New 3 Series Earns “Top Safety Pick” from IIHS

BMW has been known for it’s long-standing commitment to offering class-leading safety with each new model and the latest 3 Series continues to prove that. Recently the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2012 BMW 3 Series Sedan a “Top Safety Pick”, meaning that it received a rating of “good”, the Institute’s highest rating, in all four tests. These tests include the 40 mph frontal offset impact, side impact, rear impact protection/head restraint, and rollover protection. Also, in order to earn to be named a “Top Safety Pick” the car must have an electronic stability control system, like the BMW Dynamic Stability Control.

Tom Baloga, BMW Vice President of Engineering for the U.S., had the following to say in response to the IIHS recognition: “While we remain committed to providing the best possible passenger protection, we believe that the best crash is the one avoided. The new 3 Series offers even more active safety technology, firmly rooted in the dynamics and handling that have made it the quintessential sports sedan though six generations.”

Aside from having Dynamic Stability Control, ABS brakes, Bluetooth® technology, front and side airbags, and head protection airbags, the new 3 Series has available features that were previously introduced on higher-end models. These additional safety features include a full-color Head-up Display, Lane Departure Warning system, Rearview Camera with Top-View, and a Blind-Spot Warning system.

The all-new 3 Series has been welcomed with open arms since it’s debut, and with news that it has been named a “Top Safety Pick” from IIHS, we expect a warm response from those consumers looking to gain some peace of mind.

2013 BMW 135is

The 335 “is” can be considered one of BMW’s most underestimated models as it has been flying under the radar since the release in 2010. Many people don’t realize that this car is just short of the M3 in some categories, while surpassing it in others. Not to be confused with the recently unveiled M-Performance line, BMW plans on introducing a 135 “is” model for the 2013 production year. This car is going to set a median between the base 135i and the upcoming M135i set to release next year, and should have a large enough consumer base to help expose the mentality BMW had when creating the “is” models.

BMW’s “is” models focus on enhancing the vehicle’s performance and dynamic design details in order to grab the attention of true enthusiasts. The 135is is going to be offered in a coupe and convertible both powered by BMW’s award winning TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-6 engine (N55). Stock this engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb.-feet of torque, but the “is” model will be tuned allowing it to snag an additional 20 horsepower and 17 lb.-feet of torque. Not to worry; this isn’t going to sacrifice any MPG’s.

The coupe and convertible models will both offer a 6-speed manual and an optional 7-speed Double Clutch Transmission (DCT) and will both come equipped with a sport suspension system. BMW really took initiative when developing this system as it incorporates the use of an aluminum double-pivot front suspension and a five-link fully independent rear suspension composed of lightweight steel, helping to create a comfortable yet sporty drive that is suitable for anyone.

Of course BMW could not let this car roll out without adding Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC). The DTC system provides electronic intervention to prevent loss of vehicle control, but has a higher threshold before it activates in the “is” models. Also, in addition to its duties as a safety system, the DSC system on the 135is is programmed specifically to enhance performance-oriented driving.

On the exterior, the new 135is coupes and convertibles will be sporting exclusive 18” wheels, a unique high-gloss black kidney grill, black mirror caps, and special exterior badges. The interior of the 135is will feature stainless steel pedals, special interior badges, and an optional black leather seating package with blue stitching.

The 135is coupe and convertible are available to order now and are expected to be in BMW showrooms this coming Fall.  Prices are set at $44,145 for the coupe and $48,845 for the convertible, including the $895 charge for destination and handling. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information on this vehicle!

2012 American Le Mans Series

This weekend BMW Team RLL will be shifting gears to try and capture it’s first victory for the American Le Mans Series, which will take place at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California. For the past two years, BMW has finished in the runner-up spot and this year Team RLL looks to change that.

Any 6 hour race is grueling under ideal conditions, and combined with the heat on the West Coast, this race will surely test the stoutness of our BMW’s, drivers, and crew.

The American Le Mans Monterey race is the third round of the 2012 ALMS championship. The race will take the green flag at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time tomorrow, Saturday, May 12 and ESPN2 will air the race at 5 p.m. ET on Sunday, May 13. Live coverage is also available starting at 4:15 p.m. Eastern Time on ESPN3. Tune in and cheer on BMW Team RLL as our cars fly around the track!

*For more information on tomorrow’s race, check out the following link: http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/experience/newsfeed/post/2012/05/08/Laguna-Seca-ALMS-Preview.aspx

2013 BMW M5 Now Available for Order

The wait is finally over! You can now pre-order the highly anticipated F10 M5! Earlier this year rumors were spreading that the new M5 would have all wheel drive, and those rumors were silenced but the hype is still real.

The new M5 is going to be the most powerful yet, and with all the success BMW has had in previous years with the M5, the new F10 M5 should be nothing short of spectacular!

