Bmw Z4m 19k M Coupe on 2040-cars

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Mazda3 versus BMW 1 Series and Audi A3 in Euro diesel showdown

It's not exactly a Tesla Model S taking on a Ferrari, but for us green enthusiasts, a drag race and comparison between reasonably priced diesel hatchbacks does hold interest, and UK's Auto Express was kind enough to do the deed. When raced, the diesels actually laid a little rubber coming off the line, though the track was covered in rain. Did we mention it was in the UK? The comparison was between diesel hatchbacks priced at less than 22,000 British pounds (about $34,500 US), and Auto Express pitted a Mazda3, a BMW 1-Series and an Audi A3 against each other. The results are revealed in the 11-minute video you can watch below. In short, one car smoked the others. In order to set the tone, you should know that the Mazda's 150 horsepower is about 35 more than the other two entrants. The Mazda also earned points for its quiet motor (it sounds more like a petrol engine, the host says), standard equipment that would add about $4,000 to the other two cars if included and relative roominess in front and in back. The Audi gained points for its storage space, while the BMW had the only rear-wheel-drive car in the hunt. See for yourself how the competition stacks up. News Source: Auto Express via YouTube Green Audi BMW Mazda Diesel Vehicles bmw 1-series Auto Express

BMW i8 will be first production car to use Gorilla Glass

What do smartphones and the BMW i8 have in common? Glass. Scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass, that is. The i8 will be the first production car to use the chemically hardened material, which is more durable, lighter and provides more sound deadening than conventional laminated automotive glass. We thought it would be a natural replacement for windshields, but, according to Autoweek, BMW said it will be used for the rear window for sound deadening purposes. The Gorilla Glass will still be laminated, with two 0.7mm thick layers of it sandwiching an acoustic sheet, reports Autoevolution.
BMW reportedly claims the i8 will weigh less than 3,285 pounds, and to offset the heavy hybrid powertrain to reach that goal the automaker has implemented lightweight materials normally not found in mass-production automobiles. With a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque used for both the (relatively) pedestrian i3 and the upscale i8, it's not surprising BMW was also the first to jump onto Gorilla Glass, especially given the timing of a report that a high-end automaker would introduce it within the year.
Be sure to check out our First Drive review of the i8 to see if BMW's newest sports car is living up to the hype.

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.