The New BMW 3-Door 1 Series

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People seeking to get their hands on the new BMW 1 Series are now in luck as the new 3-door range goes on sale in South Africa. Customers will have the initial choice of three models namely the 116i, 125i and the M135i. A fourth model, the 118i will be available in November 2012.

If its performance you are after you may want to take a closer look at the top of the range M Performance model as seen in the M135i. This model, as with all the other models, features BMW TwinPower technology and is fitted with a six cylinder, 3.0 litre petrol unit that whops out 235kW and 450Nm. On the road, this will translate into a sprint time of 5.1 seconds to 100km/h in manual guise and 4.9 seconds for the automatic. It’s top speed is 250km/h. Fuel consumption for this model is 8-litres/100km for the manual and 7.5-litres/100km for the automatic. All models are fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard while the 8-speed auto transmission and the 8-speed auto sports transmission can be had as an option.

If customers are looking for individualisation, the new 1 Series is also offered as the BMW Sport Line version or the BMW Urban Line which add a range of special options and equipment. You won’t run out of space in the new 1 Series either because it has a big boot, like 360-litres big and if that’s not enough you can always fold down the rear bench which will increase the space to 1 200 litres.

To read about the other models, additional features and pricing for the new 1 Series I suggest you read New BMW 1 Series in SouthAfrica.

If you really like it, it may be time to visit your nearest BMW dealer to see this baby up close and personal.

News Source: Cars.co.za

Nelson Mandela BMW 7-Series Donated to Charity

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BMW South Africa has donated former president Nelson Mandela’s BMW 7-Series Security Vehicle to the 46664 Mandela Day School Library Project. The office of the Nelson Mandela returned the car to BMW at the end of its service life and it has been restored and is currently on display at the Franschoek Motor Museum.

The customised BMW 7-Series, fitted with a blue light grill, will be auctioned in the coming months and will undoubtedly generate interest from avid car collectors and museums worldwide.

Robert Coutts, CEO of 46664 BANGLE Initiative, said that “It is important that we balance the preservation of history surrounding the car with the commercial reality of funding the next phase of the 46664 Mandela Day School Library project. We hope that the car will find a home in a museum in South Africa so the history is preserved appropriately in our own country. Once the car has been sold for the price we anticipate, it means we would be in a position to deliver one library every 6 weeks for a year”.

“With 90% of South African schools without libraries, there is a glaringly huge gap in the resources necessary to educate young children. As BMW we are happy to make a contribution to this excellent initiative as the country seeks sustainable solutions to its education challenges,” says Bodo Donauer, BMW South Africa’s Managing Director.

The first two libraries, as agreed, will be placed at schools in the communities surrounding BMW’s Plant Rosslyn, north of Pretoria as this is where the majority of BMW’s workers come from.

News Source: BMW South Africa

BMW hits Global Record Sales for July 2012

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BMW has achieved record global sales for the month of July 2012 with a total of 135 537 units sold compared to the 129 102 units sold in the same period last year, translating into a 5% increase in sales across the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. Also, it’s the first time in BMW’s history that over one million vehicles were delivered in the first 7 months of the year. From January to July deliveries climbed 7.6% to 1 036 088 vehicles from last year’s 962 493 vehicles.

Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management, Sales and Marketing BMW, said in Munich on Tuesday: “The BMW Group continued on its successful course in July and we are confident that we will continue to make solid gains throughout the second half of the year. Our new vehicles have been very well-received – the luxurious BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé has had an excellent start – and we are confident that the new BMW 7 Series and X1 which are launched this month will provide for further success.”

BMW continued to show growth in South Africa in July 2012 with 2 262 units delivered indicating a 12.9% increase over the previous year’s 2 003 vehicles delivered. In the first seven months of 2012, BMW delivered 16, 613 vehicles with a 10.9% increase over the 14 978 vehicles delivered in 2011.

The MINI brand in South Africa recorded a 10% increase in sales with 160 vehicles delivered in July 2012 compared to the 145 vehicles delivered in July 2011. Sales in the first seven months of 2012 came to 1 571 units, showing an increase of 7.3% when compared to the same period last year where 1 464 units were delivered. The MINI Hatch and MINI Countryman proved to be particularly popular.

Local sales for BMW branded vehicles increased by 13.1% in July 2012 with 2 102 units sold compared to the 1 858 units sold last year. The total number of vehicles delivered in 2012 reached 15 042 at the end of July 2012, showing an increase of 10.9% over sales of 14 978 in the same period last year. The growth could largely be attributed to the new BMW3-Series, the 5-door version of the BMW 1-Series, the BMW 5-Series and the BMW X3

News Source: BMW

Video: New BMW X6

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In case you haven't heard, the new updated BMW X6 is now available in South Africa. This is some visual candy to give you an idea of what to expect. For more information on the new BMW X6, simply follow this link: New BMW X6 available in South Africa

Video Source: Youtube

The New BMW X6 in South Africa

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Yes that’s right, whether you like it or not, the updated BMW X6 Activity Sports Coupé is now available in South Africa. It comes with a few minor styling tweaks and more importantly a new diesel model in the form of the M Performance M50d.