So what are you waiting for? Call today for more information on the 2013 M5, or if you need assistance in building the vehicle specific to your likings. You can also check out our previous blog about the new M5 or visit : http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/vehicles/2012/M/M5Explore.aspx

BMW M135i

With the launch of BMW’s new M-Performance parts catalog, many consumers were probably worried that the U.S. market would be satisfied. Although this may be true, it doesn’t mean that we don’t want more! The M-vehicles are very popular among U.S. consumers, and usually we are left in the dark when a new, exclusive model comes out, right? Well not this time. The CEO of BMW M, Friedrich Nitschke, recently confirmed that an M-vehicle has been “specifically built for the U.S. market and customers”.

The 2013 M135i has been lurking on the internet for the past few months ever since the new M-Performance parts catalog was released, and now it is confirmed that the U.S. will be seeing a version of this car, specifically designed for our taste buds. Although what we have been seeing is a hatchback version of the M135i, you can rest assure that this model will stay specific to the European market. Instead, the U.S. will probably receive a coupe version of the M135i, which is more to our likings anyway.

*2012 BMW M135i Hatchback

In the form of a hatchback, the M135i made its debut at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show, and was equipped with an M-performance brake kit and 18-inch double spoke M-wheels. We can’t be sure if the front bumper and aesthetics will be in sync with the hatchback featured in Geneva, however it is safe to say that the U.S. M135i coupe will have the same power-plant as the hatchback. This 3.0 liter V6 with TwinPower turbo technology will produce about 340 horsepower, which is more than enough to satisfy those consumers who are counting.

No official release date has been set for the M135i, but it is expected to be available for the 2013 production year. The 1-Series M-vehicles were gone pretty soon after launch, so we can only hope that the new version will be produced in sufficient quantities. Stay tuned for updates on this model as more news becomes available!

BMW Develops Olympic Training Technology

BMW, Official Mobility Partner of the United States Olympic Committee, recently announced the completion and hand-off of it’s First Olympic Technology Project. Over the past year, BMW has developed a velocity measurement system in collaboration with sports scientists at the USOC and USA Track & Field that will help train Olympic athletes for years to come.

The system was developed and adapted off the vehicle sensor technology found in current BMW models. How does it work? The system works by capturing an athlete in motion, then automatically calculates performance metrics for coaches to use in training long jumpers.

In the execution of a long jump, there are three key parameters that will determine the athlete’s performance: horizontal approach velocity, vertical take-off velocity, and take-off angle. The BMW velocity measurement system utilizes advanced stereo-vision technology and machine vision software algorithms to capture and analyze athletes in motion to measure these parameters. This system is very similar to the technology being tested by BMW to improve the automotive active safety features in their vehicles, such as the object and pedestrian detection systems.

According to Bryan Clay, 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist and Member of the BMW Performance Team, the feedback this tool is able to provide immediately enables him to make minor adjustments to his jumps that could equate to significant performance gains.

This technology has become a permanent fixture at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista,California and will be used by the many athletes hoping to compete in the London 2012 Olympic Games.

BMW Achieves Record Sales for First Quarter of 2012

In 2011, BMW earned the title as the best-selling luxury automaker in America, selling a total of 247,907 units. If that wasn’t enough, BMW recently announced that it has had record sales for the first quarter of this year, which puts them on track to have another record setting year for 2012.

BMW said in a statement that it sold 425,528 cars worldwide in the January-March period, which is up 11.2 percent compared to 2011. BMW sales have seen growth in all key markets, including Germany, the United States and China.

Chinese sales jumped 36.8 percent to 80,014 vehicles, with the United States up 16.6 percent at 75,729 vehicles and Germany up 2.0 percent to 66,222 vehicles.

BMW officials stated that Q1 of 2012 was the “best quarter in our company’s history”. The company continues to have high expectations for itself, setting goals to reach record sales of its BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce brand cars.

Here at Rallye BMW we are very proud to be a part of this great accomplishment, and hope that the continued success of BMW shines through Rallye as it always has!

2012 Rallye Motorsport Show

Save the date! Rallye BMW’s third annual Motorsport Show is going to be held on June 3rd this year! With Summer just around the corner, car fanatics have undoubtedly started to prep their rides for the nice weather. What better way to kick off the Summer then by offering BMW enthusiasts a chance to show off their favorite cars?

This event also serves as a great social place for the audience to enjoy the cars on display, discuss upcoming events, and check out our showroom and everything else we offer at Rallye BMW. The Motorsport Show has been a big hit ever since it started in 2010, and we expect to have another great turnout this year.

Last year, even with rainy weather, about 800 people attended the Rallye Motorsport Show. Once again the show will be held rain or shine, and we expect to have at least 1,000 people in attendance this year. Starting time for the show is at 11:00 am and it will run until 3:00 pm. If you plan on registering your car for this show, please plan on arriving to our dealership a little early so that you can sign your vehicle in. 

FAQ:

1) How do I register?

Email Gjavier@rallyebmw.com to register your car for this event

2) Is there a limit to the amount of people who can register?

