Search the Community

seems like there is not much interest/discussion in the new X3 comes in xDrive20 and M50 ready for preorder eta oct/nov2024 delivery https://www.bmw.com.sg/en/all-models/x-series/x3/bmw-x3.html

Hi everyone, I'm starting a thread for all BMW owner. So we can share everything inside here. I'm currently driving G30, cheers and have a great weekend!

Admittedly, I’ve been putting this on the back burner for a while. With plenty of work to get through, tonnes of stories to clear, and multiple Cars & Kopi(Coffee) meets ongoing, I never felt I could give this piece the attention it truly deserved. And that hesitation mattered, because this was one of the most memorable drives I’ve ever had. Believe me, I’ve been on quite a few. This drive, though never really intending to be so, came to represent a series of personal milestones. Having already covered the Hakone Turnpike and its surrounding mountain roads on previous outings with both the M2 and the M3 Touring, it was time to look further afield and discover more of what Japan’s beautiful roads have to offer. And I had just the right material to reference: the little-known series Initial D. Jokes aside, while many like-minded enthusiasts were drawn into the world of automotive otaku culture through the adventures of Takumi Fujiwara and his panda AE86, it never truly appealed to me, until now. While the antics of Takumi and his friends existed in the imagination of Shuichi Shigeno, the locations where rivalries in the series were settled are very much real. With that in mind, I settled in and binge-watched the first two seasons of the anime, otherwise known as “stages” in Initial D speak. It may have taken me decades, but I’m happy to report that it is thoroughly enjoyable and brought back vivid memories of visiting Japan in the late ’90s, when Japanese sports car culture was arguably at its absolute peak. Enjoying the anime was, of course, just part of the research process. With the mountain roads based on real-life locations, it was also time to plan my drive to visit the now-legendary roads of Initial D. Keys in hand, I left the bustle of Tokyo behind and headed north. My first stop: Mt. Haruna, better known to fans as Mt. Akina, Takumi Fujiwara’s legendary stomping grounds. A short drive later, I found myself at Mt. Akagi, the domain of the Akagi RedSuns. To close out the day, I carved my way toward Nikko and the twisting turns of the Irohazaka, the proving ground of Team Emperor and the stage for Kai Kogashiwa’s infamous MR2 jump. Google Maps might have plotted the journey at just under eight hours, but my experience told a different story. With lunch breaks, refreshments, repeated runs for photos and videos, and the occasional pause to drink in the scenery, the drive stretched closer to 10 or 11 hours. Every stop was part of the adventure, each turn steeped in the history of the roads that had inspired generations of enthusiasts. The car for the job? A gorgeous San Remo matt green G29 Z4 M40i, courtesy of BMW Japan's press fleet. Having had the privilege of driving and sampling almost all of the latest machines from Munich over the years as a hobbyist writer, the Z4 was, for me, the car that first kick-started my journey into automotive journalism with the marque. While it might have taken place almost 18 years ago, I still remember that car with fond and vivid memories. No less memorable was the fact that it was an M Roadster variant, with its S54 engine snarling and screaming right behind your ears with the roof down. It was, and still is, one of the most exhilarating drives I’ve ever had. A drive so enjoyable I emptied two full tanks of fuel over a weekend. Interestingly, having sampled multiple variants of the Z4’s second generation over the years, the final iteration of BMW’s roadster had eluded me, due to both scheduling and availability issues. Seven years after its launch, and sadly a year before the model’s decommissioning, it was finally time for me to have a go. With some beautiful ribbons of tarmac ahead, I truly couldn’t think of a better way to fall in love with driving all over again. With a full day of driving ahead, it made plenty of sense to set off bright and early; this is Tokyo, after all. After a relatively mundane and uneventful series of highways and byways, my next stop beckoned, Mt Haruna. Nestled in Gunma Prefecture, Mt. Haruna rises to 1,449 meters and is crowned by the serene Haruna Lake, a crater lake formed within the caldera of an ancient volcano. The area has long been a destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering well-marked trails that range from gentle strolls to challenging ascents, each framed by lush forests and seasonal blooms. At the summit sits Haruna Shrine, a centuries-old Shinto site offering panoramic views of the mountains and Kanto plains. On this crisp morning, though, none of that was the focus. What mattered were the mountain’s twisting roads. Tight hairpins, flowing sweepers, and steep gradients. The legendary roads upon which the iconic panda AE86 danced with perfect finesse. The only difference today was the mighty bellow of the B58's 382 horses over the Toyota's screaming 4AGE. As the beautiful Z4 powered up the steep inclines and sharp corners, it showed little hesitation, slightly pushing its tail out while remaining steadfastly poised, its perfectly specced Michelins gripping tightly as it charged through each directional change with the B58 howling away, joyfully soaking up the roads and daring you to bury the throttle even deeper. Haruna’s roads are tight, narrow, and intensely technical, defined by relentless hairpins and rapid elevation changes, but such a joy it was to drive that at the end of the hill climb, I turned around, went back down and did it all over again. That said, the view across Haruna Lake at the summit was reason enough to slow things down for a moment. A little further down was a lay-by that I'm sure fans of the show would most certainly recognise. Where everything began. There were Initial D references throughout the area for fans to spot. While I would have loved to hang around to spot more Initial D references and take in the sights around Haruna Lake, it was time to charge toward Mt. Akagi. But not without stopping for a spot of lunch at a random, yet rather fantastic udon restaurant. It was seriously good. With lunch settled, it was time to continue towards Mt Akagi, a short 40 kilometres away from Mt Haruna. While Mt. Haruna and Mt. Akagi sit relatively close to one another, their roads could not feel more different, each shaped by the character of the mountain it climbs. Mt. Haruna is tight and technical, its roads sometimes closing in around you, demanding focus at every turn. Mt. Akagi, by contrast, opens itself up. The road feels broader and more expansive, with longer sweepers, wider lanes, and higher average speeds, offering fewer back-to-back hairpins and far more room to breathe. Rising almost 400 metres higher than Haruna at its peak, Mt. Akagi’s more gradual elevation changes encourage a smoother, flowing rhythm, one that feels perfectly suited to big turbocharged power. This time, not from an FC or FD, but a BMW Z4. And if the view of Haruna Lake was lovely, Lake Onuma at the summit of Mt. Akagi is simply breathtaking. Framed by dense forest and open sky, its still waters feel worlds away from the pace of the drive leading up, a place that invites you to pause, step out of the car, and take it all in. Steeped in local folklore and closely associated with Akagi Shrine, I'm sure it is also familiar ground to fans of Initial D as the backdrop to the Akagi RedSuns’ territory. The calm, mirror-like water at the summit feels worlds away from the intensity of the racing battles that made these roads legendary in pop culture, yet seeing it in person makes the anime’s reverence for the mountain suddenly tangible. With more than half the day behind me, it was time to leave my reflections behind and head toward the final 峠 of the drive: Irohazaka. Little did I know just how epic the roads ahead would turn out to be. Nikko awaits.

