BMW Z4 sDrive 28i

Even BMW has jumped on the bandwagon with the release of a new 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-Cylinder unit that made its debut on the X1. Today, BMW announced that the Z4 hardtop-roadster will be the first U.S. model to receive the force-fed four-pot.
The 2.0-liter unit will power the Z4 sDrive 28i, which replaces the Z4 sDrive30i that’s motivated by BMW’s renowned 3.0-liter naturally aspirated straight-six. The four-cylinder engine combine highpressure direct-injection and BMW’s VALVETRONIC intake control with a forced induction system consisting of a single twin-scroll turbocharger for an output of 240HP at 5,500 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 1,250 rpm.
In comparison, the inline-6 in the Z4 sDrive 30i delivers 255HP at 6,600 rpm and 220 lb-ft at 2,600 rpm.The Bavarian company said it expects a fuel efficiency gain of approximately 20% over the naturally aspirated engine it replaces when combined with the 8-speed automatic transmission.

BMW M5 Concept

Previewed by this concept, the upcoming, fifth-generation of the ultimate 5-series doesn't look quite so innocent anymore.

It’s safe to assume that the production car will look pretty much exactly like this “concept.” The front fascia is dominated by the fighter-jet-inspired central air intake, which is flanked by—what else?—two more gaping intakes. Unlike the regular 5-series, there are no fog lights on the M5, as M still doesn't put those on its cars. The hood is identical to that of the regular 5-series, and a fender vent is the only giveaway on the side that this is no ordinary 5-series. Get up close, though, and you’ll notice higher numbers stamped into the tire sidewalls, 265/35-20 up front and 295/30-20 out back. With four exhaust pipes and a diffuser, the rear is impressive, if nothing surprising. A small lip spoiler on the trunk increases downforce.

BMW 3-series

The BMW 3-series is both the company’s volume model and the industry’s sports-sedan benchmark. Others try to emulate it, but the 3-series’ great bones and smart evolution have given it a winning combination of road feel, responsiveness, and operating precision.

Next year, BMW will launch the sixth generation of  this quintessential sports sedan; it’s due in the U.S. for the 2013 model year. Code-named F30, the next 3 will come as a four-door first, followed by a station wagon (which may not make it to the States), then a handsome coupe, and, finally, another metal-top coupe/cabriolet.

The 3-series will grow slightly, more so in wheelbase than in overall length. While its front-engine, rear-wheel-drive architecture remains similar to the current model’s, the powertrain package comes in for a big overhaul.