About 85-90 cars will be able to participate in the show

3) When do I need to register by?

Registration is now open! Please register as soon as possible, spots are filling up fast!

4) What are the different trophies that I can win?

Last year there were five different trophies up for grabs at the show:

• Favorite Modified BMW
• Favorite Classic BMW
• Favorite BMWSedan
• Favorite BMW Coupe
• Show Favorite

This year we have added four additional trophies:

• Favorite BMW SAV
• Favorite BMW Convertible
• Best Display
• Judges Choice

5) What if I just want to watch the show?

If you aren’t registering for the show, and just want to check out the cars that is fine too! We will have reserved parking at Rallye BMW and local businesses for those who are just coming to watch the show.

6) If I am registered for the show, can I leave early?

Unfortunately, you cannot leave early if you are registered for the show. The lot will be extremely full and trying to let cars out early will be very difficult, so if you are participating in the Motorsport Show please be prepared to stay until 3:00 pm.

*The will also be a few cool items in a raffle so be sure to get your tickets! We look forward to seeing everyone there!

Other Perks:

• Free Admission
• Free Food
• Live Music
• Raffles with cool prizes
• Special guests from BMW Headquarters will be in attendance to unveil new products
• Show entrants will receive a free gift bag and get a chance to win one of two driving school prizes

2013 BMW X1

The 2013 BMW X1 is going to make its debut in April at the New York Auto Show which is just around the corner and starting to create some buzz. The X1 has already been introduced to the European markets, and now its time for the U.S. to experience BMW’s smallest version in the X-series.

The X1 that is currently available in Europe will be receiving a facelift before making its way to the United States market, which will not be too drastic but will include remodeled bumpers, headlights, and wheels. Also it is expected that the next generation X1 will have an upgraded interior with new materials and the latest technologies.

 

Although theU.S.is only going to receive one version of the X1, the xDrive28i, it will be powered by the new N20 2.0 liter four-cylinder TwinPower turbocharged engine that has been gaining popularity throughout the BMW community. This engine, which is the same that is being used in the new F30 3-series, produces 245 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The 2013 X1 should see impressive fuel economy ratings and score highly in other performance categories, but no official statistics have been released yet. The power will be transferred to all four wheels using either a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic that can help improve fuel economy and reduce turbo lag. 

The 2013 X1 will be unveiled at the New York Auto Show, which starts April 6^th and will go on sale on theU.S. market in September of 2012. Feel free to contact us or stop by Rallye if you would like to learn more about the availability of this new model.

Auto Start/Stop Feature

Recently BMW has incorporated the use of an Auto Start/Stop feature for the new 1 and 3-series models, but consumers have been a little confused on what this technology does and how it operates. This new feature is part of the Efficient Dynamics program BMW has been developing, which strives to assist drivers so that their vehicles operate as efficiently as possible. When the system is in use, during stop-and-go traffic the engine shuts off when you come to a standstill and restarts when the car recognizes that traffic is moving again. This feature works together with the ECO PRO mode, and is said to help reduce fuel consumption as well as CO2 emissions.

The Auto Start/Stop feature operates differently according to the transmission your vehicle is equipped with:

Automatic Transmission: When the vehicle is in Drive, the Start/Stop function will shut off the engine whenever the car is brought to a stop and the brake pedal is pressed to keep the car from moving. After about one second of being stopped, the engine shuts off and the tachometer needle will point to the “ready” position. When the brake is released, the engine starts and you can continue driving as normal. The driver can also put the car in Park while the engine is off and release the brake pedal; putting the car in Drive again will automatically start the engine.  

Manual Transmission: Like with the automatic transmission, the Start/Stop function will shut of the engine when the car is brought to a stop, however the car must be neutral and the clutch pedal must be released. The engine is shut off after approximately one second and the tachometer needle will point to the “ready” position. When the clutch pedal is depressed, the car is automatically restarted and you can continue driving as you were.

Interesting Features:

• The engine can be restarted by the driver in anticipation of driving off by briefly applying additional pressure to the brake pedal or by releasing the brake pedal slightly.
• If the “Automatic Hold” feature is activated the car will hold itself once the car has come to a stop and the engine has been switched off so that drivers do not need to hold down the brake. If the driver re-applies the brakes while this feature is on, it will cause the engine to start automatically.
• If you are looking to drive off quickly, it is possible to prevent engine shut down once stopped. Within one second of stopping your car, apply additional force to the brake pedal and then release the additional pressure and continue holding the brake pedal with the normal force you use to depress the brakes.

Disabling Automatic Start/Stop: The Start/Stop feature can be manually disabled by pressing the button above the engine start button. Unfortunately, there is no way to default the Start/Stop feature so that it is off when you start your car, so the button must be pressed each time you restart your car to disable the system.

* To learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us or stop by Rallye anytime and we will be glad to assist you. A video explanation can be found here on the BMW USA website: BMW Auto Start/Stop Feature