William Maley

What is the big problem with new cars? According to a new survey, it happens to be the infotainment systems. A study done by automotive consultants SBD and polling firm Nielsen asked some 14,000 owners about features in their cars and asked which ones were the best and the worst. The ten that scored the lowest in the survey were all related in some form to the infotainment system. These included smart phone integration, built-in apps, customizable instrument panels, and voice recognition. “It’s sort of an arms race -- who can have the most technology in the vehicle -- and consumers are confused,” said Nielsen Vice President Mike Chadsey at a connected-car symposium yesterday. The study also showed that 43 percent of participants said automakers are adding too much infotainment tech. So why are automakers adding all of this tech? Andrew Hart, director of SBD explained that automakers add all sorts of tech to draw in customers and to help boost revenue. But this might backfire as owners might go to another brand because of how bad the infotainment system was. If you to improve the chances of owner sticking with your brand, just get the infotainment right, getting the right set of features that people actually want to use and making them easy to use,” said Hart. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

There looks to be another automaker who wants to enter the North American market. Korean brand Ssangyong is planning a Wrangler-style high-design SUV sometime in the later half of this decade. The SUV would be based on the automaker's recently launched Tivoli crossover and have styling that is in line with the Korando, a model that started off as a licensed CJ-7 clone. Power will come from Tivoli as well, which includes 1.6L gas and diesel engines. So why try entering the North American market now? “The company has never cracked North America because it requires a huge investment and because the distributor model that we use in other territories wouldn’t really work in the USA. But a Wrangler-style high-design 4x4 could create the waves we’d need in order to make a mark over there. At the same time, it’d work really well for us in the UK and Europe at a time when building profile is absolutely key,” said a source. Source: Autocar View full article

Nothing about how it must automatically must suck because the engine is mounted transversely?Does this mean you'll finally being to accept the SRX, which has been ahead of all of the Germans in sales (sometimes even in combined terms) for most of its model run? You realize you're talking to smk right? I think pigs taking flight will happen sooner than this.

What is going on Fiat Chrysler Automobiles? Reuters reports that a number of new and redesigned vehicles have been pushed back as the company searches for a new partner. The delays allow FCA to save billions of dollars in investment. Suppliers who have seen say at least 12 future vehicle programs from Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Maserati, and Ram have been delayed. Two of those vehicles, the next Jeep Wrangler and Ram 1500 are reportedly moving to dates later in 2017. Suppliers say there are a number of reasons as to the delays such as last-minute design and engineering changes - some of which are helping save a fair amount of cash. FCA declined to comment on the delays, but did say the plans outlined in their latest five-year plan "need to be flexible and fluid, with the potential to add some vehicles, pull some forward and extend the life cycle of others. We look at these programs on a vehicle-by-vehicle basis." While FCA is delaying a number of vehicles, they are also moving some up. Suppliers tell Reuters that Alfa Romeo may be getting more models on a quicker basis. Source: Reuters View full article

I just realize this morning as I was posting the first drive of the Maxima that I have a wave of relief come over me whenever I finish something like that. Then I get snapped back into the real world as I realize I still have a fair number of reviews to get up. Sigh. Well...........writing as someone who has sold a bunch of "sentimental" cars the last 2+ years ... if you don't HAVE to sell it ... & KNOW you want to keep it ... don't sell it. You'll regret it. I'm now having to consider the possibility of selling my 1979 & 1989 Caprice Classics ... which would absolutely throw me into a deep depression ... lol. Cort www.oldcarsstronghearts.com 1979 & 1989 Caprice Classics | pigValve, paceMaker, cowValve "Isn't that the way they say it goes?" __ Jim Croce __ 'Operator' Oh no Cort. I hope for your sake you are able to still hold onto the Caprices.

