known to many as the mother of all saloons, has been updated.

The M series, short for motorsport, was created as part of the racing program in the 1960’s and 1970’s. However with the popularity of the model, BMW decided to craft it for the consumer market, ultimately trimming down the race pedigree only enough to make it road worthy into the M1. Privately tested and developed in Germany, the high performance engine and operation system ultimately puts it at the top of the saloon car range in speed and comfort with the flick of a small “M” button.

Packing a punch that would even knock out Mike Tyson, this is the firth generation of the model, providing the same quality and speed of the ones that come before it with a few new additions.

A new introduction into this line was to switch the V10 engine with a twin turbo V8 that develops nearly 560bhp. This ultimately shifts the performance quite a bit ahead with a 0-60 acceleration in 4.4 seconds. The added advantage of this engine was to boost in speed as well, with a limited 155mph range, but the option of 190 mph with the driver’s package is possible. In addition to this the new M differential is electorally controlled, so too is the damping control, and it has a suspension specifically created at the world famous Nurburgring.

With all these additions comes quite a price, with the base starting from £73,000. Being race bred and having an engine to die for, this average looking BMW is a monster lurking, waiting to take its next victim. With the potential of taking on heavy hitting sports cars, its certainly something to keep on eye on.

I'm a Rocket Man...

The Mini is a landmark car in motoring history, identifiable around the world, but since the takeover by BMW the new production range including the Cooper and the Countryman haven’t exactly been, well, Mini.

The first released BMW Mini’s were a good 2 feet longer than the original car, with the Countryman coming in at over 3 feet longer. But all that’s set to change with the much anticipated release of the Mini Rocketman concept unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. The concept model is a return to the hugely popular small mini at just 11ft 3inches, only just over a foot a foot longer than the original 1959 Mini which produced 5.3 Million until 2000. In this respect at least, the Rocketman looks to return to Mini’s traditional roots.

The commercial declares the Rocketman as having “The heart of 1959” and as “the right design for the future”. Certainly they have tried to combine the past and the present here to create something modern and stylish whilst still maintaining the essence of the original classic Mini.

In terms of bodywork the classic mini can be seen lurking between the surfaces but there are definitely strong themes of the more recent models too. The lights are very similar to that of the cooper on the front, but the rear lights are an innovative hooped design which don’t light up but rather project the light onto the car’s bodywork which itself is changed to include elements of carbon fibre, used in order to reduce weight and maintain strength. The doors have a double hinge system which is supposed to allow ease of opening in tight spaces and the passengers are treated to a panoramic view of the sky through the glass roof etched with the union jack, a nod towards the Mini’s origins.

The concept also boast unique functions such as an easy access sliding drawer in the boot which can hold items or be used as a bike rack etc. whilst travelling and ‘mood lighting’ within the car itself which is said to be included to mirror the driver’s attitude. Practically the concept is a 3 + 1 seater, which should make it perfect for small families, and although there is no word on the engine spec, it has been promised to have a ‘enhanced sprinting ability’ and a fuel consumption of 94mpg.

Overall, then, an exciting prospect.

Unlike most Mini concepts the Rocketman isn’t particularly a pre production concept, but the reaction to it will be gauged by BMW and measured to see whether there is a positive reaction, with estimated release dates if successful being around 2013.

Marketing Director Ian Robertson announced “Mini has a great past, but the best is yet to come.”  Lets certainly hope so.

Rolls Royce unveiled their new project last week; a fully electric version of the Phantom, the EX102.

The luxury car, unveiled at the Geneva Motor show, boasts a fuel economy of as little as 2p a mile to run and unlike some other electric cars, doesn’t require plugging in every day. As a secondary option an ingenious wireless system allows it to charge wirelessly through a panel in the floor of both the car and the garage. The standard Spirit of Ecstasy has also been replaced by a translucent counterpart which apparently glows an electric blue.

Fancy.

