6/1/16

2017 BMW X4 M40i

We'll go through the specs again, but besides a wealth of added pictures and details, is that we now know it will go on sale in the States in February 2016, at an as of yet, undisclosed price, but surely more than the $49,250 MSRP BMW demands for the 300hp X4 xDrive35i.

Munich's first 'M Performance' version of its X4 crossover basically reconfigures the X4 xDrive35i's engine and chassis to give it more speed and improved driving dynamics, while barely touching the cosmetics.

The only telltale signs over a regular X4 with an M Sport package are the Ferric Gray metallic accents on the front bumper and mirror caps, the 19-inch alloys, separated twin exhausts with black chrome tailpipes, a 3-Series-sourced M sport steering wheel, model-specific door sills and “X4 M40i” digital lettering on the instrument cluster.

At the heart of the M40i lies an improved iteration of the xDrive35i's 3.0-liter turbocharged-six delivering 355hp (360PS) between 5,800 and 6,000 rpm and 343 lb-ft (465Nm) of peak torque, an increase of 54hp (54PS) and (65Nm) over the X4 xDrive35i.

Among other upgrades made to the 3.0L mill is a new forged steel crankshaft, pistons with a modified top ring, different crankshaft bearings, high performance spark plugs, a higher level of turbo boost pressure and an increase in the amount of fuel injected, separate oil cooler, an "aerodynamically tuned air intake manifold" and a new exhaust system.

What's interesting about this unit is its codename "N55B30T0" with the last letter "T" referring to "Top" power output class, according to BMW's engine nomenclature. Various sources have used the same code for the upcoming M2's engine in the past, so if true, it could deliver the same output as in the X4.

4/1/16

BMW M2 2017

The BMW M2 and BMW X4 M40i are set to celebrate their respective world debuts at the Detroit Auto Show 2016.

The covers will be taken off both models on January 11 at the automaker's stand. Alongside the M2 and X4 M40i will be the X1, 7-Series, i8, i3, plug-in hybrid 330e and a selection of other BMW models.

Of the BMW duo debuting at Detroit, the M2 is certainly the most exciting. Powered by a bespoke 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine delivering 365 hp and 343 lb-ft of torque, the M2 is capable of sprinting to 60 mph in a very respectable 4.2 seconds. While U.S. pricing for the M2 hasn't been released, we wouldn't be surprised if it poaches some sales from the more-powerful M4 thanks to its similar performance and more affordable price.

As for the X4 M40i also debuting at Detroit, it also utilises a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine with 355 hp and 343 lb-ft. Thanks to this rev-happy powertrain, it promises to accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds and will hit U.S. showrooms in February next year. Potential M2 buyers in the U.S. will have to wait until Spring 2016 before examples begin to arrive in dealerships.

3/1/16

2016 Jaguar XJ

The 2016 version of the XJ was introduced in mid-2015 with numerous improvements in its first major update since 2010.

BMW may be selling twice as many 7-Series and Mercedes shifts almost six-times as many of its S-Class, but Jaguar is confident the XJ can be more than competitive in its class.

Talking to Autocar, Jaguar's design chief Ian Callum didn't reveal much about the next-generation XJ, but he did confirm that it could be more practical than the current car and still remaining just as stylish.

Because the XJ looks so modern despite being on the market for so long, it seems likely that Jaguar will opt against any massive visual changes for the new model and focus its attention towards new technologies and further improving refinement and luxury.

2/1/16

Ferrari F40 1992

Considering its status, one might say it is quite good value, too, especially when compared to, say, the Enzo that can easily sell for double the price of the F40.

The word "cheap" does not apply, of course, but an example listed on eBay from Ferrari Maserati of San Francisco could prove quite a good investment.

It has an asking price of $1.699 million and has just 7,647 miles. While that is certainly more than other F40s, it's not a lot for a 24-year old car. Plus, if it has been maintained properly, which is very costly but essential to keep running as it should, it can be a peach.

Of course it is painted in Rosso Corsa (the sole available factory color)and is rolling on the set of silver star-shaped five-spoke wheels. Inside, the carbon fiber bucket seats are wrapped in red leather and the dashboard is covered with alcantara.

Oh, just forget the investment part. If you're a petrolhead, an F40 is definitely very high in your "would-buy-if-I-could" list. Those who actually can, better hurry though - there are only 6 hours left to bid for it and someone may click the "Buy it Now" option at any point until then.

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