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2015 BMW X4 is a budget X6

We won't argue that crossovers are hugely successful vehicles, with automakers working to provide functional CUVs in a wide range of sizes. But over at BMW, things are just getting out of hand, as evidenced by this new X4 "Sports Activity Coupe" that debuts here at the 2014 New York Auto Show.
BMW is seeing fit to offer vehicles in even the most niche of niches, and the X4 is no exception. Want proof? Have a look at the X4, and the compare it to the X3, the 3 Series Gran Turismo, the 3 Series Sport Wagon, and the 4 Series Gran Coupe. Aside from marginal differences in things like ground clearance and the exact slope of the hatchback, what, exactly, is the difference?
Like the other models we just mentioned, the X4 is powered by either a 2.0-liter turbo-four with 240 horsepower or a more powerful, 3.0-liter turbo-six with 300 horsepower, and unsurprisingly, power is sent to the ground exclusively via the company's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. An eight-speed automatic transmission is the sole gearbox available with either engine. All sounds very familiar, right?

Refreshed 2016 BMW 3 Series adds two new models to the range

The BMW 3 Series had years standing at the forefront of the luxury sedan segment, but competitors have continued to get better at challenging its long reign. To make sure the stalwart model can keep up, BMW is bringing some new powertrains and other upgrades to the range with a refresh for the 2016 model year. Plus, the exterior sees a very slight styling update. There are two big additions in the 3 Series range for 2016. First, there's the new 340i with the B58 turbocharged, inline-six engine to replace the 335i. Displacement is still 3.0-liters, but the latest mill makes 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque – gains of 20 hp and 30 lb-ft over the outgoing model. BMW estimates the 340i can reach 60 in 4.8 seconds with the standard eight-speed automatic or in 4.6 seconds with xDrive. A six-speed manual is also available as a no-cost option. The other new member of the family is the 330e plug-in hybrid, and it joins the lineup later in the year. BMW isn't specifically talking about the PHEV's powertrain, but the company estimates total output of 250 hp and 310 lb-ft. The sprint to 60 is forecasted at 6.1 seconds, and the range on electric power is predicted at 22 miles. Fuel economy isn't disclosed yet. Beyond these two models, there are a host of other upgrades under the skin for the 3 Series. The eight-speed automatic should be slightly more efficient thanks to wider gear ratio, and the handling is reworked with new front struts, rear dampers, and retuned electric power steering. There's also a Track Handling Package for gas-fueled models that combines Variable Sport Steering, Adaptive M Suspension and M Sport Brakes with high-temperature pads. The nav system accepts over-the-air map updates now, as well. You certainly can't see all of the changes on the outside, though. For the 2016 3 Series, BMW's designers tweak the front fascia slightly and update the headlights. LED units are optional on the 320i, 328i, and 328d, and they're standard on the 340i. The rear features reshaped LED taillights, and inside there's additional ambient lighting and chrome trim. In one other small adjustment, the look of the Sport Line package with black trim on the grille, B-pillars and rear bumper is now included on the 328i, 328d and 340i. Related Video: The New BMW 3 Series Sedan and Sports Wagon: Lifecycle freshening for all 3 Series Sedans and Sports Wagons. New 340i Sedan features new 320 hp TwinPower Turbo Inline 6-cylinder.

BMW considering building 3 Series in North America

There might be even more BMWs coming from North America soon. The company recently announced plans to build a flagship crossover called the X7 at its Spartanburg, SC, factory. Now, rumors are emerging that the Bavarians might be thinking about building a second North American factory that could build its quick-selling 3 Series.
According to Bloomberg, the German luxury giant is considering several possible locations for a North American factory, including two in Mexico, that may build the 3. "We will decide this in the next months. On the North American continent, there's still potential," said BMW production boss, Harald Krueger, in an interview meant for company staff obtained by Bloomberg.
If BMW decides to open a plant in Mexico, it would be following its rival Audi, which already announced construction of a factory there. Mercedes-Benz has been rumored to be working on a deal with Nissan to build its cars South of the Border as well. Rumors of Bimmer considering Mexican production have also cropped up in the past, so it wouldn't come as a total surprise to hear it made official.