BMW: Development and Technology News
#361
No, it hasn't. They have been doing it for years. The only big difference is now, the M badge is on the outside. We have had BMWs with the M-Sport Package adding an M logo on the steering wheel, blue & red stitching on the wheel & a M logo on the door sill.
The new Z4 has this option as well & there isn't even an M version of it anymore.
The new Z4 has this option as well & there isn't even an M version of it anymore.
IMO, "M" accessories are one thing, an "M" car is something else.
#363
Well to be fair, the M division had a lot to do with this lineup. The engine thats going into these are built by M. Its not just cosmetic this time around.
The six-cylinder common-rail engine adopts a patented induction system boasting three turbochargers that BMW sources suggest are set to revolutionize the efficiency and performance credentials of traditional combustion engines, both in diesel and gasoline formats.
The new M division-developed diesel engine comprehensively outguns BMW's widely used twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, developing 376 hp between 4,000 rpm and 4,400 rpm along with a sturdy 545 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm.
In each of the new M Performance models, the new engine is mated to a beefed-up version of BMW's existing eight-speed automatic supplied by German gearbox specialist ZF and a specially tuned version of the German carmaker's all-wheel drive system.
Together, the engine's heady reserves and the traction-enhancing qualities of its driveline are sufficient to provide the 4,178-pound M550d xDrive sedan with 0-to-62-mph acceleration in 4.7 seconds--just 0.3 second slower than the new M5. Top speed, as in all of BMW's new M Performance models, is limited to 155 mph.
In keeping with its reputation of delivering cars with outstanding handling, BMW's M division gave all of the vehicles unique steering ratios, chassis settings and, in some instances, chassis components including track widths, body-structure mountings, engine mountings and gearbox mountings consummate with their M-car siblings.
The new M division-developed diesel engine comprehensively outguns BMW's widely used twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six, developing 376 hp between 4,000 rpm and 4,400 rpm along with a sturdy 545 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 rpm and 3,000 rpm.
In each of the new M Performance models, the new engine is mated to a beefed-up version of BMW's existing eight-speed automatic supplied by German gearbox specialist ZF and a specially tuned version of the German carmaker's all-wheel drive system.
Together, the engine's heady reserves and the traction-enhancing qualities of its driveline are sufficient to provide the 4,178-pound M550d xDrive sedan with 0-to-62-mph acceleration in 4.7 seconds--just 0.3 second slower than the new M5. Top speed, as in all of BMW's new M Performance models, is limited to 155 mph.
In keeping with its reputation of delivering cars with outstanding handling, BMW's M division gave all of the vehicles unique steering ratios, chassis settings and, in some instances, chassis components including track widths, body-structure mountings, engine mountings and gearbox mountings consummate with their M-car siblings.
#364
#365
I suppose, I sure didnt buy the car because of the M badge on the rear. Bought it because of what it can do. Put the M badge on a 128i for all I care.
Regardless, this line will still dominate the rest of the competition.
Regardless, this line will still dominate the rest of the competition.
#366
This is pretty funny..Ive seen quite a few threads online when members get their panties in a knot over someone sticking an M badge on their cars...now they are doing this from the factory LOL...
(Ive also seen threads on the MB board also about the 2001 CLK430s having an AMG badge where folks go crazy because they didnt know it came for the factory...)
(Ive also seen threads on the MB board also about the 2001 CLK430s having an AMG badge where folks go crazy because they didnt know it came for the factory...)
#367
This is pretty funny..Ive seen quite a few threads online when members get their panties in a knot over someone sticking an M badge on their cars...now they are doing this from the factory LOL...
(Ive also seen threads on the MB board also about the 2001 CLK430s having an AMG badge where folks go crazy because they didnt know it came for the factory...)
(Ive also seen threads on the MB board also about the 2001 CLK430s having an AMG badge where folks go crazy because they didnt know it came for the factory...)
#368
The reason I ask is that starting in (I think) '86 or '87 in the States you could get a M-badged 535i and 635i that were distinct models from the M5 and M6.
The reason I ask is that I feel like the people against this latest development have either forgotten or didn't know that this is just a repeat of BMW's history.
I don't think it cheapens the brand. I think it strengthens it to be honest.
Plus BMW has always been about aspirational marketing of the brand and I think this is consistent with their mentality about how they position their cars.
:twocents: of course.
Edit: of course it was already pointed out
#369
#370
Out of curiosity, do remember the M cars of the 80s?
