all about automotives

2010 Ferrari F450

2009-12-20T16:38:00.000-08:00

Ferrari has begun the development for the successor of their best seller compact mid-V8 supercar. Following a line of respectable ancestors, like the F355, 360 Modena or the currently in production F430, the new car is expected for not sooner than 2010. With a supposed displacement of 4.5 liters, the new Ferrari is expected to be named F450.

Spy photographers have caught in tests several mules that point clearly that a replacement for the F430 is in development al Maranello. Driving on the Fiorano race-track and disguised as F430 Challenge Stradale, the test cars show a medium development stage for the smallest Ferrari.

Early rumors pointed that the new car will be equipped with a V10 engine, in order to be successfully compete against the Lamborghini Gallardo. The changes made to Formula 1 regulations, that nowadays require the use of V8 engines, make this step irrational; therefore it is logical for Ferrari to stick with the traditional V8 configuration.

The main competitor, the child of the other Italian supercar producing house, the Lamborghini Gallardo uses a 5.0 liter originated from Audi. One might expect that Ferrari will improve their new comer displacement up to the same value in order to provide the same level of performance.

2010 Ferrari F450

But, Ferrari is known to offer some of the best power per displacement ratios; therefore they are expected to produce 500 or more bhp, by only increasing the displacement to 4.5 liters. The rest of the power gain will be due to an increased maximum rev limit, of up to 10,000 rpm, improved air flowing and cooling.

Design lines will not be a revolution, but will be changed in order to keep up with the technical advances. All of the air intakes will be enlarged to ensure an increment in the cooling required by the improved engine and brakes. At the rear there is a possibility to see middle mounted exhausts, inspired by the Challenge Stradale.

-topspeed.com-

2010 Ford Fusion

2009-12-13T06:19:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Fusion is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in 6 trims, ranging from the I4 S to the V6 SPORT AWD.

Upon introduction, the I4 S is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, I4, 175-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 31-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The V6 SPORT AWD is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 263-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT Video

2009-12-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

A picture-slide video showing 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT

2010 Mitsubishi Commercial: Carpool

2009-12-05T19:11:00.000-08:00

2010 Mitsubishi Commercial: Carpool

2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

2009-12-05T19:02:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Eclipse Spyder is a 2-door, 4-passenger convertible, or convertible sports car, available in two trims, the GS and the GT.

Upon introduction, the GS is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4, 162-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The GT is equipped with a standard 3.8-liter, V6, 265-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

The Eclipse Spyder comes standard with front airbags and front side-impact airbags with head extensions, vehicle stability control with traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

For 2010, Mitsubishi has enhanced the GS model with styling cues from the GT trim. Also, Bluetooth, rear view camera, and auxiliary input jack are available.

2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse Coupe

2009-12-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Eclipse is a 2-door, 4-passenger family coupe, or sports coupe, available in 3 trims, ranging from the GS to the GT.

Upon introduction, the GS is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4, 162-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The GT is equipped with a standard 3.8-liter, V6, 265-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2010 Eclipse is a carryover from 2009.

What You Should Do When Engine Is Leaking Oil Past The Valve Cover Gaskets

2009-11-19T04:29:00.000-08:00

Bite the bullet and buy a new set of valve cover gaskets. Most cork valve cover gaskets usually cost less than $20 and are fairly easy to install on many engines. You may have to disconnect and remove some plumbing or other accessories to get to the valve covers, but on many engines the job is usually within the capabilities of a do-it-yourselfer. If the valve covers are buried or access is difficult, then let a professional replace the gaskets for you.

Tightening the valve cover bolts or screws will rarely stop an oil leak because the gasket is usually cracked, crushed or has lost its natural elasticity. Cork gaskets only last about four to six years before they age harden, become brittle and start to leak. Molded silicone rubber gaskets, on the other hand, (which are used on many late model domestic and import engines) often last the life of the engine. But molded rubber gaskets are a lot more expensive than die cut cork gaskets. That's why cork gaskets have long been used by the vehicle manufacturers.