The new M50d is fitted with a powerful 280kW 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine that will race to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds while reaching a top speed of 250km/h. The impressive part of this story is that the M50d produces a feisty 740Nm of torque available from 2 000rpm. Fuel consumption sits at 7.7-litres/100km with a CO2 emissions figure of 204g/km.

Other models in the range include the 300kW/600Nm xDrive50i, the 225kW/600Nm xDrive40d, the 225/400Nm xDrive35i and the 408kW V8 X6 M. The X6 M uses a 6-speed M Sport automatic transmission while all the other models transfer power using an 8-speed sports transmission.

Some of the changes include re-positioned fog lights, a revised kidney grille and most notably the option of adaptive LED headlamps with bi-xenon headlamps fitted as standard, while the back-end  also gets LED tail lights. The standard Nevada leather trim is now available in Vermilion Red for a more vibrant interior.

If you wish to read about the new BMW X6 in a tad more detail, I suggest you click on this link: New BMW X6 now available in South Africa

What do you think of the new BMW X6?

 

News Source: Cars.co.za

Springbok Rugby Ambassadors for BMW

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BMW South Africa has announced a number of Springbok rugby icons to act as ambassadors for the luxury German vehicle brand in addition to its five-year commitment as Springbok Rugby’s official vehicle partner.

BMW ambassadors include Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer, Springbok captain Jean De Villiers (DHL Stormers), Schalk Burger (DHL Stormers), Pierre Spies, Chilliboy Rallepelle (Vodacom Bulls), Francois Steyn, JP Pietersen and Jannie du Plessis (Sharks). Rugby legend Victor Matfield was also appointed as a non-playing ambassador.

Each playing ambassador receives a new BMW 335i Sport while Jean De Villiers, Heyneke Meyer and Victor Matfield also receive a BMW X6 XDrive 40d in addition to the BMW 3 Series vehicles.

“It’s a real privilege for me to be one of BMW’s Springbok Ambassadors and to be driving these brilliant cars. As the Boks we strive to be the best in the world and this is shared by BMW, probably one of the most iconic car brands in the world. This passion for performance is clearly evident in the products we’re driving” explains Springbok Captain, Jean de Villiers.

News Source: BMW

BMW ActiveHybrid 3 coming to South Africa

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BMW launched the ActiveHybrid 5 in May this year and BMW loyalists will be happy to know that the ActiveHybrid 3 will go on sale in South Africa towards the end of the year.

Drawing design inspiration from the BMW 3-Series sedan, the ActiveHybrid 3 is powered by a 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo engine that is capable of 225kW with 400Nm of torque. More than this, it also draws power from a 40kW electric motor with a high-voltage lithium-ion battery and the combination produces some notable performance and efficiency figures. The ActiveHybrid 3 uses a 8-speed automatic hybrid transmission with intelligent energy management to achieve a fuel consumption figure of only 5.9-litres/100km. CO2 is rated at 139g/km.

The 0-100km/h dash will only take 5.3 seconds and the ActiveHybrid 3 will reach a limited top speed of 250km/h. In electric mode, the ActiveHybrid 3 will reach 75km/h with a range of up to four kilometres.

Let’s not forget that this is a BMW and while it comes with a wide range of tech and safety features, the interior is spacious and luxurious too. For some extra reading, refer to BMW ActiveHybrid 3 Revealed. Price will become known closer to launch later in the year.

News Source:  Cars.co.za

BMW M6 Convertible a powerful beast

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BMW fans will be drooling over the new M6 Convertible that is now available in South Africa, not only because it looks so damn good but more because of what it’s capable of doing on the road. The new M6 displays 10% higher power output and 30% higher torque when compared to the previous model, enough to get the heart pumping at a ridiculous rate.

So what’s the big deal then? Well the fact that the new M6 Convertible is fitted with an aggressive 4.4-litre V8 with TwinPower Turbo technology is where this story begins. Producing 412kW between 6000 and 7000rpm and with a maximum torque figure of a mammoth 680Nm on tap from 1 500 to 7 200rpm, you can just imagine. The M6 Convertible is a savage beast on the road and will clock 100km/h in only 4.3 seconds. 200km/h is achieved in 13.1 seconds and the M6 will reach a governed speed of 250km/h. However, the M Driver’s package allows that top speed to reach 305km/h. Unfortunately the M Driver’s package is not available in South Africa and for good reason.