At the end of my review of the 2013 Nissan Maxima, I said “The 2013 Nissan Maxima is a very special car, but it's time for this 'four-door sports car' to take its final curtain call and have a new model ready in the wings.” Little did anyone know outside at Nissan that the current Maxima was possibly going to be its last. A recent report says that a next-generation Maxima wasn’t on the table due to the recession and Nissan focusing on fuel-efficient vehicles. But with a bit of convincing due to Nissan’s vice president of product planning, the Maxima was able to live on. This brings us nicely to the eighth-generation Maxima which debuted at the New York Auto Show in April. The new model is quite the departure from the last-generation Maxima in terms of looks and features available. Nissan says the 4-Door sports car is back. Well, is it? To find out, I drove two versions of the 2016 Maxima at a first drive event in Detroit. Lets begin with the elephant in room of the Maxima - the design. Compared to past Maximas, the new one is very much a shock. Nissan graced the 2016 Maxima with the design from the Sport Sedan Concept shown at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show. Such cues as the V-Motion grille, boomerang headlights, blacked-out pillars, kicked-up belt line and a floating roof are present on the production model. A set of wheels ranging from 18 to 19-inches finish off the look. The new Maxima is very much a polarizing vehicle with a number of people who either like it or hate it. Personally, I fall into former as it gives the Maxima the ability to standout not only in the full-size sedan class, but also in Nissan’s crowded lineup. The interior also got a major revamp. During the briefing, Nissan explained the development team went down to where the Blue Angels are stationed and studied the cockpit of their jets. What they took away was how the controls and information were in easy sight and reach of the pilot. Nissan took this and some design ideas from the GT-R and placed them into the Maxima. Sitting in the driver’s seat, you find that you are surrounded by a new instrument cluster with a 7-inch color screen and a center console that is angle towards the driver - that idea comes from the GT-R. The layout makes you feel that you are one with the car. Nissan also worked making the Maxima feel more premium - an issue I had with the previous Maxima. Better quality materials such as machined-look wood and aluminum trim, more soft-touch plastics, and contrasting stitching. The base S trim gets cloth, while higher trim levels get leather or a combination of leather and real Alcantara. The use of these materials really help move the Maxima up in the full-size class. As for the seats, they are the Zero-Gravity variety found on the Altima. They come with a little bit more bolstering to keep up the Maxima’s sporting intentions. I found the seats to be quite comfortable and provided good support for the route Nissan has us drive on. The back seat is also a little bit more roomy than the last Maxima thanks to increase in overall length - about 2.2 inches. The center stack boasts a new 8-inch touchscreen with navigation which comes as standard on all Maximas. It comes with a new interface which brings Nissan into the current century with a bright screen and more modern looking graphics. Nissan also falls into the pit of trying to mimic smartphones and tablets with the ability to swipe from screen to screen, and pinch and zoom on the navigation. I was worried that they system would fall apart as it would either not respond or respond slowly. The system did pretty well when it came to the swipe as the transition was very fluid and I saw no performance issues. Trying the pinch-and-zoom was another matter as it didn’t respond at all when I did the motion. There’s also a control knob near the driver which allows the driver to access more functions of the system. Power comes 3.5L VQ V6 with 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque. Compared to the older 3.5, the one found in the 2016 Maxima features around 61 percent of new parts including a new cylinder head, intake manifold, and sodium filled exhaust valves to pull heat away from the combustion chamber. Nissan also quick to point that per liter, the 3.5 in the Maxima is best in class with 85.7 horsepower. The V6 paired up to Nissan’s XTronic CVT which has been altered with a wider range of ratios, new shift logic to provide ‘shifts’ when driving exuberantly, and sport tuning. Under the skin is a redesigned platform with a lot of high-strength steel. Nissan claims that with this new platform, the 2016 Maxima is about 82 pounds lighter and 25 percent more rigid. The suspension has also been given the once-over with new rear dampers and some special goodies for the sporty SR trim. Lets move onto the drive shall we? The first Maxima I took out was the SR. Nissan is positioning the SR as the enthusiast’s choice with a number of changes in the suspension and interior. The Maxima SR’s suspension gets a set of retuned dampers, springs and stabilizer bar. There’s also a set of Goodyear F1 Eagle tires to improve grip and steering response. Inside, SR models get leather and Alcantara on the seats and the steering wheel. You’ll also notice a set of paddles to control the transmission in sporting situations. Taking it out on the route for our drive, I was impressed how the Maxima SR drove. Put the SR into the sport mode, and it becomes a ‘sports car’. The V6 accelerates harder while the CVT enters a mode to allow for stepped shifts. I was impressed with how the V6 never felt like it was out breath no matter where it was on the RPM range. In corners, the SR’s suspension hunkered down and provided excellent stability. Steering provided good weight and feel during the enthusiastic driving period. Also impressive were the seats which were able to hold me when I put it through it paces. Putting the Maxima SR back into normal, I found that it rode smooth for the most part. I could tell that a few bumps and imperfections were making their way into the interior, but its not to the point where it will become a concern to anyone. Wind and road noise were kept to acceptable levels. As for the CVT, I found it to be ok. There was none of CVT whine that has been accustomed to previous CVTs. The stepped shifts appeared when I was making a pass on the freeway, a nice touch. After driving the SR, I took out the top of line Maxima Platinum to see how it compared. Now the Platinum is quite a luxurious model with such appointments as quilted leather, wood trim, and the contrasting stitching. Out on the road, the Platinum felt slightly more comfortable than SR as bumps and road imperfections were kept at bay. On the curvy bits, the Maxima Platinum didn’t feel out of place when compared to SR. The steering still boasts the good weight and feel in the corners. The only real difference is in the suspension where the Platinum felt a little bit softer, which does let in some body roll. But if you’re not looking for it, then you’ll really won’t notice a difference. The Maxima lineup begins at $33,235 for the base S trim and climbs to $40,865 for the top-of-the-line Platinum - prices include a $825 destination charge. Interestingly, Nissan isn’t offering any options on the Maxima. Instead, the Maxima will be offered in five different trim levels with additional features on higher trims. Here’s a basic outline of how it will work. S - Base SV - Leather SL - Panoramic Roof SR - Sport Suspension and 19-inch Wheels Platinum - Quilted Leather So is the 4-Door Sports Car back? In short, Yes. Nissan has put a lot of work in the Maxima to it bring back into the spotlight and make it a contender in the full-size sedan class. Whether this helps the Maxima in the long run remains to be seen. Disclaimer: Nissan Invited Cheers & Gears to a Local Drive Event Year: 2016 Make: Nissan Model: Maxima Trim: SR, Platinum Engine: 3.5L VQ V6 Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 300 @ 6,400 Torque @ RPM: 261 @ 4,400 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 22/30/25 Curb Weight: 3,488 to 3,593 lbs Location of Manufacture: Smyrna, TN Base Price: $32,410 (S) As Tested Price: $38,495 (SR), $40,865 (Platinum) (Includes $825.00 Destination Charge) View full article