Some engines do not have gaskets, but instead use a rubbery-glue called "RTV silicone sealer (the "RTV" stands for Room Temperature Vulcanizing). If this is the case, you can remove the valve cover, scrape off all the old RTV, and either apply a fresh bead of RTV silicone sealer to the valve cover flange or head mating surface or install a conventional gasket.

CAUTION: Do not let any pieces of rubber or debris fall into the engine. Also, if you decide to use RTV sealer and your engine has an oxygen sensor (which almost all 1981 and later engines do), make sure the RTV sealer is the "low volatile" variety that is approved for use with oxygen sensors. Some types of RTV give off silicone vapor that can be sucked through the crankcase and contaminate the oxygen sensor.

Changing Air Filter

2009-11-15T07:18:00.000-08:00

It's hard to give a specific time or mileage figure because the life of the filter depends on how much crud it ingests. A filter that lasts 20,000 or even 30,000 miles on a vehicle that's driven mostly on expressways may last only a month or two in a rural setting where the vehicle is driven frequently on gravel roads. Changing it annually or every 15,000 miles for preventative maintenance may be a good recommendation for the city driver, but not its country cousin.

Regardless of the mileage or time, a filter should be replaced before it reaches the point where it creates a significant restriction to airflow. But when exactly that point is reached is subject to opinion.

A slightly dirty filter actually cleans more efficiently than a brand new filter. That's because the debris trapped by the filter element helps screen out smaller particles that try to get through. But eventually every filter reaches the point where it causes enough of a pressure drop to restrict airflow. Fuel economy, performance and emissions begin to deteriorate and get progressively worse until the dirty filter is replaced.

Many heavy-duty trucks have a "restriction" meter on the air filter housing that signals when the filter is dirty enough to need replacing. But lacking such a device, the best you can do is guess.

Removing the filter and holding it up to a light will show you how dirty it is. If it's really caked with dirt, it obviously needs to be replaced. Trying to shake or blow the dirt out is a waste of time because too much of it will be embedded in the filter fibers.

NOTE: Many filters that appear to be dirty are in fact still good and do not really need to be replaced. So it's up to you. If you think it's dirty, replace it. If you don't think it's dirty enough to need replacing, then don't.

Video Review: Lexus GS 450H

2009-11-15T00:20:00.001-08:00

2010 Lexus GS Hybrid

2009-11-15T00:02:00.000-08:00

from: egmcartech.com

For 2010, Lexus has given its GS 450h hybrid sedan some exterior and technology enhancements. The 2010 Lexus GS 450h gets subtle changes including an upgraded grille, clear taillamp covers and 18-inch alloy wheels. The mid-size hybrid sedan also gets the blue Lexus hybrid badging which is shared across the Lexus line-up.

As for technology upgrades, the 2010 Lexus GS 450h gets iPod/USB connectivity, streaming audio via Bluetooth and an integrated satellite radio receiver as standard on the Lexus Premium Sound System. The optional Lexus Navigation system gets a new hard disk drive based system with Voice Command casual-language voice recognition and Bluetooth phonebook download ability. It also gets XMWeather and XM NavTraffic.

Power still comes a 3.5L V6 mated to a Lexus Hybrid Drive system producing a total of 340-hp. It allows the GS 450h to go from 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds while averaging an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22/25 mpg (city/highway) when you drive it efficiently.

Pricing starts at $56,550.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Commercial

2009-11-07T15:59:00.000-08:00

Nice Japan made automobile...

2010 BMW 5-Series

2009-11-07T06:46:00.000-08:00

[Source: motorauthority.com]

With the 2009 Audi A6 facelift now on sale and the 2010 Mercedes Benz E-Class just a month away from hitting showrooms, attention now turns to the next-generation BMW 5-Series. A class leader since its inception, the 5-Series Sedan and Touring wagon remain crucial vehicles in BMW’s lineup and with the next-gen versions now just months away speculation about the final design has been heating up.

