Monday, April 29, 2024

Saturday, April 27, 2024

This RC Car Has a Tiny V-8 Engine and a Working Transmission

This 28cc Toyan nitro V-8 has no trouble burning rubber when put to the test.

Audi RS3 Achieves RS7 Speed With Just a Simple Tune

A simple remap levels the playing field between the two sporty Audis.

Rain-X Is No Longer the King of Windshield Rain Repellents

A series of simple tests show the legendary Rain-X windshield repellent has some stiff competition. But it's still among the greats.

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

2025 BMW M440i Gran Coupe Gets More Power With Mild Hybrid Tech

BMW updated both the i4 and 4 Series Gran Coupe with styling tweaks, new lights, and its latest infotainment system.

Lamborghini Urus Plug-In Hybrid Keeps the V-8 and Adds More Power

The Lamborghini Urus SE gets a transmission-mounted electric motor that, combined with the twin-turbo V-8, delivers 789 horsepower.

Presenting the 2025 BMW i4 and 4 Series Gran Coupe LCI Refresh


The new 2025 BMW i4 and 4 Series Gran Coupe

Attachment 3441833

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  • Refreshed design details inside and out for the 2025 i4 and 4 Series Gran Coupe.
  • Updated four and six-cylinder engines with 48V mild hybrid technology for the 430i and M440i models.
  • New exterior lighting designs including laser-accented taillights.
  • Production to commence in July 2024. Pricing to be announced soon.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – April 24, 2024… Already innovators in the premium midsize class in terms of aesthetic appeal, driving pleasure, electrification, and digitalization, the new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe are building further on their unique status in the marketplace with updates in all these areas.

New exterior paint finishes and light-alloy wheels, new designs for the headlights, and rear lights available with laser-lit accents accentuate the bold visual impact of both models.

Inside, the BMW Curved Display provides the stage for the latest evolution of BMW iDrive with QuickSelect, based on BMW Operating System 8.5. The display and control/operation system can be specified with an Augmented View display for the BMW Maps navigation system. And new steering wheel designs, interior trim elements, and upholsteries bring modern touches to the premium ambience of the interior.

The new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe will be built at BMW’s home plant in Munich, whose transformation into a production facility geared exclusively to all-electric models is being fueled by substantial investment. The worldwide market launch of the new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe will get underway in July 2024.

New design for the BMW kidney grille, headlights, and rear lights.

Slim headlights and a vertically arranged BMW kidney grille dropping deeply towards the road define the front-end styling of the BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. A refreshed design brings additional visual impact to these signature brand features. The surround of the BMW kidney grille is now finished in matt chrome, both as standard and in conjunction with the optional M Sport package. Due to the lower cooling requirement of the electric drive system, the BMW kidney grille of the new BMW i4 has a fully enclosed upper section, below which is a Black high-gloss surface topped by a matte-silver honeycomb pattern. The air intakes on the combustion-engined versions of the new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe have a mesh structure whose surfaces are now finished in matte Quartz Silver.

As well as a front apron with large side air intakes, the M Sport package for the BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe also includes a diffuser element in the lower section of the rear bumper, now finished in Black high-gloss. The exhaust tailpipes integrated into the rear apron on the left and right of the combustion-engined models have grown from 3.5 inches to 4 inches in diameter. Like the BMW kidney grille surround, if the optional M high-gloss Shadowline with extended elements is specified, they are finished in Black high-gloss.

The slim headlights have been visually and functionally upgraded. Low and high beam are generated from a single LED module, and pair of vertical and subtly arrow-shaped LED units house the side marker lights, daytime running lights, and turn signal functions. The new headlights generate a Welcome Light animation once the driver and key come within 10 feet of the vehicle.

Adaptive Full LED Headlights are standard on i4 M50 xDrive and M440i models and optional on all other models as part of the Shadowline Package. Vehicles equipped as such are also fitted with new Laserlight taillights. This innovative lighting effect employs a technology first seen on the BMW M4 CSL, a high-performance special edition model. Here, laser diodes illuminate a fiber optic bundle, giving the rear units an intricate light graphic.

New exterior paint finishes and aerodynamic wheels.

The selection of exterior paint finishes for the BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe now includes Cape York Green metallic and Vegas Red metallic. A wide variety of BMW Individual paint finishes are also offered.