The reason I ask is that starting in (I think) '86 or '87 in the States you could get a M-badged 535i and 635i that were distinct models from the M5 and M6.
The reason I ask is that I feel like the people against this latest development have either forgotten or didn't know that this is just a repeat of BMW's history.
I don't think it cheapens the brand. I think it strengthens it to be honest.
Plus BMW has always been about aspirational marketing of the brand and I think this is consistent with their mentality about how they position their cars.
:twocents: of course.
Edit: of course it was already pointed out
The reason I ask is that starting in (I think) '86 or '87 in the States you could get a M-badged 535i and 635i that were distinct models from the M5 and M6.
The reason I ask is that I feel like the people against this latest development have either forgotten or didn't know that this is just a repeat of BMW's history.
I don't think it cheapens the brand. I think it strengthens it to be honest.
Plus BMW has always been about aspirational marketing of the brand and I think this is consistent with their mentality about how they position their cars.
:twocents: of course.
Edit: of course it was already pointed out
#371
I get what you're saying, but it's because of "what it can do" that the car had that badge right? So, we're in a bit of a circular discussion here. For the last 20 years, the only cars that "earned" that badge were the highest performing vehicles in the entire lineup. Now, that's not the case. I'm just pointing out that I think that's a shame.
#375
From Autoblog...
http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/b...-m50d-x6-m50d/
Rumors of BMW M launching a diesel model have been circulating for over a year, and confirmation has finally arrived in the form of not one, not two, but four M-fettled oil-burners, each sporting all-wheel drive and the oft-rumored tri-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six. And before you get excited, none of them are slated for sale in the U.S. – this is a Euro-only affair.
So with that unfortunate fact out of the way, let's get to the details.
The new M models come in the form of the M550d xDrive sedan, M550d xDrive touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d. Each makes use of a 3.0-liter inline-six common-rail diesel with the aforementioned trio of turbos specifically developed for the M Performance range. Output is rated at 376 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 545 pound-feet of torque available from 2,000 to 3,000 revs. If you're keeping track at home, that's a bump of 80 hp and 103 lb-ft over the 535d and 74 hp and 103 lb-ft more than the 3.0-liter mill fitted to the diesel X5 and X6.
Each model comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard xDrive AWD, allowing the M550d sedan to hit 60 mph in 4.6 seconds – just four tenths of a second off the all-new M5's 0-60 run. You read that right. The M550d Touring hits 60 in 4.9 seconds, with the X5 M50d and X6 M50d passing the mark in 5.4 and 5.3 seconds, respectively. All models are limited to 155 mph and fuel consumption ranges between 6.4 liters/100km and 7.7 liters/100km.
Interestingly, the M-ified diesel 5ers ditch the standard electromechanical steering for a hydraulic system that's derived from the M5, and both the X5 and X6 variants uses systems similar to those on the X5 M and X6 M.
And if you're wondering why we won't see these M diesels here in the States, blame the necessity to reengineer the SCR (selective catalytic reduction) systems to make them comply with emissions standards across the country. We'll be seeing all four live from the Geneva Motor Show in March, but you can get the first batch of details in the press release after the break.
So with that unfortunate fact out of the way, let's get to the details.
The new M models come in the form of the M550d xDrive sedan, M550d xDrive touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d. Each makes use of a 3.0-liter inline-six common-rail diesel with the aforementioned trio of turbos specifically developed for the M Performance range. Output is rated at 376 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 545 pound-feet of torque available from 2,000 to 3,000 revs. If you're keeping track at home, that's a bump of 80 hp and 103 lb-ft over the 535d and 74 hp and 103 lb-ft more than the 3.0-liter mill fitted to the diesel X5 and X6.
Each model comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard xDrive AWD, allowing the M550d sedan to hit 60 mph in 4.6 seconds – just four tenths of a second off the all-new M5's 0-60 run. You read that right. The M550d Touring hits 60 in 4.9 seconds, with the X5 M50d and X6 M50d passing the mark in 5.4 and 5.3 seconds, respectively. All models are limited to 155 mph and fuel consumption ranges between 6.4 liters/100km and 7.7 liters/100km.
Interestingly, the M-ified diesel 5ers ditch the standard electromechanical steering for a hydraulic system that's derived from the M5, and both the X5 and X6 variants uses systems similar to those on the X5 M and X6 M.
And if you're wondering why we won't see these M diesels here in the States, blame the necessity to reengineer the SCR (selective catalytic reduction) systems to make them comply with emissions standards across the country. We'll be seeing all four live from the Geneva Motor Show in March, but you can get the first batch of details in the press release after the break.