There’s also some good news in terms of fuel consumption and the M6 Convertible displays a 30% improvement on the previous model with a fuel consumption figure of 10.3-litres/100km. Its V8 engine is mated with a seven-speed M Double Clutch transmission with Drivelogic, which contributes to this reduction.

As we’d expect from BMW, the M6 Convertible is fitted with the latest technology and the interior is equally impressive in terms of luxury. Buying a M6 Convertible is where the crunch comes and you can expect to pay in the region of R1 485 500 to drive this marvellous car. If you wish to read more about it, click on the following link: New BMW M6 Convertible available in South Africa  

 News Source: Cars.co.za

BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe now available in South Africa

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BMW fans have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe in South Africa and it has finally arrived. Offering luxury and comfort to the extreme, the 6-Series Gran Coupe aims to please in every way possible and is the first four-door coupe to roll out of the BMW stable.

The 6-Series Gran Coupe makes use of straight-six TwinPower Turbo engines that produce a bang of power on the go. Three derivatives are available in the 640i, 640d and the 650i which will be available later in 2012.

The 640i Gran Coupe delivers 235kW of power on command at between 5 800 and 6 000rpm while the 640d delivers 230kW. Both models will dash to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 250km/h. The flagship 650i Gran Coupe, with its more efficient V8 engine will put out 330kW at 5 500rpm with a maximum torque figure of 650Nm. The 650i will clock 100km/h in 4.6 seconds while reaching a top speed of 250km/h. All the engines are fitted with an 8-speed automatic Sport transmission.

What the 6-Series Gran Coupe lacks in speed, it makes up for in style offering a seriously luxurious and comfy interior that will keep any driver and passenger happy for years. The Gran Coupe is also fitted with a wide range of safety technology that will help keep it on the road. To cut a long story short I suggest you click on the following link to read more about the BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe in South Africa, and to find out how much this baby costs.

News Source: Cars.co.za 

BMW ActiveHybrid 5

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Luxury car brand BMW introduces the ActiveHybrid 5 that offers exceptional performance and fuel economy to the premium executive car class.

Combining a 225kW TwinPower, six cylinder in-line engine, the same used for the BMW 535i, with a 40kW electric drive system, the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 produces some impressive results. With a combined power output of 250kW, the ActiveHybrid 5 darts to 100km/h in just 5.9 seconds and is capable of 60km/h on electric power alone. Fuel consumption is between 6.4 and 7 litres / 100km with a CO2 emissions figure between 149g and 163g/km, depending on the tyre format. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Technology abounds in the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 with ECO PRO mode offering intelligent energy management to further enhance economy. The Navigation System Professional is fitted as standard and allows forward-looking analysis of driving conditions enabling drive components to be primed to deliver maximum efficiency.   

The BMW ActiveHybrid 5 features a sporty yet elegant exterior with the comfortable and luxurious interior we can expect from BMW.

Expect to pay R757 300 to drive the BMW ActiveHybrid 5. Do you like it?

Check out the video for the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 below. 

BMW Updates

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There will be a host of changes in the BMW stable as of July 2012 with a particular focus on fuel consumption improvements and new equipment. South Africans will see the improvements made available over the next few months as changes are rolled out worldwide.

Some of the expected changes include:

BMW 1-Series

A new BMW 114i has been introduced as an entry-level model with a turbocharged four cylinder engine that produces 75kW with 180Nm of torque. This model will not be available in South Africa. However, South Africans can look forward to the arrival of the M135i in September 2012. The M135i will produce 235kWwith 450Nm of torque and will come with six-speed manual transmission as standard. Now that’s something to look forward to. 

BMW 3-Series

BMW recently launched the new 3-Series sedan range and will add to it with the new 330d, making use of straight six diesel power. The range will also see the addition of the new entry-level 100kW BMW 316i at the end of 2012 which will be mated with either a six-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission.

A number of BMW Individual options will be offered with The M Sport Package with the M Aerodynamics Package. These include special door sills and cabin footrests, chromed exhaust pipes, new instrument cluster, M Sports braking system and a choice of either 18” or 19” alloy rims.

BMW 5-Series

Most of the changes will occur in the 5-Series range. In the GT range, a new model will be included, the 530d. The 550 has been tweaked to 330kW with 650nM of torque. A new multifunction instrument display will also feature in the 5-Series that is freely programmable by the driver. A Bang & Olufsen High End Surround-Sound System will also be available for all 5-Series models in South Africa.

BMW will also incorporate a hands-free boot lid operation that will come as standard on all 5-Series models. The Gran Turismo will also be fitted with a Auto Stop/Start system as well as electric power steering to assist in improving fuel consumption.