The range of optional alloy wheel designs also features attractive new additions. 19-inch M Aero bi-color wheels can be ordered on cars specified with the optional M Sport Package. Also new are 20-inch BMW Individual Aero bi-color wheels in double-spoke design, available on M440i models and 430i models equipped with the M Sport Package.

New interior accents enhance a progressive sporting appeal.

The changes to the interior of the new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe are focused on digitalization and achieving a sharper sporting profile. The upgraded BMW iDrive with QuickSelect further reduces in the number of buttons and controls in the cockpit. The functions of the automatic climate control system and seat and steering wheel heating can now be operated by touch via the BMW Curved Display or by voice command through the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. New adjustment controls for the air vents allow the airflow direction to be adjusted using rotating and tilting movements.

The new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe are fitted as standard with sport seats in perforated Sensatec. Vernasca leather trim with decorative quilting is available in five colors including the new bi-color Black with Red Highlight.

2025 BMW i4s and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupes come standard with a two-spoke steering wheel with polygonal rim and illuminated multifunction buttons. Adding the M Sport Package now brings an M leather steering wheel in a three-spoke design with a flat-bottomed rim and a black center stripe marking the 12 o’clock position. The three-spoke M leather steering wheel standard on the i4 M50 xDrive and M440i models additionally features M tricolor stitching and a red stripe at top dead center.

High-quality materials, new interior trim elements.

New interior trim elements include M Fine Brushed Aluminum, new Fineline Light open-pored and Grey Blue Ash open-pored fine wood trim variants.

The Sensatec upholstery covering the instrument panel now has a smoother, more refined surface that extends to the upper portion of all four door panels. And customers can now specfiy a Galvanic finish for the gear selector, BMW iDrive Controller, and Start/Stop button on the center console.

Combustion engines with 48V mild hybrid technology. Powerful and efficient.

The new B58B30M2 3-liter inline 6-cylinder engines in the 2025 M440i Gran Coupe models feature a new 48V mild hybrid (MHEV) technology for sharper power deliver and greater efficiency. The auxilliary electric drive of the 48V starter generator can provide 11 hp of boost to the 375 hp TwinPower Turbo engine, resulting in a total system output of 386 hp @ 5,200-6,250 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque @ 1,900-4,800 rpm.

The engine is paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission to propel the BMW M440i Gran Coupe from 0-60 mph in an estimated 4.7 seconds, or an estimated 4.3 seconds when fitted with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. The engine’s surge of power is accompanied by an exhilarating soundtrack from the M Sport exhaust system. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

The B48B20O2 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine in the 2025 430i Gran Coupe models also benefits from 48V mild hybrid technology, as well as incorporation of the Miller cycle combustion process, a redesign of the intake ports and combustion chambers, and innovations in the areas of camshaft control, injection, ignition system, and exhaust gas routing. The TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine produces 255 hp @ 4,700-6,500 rpm, and 295 lb-ft of torque @ 1,600-4,500 rpm.

Unique design elements for the M Performance models.

The BMW i4 M50 xDrive and BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe underline their sporty character with M-specific design features. Both models now feature a BMW kidney grille with a Black high-gloss surround and horizontally arranged bars adorned by a BMW M logo. And the front apron elements previously finished in Cerium Grey now come in Black high-gloss.

The distinctive trapezoidal tailpipe trim at the rear end of the new BMW M440i Gran Coupe models also sports a Black high-gloss finish. The M Carbon exterior package available as an option includes side air intake trim at the front end, M‑specific exterior mirror caps, a diffuser insert in the rear apron, and a subtle rear spoiler all made from carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

Display and control/operation system, connectivity.

The latest generation of the BMW iDrive display and control/operation system with QuickSelect based on BMW Operating System 8.5 opens up a new way of intuitively controlling vehicle functions and accessing digital services in the BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. With the digital BMW Curved Display screen grouping and the expanded capabilities of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the driver-centric cockpit has been optimized for touch control and natural language.

The climate control functions are also operated digitally in the new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, enabling a further reduction in the number of physical buttons and controls. The control/operation system additionally comprises multifunction buttons on the steering wheel, the BMW iDrive Controller and, as an option, the BMW Head-Up Display.

BMW iDrive with QuickSelect: simplified and even more intuitive.

The system’s QuickSelect feature paves the way for an improved menu structure that takes cues from consumer electronics devices. It allows the driver to navigate to functions directly from the newly arranged home screen without having to enter submenus. The new, flat menu structure makes it much easier to switch between different functions and helps the driver to focus their attention on what’s happening on the road.