The new 5-Series Sedan is set to arrive in late 2009 for the 2010 model year and heavily disguised prototypes have already been seen testing around the streets of Munich. While those prototypes revealed few details, these latest computer generated rendering gives us a clear indication as to what to expect for the new executive wagon.

Most of the planned changes are skin-deep. Under the new sheet metal, BMW will continue with its new found love of turbocharging. The new 4.4L twin-turbo V8 from the recently revealed X6 is expected to appear in a range topping model, while more turbo-diesel variants are expected to join the lineup as well. BMW is currently developing its second generation common rail system for its diesel powerplants, which will operate at greater pressure for improved performance. The transmission systems will include a six-speed manual and a six-speed Steptronic semi-auto gearbox, however a new eight-speed unit from ZF is also expected to be available.

Performance will also be improved thanks to the extensive use of lightweight materials including carbon-fiber and aluminum. The car’s construction will be a hybrid of an aluminum spaceframe for the front section, and a traditional steel monocoque for the passenger compartment and rear. This will ensure a favorable front-to-rear weight distribution and improved handling. Up front will be an independent suspension with MacPherson struts, with a multi-link layout for the rear. High-performance models will include carbon-fiber body panels to shed even more weight.

Commercial: Porsche 911 Carrera

2009-11-04T07:22:00.000-08:00

Nice Porsche TV commercial. It's about about who have so much passion on 911 Carrera.

2010 Toyota Prius Can Self Park - Automatically

2009-11-02T08:07:00.000-08:00

Above video show of it special function: Self-Park System. Damn.. I wish I had one on my old "Ferarrrri".

How-to-use video about the self automatic parking system.

Humans are getting lazy.. hahaha

2010 Mustang Commercial - First Kiss

2009-11-02T07:53:00.000-08:00

Stupid.. making out on somebody's car.. hahaha

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

2009-11-01T02:31:00.000-08:00

from tuneyourevo.blogspot.com

This is the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. Though Mitsu has lightly disguised it as the Prototype X concept car for the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, this turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sedan is the Evo X. No doubt about it. We’re so sure about it that we’ll just refer to the Prototype X as the next Evo X for the rest of this report.

Few production cars are as focused or as frenetic as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Since 1992, the all-wheel-drive Evo has displayed its winning magic not only in the World Rally Championship for which it was created but also on open roads from London to Los Angeles. It’s even a must-have machine in the virtual world of Gran Turismo.

The Prototype X anticipates the long-awaited introduction of the production 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X at the Tokyo Motor Show later this fall. When the car arrives, it will be the best-looking, fastest-cornering Evo yet. It will also represent a significant shift in the car’s personality as it becomes an all-around performance automobile, not just a slightly civilized competition car.

After nine generations, Mitsubishi’s cult car has an all-new chassis platform and an all-new engine. Even Mitsubishi’s all-wheel-drive hardware has received a high-tech makeover.

Mitsubishi introduced a concept version of the next-gen EVO at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show named the Mitsubishi Concept-X.
It is said to be put into production by mid 2009..

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X will feature a completely redesigned chassis and computer system. It will boast a new all wheel drive system that will control braking, throttle input, and real-time suspension adjustment (all together called S-AWC, or Super All Wheel control) simultaneously with the Active Center Differential. The S-AWC uses torque vectoring to send different amount of torque to any wheel at any given time. It will also featue an automatic six speed double-clutch transmission with steering-mounted magnesium alloy shift paddles.Mitsubishi debuted the Prototype-X concept at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Michigan, USA.There is speculation among the press that the concept is in fact a lightly disguised Lancer Evolution X, and the production model will have minimal differences at most

It takes just one glance at this car’s sleek exterior to realize that it’s no longer business as usual in the Mitsubishi’s design studio. Gone is the souped-up look of a Tokyo taxi and in comes a lean, purposeful shape with great proportions. Though it’s disguised by projector-beam headlights and fast-acting LED taillights, this is a new sort of Mitsubishi, far more European in character than ever before.

