BMW Announces New Model Details

[JoshCalkins]

BMW X1

The past few days have brought news about BMW's plans for a few new models and firmer details about previously announced models. First, we'll start with the X1. Production of the new compact SAV will begin later this year, but it won't be found in North America (excluding auto shows) until 2011. The initial late-2009 release will be restricted to Europe and comprise of rear-wheel and all-wheel drive models, as well as both gasoline and diesel engine options. BMW will begin a marketing campaign for the X1 in North America some time in 2010 in anticipation of the 2011 release. At the current time, it looks like both rear- and all-wheel drive models will be made available, but the only engine options will be gasoline-powered. Reading between the lines, this decision seems to be largely guided by the current, shaky U.S. auto market, and its transition period. If American drivers begin to happily embrace smaller vehicles, then the X1 will probably be profitable, even though there are already three other SAVs from BMW (the X3, X5, and X6).

2010 7-Series M Sport

The next announcement is about 7-Series variants. BMW has officially confirmed that the 2010 7-Series will finally be receiving an all-wheel drive option. The 3-Series got an AWD option back in 1986 with the 325ix, and the 5-Series got AWD shortly afterward in 1991 with the 525ix, but the 7-Series has always been rear-wheel drive only until now. Currently, there are only plans to bring the xDrive AWD system to the V8 750 models, so the V12 will remain rear-wheel drive only.

Also new for the 7-Series for the 2010 model year is the addition of an M Sport package. The package, however, doesn't look all that impressive. Here's what the BMW press release has to say:

The M Sport Package includes an M steering wheel, lift-reducing aerodynamic kit, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), Shadowline trim, Anthracite headliner and 19" wheels with ultra-high performance tires. 20" wheels with ultra-high performance tires are available at additional cost. Carbon Black Metallic exterior paint is available with the new M Sport Package.

So the package is basically a body kit, a steering wheel, and tires for any of the xDrive models, though for the rear-wheel drive models, the Active Roll Stabilization should be useful. No pricing has been announced, but it's a special options package for a 7-Series, so you know it's going to cost a lot of money.

BMW has also released a few publicity photos of the 2010 7-Series with the M Sport package that you can check out in the 7-Series pictures gallery.