This thread is set up for discussions on anything technical, features or functions for the 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid 2.0 It is not for the discussion on the price or cost related issues, comparison with other makes/models and similar irrelevances.

Sexy is the word. @mercury1 @vratenza this one for your consideration? Munich. BMW consistently continues to pursue the brand’s current model offensive whilst developing an innovative vehicle concept for the premium compact segment. During the annual results press conference, BMW AG CEO Harald Krüger will announce the presentation of the first BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. With the sporty and elegant four-door coupe, the premium automobile manufacturer is adding to its range in the compact segment a particularly designoriented model for modern, urban target groups. The concept of a four-door coupe, already successful in higher vehicle classes, will in future combine a dynamic charisma and an expressive design with a high degree of everyday suitability also in the premium compact segment. The first BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe will make its word debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2019, with the worldwide market launch beginning in the spring of 2020. The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe sets new accents in individuality, aesthetics and emotion in the premium compact segment. It combines an emotive design with sportiness and the latest innovations in operation and connectivity technology. Therefore, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offers the ideal prerequisites to attract new target groups to hallmark BMW driving pleasure. BMW already offers a unique range of compact models for various different requirements and target groups that is unmatched within the competitive environment. The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe will once again create fresh impulses in this class. It builds on the latest BMW front-wheel drive architecture and shares a multitude of technological developments with the new BMW 1 Series, which will also be presented during the course of 2019. The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe has been conceived as a global offering that constitutes an attractive enrichment, especially for markets in which car buyers show a strong affinity for notchbacks. As an exclusive alternative to the classic saloon, the four-door coupe addresses all target groups that prefer a sophisticated design and a self-assured look in the compact segment as well. Some video & spy shots to quench your thirst.