#377
#378
I get what you're saying, but it's because of "what it can do" that the car had that badge right? So, we're in a bit of a circular discussion here. For the last 20 years, the only cars that "earned" that badge were the highest performing vehicles in the entire lineup. Now, that's not the case. I'm just pointing out that I think that's a shame.
Only in the U.S
Still many parts of the country you can see the M badge come straight from the factory. Hell I think Canadian models had M badged cars as well.
Also if you can find a diesel lineup that has more performance than these then please let us know.
I was a little disappointed when I heard they were making an X5M but then it was released and dominated even most sport cars. So lets see what this lineup can do before we cross them out. I have faith.
Last edited by Crazy Bimmer; 01-27-2012 at 09:28 PM.
#380
Earlier today, BMW announced the arrival of BMW M Performance Parts, a new line of powertrain, suspension, aerodynamic, and cockpit components that will trade under the iconic “M” badging. The idea behind using M is to further reinforce the sub-brand’s appeal to performance enthusiasts, says BMW, although some will surely see this extension as a dilution of the iconic M name. Intended to enhance engine power, reduce weight and optimize aerodynamics for tangible increases in driving dynamics and performance, the first products are designed specifically for the 3- and 5-series sedans (and the five-door 1-series in Europe). Bits will include black kidney grills, M Performance exhaust systems, carbon-fiber front splitters, and an M Performance steering wheel.
#384
I don't know what the big deal is. I buy cars based on looks, performance, quality, reliability and utility. I couldn't care less if they were badged "M", AMG, "RS" or Kia as long as they perform as intended.
Does anyone care that the GT-R is a Nissan like a Sentra and not any special Nismo or V-spec performance oriented model? I don't think so. It's still one bad-ass car!
So what if there are more BMWs running around with M-badges. Heck, they've been releasing "M-sport" versions of all their cars for a long time now with ///M badging on the rims, door sills, steering wheel, shifter, etc. Another "M" badge on the trunk does not spell the end of the world... especially if the car actually comes with performance enhancements like hydraulic steering, more hp, better handling, etc.
Does anyone care that the GT-R is a Nissan like a Sentra and not any special Nismo or V-spec performance oriented model? I don't think so. It's still one bad-ass car!
So what if there are more BMWs running around with M-badges. Heck, they've been releasing "M-sport" versions of all their cars for a long time now with ///M badging on the rims, door sills, steering wheel, shifter, etc. Another "M" badge on the trunk does not spell the end of the world... especially if the car actually comes with performance enhancements like hydraulic steering, more hp, better handling, etc.
#385
The M635Csi and M535is were fantastic cars in the mid-late 80s. They weren't M-cars and never will be. But they were certainly regarded as more than just your regular 5- or 6-series.
#387
Autocar
BMW M5 M550d xDrive First Drive
What is it?
Forget the sixth-generation M5 – the mighty BMW M550d xDrive is now the ultimate BMW 5-series model. At least it is in real world terms, on the sort of roads and in the changeable weather conditions we tend to encounter every day.
Spearheading a new range of so-called BMW M Performance models positioned and priced between the German car maker’s standard offerings and its more potent M division line-up , the rapid four-wheel drive diesel powered saloon establishes a lofty new standard of performance for oilburners: official figures put the M550d xDrive’s 0-62mph time at 4.7sec, standing kilometer (very much the new benchmark) at 23.7sec and a top speed at 155mph, even though it is clearly much higher without electronic regulation.
What's it like?
Granted, that’s not ultimately as fast as the new twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine powered M5 in a straight line, but it is the way it achieves these figures with such pervading potency at only moderate engine revs that makes the M550d xDrive so utterly appealing. It is a car that always feels like it has more in store, more to offer – even when scything along at triple digit speeds out on the fast lane of an unrestricted German autobahn. That, and the fact it is claimed to return 44.8mpg on the combined consumption cycle. Talk about having your cake and eating it, too.
Taking pride of place under the bonnet of the M division fettled four-door is the N57S, as BMW M division insiders like to refer to it. The highly complex and expensive to produce tri-turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel engine – also destined for the upcoming X5 M50d and X6 M50d – provides BMW’s first dedicated performance diesel with the sort of instant-on performance and inherent entertainment value you usually only ever encounter from a high capacity petrol powerplant.