In terms of speed the EX102 can do 0 – 60mph in 8 seconds, not bad on an electric engine, although the top speed has been limited to 100mph. Despite the lack of speed the car’s green statistics stack up impressively; being completely electric there are, of course, zero emissions and it has a range of 125 miles on full charge. The charging itself takes roughly 8 hours if you can afford an industrial booster, however for the average Joe on ordinary mains it takes about 20 hours.

So, are you tempted? Enthusiastically counting your savings? Well, unfortunately they aren’t yet available to buy. Rolls Royce have created a prototype to demonstrate to potential customers the attributes of their electrical luxury much in the same way as previous models, and are currently touring it around in order to drum up interest and take orders for production. Hopefully they should start rolling off production lines in time for the 2012 Olympics.

Of course, despite the lack of purchasable models currently available, another stumbling block could be the estimated £1million price tag being quoted, not the kind of money you find down the back of the sofa. The ‘standard’ Phantom will set you back around £300,000 but only does around 15 miles to the gallon and, lets face it, being green’s all the range right now. If you’re going to do things properly, a million pound Rolls Royce sure beats a Prius.

By Mr.Clarkson’s own admission, 2010 was a poor year for motoring, debuts of fire-breathing supercars were scarce, instead international motor-shows were dominated by small, ultra-frugal city cars and members of the next generation of motoring, electric cars.

Indeed 2010 was the year of electric, manufacturing of the Nissan Leaf, the first mass-produced electric car, began and numerous other manufacturers announced details of their first tentative steps into this brave new world (see previous post).

Even the curly-haired messiah of motoring had something to get excited about in 2010, a year dominated by austerity and tentativeness. Jaguar made speed demons sigh with relief as they revealed their CX-75 concept, an electric powered beast that hinted at what was to come from sports car manufacturers in a world where vehicles will be propelled by volts instead of unleaded.

So what of the coming year? 2011 looks to be a bumper year for petrol (and electric) heads with some exciting new model launches on the cards. Let’s take a look at what’s in store;

Ford Focus Coupe

Some are optimistically calling this confirmed model the ‘new Capri’, but whether or not Ford rekindles this iconic name, the Focus Coupe is set be a real classic. Refining the Focus’ lines, the Coupe looks sleek and smooth and is set to rival the VW Scirocco, Renault Megane and Vauxhall Astra.

Aston Martin Cygnet

No, you haven’t had one too many festive Sherries, Aston Martin really is releasing a super-mini! The Cygnet is motivated by new emissions laws which mean that manufacturers must hit a target average emissions figure for their entire range, this city runaround will significantly bring the figure down for the prestige British marquee. Some will be delighted by the prospect of getting their hands on the sought after badge for £30,000, but at such a high price point for it’s size, it is bound to attract criticism

BMW 1-Series M Coupe

BMW recently announced its ‘baby’ M car, this will build on the success of the 1-Seies coupe, dropping in 3 lire turbo engine and beefing up the body work. The car is an understudy to the M3 and M5, but at just under £40,000, it certainly doesn’t have a baby price tag!

Range Rover Evqoue

This British 4×4 manufacturer has been going through a gradual image change for some time now. In days gone by the brand was associated with ruggedness and agriculture, but the shift towards people seeing 4x4s as luxury vehicles and fashion accessories has meant Land Rover capitalising on the trend. The Evoque is low, sleek, stylish and almost certainly won’t make it up a muddy hill!

Nissan Leaf

Ok, ok so you might not be bubbling over with anticipation for Nissan’s new flagship electric model, but it deserves a mention for being the first of its kind and a true innovation. The Leaf does not come cheap, but the government is offering a grant to entice punters, and it will eventually pay for itself, considering the amount you’ll save on petrol.

This is just a small sample of what motoring-enthusiasts have to look forward to in the New Year, there is more quality automotive action on the horizon and like 2010, there will no doubt be a few surprises! You can rest assured that Nationwide Vehicle Contracts will strive to stock the best new releases in 2011, all available on attractive contract hire deals.