The BMW Digital Premium features ensure that information and so much more is always at your fingertips. Our cars are called to serve a wide variety of tasks. Whether you're using your BMW as a space for rest and solace, to chase new adventures, or doubling it up as a second space for work and entertainment, BMW's Digital Premium features are ready to assist, ensuring that you're treated to the best, even before you leave your car. Many options for play while you wait Picking the kids up from school? Waiting for the missus to end her shift? Or maybe you're simply charging up your BMW? There's now a slew of entertainment options awaiting thanks to BMW Digital Premium, perfect for those quick pitstops or when you're waiting your loved ones. Keep the kids entertained on the go with AirConsole that includes racing, sports, quiz and music quiz games as well as simulation, strategy, jump-and-run and puzzle games. Complete with hit titles that will engage all including Overcooked and the classic UNO card game now in digital form via UNO Car Party, all of which, are sure to make every trip an adventure before you even arrive at your destination and will hopefully help keep the complaints from those fidgety young'uns to a minimum! And even when you're alone, there's still plenty to explore on that screen. With YouTube included, you'll be able to watch you favourite your favourite videos in comfort. And the chance to catch up on work as you please And it's not just all about entertainment. For all those go-getters, your BMW can also keep you in the know, thanks to its integration with a host of apps. Stay up to date with the latest from around the world thanks to access to the stories from a host of global news channels, or stay connected with your closest colleagues here in Singapore or beyond via the Zoom app. Truly the best navigation experience And once you're ready to leave, the BMW Digital Premium's Enhanced BMW Maps will ensure that travel is always easy. The Enhanced BMW Maps not only offers real-time traffic information on your selected route, but also across the entire map, so you can see just how traffic in your city is evolving, even before you leave your lot. Personalisation Options But that's not all. With BMW Digital Premium, you won't have to set your car up all again when your step back into the driver's seat the next day. With BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant, your BMW will be able to proactively suggest improvements based on your driving behaviour, so you can set a different air conditioning temperature for different locations as you make your way to the office, or set the car to draw in some fresh air just as you're arriving at your workplace so you're freshened up and alert for the workday ahead. Looking for a truly premium drive experience? BMW Singapore is offering all Sgcarmart readers a 10% discount till 31 October 2025 on a host of digital services. Prices are as follows (all inclusive of GST): i. Digital Premium starting from $8.80 / month How it works: Simply log into the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, select your services and complete the purchase online with the discount code. The services will be automatically installed on your vehicle's onboard computer. Users will be able to secure the 10% for the digital services by entering the following promo codes on checkout: i. SGCM10DP - For Digital Premium BMW Digital services are subject to availability and compatibility with the BMW vehicle. More information on BMW's ConnectedDrive upgrades is available here. Catch BMW's Digital Premium features in action here:

Any fellow G70 owners here?

Hi All Anyone driving this car? Please share experiences here. If there is a telegram chat group will be best!

YES! The world will get a chance to know more about our little red dot. BMW i7 Singapore Icons Is a Bespoke Electric Luxury Sedan With Rolls-Royce Paint (https://www.autoevolution.com/news/bmw-i7-singapore-icons-is-a-bespoke-electric-luxury-sedan-with-rolls-royce-finish-254367.html) BMW is strengthening its presence in Asia by unveiling a one-of-a-kind i7. Designed to commemorate Singapore's 60th anniversary, as well as the company's local 40th birthday, the model is aptly called the BMW i7 Singapore Icons and has just celebrated its premiere. According to BMW Group Asia's Managing Director, Lars Nielsen, "planning for this masterpiece began 18 months ago and was a labor of love." The car in question "exhibits the best BMW has to offer, including refined materials, supreme craftsmanship, and individualization, all to honor the Lion City." The all-quiet luxury sedan is presented in Madeira Red, a dark red metallic paint finish sourced from Rolls-Royce's portfolio. The hue is available through BMW Individual, the company's personalization division, and sports "opulent tones of rich madeira wine and dark cherry-black hues." The company says that it chosen this color due to its multi-layered pearlescent effect, adding that the i7 Singapore Icons is the first car in Singapore to be presented in it and it will remain that way. Besides the special color, the all-new and unique BMW i7 Singapore Icons sports a 'Singapore Icons' logo on the Hofmeister kink, and that is another way to tell it apart from the rest of the lineup. The automaker says that this position was specially chosen to honor the Hofmeister kink's roots, as it first appeared on a Bimmer back in the 1960s, and it was the 1500. The 20-inch wheels were crafted by BMW Individual and feature a two-tone look and a diamond-cut finish, further highlighting the model's special nature. Opening the door of the BMW i7 Singapore Icons will reveal the Smoke White Merino leather upholstery, said to echo the colors of the Singapore flag (red and white). The high-end upholstery also came from BMW Individual's portfolio and is said to be robust, breathable, and soft. The car manufacturer states that "each hide is carefully selected for its immaculate, unblemished quality," so the attention to detail is certainly on deck. The 'Singapore Icons' design bedecks all four headrests in Alaska Gray, another special touch from the company's personalization division. A dashboard inlay pretty much rounds off the special design of the car, featuring seven of the country's icons. Some of the landmarks on deck include the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay Supertree Grove, Singapore Changi Control Tower, Anderson Bridge, Merlion Statue, and ArtScience Museum. Crafted from a 25.7-cm (10.1 in) wide single-piece metal thinner than 1 mm, it is integrated into the fine wood in oak gray metallic and sports a mirror-like finish. The most affordable BMW i7 in Singapore is the eDrive50 Pinnacle, which starts at S$625,888 (equal to US$488,355), and in the United States, the model carries an MSRP of US$105,700 (S$135,440).

