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BMW plugs in new X5 xDrive40e PHEV crossover

BMW broke with its own convention when it rolled out the original X5 back in 1999, and did it again when it launched the i3 and i8 plug-in hybrids in 2013. Now it's bringing the two together with the reveal of the new X5 xDrive40e. Based on the third-generation F15 model and previewed by the X5 eDrive concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the X5 xDrive40e is the first PHEV from the core BMW brand. Its hybrid powertrain pairs a 2.0-liter turbo four (itself good for 245 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque) to an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission (contributing another 113 hp and 184 lb-ft) for a total combined output of 313 hp and 332 lb-ft. That makes it more powerful by both counts than the six-cylinder X5 xDrive35i (though considerably less so than the V8-powered xDrive50i), giving it a quoted 0-62 time of 6.8 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph. But it can travel up to 19 miles on electric power alone, at which top speed is limited to 75 mph. BMW has mounted the 9-kWh lithium-ion battery pack underneath the luggage floor, limiting cargo capacity to between 17.65 and 60.7 cubic feet, depending on how you set up the rear seats. An adaptive suspension keeps it all on an even keel, with power transmitted to all four wheels through a permanent all-wheel-drive system. An M model it is not, but the Bavarian automaker will offer it with an M Sport package. Full details on pricing and availability have yet to be announced, but the X5 xDrive40e is set to hit European dealers in the fall. The BMW X5 xDrive40e The first plug-in hybrid production car from the BMW core brand is a Sports Activity Vehicle. Permanent all-wheel drive and the BMW EfficientDynamics eDrive technology endow the BMW X5 xDrive40e with sensational sportiness and supreme poise on the one hand and outstanding efficiency on the other. With a total system output of 230 kW/313 hp generated by a four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a synchronous electric motor, the BMW X5 xDrive40e achieves a combined fuel consumption of 3.4 – 3.3 litres per 100 kilometres (83.1 – 85.6 mpg imp) and a combined electricity consumption of 15.4 – 15.3 kWh over the same distance. CO2 emissions come in at 78 – 77 grams per kilometre (figures according to EU test cycle for plug-in hybrid vehicles, may vary depending on the tyre format specified).

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.

2014 BMW 328d rated at 32/45 mpg

BMW still hasn't released official fuel economy numbers for its diesel-powered 2014 328d, but now, those mileage ratings have been posted on the EPA's FuelEconomy.gov website. As expected, the 328d is quite an efficient little machine, with the rear-wheel-drive sedan good for 32 miles per gallon in the city and 45 mpg highway. That even bests the 30/42 mpg of the smaller Volkswagen Jetta TDI.
The last time BMW offered a diesel 3 Series in our market, it was the six-cylinder 335d, which - while mighty quick and excellent to drive - was only offered as a rear-wheel-drive sedan and was rated at 23 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. For 2014, BMW will offer the 328d with optional xDrive all-wheel drive, though that reduces the fuel economy numbers to 31/43 mpg. Beyond that, the BMW will even sell you a 328d xDrive wagon, which nets the same 31/43 mpg rating, according to FuelEconomy.gov.
Look for the 2014 BMW 328d to hit dealerships this fall, and when it launches, it will be the only diesel offering in its class (until the next Mercedes-Benz C-Class arrives, anyway). Lexus and Infiniti will offer hybrid versions of the IS and Q50, respectively, but we've always had a taste for torque, and the 328d's 2.0-liter engine with 180 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of twist shouldn't disappoint.