There’s plenty of aluminum in the bodywork, including the hood, roof and the distinctive square-section fender blisters. Twin exhausts are an Evo first, and help improve the look. A tall rear wing has quickly become an Evo trademark, so it’s no surprise that it continues here (although it’s no longer made of carbon fiber). The same goes for the aerodynamic diffuser that peeks out from underneath the rear bumper.

The 20-inch wheels seen on this car won’t make it into production and will be replaced by 18-inch rims.

The Evo uses the new Mitsubishi Lancer chassis, itself based on a platform originally developed in partnership with DaimlerChrysler. The Lancer is actually 0.6 inch shorter than before, but the wheelbase has been stretched 1.5 inches to 103.7 inches. The car is 2.7 inches wider and 3.8 inches taller. The chassis is more rigid in bending and torsion has improved more than 50 percent, but it’s unfortunately also about 200 pounds heavier.

Mitsubishi engineers hope that an all-new turbocharged inline-4 will provide enough power to cope with the extra weight. Designated the MB11, this all-aluminum, DOHC 2.0-liter design has symmetrical cylinder dimensions, which should deliver free-revving performance. Mitsubishi’s MIVEC variable-valve-timing technology has been applied to both camshafts to broaden the power band. Mitsubishi has also done its best to engineer this aluminum-block, open-deck engine to withstand the stress of turbocharging as well as the former iron-block 4G63 design.

Mitsubishi is remaining tight-lipped about power and torque figures from the turbo MB11 for now, but we expect horsepower to increase to 320 hp from 286, while torque will climb to 325 pound-feet from 295. This power should enable the Evo to sprint to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds.

More big news comes from the availability of a six-speed, dual-clutch transmission like Volkswagen’s DSG unit. Shift paddles are mounted on the steering wheel, while a switch on the console delivers three different shift modes. For purists, a six-speed manual gearbox option will also be offered.

The Evo X’s most significant piece of high-tech kit will be the addition of Mitsubishi’s Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) technology. It begins with the most elaborate form of the current Evo IX’s all-wheel-drive system, which includes Active Center Differential (ACD), Active Yaw Control (AYC) and Active Stability Control (ASC). S-AWC adds active suspension, active braking control and active steering to enhance the Evo’s AYC for quicker steering response and faster cornering speeds.

In April 2006, we sampled an early Evo X prototype fitted with only half of the S-AWC package, featuring upgraded AYC and active braking control. Even then, we noted the clever integration of heightened AYC reaction, and active brake control enabled us to more precisely control power delivery and achieve quicker times through a slippery slalom course. The car felt more composed, as less steering lock was required to cut through the cones, while the rear wheels tucked in nicely and obediently followed the fronts.

With the addition of active suspension and active steering systems to the production Evo X, we expect even sharper steering response and a more composed ride. Better still, the steering should feel as natural and progressive as it does in the Evo IX.

The new braking setup features a combination of a revised Brembo four-piston caliper with drilled rotors, and the electronic stability system doesn’t seem to engage the antilock braking effect until you’ve exhausted the S-AWC’s ability to maintain traction. So the fun zone is even larger than before, yet it’s still easy to bring the car under control once you finally scare yourself.

Inside, the new cabin is a huge improvement over the current model’s bland effort. New Recaro seats envelop the driver. (The suedelike inserts in the seat upholstery unfortunately are a feature only of the concept car.) Overall, the materials achieve a higher standard, although the design cues are much the same. A navigation system will be available, while the showcar features a premium sound system with a huge trunk-mounted subwoofer.

Improved ergonomics also reward dedicated drivers, as the three-position switch that dials the center differential to different torque distribution settings for pavement, gravel and snow has been relocated from the dashboard to the steering wheel.