Which would you guys go for if any bros out here got the same requirements like uncle me below : Will buy only these 2 conti cars A3 or Octavia ( both lasting look ) - both almost got the same spec but both price gap quite a bit away Been driving Jap cars for past 2 decades M a Family man no need dashing power just smooth good pickup speed when needed when there’s 4 Adults in my car 🤗 Need space for the bicycles 😛 maybe dashing in driving in to JB for groceries 🤭 Been observing on 1 popular Korean model to 1 v.popular Jap hot model but both look can’t lasts long and will sick of it after a while especially t Korean one 😝 ( gonna drive next 10 yrs so must get something More lasting )

The bigger grill does help to enhance the look of this SAC - Sports Active Coupe (coined by BMW), which now look closer to the larger X4 esthetically. X2 M35i xDrive The 2024 X2 measures 4,554 mm in length, with a width of 1,844 mm and a height of 1, 590 mm. The X2’s wheelbase of 2,692 mm and track of 1,582 mm is identical to that of the X1. However, when it comes to mass, the SAC is a smidge porkier than its crossover SUV sibling, weighing in at 1,725 kg for the xDrive28i and 1,742 kg for the X2 M35i, which is 40.8 kg more than the X1 xDrive28i. In the US, this brand new model get a 2.0L sump, churning out 241hp / 400Nm / 6.2sec (xDrive28i) and 312hp / 400Nm / 5.2sec (M35i xDrive). When it hit our shore, I am sure the 122hp / 230Nm / 10.5sec sDrive16i will be one of the option, if not the only one available...

Even the most exciting journey can be boosted by BMW's tech. And we're not just talking about that engaging drive! Singapore is a lovely city to drive in: The views are great, and the road network is a product of careful and extensive planning. But what if you're still looking to give those weekend drives a little extra boost? That's exactly what BMW is now offering its drivers with its Connected Package Professional Packages. Join us in this second of a series of three articles as we explore how the firm is enhancing safety, convenience, and even the entertainment offerings with its connected technology, so you’re free to chase that next adventure! Always in touch, no matter where you go Chasing a new outdoor hobby or visiting a new trending cafe in a faraway location? With BMW's Connected Package Professional*, you’ll never again have to fear unfamiliar roads. The Map Update feature from BMW will get you to your destination quickly and reliably with its intuitive layout and easy-to-understand instructions. And getting this map updated is also easy. Simply download the most up-to-date map from the ConnectedDrive Store and into your BMW via a USB stick. or better yet simply wait for your infotainment system to receive the latest map via an automatic over-the-air update. Keeping you safe, should conditions change But it's not just unfamiliar roads you're protected from. With BMW Maps' ability to offer real time traffic information along your selected route, you'll also always be informed if there's any congestion or potential delays on your journey ahead. Use this information to plan alternative routes or inform friends and colleagues that you'll be delayed, way ahead of any scheduled gathering. Drive one of BMW's electric vehicles? Keeping your vehicle topped up has never been easier, thanks to BMW Connected Charging*. BMW Connected Charging puts information of the available chargers near to you right at your fingertips via the car's infotainment system, so you never need to calculate the remaining range available from your vehicle. And if you’re eyeing longer journeys still, BMW Connected Charging can even fetch you information on nearby points of interest or restaurants, so you can always stay refreshed, and travel with confidence! Uniquely yours, for any road And when you're once again ready to go, your BMW stands ready to entertain along every drive. Thanks to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, you'll never be left out of contact from friends and family. And with BMW Connected Music*, you'll also be able to accompany every drive with some of your favourite tunes. Stream up to 30 million songs from BMW’s music partners Deezer or Napster, or listen to your favourite tracks from Spotify, all via the SIM card installed in your vehicle. But of course, that's not the only entertainment you’re after. With every BMW you'll be able to configure your car so it's just right for the road conditions ahead. Facing long stretches of highway? Why not opt for one of your car's more calming driving modes for a serene driving experience, or make the switch over to 'Sport' once more twisty roads beckon? And then there's also 'Expressive' to consider, perfect for when you're cruising around town with friends and want to belt out to your favourite tunes! Want to learn more about the connected features of your BMW? Look out for the next episode of this series come 2 September 2025! Looking to give your next drive a little boost? If you're after a boosted driving experience, look out for services (all prices inclusive of GST) including: Prices are as follows (all inclusive of GST): i. Connected Package Professional starting from $150 All the eligible digital services for your BMW are available on the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Simply select your preferred services and complete the purchase online with the discount code "SGCM10CP" to enjoy the exclusive 10% discount for BMW Connected Package Professional and the services will be automatically installed on your vehicle's onboard computer (Discount is valid until 31 October 2025). *BMW Digital services are subject to availability and compatibility with the BMW vehicle. More information on BMW's ConnectedDrive upgrades is available here. Catch some of the benefits of BMW's Connected Package Professional Packages here:

