2003 Bmw 540i M-sport on 2040-cars

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BMW X5 gets full battery of performance visuals

If you think BMW toned down its third-generation X5 CUV a little too much with its latest redesign, the new M Performance Parts line of optional parts may give you a chance to inject in a new sense of style.
The aesthetic parts include new carbon fiber pieces for the mirror caps, front splitter, rear diffuser and rear aero flaps. There's also a rear spoiler, high-gloss black kidney grilles, M Performance rocker panel decals and double-spoke 21-inch wheels with performance tires. The interior upgrades are similar with an available Alcantara steering wheel with carbon fiber trim, stainless steel pedals and carbon fiber gearshift trim.
Not all of the M Performance Parts are about style. The M Performance Power Kit sharpens throttle response and boosts power of the X5 xDrive35i to 320 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, an improvement of 20 hp and 32 lb-ft, and an optional exhaust with chrome tips improves its sound. For buyers looking for improved stopping power, the M Performance Brake Kit adds six-piston calipers with 19-inch steel rotors.

BMW X1 testing is underway

It was just a few weeks ago that we got our first glimpse of the next-generation BMW X1, riding around on a flatbed. Now, we have the first batch of images of the small crossover moving under its own steam.
Like the previous round of photos, BMW's psychedelic camouflage is on hand to obscure sheetmetal details, but our intrepid spies still managed to discover a bit about the new X1. It's internal code-name will be F48, and it will sit on the same platform as the next-generation Mini and the BMW 1 Series GT. And for those keeping track at home, those are both front-drive platforms.
The reasoning for the X1's new layout, though, is understandable. Front-wheel drive is more space efficient and affordable, which are kind of big deals to customers. The next X1 won't be limited to its front wheels, though, as BMW's xDrive system is almost a certainty on higher-end trims.

BMW planning smaller Z2 roadster

It's been a few years since we heard about the BMW Z2, a compact, two-seat convertible that would slot in below the aging Z4 (shown above). Now, though, the crew at Car and Driver are back with details on the oft-rumored roadster.
The big shock for enthusiasts on this one is C/D's report that the Z2 will spin its front wheels, rather than its rears. A front-drive roadster is strange enough, but a front-drive BMW roadster? It's apparently true, though, as the new model would share its platform with the front-drive Mini and 2 Series Active Tourer rather than with the racier 228i or M235i coupes.
According to C/D, the rumored Z2 could be powered by a range of three- and four-cylinder, turbocharged engines, although it's more likely to be a four-only affair. Power should range from 160 to 230 ponies, while an M variant could arrive with 300 horsepower (that's a whole lot of power for front-wheel drive...).