This was originally the concept for the 2008 Evo X but due to the recent release of the WRX STi, this Concept will be later introduced. We should expect 305 hp from the 310 EVO with an interior/exterior more like a luxury car. The best of both worlds!!

2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback

2009-11-01T02:24:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback marks the return of a 4-door hatchback body style to this compact-car lineup. Sedan versions of Mitsubishi's smallest car continue without any major changes for 2010. Front-wheel-drive Lancer DE and ES sedans are powered by a 152-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The front-drive GTS sedan and new GTS Sportback have a 168-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. DE, ES, and GTS are available with a manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Lancer Ralliart reprises its sedan body style and also offers a Sportback hatchback. Ralliarts have all-wheel drive and a 237-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The AWD Lancer Evolution returns after a hiatus during the 2009 model year. It reprises GSR and MR trims, each with a 291-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. GSRs have a 5-speed manual transmission; MRs have a 6-speed automatic. New for 2010 is an Evolution MR Touring, which includes leather upholstery and a sunroof. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Most models are available with a touch-screen navigation system and a 30-gigabyte hard drive for storage and playback of digital audio files.

Audi A3 2010 model

2009-11-01T02:09:00.000-08:00

The first new A3 to go in production will be a 3-door sports hatch with a very dynamic line and an ascendant profile. The front will be even more dynamic than it currently is, and the rear will offer an inclined window. The other two will be a 5-door sedan and a convertible.

LEDs will be included in the front lights for daytime use, in the side mirrors and also in the rear as braking lights. The lateral protection strips will be eliminated for a cleaner design. The wheelbase will be slightly increased and the car will also be widened.

New petrol FSI and diesel TDI engines will be offered matched with brand-new gearboxes including a 7-gears dual clutch DSG transmission. A future S3 top model equipped with a turbo engine is expected to offer up to 300 bhp. Also not confirmed, an RS3 might also be possible.

2010 Audi A3

Inside information points that the next generation A3 will also offer hybrid propulsion, test mules from Audi and Volkswagen being currently in tests. The development of the hybrid models is less likely to be ready until 2010; therefore they will not be available at the initial launch of the A3. But they are expected to represent a key element in the popularity of the future model, offering the Audi performance with a low fuel consumption and significantly reduced pollution.

2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged

2009-10-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged

By Justin Berkowitz
March 31, 2008

Last week, the Americans sold Jaguar to the Indians. After losing billions on the English marque, Ford finally unloaded their perennial loss maker on Tata Motors. Amidst varying reports on the Indian conglomerate’s plans for the brand, the new XF sedan continues to roll down the assembly line. We’ve already driven the base model of the car that is (for now) Tata’s greatest hope for immediate profit. Now we turn to the Supercharged model. Stateside, acquiring the XF Supercharged requires an extra ten grand (and the rest) above than the base car’s base price. Is it worth it?

Externally, all that separates the “entry level” XF from the Supercharged variant are wheel styles and a boot badge. According to Jag’s Senior Design Manager, that’s because “a customer is buying an XF, rather than an XF in a particular trim level.” (Tell that to the F&I guy.) No question: Jag missed a trick here. Losing the front grill mesh differentiations that once identified the faster (whinier?) cats may please the beancounters and stealth wealth fighter jockeys, but there’s money in them ‘thar body kits.

Anyway, I [still] think the XF’s front end is boring, while the profile and rear are really rather smart indeed.

The XF Supercharged’s cabin is, like the base XF, the finest interior in any mass-produced car built today. The materials put the mmm in sumptuous, and the fit and finish are fitter than Jill Wagner and more finished than the Mona Lisa. Jag's boffins packed-in loads of the trendy gadgets as standard, from touch screen iPod integration to non-SYNC voice command. In contrast to their German and Japanese competition, Jag’s taken great pains to hide the gizmology until summoned (“Jenkins? Be a good man and bring me my Twisted Sister CD”).