Join us and BMW in this short series that explores just how connected technology can make your journeys easier than ever. Internet of things? Ambient Intelligence? Fourth Industrial Revolution? From smartphones to home appliances, the devices that we use are becoming smarter and more connected by the day, and our cars are no different. Thankfully, there's no need to develop a deep understanding of these information technology concepts to benefit from the added convenience that BMW is bringing to its vehicles. Join us in this short series as we explore (in simple to understand terms) just how you could stand to benefit from the connected technology that the firm is applying into its vehicles. This first of three articles sees just how your daily commute could be so much easier in a BMW! Making every drive a breeze Living in a fast-paced city like Singapore means it's inevitable that you'll face long and challenging days. Now, your BMW may have been honed to offer sheer driving pleasure, but when tough workdays or long journeys take their toll, it's always nice to have someone to fall back on. Or maybe, you could call upon something to make your commute a bit easier and safer. Enter, BMW's Driving Assistant Plus* (available as a three-month free-of-charge trial, or to subscribe to for one month, one year, three years, or to simply purchase for an unlimited period). The Level 2 automated driving technology can not only maintain a safe distance between your car and the vehicle ahead but can also help you keep your BMW within its lane and will warn you if the speed limit changes. All this means that you and your BMW can not only make easy progress in start/stop traffic but you'll also will be able to take the stress out of travelling on the motorway! Effortless at any destination But stressful commutes are not the only bother when it comes to driving in Singapore. There's also those pesky tight carparks to think about. But when you arrive at your selected destination in a BMW, there's no need to sweat, thanks to the firm's Parking Assistant Professional* (available as a three-month free-of-charge trial, or to subscribe to for one month, one year, three years, or to simply purchase for an unlimited period). This technology allows your BMW to drive itself into and out of tight parking spaces in a partially automated manner, and if you so wish, even allows you to manoeuvre your car into a space via a smartphone so you don't even have to be seated within it. And there's another clever feature to consider: BMW's Manoeuvre Assistant. With this feature, your car can perform up to ten recurring parking manoeuvres, each covering a total distance of up to 200m. Simply save the manoeuvre once and your car now knows how to reverse out of any narrow corridor or space - perfect if the parking provisions at your home or workplace aren't exactly great! Always ready when you are And even when you're busy at work or simply resting at home, BMW's connected technology means access to your car is always at your fingertips. Need to check on the battery capacity of your electric BMW? Or perhaps you've forgotten when the car's next service is due? Fret not, all this information and much more is now easily accessible all through the free-of-charge BMW Remote Services* which you can access via the My BMW app! Link the app to your vehicle and you won't even have to adjust its seats or mirrors even after your kinds or parents have driven it. All your personalised settings will be saved and automatically applied whenever you use your phone to unlock the vehicle. But there's more. With the BMW app, users can pre-cool their vehicle even utilise a remote 3D view and vehicle locator to find it in any parking lot - that means that your car will be getting its cabin ready for you as you prep for a day's worth of activities. How clever is that? Utilise the technology to beat our scorching sun and ensure that you always step into a car full of cool and fresh air! Want to learn more about the connected features of your BMW? Look out for the next episode of this series come 26 August 2025! Want to ensure you're always connected? If you're after a more connected driving experience, look out for services (all prices inclusive of GST) including: i. Driving Assistant Plus starting from $60/month ii. Parking Assistant Professional starting from $30/month All the eligible digital services for your BMW are available on the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Simply select your preferred services and complete the purchase online with the discount code "SGCM10RF" to enjoy the exclusive 10% discount, and services will be automatically installed on your vehicle's onboard computer. Discount is valid till 31 October 2025. *BMW Digital services are subject to availability and compatibility with the BMW vehicle. More information on BMW's ConnectedDrive upgrades is available here. Or you might also want to catch BMW's connected features in action on video here:

Quick Fact / Details - Production begins November 2018 - Uses B47 and B58 engines - 330e come with 48V electrical system - Model availabe for new launch (other models possible, but unlikely by end 2019): • 318d, B47, 148hp, manual and automatic, RWD • 320d, B47, 188hp, manual RWD, automatic RWD and xDrive • 330d, B57, 262hp, automatic RWD and xDrive • 320i, B48 168hp 1.6L or 181hp 2.0L depending on the market, automatic RWD and xDrive • 330i, B48, 255hp, automatic RWD and xDrive • M340i, B58, 385hp, automatic RWD (US only) and xDrive • 330e, B48 + electic motor, 248hp, automatic RWD and xDrive (xDrive US only)

Hi All. I am interested to find out the price of replacing the hybrid battery for our vehicle. How much does it varies from brand to brand? Anybody had theirs replace before?