The Gran Turismo will also come with Driving Experience Control with Eco Pro mode allowing the driver to make adjustments according to road conditions or driver preference. An extra option on the GT is a parking assist mechanism that helps find a safe parking space and assists in parking. The 5-Series GT also features an Active Protection safety package that prepares the cabin for a collision when detected, automatically slowing the vehicle down and applying the brakes for an extra 1.5 seconds after the collision, amazing.

BMW 6-Series

The BMW 6-Series range will be fitted with assistance systems that includes ‘no overtaking’ information as well as automatic stop start for certain models.

BMW Z4

The retractable hard top will get BMW individual treatment and a selection of contrasting colours will be available including matte black or silver metallic.

BMW M135i, bullet in the making

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BMW has produced another mean machine that takes the form of the BMW M135i. Powered by a 3.0-litre TwinPower turbocharged engine, the BMW M135i, due in South Africa in September, is a bullet in the making.

The engine has been tuned up to produce a hefty 235kW at 5800rpm that will see it reach 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds with manual transmission. Use BMW’s eight speed automatic and that figure drops to 4.9 seconds. The 3-door M135i comes with improved suspension and refined exterior and interior styling synonymous with BMW.

Design themes include the familiar Urban Line, Sport Line and the M Sport package. Space abounds in the BMW M135i with 1200 litres of luggage space and includes features such as lane departure warning, rear-view camera, adaptive headlights, speed limit and traffic information and internet access. The BMW M135i is the first M performance BMW to sport a petrol engine.

BMW X1 to Sport New Look

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The BMW X1 has undergone some changes in an attempt to increase its appeal to consumers. When the new X1 reaches South Africa in September, consumers will have the choice of five engine options, according to BMW SA.

The 23d engine will be replaced by the xDrive 25d which comes in the form of a 160kW 2-litre twin-turbodiesel engine which will reach 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds and will guzzle 5.9 litres/100km. This engine will be available with BMW’s eight- speed automatic transmission.

The less powerful 20d will be sold as xDrive and sDrive (rear-wheel-drive). The 20d engine is capable of 135kW with fuel consumption of 4.9 litres/100km for the sDrive and 5.5 litres/100km for the xDrive. Not much has changed in the petrol department and the 180kW 28i x 2-litre turbo will remain. A milder version of the 20i s and x models will become apparent with the s model hitting 100km/h in 7.4 seconds with a fuel consumption figure of 6.9 litres/100km.

The entry level model will still feature its naturally aspirated 110kW 2-litre engine and will only be available as a rear-wheel drive. Some of the other changes include LED daytime running lights, new re-designed alloy wheels and some new paint colour options. The interior console is also angled towards the driver with new interior trim, surfaces and controls.  The BMW X1 will also be available with two trim options. The Sport Line will feature a sportier feel while the xLine will take on a more robust appearance.

What are your thoughts on the BMW X1?

Video: New BMW 3-Series

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Take a drive in the 328i with Steve Sutcliffe as he shows you the best of the new BMW 3-Series.
Now available in South Africa, the new BMW 3-Series will come in the form of the 328i and 335i as well as a 320d and 320d EfficientDynamics diesel option. The 3-Series will also be available in three unique offerings namely the ‘Sport Line’, ‘Modern Line’ and ‘Luxury Line’.   

BMW 3-Series ready to rock SA

Tweet The long anticipated wait is almost over. By the end of March BMW fans will witness the all new BMW 3-Series take to the roads, a huge achievement for BMW South Africa, who look to produce more than 93 000 units at its Rosslyn manufacturing plant near Pretoria.  

Since the first generation 3-Series was launched in 1975, BMW has sold more that 12 million units worldwide and the 3-Series is considered to be the most important volume-produced model in the BMW group. The sixth generation 3-Series BMW is an exciting addition to the range and consumers can only expect the best from the new BMW 3-Series.

The new BMW 3-Series will come in the form of the 328i and 335i as well as a 320d and 320d EfficientDynamics diesel option. The 3-Series will also be available in three unique offerings namely the ‘Sport Line’, ‘Modern Line’ and ‘Luxury Line’.

The new 3-Series is 93mm larger and 40kg lighter than the previous 3-Series and boasts extra leg and headroom for passengers. Particular attention to detail has been given to the interior making it more luxurious and comfortable when compared to previous models.  Fuel efficiency has also improved dramatically and can be attributed to weight reduction and BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology.

The 320d EfficientDynamics diesel variant produces 120 kW and runs at 4.1 litres/100km with a CO2 emissions rating of 109 g/km. The 328i with its twin turbo charged engine produces 180 kW at 5000 rpm with a fuel consumption figure of 6.3 litres/100km and emissions rating of 142g/km. The 328i clocks 0-100km in just 6.3 seconds reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

It’s not surprising then that the BMW 3-series has been nominated for the World Car of the Year Award to be announced in April 2012.

What are your thoughts of the new BMW 3-Series?