The new home screen continuously displays the navigation system’s map view. On the same level, there is a vertical bar on the driver’s side of the display containing widgets that can be individually selected and arranged. The BMW i4 also includes a widget for the charging functions. Some of the widgets can also be swiped horizontally to show additional content. The related functions can then be called up directly with QuickSelect. And once the relevant settings have been chosen, a quick tap on the home icon at the lower edge of the control display is all it takes to return to the home screen. Icons for direct access to the climate control menu, Apps menu, and Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ can also now be found next to the home icon.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with additional languages and new graphics.

Voice control using the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is set to become even more interactive and intuitive in the new BMW i4 and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. There is now a choice of two different looks for the graphics visualising the digital companion on the control display, with additional graphics also appearing here in response to selected voice commands. For instance, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant acknowledges the request to look for a filling station nearby by showing the image of a fuel pump, enriching the dialogue between driver and vehicle.

BMW Maps navigation system with new charging-optimised route guidance and Augmented View.

The cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system forms part of the standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus. Underpinned by BMW Operating System 8.5, the system now makes it even easier to input destinations and can offer additional information while driving. Further enhancements include better usability of filters, a flatter menu structure with touch buttons shown directly on the map view and proactive route recommendations.

The latest version of BMW Maps also gives BMW i4 drivers access – both from the vehicle and via the My BMW App – to improved functions that enable charging-optimized route planning over long journeys. The charging stops are planned so that the selected destination is reached as quickly as possible. The driver’s preferred minimum charge level when arriving at mid-journey stops and the final destination can be adjusted in increments of five percent and incorporated into the route planning. The system can also give preference to charging stations operated by selected providers and exclude others from the route planning at the driver’s request. The system will then propose the latter only if there seems to be no alternative for an efficient route without any large detours.

Additional information is provided for the selected charging stations, such as supported connector types and payment options, as well as the availability of sanitary, catering or shopping facilities in the vicinity. The expected duration of the planned charging stop and the resulting electricity costs can also be shown in advance. The closer the vehicle gets to a scheduled mid-journey stop, the more frequently the availability of the charging point is checked so that an alternative route can be recommended in good time if necessary. Regardless of the charging-optimized route given, a constant stream of alternative charging options are also displayed, e.g. for spontaneous mid-journey breaks.

Specifying the optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional adds not only the full-color BMW Head-Up Display, but also the Augmented View function. This offers contextual, real-time information to complement the navigation system’s map display by showing a live video stream of the driver’s view on the control display or instrument cluster and augmenting it with information that is currently relevant. At confusing junctions, for instance, an animated directional arrow is integrated into the video image to help the driver take the best turn-off for the planned route.

Personalization and remote access with BMW ID and My BMW App.

BMW Operating System 8.5 also makes it even easier to personalise the user experience in the BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. Signing in to the vehicle by scanning a QR code with a smartphone is all it takes to import the customer’s personal profile, load synchronizable settings and automatically link the key detected in the vehicle with the BMW ID.

The vehicle is also automatically added to the My BMW App. Available free of charge from the app stores for both iOS and Android, the My BMW App acts as a universal digital interface that provides information on the vehicle’s condition, charging status or remaining range at any time. Depending on the car’s specification, it also gives the user access to various remote functions. For example, the vehicle can be located remotely via the My BMW App and the doors locked and unlocked. The Remote 3D View and Remote Inside View functions included with the optional Parking Assistant Plus give drivers the ability to call up a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle’s immediate vicinity on their smartphone.

Besides this, the My BMW App can also be used to send destination addresses from the user’s smartphone to the vehicle’s navigation system for route planning and to initiate, purchase or extend ConnectedDrive Upgrades. It is also possible to control the charging process and pre-conditioning for the BMW i4 from the My BMW App. The My Trips feature including Efficiency Trainer and monthly review provides the user with data and evaluations for distances travelled, consumption and average speed, as well as offering helpful tips for driving more efficiently.

Optimum connectivity with Personal eSIM and 5G standard.

Customers of the new BMW i4 and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe can activate the Personal eSIM as standard – in addition to the vehicle’s built-in mobile SIM. The Personal eSIM uses the 5G mobile communications standard and allows the customer to use the communications and connectivity features covered by their mobile contract from their car, even when they don’t have their smartphone with them.