Is it just me, but the front look like borrowed from an Opel SUV... BMW will kick off a new chapter of its electrification strategy in 2025 with the launch of a new platform for electric vehicles. The Neue Klasse (New Class) architecture will underpin at least six new zero-emissions SUVs and today, these spy photos provide an early look at one of those electric models in prototype form. Our spies in Germany sent us a batch of spy shots with what is currently known as the NA5 project, which is expected to arrive in the summer of 2025. The high-riding EV here is believed to be roughly the same size as today’s X3. However, smarter packaging combined with longer overhangs should result in a bigger storage area behind the rear seats, as well as a roomier cabin. In August last year, BMW confirmed the first product to be based on the Neue Klasse platform will be an electric sedan. It will be followed by this SUV here and some sources even claim it will arrive first. We won’t speculate on that topic but we’ll mention production of the electric family hauler is expected to begin in July 2025 in Hungary. “By the end of the decade, the Neue Klasse is expected to account for more than half of our sales,” BMW’s CEO Oliver Zipse said last year.

Source: https://www.motor1.com/news/703362/chris-bangle-xiaomi-design-consultant/ Chris Bangle of BMW fame is now helping Xiaomi design cars, and production of the Volkswagen ID.2 might not be fully ramped up until 2026. This is AM Drive, Motor1's daily look at the news you need before you get in your car. Ex-BMW Designer Chris Bangle Helping Xiaomi Draw Its Future Cars In case you've missed the memo, Xiaomi is now a car brand. Its first car is the SU7, a large electric sedan built under contract by BAIC. The lead designer was Li Tianyuan, who penned the polarizing BMW iX. The Chinese tech giant has now added another former BMW designer to its payroll, none other than Chris Bangle. Xiaomi chairman and co-founder Lei Jun took to X to make the surprising announcement about Bangle's new role at the company's car division. Christopher Edward Bangle was appointed chief of BMW design in 1992 after working for Opel and Fiat in the 1980s. During his stay in Bavaria until 2009, he penned a multitude of models, some of which had the infamous "Bangle Butt." The E65 7 Series is a prime example, as is the E63 6 Series Coupe.

Hot on the heels of the rather erm, provocative XM, BMW Asia has now brought along its smaller, though no less anticipate stablemate, the M2 to our local shores and we were lucky enough to be privy to an early media preview. While the new car is slightly larger all around (except for height where 7mm is shaved off) from its predecessor, an almost 50hp bump in power (from the M2 Competition) means the new car is even quicker than the car it replaces, though only by .1 of a second for both gearbox options. Yes, gearbox options, because thanks to the heros of homologation at BMW Asia, you can spec your brand new M2 with a third pedal and 6 do-it-yourself forward gears should you feel the 8-speed automatic isn't quite "macho" enough. And macho might be the words that come to mind when chancing upon the M2. While it might not be as pretty as the previous M2, which let's face it, is one of the best looking BMWs out there even today, the new car does have its own distinct visual flavour. Personally, I think the front end is too fussy and overdesigned. Where aesthetics are concerned for this generation, the less well-endowed M240i in Thundernight Metallic takes the cake. You know the drill. BMW's S58B30. 3-litres, Twin Turbos, 6-cylinders all lined up to punch out a heady 460 horses and 500Nm of torques. A healthy dollop more punch than the considerably more expensive Porsche 718 Cayman GTS. Which then brings us to the price. Whilst never intended to be anywhere near "cheap", the new car represents a considerable increase from its M2 Competition predecessor and an even bigger leap from the original M2 launched back in 2016. At S$380,000 (without COE), the new M2 is a rather expensive proposition, but nowadays, what isn't?

MCFers, i wanted to change my spark plugs myself but couldn't get the tool to do so... went to autobac but they dun have... anyone knows where to get it?

has anyone gone to any hybrid workshop that does battery maintenance besides HEVshop? What's the cost for cleaning hybrid fan or recharge the battery pack? My PI warranty almost ending and they have never checked the hybrid battery before that's why was hoping to get it checked outside. Thank you!

Compared to the current X1, the grill seems to be wider by not as tall?