As with the two other [non-particular] Jaguar XF trims, there are only two options: a heated steering wheel and active cruise control. I wouldn’t buy either, because A) the climate control works B) the XF is still a Jag (why tempt the ghosts of Lord Lucas?) and C) the Jaguar XF Supercharged already has what you (as in I) really need: a supercharger.

Supercharger? What supercharger? Click the XF’s gimmicky (and yet geekily enjoyable) rotating gear knob into drive, gently ease the gas pedal rugwards and the XF’s Supercharged oozes into gear and proceeds at a suitably magisterial pace. The suspension coddles its inhabitants from real life rigors with brand-faithful grace. The moment curiosity gets the better of you, it’s instantly clear the XF Supercharged should be called the “Jaguar F=ma”.

For those unfamiliar with Newtonian physics, that means “Ah Jenkins. It looks as if we’re all about to die.” It must be said: 420hp is a lot of power. It’s enough shove to take the 4200 lbs. XF Supercharged from naught to sixty in five seconds flat. Thanks to 413 ft.-lbs. of twist, there is no effort to speak of; no progressive power build-up or loud exhaust note. The XF Supercharged’s V8 and seamless six-speed simply get on with the business of producing and delivering epic thrust, making a mockery of making a mockery of “lesser” engined sedans.

In fact, the Jaguar F=ma is the automotive equivalent of a young Roger Moore, arched eyebrow and all. Here we have a well-tailored $63k luxury sedan with an apparent predilection for timeless luxury and sedate brandy sniffing (a la Rolls Royce) with an engine that’s always ready, willing and able to get into some sort of no-holds-barred, fight-to-the-death brawl.

There’s no disappointment in handling either. You don’t feel like you’re carrying 2.1 tons of computer-controlled weight into the corners. Like the base XF, the supercharged model is Ali-light on its toes, whisking you around bends with enough neutral attitude and tarmac-clawing grip to satisfy all but the most suicidal driver. Again, the XF Supercharged’s suspension is remarkably un-Germanic in the process, despite 20-inch wheels.

Too many manufacturers think their higher-performance sedans have to imitate track cars, down to rock hard seats, tooth-chipping suspensions, a Cray wedged into the dashboard, carbon fiber and a bad-ass nasty demeanor. The XF Supercharged is another kind of car entirely. It’s a first-tier luxury sedan that just happens to have afterburners in the trunk.

With everything all-in, the Jaguar XF Supercharged undercuts its competitors’ prices. AND it’s better to look at, better to ride in and better to drive. Will it be a hit for Jaguar? Nope. Like the base XF, the Supercharged version lacks that final measure of visual flair and drama the brand’s American adherents demand. Strangely, the automaker’s designers didn’t roll-up their sleeves for this, the most sporting of Jags. Perhaps tastefully aggressive mods are on their way.

Meanwhile, with Jag’s Indian takeover adding fuel to the pyre, the XF Supercharged is destined for depreciation Hell– and used car Heaven.

2007 BMW X3 3.0si

2007-01-15T01:57:00.000-08:00

The BMW X3 Receives Greater Performance, Enhanced Safety, Updated Styling, Interior Refinements and New Luxury Options for 2007

Building on its reputation as an agile, fun to drive, attainable BMW Sports Activity Vehicle, the X3 receives a significant freshening for the 2007 model year. It begins, of course, with a performance upgrade. It also includes additional safety features, revamped exterior styling, an increase in the level of interior refinement as well as new luxury and performance oriented options. Reflecting its increase in performance, it also gets a new name - the BMW X3 3.0si. As a BMW SAV, it will again come standard with BMW's innovative xDrive all-wheel drive. The 2007 BMW X3 3.0si will arrive in U.S. showrooms early this fall.