All phone functions can be operated with the BMW iDrive system or the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. A connection to the vehicle’s exterior antenna is used for making phone calls and streaming data via the Personal eSIM.

Plug & Charge Multi Contract: contactless authentication with access to multiple contracts.

The Plug & Charge Multi Contract function can also be used with the new BMW i4. Plug & Charge Multi Contract makes charging at compatible public charging stations even easier, as digital authentication via app or charging card is no longer required to access them. Instead, the vehicle authenticates itself independently through a technical interface.

Customers can digitally store up to five individual Plug & Charge-enabled charging contracts from different suppliers in the vehicle. The authentication required for charging and billing takes place automatically at compatible charging points.

2025 BMW i4 M50 xDrive


2025 BMW M440i xDrive



The Mercedes G-Class Electric Weighs 6,801 Pounds

The WLTP range is 294 miles but expect the EPA rating to be even lower.

Sunday, April 21, 2024

18x G87 M2 Meet


18x G87 M2 – car meeting

The Aston Martin DBX707 Gets a Far More Usable Cabin for 2025

Aston Martin has eliminated the standard DBX from its lineup, leaving only the DBX707. Its cabin is way better than before.

Watch This Lucid Air Sapphire Hit 60 MPH in 1.7 seconds

This Sapphire would go on to run an 8.9-second quarter-mile, all on its factory Michelin street tires.

Lasers Are the Most Satisfying Way to Remove Rust From a Car

Watch as the underside of the old Toyota 4Runner goes from old and rusty to better than new.

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Watch This Twin-Turbo Corvette E-Ray Lay Down a Nine-Second Quarter-Mile

A set of turbochargers push this hybrid Corvette to 1,000 horsepower, enough for a blistering quarter-mile run.

1 Month Review of G80 M3 Competition (Coming From a 911 GTS)


1 Month Review of G80 M3 Comp (coming from a 911 GTS)

Watch This 1600-Mile C3 Corvette Get Its First Wash in 45 Years

This 1978 Chevy Corvette was barely driven before being parked and left in a garage to collect dust. Now it's finally getting love.

The 805-HP AMG GT63 S E Performance Is The Quickest Mercedes Ever

The GT63 S E Performance is the quickest-accelerating production vehicle Mercedes-AMG has ever built.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Here's Why the Toyota Camry Is Hybrid Only

We speak with Mark DeJongh, chief engineer for the 2025 Camry. He tells us why it’s “sedan to the core.” 

The New Mazda CX-80 for Europe Makes Sense

Unlike America's CX-70/CX-90 twins, the CX-80 is bigger than the CX-60.

The New BMW i4 Arrives Next Week

The BMW Group will bring the new i4 and Mini Aceman to the Auto China show.

Tesla Website Leaks New Model 3 Performance Details

The source code for Tesla UK's site mentions a combined output of over 500 horsepower.

Saturday, April 13, 2024

2023 M2 vs. 2024 Mustang Dark Horse – Car and Driver Comparison Review


Performance Coupe Showdown: 2023 BMW M2 vs. 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

The 453-hp BMW M2 and the 500-hp Ford Mustang Dark Horse take performance coupes to new heights.

https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews…ng-dark-horse/

The M3 GTR Might Be the Best-Sounding BMW on the Planet

The GTR uses racing version of the M5's V-8 stuffed into the E36 M3's body. It's a recipe for perfection.

Watch This Forlorn Camaro Get a Much-Needed Wash After 20 Years of Sitting

This forgotten Camaro RS has been rotting away untouched for two decades. It's long past due for a thorough wash.

Scary Formula Drift Fire Shows How Quickly Things Can Go Wrong in a Race Car

This onboard video proves how things can go from very fun to very scary in a matter of seconds.

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

Monday, April 8, 2024

2024 Ford Bronco Sport Now Starts at $31,390 After Price Cuts

Ford lowered prices across several trims, save for the top-tier Badlands.

This Might Be Your Only Chance to Own a Lamborghini-Powered Vector

Vector only built 14 of these Diablo-based, V-12-powered M12s. Now, there's one for sale. Grab it while you can.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Will Get the Tacoma's Trailhunter Off-Road Trim

The most capable 4Runner trim will likely get forged monotube shocks, a lift, 33-inch all-terrains, and lots of skid plates.

Japan's 2024 Subaru BRZ Cup Car Basic Gets EyeSight, Costs $24,300

The race-ready BRZ keeps the steel wheels and receives a different roll cage.