Urban life presents particular challenges. When it comes to driving, it's an environment where motorists increasingly appreciate the robust, high-riding qualities of an SUV, but on a scale tailored to suit urban streets and with a genuine emphasis on environmental performance. At the same time, drivers want a vehicle that's distinctive and stylish, and which has all the flexibility they need for an active lifestyle. These are exactly the qualities Toyota has instilled in the all-new Toyota Yaris Cross. The new Toyota Yaris Cross has been designed and developed for Europe, specifically to meet the requirements and preferences of the region's B-SUV market. It will be made in Europe too, at Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF), alongside the new generation Yaris hatchback, from 2021. True hybrid, true SUV The new Yaris Cross draws on Toyota's strong heritage of advanced hybrid technology, small car design and SUV engineering. Toyota's world leadership in hybrid vehicle technology includes the first use of a hybrid system in a B-segment car with the original Yaris Hybrid in 2012. The unmatched experience it has gained ensures that Toyota Yaris Cross's new fourth generation hybrid powertrain delivers exceptional performance and efficiency. As a member of the Yaris family, Yaris Cross is constructed on Toyota's new GA-B compact car platform. It also shares the "big-small" design and packaging concept that characterised the original Yaris, and presents a roomy interior within compact exterior dimensions. Toyota Yaris Cross is also a genuine SUV, benefiting from Toyota's experience in originating the concept of the recreational SUV 25 years ago with the RAV4 - today the world's best-selling SUV - and more recently in producing the stylish and highly efficient C-HR. A raised ride height and the availability of AWD-i intelligent all-wheel drive reinforce its authentic SUV credentials. Adding Yaris Cross to the line-up will give Toyota an SUV range that spans the B, C and D segments. New hybrid powertrain Yaris Cross benefits from Toyota's fourth generation hybrid technology. Toyota successfully pioneered the use of full hybrid technology in B-segment cars with the introduction of the first Yaris Hybrid hatchback in 2012. Since then, more than half a million have been sold in Europe, making it a powerful tool in building public awareness and appreciation of the technology. The Yaris and Yaris Cross are the first models to use Toyota's latest 1.5 hybrid system, developed directly from the larger 2.0 and 2.5-litre powertrains used by recent new models such as the Corolla, C-HR, RAV4 and Camry. This features a new 1.5-litre, three-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine, precision-engineered to reduce friction and mechanical losses and optimise combustion speed. The result is high torque at low engine speeds and excellent fuel efficiency. The engine's thermal efficiency is rated at 40%, which is greater than comparable diesel engines and ensures strong fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. The new hybrid system has a maximum output of 116 DIN hp. Special attention has been given to power delivery, making the system very responsive to drive. In terms of emissions efficiency, the front-wheel drive model starts from below 90 g/km CO2 and the AWD-i version from below 100 g/km. Toyota GA-B platform Toyota Yaris Cross follows its sibling hatchback model in adopting Toyota's new GA-B vehicle platform. This ensures a high level of body rigidity and a well-balanced chassis, making the car responsive and agile. All urban. All SUV With the Yaris Cross, Toyota has produced an authentic SUV on a smaller scale, giving customers the higher driving position, practicality and interior spaciousness, they desire in a car with compact dimensions that make it well-suited to urban driving. The design evokes the classic qualities of SUVs, with a higher body and larger wheels/tyres communicating strength and purpose. Toyota Yaris Cross has the same 2,560 mm wheelbase as the new Yaris hatchback, but is 240 mm longer overall, with 60 mm added to the front overhang and 180 mm to the rear, securing more interior space. The ground clearance is 30 mm higher and the vehicle is taller and wider overall - by 90 and 20 mm respectively. Practical and Versatile Being a true SUV, special attention has been given to practicality and versatility. There's a power back door for when your hands are full. And an adjustable deck height to give the flexibility of either a secure underfloor compartment or increased trunk space for larger loads. In addition, the deck board itself can be split in two, giving customers both increased space and an underfloor storage area. The trunk is also equipped with a new flex belt system to secure items and stop them shifting during driving. Yaris Cross is just as spacious as it is practical. With all seats up and tonneau cover in place it delivers a large trunk volume. However, if more load capacity is needed, then there's a 40:20:40 foldable rear seat system to balance rear passenger space with cargo needs. Intelligent all-wheel drive One of the features that defines the new Toyota Yaris Cross as an authentic SUV is the availability of an intelligent all-wheel drive system - a unique feature in its class for a hybrid model. AWD-i provides extra stability and traction in everyday driving, in poor conditions and on low-grip surfaces. An electric system, it is more compact and weighs less than mechanical AWD units, helping the Yaris Cross Hybrid AWD-i achieve lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than any of its all-wheel drive B-SUV competitors. The system directs drive torque to the rear axle when pulling away and when accelerating. In normal driving, the Toyota Yaris Cross operates with front-wheel drive, but when low-grip conditions are detected, all-wheel drive is engaged automatically. This can be, for example, on wet cobblestones, in heavy rain, on wet or packed snow, or on sand. Advanced Driver Assistance System The foundation of the new Yaris Cross's safety performance is its GA-B platform, giving the car an exceptionally rigid body. With the intention of meeting the highest and most rigorous independent test standards, it will further benefit from Toyota Safety Sense active safety systems and advanced driver assistance functions, helping to avoid a wide range of common accident risks through driver information, early warnings and, when necessary, automatic braking and steering intervention. Design The design process of Toyota Yaris Cross brought together a wide team from studios in both Europe and Japan. To describe their ideas and inspiration in more detail, please find below the words of one member of the team - Lance Scott, Design General Manager at Toyota's EDD studio in Nice, France. "When we started this process, we understood that whilst style is the number one purchase reason in the B-SUV segment, customers were also keen to have a high level of practicality. Not easy things to reconcile, especially in a compact package. From the very beginnings of the design concept, we had the European customer in mind, but needed to understand more about them. So we went out and interviewed real customers to understand their lifestyle, what they liked, what their daily activities were and how they enjoyed themselves. After an enjoyable and enlightening process, we came back enthusiastic to design a car that would mirror their personality and deliver a vibrant combination of being both sophisticated and energetic. As a team, we came up with the key words 'Robust' and 'Minimalistic', which we felt would express both compactness and agility, as well as the robustness and strength of an SUV. When we started to sketch ideas for the exterior, the iconic image of a diamond consistently came to mind. Subsequently we coined the phrase 'nimble diamond' to express the hard, strong and premium image of the gemstone combined with the agile and fun to drive personality we felt the car needed to convey. From the top view, or plan view as we call it, we 'cut', or 'shaved' the body to give us a diamond shape that allowed us the space to emphasise the fenders. This diamond body shape combined with the 4 bold fenders gave us an energetic shape which was both strong and sophisticated. Clearly, we want the car to be immediately perceived as a SUV, so we emphasised a higher ground clearance, a strong horizontal axis giving a great balance and poise, big squared wheel arches and of course big wheels ... up to 18"! The face was also a very important aspect for us. We wanted to keep the strong DNA of Toyota's SUV line-up but at the same time give Yaris Cross an identity of its own. At the rear, we again focused on giving the car a good stance with the wide fenders illustrating how it looks planted on its wheels. Combining the horizontal rear tail lamps and rear screen clearly shows family identity with Yaris, yet the wider and more squared tailgate hints at the luggage space's larger flexibility for daily usage. For the exterior colour, we started to think about something that could express an active and high-quality image that our target customers would really appreciate. Looking at future colour trends we can see that there is a growing tendency for gold and other precious metals, but we wanted to offer something a bit more natural and urban. Adding a subtle hint of green to the gold direction, whilst also de-saturating the colour to emphasis the metal like appearance, gave us this fresh urban yet active appeal that highlighted the surface form of the exterior. The final result is a colour we call Brass Gold" Toyota expects to produce more than 150,000 Yaris Cross a year at the TMMF Onnaing factory, near Valenciennes in France, and achieve a B-SUV segment share of more than 8%.