The aluminium block engine is a true technological tour de force, but despite BMW’s best efforts it still weighs 24kg more than the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre unit it is based on. This places even greater weight over the front axle than the 535d – a car which it pips in overall output by 81bhp and 103lb ft at 376bhp and 545lb ft – the latter developed between 2000 and 3000rpm. And I never remember thinking the 535d lacks for punch.
What these bald figures fail to convey is the omnipresent energy. There’s no off-boost lethargy or waiting for it to come on song as engine speed builds. With the latest in high pressure, piezo valve guided direct injection together with a small, low interia turbocharger working in concert with a larger unit at low engine speeds to enhance the induction process, it delivers enormous shove and tremendous flexibility, and that’s just in the first couple of thousand revs.
Above 2700rpm, a second small turbocharger is engaged, providing additional boost pressure (up a maximum of 3.5 bar) and truly monumental in-gear thrust – the kind to make even the M5 feel, dare I say, a tad weak by way of direct comparison. Despite the M550d xDrive’s 1895kg kerb weight, it is heroically, epically quick.
Diesel engines aren’t supposed to respond to throttle inputs like this. At any revs, in any gear, the M550d xDrive simply flies. Pegged hard, its accelerative nature is nothing less than brutal. Nor are oilburners meant to accept revs with such unbridled enthusiasm. The new BMW engine feels totally at home operating beyond 4000rpm. In fact, it encourages you to. Peak revs are limited to 5500rpm.
What’s more it sounds terrific. Unlike the M5, which receives a synthetic soundtrack, the M550d xDrive’s aural traits are genuine – although in a process that is gaining popularity right across the automotive spectrum, BMW does rely on the speakers to enhance their effect. The combination of engine and exhaust sounds is not unlike the original Audi quattro, with a deep warble at low revs and a wonderfully exuberant baritone wail up high.
For all its undoubted enthusiasm, epical thrust and aural delights, though, it’s easy to overlook perhaps the M550d xDrive’s most convincing traits – it’s superbly refined nature, relative economy and crushing long distance qualities. Mated to an upgraded version of BMW’s superb eight-speed automatic gearbox, the engine is not totally free of vibration but is smoother than any other high performance oilburner throughout its entire rev range, returns real world consumption not too far from BMW’s own claims and requires just 3000rpm at a heady 120mph cruise.
It’s big and heavy, but with the latest version of BMW’s four-wheel drive xDrive system apportioning drive to each corner it handles well, even in tricky weather conditions. It can’t quite match the M5 for overall dynamic ability: the electro-mechanical steering system lacks for consistent weighting and the ride is a little brittle (even in comfort mode) on certain surfaces. But with one determined stab of the throttle any deficiency is forgotten.
Should I buy one?
The M550d xDrive requires you to readjust any thoughts of traditional performance car values.
Don’t get too worked up, though. Like all existing four-wheel drive versions of the 3-, 5- and 7-series, the M550d xDrive is not planned to be produced in right hand drive. There is, however, a slim chance that BMW will place its brilliant new diesel engine in a rear wheel drive version of the M550d. Until then, the M5 remains the king, here in the UK at least.
BMW M5 M550d xDrive First Drive
What is it?
Forget the sixth-generation M5 – the mighty BMW M550d xDrive is now the ultimate BMW 5-series model. At least it is in real world terms, on the sort of roads and in the changeable weather conditions we tend to encounter every day.
Spearheading a new range of so-called BMW M Performance models positioned and priced between the German car maker’s standard offerings and its more potent M division line-up , the rapid four-wheel drive diesel powered saloon establishes a lofty new standard of performance for oilburners: official figures put the M550d xDrive’s 0-62mph time at 4.7sec, standing kilometer (very much the new benchmark) at 23.7sec and a top speed at 155mph, even though it is clearly much higher without electronic regulation.
What's it like?
Granted, that’s not ultimately as fast as the new twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine powered M5 in a straight line, but it is the way it achieves these figures with such pervading potency at only moderate engine revs that makes the M550d xDrive so utterly appealing. It is a car that always feels like it has more in store, more to offer – even when scything along at triple digit speeds out on the fast lane of an unrestricted German autobahn. That, and the fact it is claimed to return 44.8mpg on the combined consumption cycle. Talk about having your cake and eating it, too.
Taking pride of place under the bonnet of the M division fettled four-door is the N57S, as BMW M division insiders like to refer to it. The highly complex and expensive to produce tri-turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder diesel engine – also destined for the upcoming X5 M50d and X6 M50d – provides BMW’s first dedicated performance diesel with the sort of instant-on performance and inherent entertainment value you usually only ever encounter from a high capacity petrol powerplant.