A new engine and transmission choices offer even greater performanceThe BMW X3 3.0si will be powered by the award-winning aluminum/magnesium 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, featuring VALVETRONIC technology. In the X3 3.0si, this engine produces 260 hp at 6,600 rpm and 225 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. This represents an increase of 35 horsepower and 11 lb-ft of torque. True to its BMW heritage, the X3 3.0si will be offered with a six-speed manual as standard equipment. A new six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission will be offered as a no cost option in place of the previous 5-speed. The performance and feel are both improved thanks to incredibly quick gear changes. The result is a significant reduction in acceleration times for both transmissions. With the six-speed manual, the X3 3.0si accelerates from 0 - 60 mph is 6.9 seconds, an improvement of 0.7 seconds over the previous X3 3.0i. With the new six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic, the X3 3.0si goes from 0 - 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, a 0.8 second improvement. In typical BMW fashion, this increase in performance does not come at the sacrifice of efficiency.

An enhanced Dynamic Stability Control system works in concert with standard xDrive all-wheel driveThe Dynamic Stability Control system in the 2007 X3 3.0si includes all of the latest safety enhancements. These include Brake Drying to improve emergency stopping capability in wet conditions, Brake Standby to give an edge in emergency braking, Start-off Assistant and Brake Fade Compensation.

The 2007 X3 3.0si becomes the first BMW SAV to include Dynamic Traction Control as part of DSC. At the touch of a button, DTC waits for a higher threshold of wheel-slip before engaging DSC functions. This helps when starting off on loose snow, for example. It also offers the driving enthusiast another dimension of driving joy.

In order to ensure a high degree of stability and traction under all conditions, the xDrive all-wheel drive system, DSC and the engine management system are networked via Integrated Chassis Management. Working together, the systems will react to a loss of traction at any wheel by first utilizing xDrive to move traction to the front or rear axle as appropriate. Then, if necessary, DSC will work to help stabilize the vehicle.
Styling enhancements inside and out distinguish the 2007 BMW X3 3.0siThe front styling of the X3 3.0si has been enhanced with a new front bumper that frames a new, slightly larger twin-kidney grill. The cleaner headlight assembly no longer includes the DOT amber reflector, which moves to the fender. The optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights now include the corona light rings. The headlight washers, which are included with the Cold Weather Package, now retract into the bumper. The new rear bumper is highlighted with chrome exhaust tips. The new taillight cluster includes horizontal LED taillights. Adaptive Brake Lights enable the distinctive new taillights to illuminate along with, and at the same intensity as the brake lights in an emergency stop. Newly styled 17-inch wheels are standard, with 18-inch wheels available as a stand-alone option.

The more highly refined interior is immediately apparent. The new dashboard material has a more luxurious grain. The dashboard now has wood trim to match the center console and door pulls. The door panels have been enhanced with solid door pockets and additional upholstery above the armrests. When leather upholstery is ordered, the upholstery on the door panels includes stitching for an added premium luxury detail. The standard multi-function steering wheel is a new three-spoke design. Audiophiles will appreciate the new standard auxiliary input jack located on the back of the center console. For added comfort, 16-way comfort seats are available as an option. These include power headrest adjustment and a two-piece adjustable backrest.

2007 X3 enhancements continue with the packages

The content of the popular Premium Package has been improved to include a compass in the rearview mirror, a Universal Garage Door Opener and power-folding auto-dimming exterior mirrors. BMW Assist now includes four years of service. The Cold Weather Package adds heated rear seats to the heated front seats, headlight washers and ski-bag. A heated steering wheel remains a stand-alone option. For the driving enthusiast, the Sport Package content remains the same. For those who want the ultimate in handling and responsiveness, the optional upgrade now includes mixed-size 19-inch wheels with performance tires.

The styling updates to the 2007 BMW X3 3.0si make this Sports Activity Vehicle even more elegant and comfortable while the performance enhancements, in true BMW tradition, ensure that it remains the vehicle of choice for the driving enthusiast.