For some time, i'm been wondering about potential dangers of EMF from hybrid batteries. These batteries are in big capacity and usually placed in close proximity to drivers and passengers. The car cabin space is very small. So google is my best friend. For those thinking of getting hybrid cars or already driving one, think about EMF dangers. POV, i don't trust the claims from car makers. There are already lots of cheating done on fuel consumption. I'm not surprised if they cheat on the EMF test results. Fuel cheating doesn't damage your health, but EMF will. At this moment, there are some contradicting articles about EMF dangers. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/27/automobiles/27EMF.html http://witscience.org/hybrid-cars-pose-moderate-cancer-risk-new-study-confirms/ http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2010/08/mythbuster-emf-levels-in-hybrids/index.htm

Don't know who this host but hope he learn his lesson. Should've come MCF first check on BMW drivers reputation before accepting the job 😂

Look very sleek and just like a mini 7 series, minus the controversial monster size grille.. The car's shark-like front nose appears to be sitting lower compared to the current model to lend the 5 Series an angrier look without the odd split headlights of the next 7 Series, X7 facelift, and X8 / XM. A subtle spoiler integrated into the trunk lid can be seen as well, while the dashboard appears to be fully camouflaged. It's likely a sign the cabin will be completely revamped, possibly by adopting the dual-screen setup with a 12.3-inch driver's display and a 14.9-inch infotainment as seen in the iX and i4 electric models running on iDrive 8.