1989 Bmw 525i Base Sedan 4-door 2.5l on 2040-cars

Auto blog

Next-gen BMW X3 caught in the cold

The BMW X3 might be getting a bit long in the tooth, but fans of the sporty CUV can rest easy knowing that Munich hasn't forgotten about it. The third-generation crossover was caught squeezing in some end-of-season winter testing by our trusty spy photographers. According to our spies, the 2017 X3, code-named G01, will be underpinned by a new modular platform that promises more space in the cabin and better visibility out. Beyond that, the next X3 will get a range of B-series engines; expect four- and six-cylinder options, as well as a plug-in-hybrid option (eventually). Our spies also report that BMW will finally offer some more performance-oriented options, starting with an X3 M40i and eventually expanding into a X3 M. Beyond the oily bits, it looks like the X3's looks are set to evolve, growing slightly compared to its predecessor. BMW's trippy camouflage, though, prevents a closer analysis of the next-gen CUV's styling. Check out our full gallery of spy shots to see what's coming for the X3.

BMW X5 eDrive Concept is utilitarian plug-in hybrid

Bridging the gap between internal combustion engine-powered vehicles and electric vehicles are plug-in hybrids, and BMW has made one out of its biggest sports utility vehicle, even if it's just a concept car at this point. The plug-in hybrid X5 eDrive Concept debuted today at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and it sits attached to a charge port on the show floor.
As we reported in August, the X5 eDrive Concept combines a turbocharged four-cylinder engine of unknown output with a 95-horsepower electric motor, to achieve longer range and lower emissions. The X5 eDrive can drive up to 75 miles per hour and 19 miles on electric power alone, manage about 62 miles per gallon (3.8 liters per 100 kilometers) and accelerate from 0-62 mph in under seven seconds, according to BMW.
Three drive modes are offered: one that automatically operates the hybrid system, an all-electric mode and a Save Battery mode that operates the vehicle using the engine only.

World Car of the Year finalists announced

To say the 2014 Geneva Motor Show was packed full of news is an understatement as big as the show's home at the Palexpo convention center. Despite everything that we were able to cover during this year's show, there's still more coming out of Switzerland, including the announcement of the finalists for the 2014 World Car of the Year Awards.
We reported on the original list of finalists over three weeks ago, and now, that initial list has been pared down to three finalists for each of the five awards. The finalists were announced at a press conference by frequent Autoblog contributor and co-chair of the awards, Matt Davis (above).
The finalists for the overall title of 2014 World Car of the Year are the Audi A3, the BMW 4 Series and the Mazda3. The World Luxury Car of the Year will be either the Bentley Flying Spur, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or the Land Rover Range Rover Sport, while the Performance Car of the Year will be awarded to the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, the Ferrari 458 Speciale or the Porsche 911 GT3 (which, um, yeah...).