The aluminium block engine is a true technological tour de force, but despite BMW’s best efforts it still weighs 24kg more than the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre unit it is based on. This places even greater weight over the front axle than the 535d – a car which it pips in overall output by 81bhp and 103lb ft at 376bhp and 545lb ft – the latter developed between 2000 and 3000rpm. And I never remember thinking the 535d lacks for punch.
What these bald figures fail to convey is the omnipresent energy. There’s no off-boost lethargy or waiting for it to come on song as engine speed builds. With the latest in high pressure, piezo valve guided direct injection together with a small, low interia turbocharger working in concert with a larger unit at low engine speeds to enhance the induction process, it delivers enormous shove and tremendous flexibility, and that’s just in the first couple of thousand revs.
Above 2700rpm, a second small turbocharger is engaged, providing additional boost pressure (up a maximum of 3.5 bar) and truly monumental in-gear thrust – the kind to make even the M5 feel, dare I say, a tad weak by way of direct comparison. Despite the M550d xDrive’s 1895kg kerb weight, it is heroically, epically quick.
Diesel engines aren’t supposed to respond to throttle inputs like this. At any revs, in any gear, the M550d xDrive simply flies. Pegged hard, its accelerative nature is nothing less than brutal. Nor are oilburners meant to accept revs with such unbridled enthusiasm. The new BMW engine feels totally at home operating beyond 4000rpm. In fact, it encourages you to. Peak revs are limited to 5500rpm.
What’s more it sounds terrific. Unlike the M5, which receives a synthetic soundtrack, the M550d xDrive’s aural traits are genuine – although in a process that is gaining popularity right across the automotive spectrum, BMW does rely on the speakers to enhance their effect. The combination of engine and exhaust sounds is not unlike the original Audi quattro, with a deep warble at low revs and a wonderfully exuberant baritone wail up high.
For all its undoubted enthusiasm, epical thrust and aural delights, though, it’s easy to overlook perhaps the M550d xDrive’s most convincing traits – it’s superbly refined nature, relative economy and crushing long distance qualities. Mated to an upgraded version of BMW’s superb eight-speed automatic gearbox, the engine is not totally free of vibration but is smoother than any other high performance oilburner throughout its entire rev range, returns real world consumption not too far from BMW’s own claims and requires just 3000rpm at a heady 120mph cruise.
It’s big and heavy, but with the latest version of BMW’s four-wheel drive xDrive system apportioning drive to each corner it handles well, even in tricky weather conditions. It can’t quite match the M5 for overall dynamic ability: the electro-mechanical steering system lacks for consistent weighting and the ride is a little brittle (even in comfort mode) on certain surfaces. But with one determined stab of the throttle any deficiency is forgotten.
Should I buy one?
The M550d xDrive requires you to readjust any thoughts of traditional performance car values.
Don’t get too worked up, though. Like all existing four-wheel drive versions of the 3-, 5- and 7-series, the M550d xDrive is not planned to be produced in right hand drive. There is, however, a slim chance that BMW will place its brilliant new diesel engine in a rear wheel drive version of the M550d. Until then, the M5 remains the king, here in the UK at least.
#389
#390
New M Performance Parts offered for the latest 3 and 5 series cars:
http://www.autoweek.com/article/2012...NEWS/120509917
BMW opened up its M Performance Parts catalog to the new 3- and 5-series, the company said on Friday. The German automaker will offer chassis, brakes, aero upgrades and exhaust improvements for the 2012 3-series and the 2011-12 5-series.
#394
I love me some Curry...!
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 795
Likes: 14
From: Murrieta CA.. but Brooklyn is in the soul..
#396
Future M Models to have AWD
From LLN: http://www.leftlanenews.com/future-b...wg1azd0SBqG.99
Already standard on the X5 M and X6 M performance SUVs, all-wheel-drive will likely soon be extended to the BMW M division’s car lineup as well.
Speaking with Australia’s Car Sales, M division president Dr. Friedrich Nitschke revealed that increased sales of AWD-equipped Audi S/RS and Mercedes AMG models has forced the outfit to reconsider its exclusive focus on RWD cars.
“I’ve looked at the numbers and 70 to 80 percent of E63 AMGs are all-wheel drive in the US now,” Nitschke said. “On our cars we are thinking of all-wheel drive, but it won’t come before we get the successor of the M5 and M6.”
With the next-generation M5 not expected until 2017 at the earliest, it will be some time before those looking for quicker acceleration or extra foul-weather traction will be able to purchase an AWD M model.
To appease purists, AWD will be an optional extra rather than a standard feature, Nitschke said, adding that it will not be offered on the smaller M3 and M4 models.
“Not with the M3 or M4. Never….to accelerate out of corners with this rear-end architecture concept is so fantastic that it [all-wheel drive] is not needed.
Speaking with Australia’s Car Sales, M division president Dr. Friedrich Nitschke revealed that increased sales of AWD-equipped Audi S/RS and Mercedes AMG models has forced the outfit to reconsider its exclusive focus on RWD cars.
“I’ve looked at the numbers and 70 to 80 percent of E63 AMGs are all-wheel drive in the US now,” Nitschke said. “On our cars we are thinking of all-wheel drive, but it won’t come before we get the successor of the M5 and M6.”
With the next-generation M5 not expected until 2017 at the earliest, it will be some time before those looking for quicker acceleration or extra foul-weather traction will be able to purchase an AWD M model.
To appease purists, AWD will be an optional extra rather than a standard feature, Nitschke said, adding that it will not be offered on the smaller M3 and M4 models.
“Not with the M3 or M4. Never….to accelerate out of corners with this rear-end architecture concept is so fantastic that it [all-wheel drive] is not needed.
#398
i8 to Spawn 600HP M8 Revival...?
Please, BMW!
http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...h-m5-m6-engine
The BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car is quite a technical achievement, but it may not be the car BMW fans really want.
Despite its futuristic styling and maximum power output of 362 horsepower, the i8 is as much about efficiency as it as about performance. There's still room in the lineup for a no-holds barred flagship supercar.
According to Germany's Auto Bild, BMW is working on exactly that. The report claims BMW will launch a successor to the M1 in 2016.
Called the M8, it will use a version of the direct-injected, twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 from the current M5 and M6, tuned to produce between 600 and 650 hp. It will use the i8's carbon fiber and aluminum chassis, allowing BMW's engineers to achieve a low target curb weight of 3,300 pounds.
A nine-speed automatic will reportedly be the only transmission option. Combined with that powerful V-8 and lightweight chassis, Auto Bild reckons the M8 will accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in the three-second range, and reach a top speed of 200 mph.
It's not all about performance, though. The M8 will also be equipped with an engine start-stop system, to lessen the guilt of its driver.
Styling will reportedly take some cues from the M1 Homage concept from the 2008 Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance, but with most of the more overtly retro touches expunged.
This isn't the first time reports of an M1 successor called M8 have surfaced. Last year, a similar rumor with the same details (i8 chassis, V-8 engine, 2016 launch date) made the rounds in the press.
BMW will likely unveil a concept version of the M8 before putting it into production. If the 2016-launch rumor proves true, that concept could arrive relatively soon. If it ever does go on sale, the M8 will reportedly carry a base price of around $324,000.
That's a big leap from the 2015 i8's base price of $135,925, but with true supercar credentials, the M8 could be worth it. If it ever gets built, that is.
Despite its futuristic styling and maximum power output of 362 horsepower, the i8 is as much about efficiency as it as about performance. There's still room in the lineup for a no-holds barred flagship supercar.
According to Germany's Auto Bild, BMW is working on exactly that. The report claims BMW will launch a successor to the M1 in 2016.
Called the M8, it will use a version of the direct-injected, twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 from the current M5 and M6, tuned to produce between 600 and 650 hp. It will use the i8's carbon fiber and aluminum chassis, allowing BMW's engineers to achieve a low target curb weight of 3,300 pounds.
A nine-speed automatic will reportedly be the only transmission option. Combined with that powerful V-8 and lightweight chassis, Auto Bild reckons the M8 will accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in the three-second range, and reach a top speed of 200 mph.
It's not all about performance, though. The M8 will also be equipped with an engine start-stop system, to lessen the guilt of its driver.
Styling will reportedly take some cues from the M1 Homage concept from the 2008 Villa d'Este Concours d'Elegance, but with most of the more overtly retro touches expunged.
This isn't the first time reports of an M1 successor called M8 have surfaced. Last year, a similar rumor with the same details (i8 chassis, V-8 engine, 2016 launch date) made the rounds in the press.
BMW will likely unveil a concept version of the M8 before putting it into production. If the 2016-launch rumor proves true, that concept could arrive relatively soon. If it ever does go on sale, the M8 will reportedly carry a base price of around $324,000.
That's a big leap from the 2015 i8's base price of $135,925, but with true supercar credentials, the M8 could be worth it. If it ever gets built, that is.
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