BMW has pulled the covers off the 2016 X1 crossover that will go on sale this fall in the U.S. While the X1 was sold in other markets since 2009, it only came to the U.S. in 2012. Lets talk about the elephant in the room. This is the first BMW to be sold in the U.S. to be based on the German automaker's UKL platform that underpins the new MINI Cooper and other BMW vehicles sold in Europe. Our X1 will only come in all-wheel drive form. Power will come from the 2.0L TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder generating 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic gets the power to all four wheels. The design is heavily influenced by the X5 with a similar shape and distinctive character line running through the door handles. Inside is completely changed with a center stack that is in line with current BMWs - including a large screen ranging from 6.5 to 8-inches. Passengers will notice an increase in head and legroom. No word on pricing at this time. Source: BMW Press Release is on Page 2 Woodcliff Lake, N.J. – EMBARGO: June 2, 2015 – 6:00pm EDT/3:00pm PDT… Today, BMW announced the all-new BMW X1 Sports Activity Vehicle. In its second generation, the new MY 2016 BMW X1 builds on the success of its predecessor (61,974 sold in the US to date) by incorporating a roomier interior, greater efficiency and technology on the forefront of innovation. The second generation takes to the stage with a body design typical of a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle. The BMW X1 xDrive28i will be the exclusive model in the US at launch featuring a 2.0-liter TwinTurbo 4-cylinder engine from BMW’s new family of modular engines with maximum output of 228 horsepower, making the all new BMW X1 the most powerful entry model in the segment. It will be mounted to an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. An efficiency-optimized version of the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and newly developed chassis technology all help to enhance sporting ability and ride comfort compared to the outgoing model. The all new BMW X1 also showcases its exceptional versatility with increased cargo area and greater interior room with more headroom than before. The 2016 BMW X1 xDrive28i will arrive in US showrooms in Fall 2015. Its cutting-edge premium ambience and functionality ensure the BMW X1 will stay ahead of the competition. Alongside its market-leading dynamics and efficiency, a host of innovative equipment features also help to secure the all new BMW X1 position in the class. Among the items on the options list are full-LED adaptive headlights, BMW Head-Up Display and Driver Assistance Plus. Greatest interior roominess and versatility in its class The all new BMW X1 is defined by its cutting-edge vehicle concept and advancements in the areas of functionality, safety and comfort. This multitalented model not only boasts more space for passengers and luggage, it also offers additional flexibility when it comes to utilizing its load-carrying capacity. Extensive standard equipment and numerous attractive options underline the premium character of the compact BMW Sports Activity Vehicle. Merging functionality and versatility, the BMW X1 is the roomiest vehicle in its class. The overall interior room and comfort of the all new BMW X1 treat passengers to additional head and legroom. The horizontal surface design in the interior, create generous levels of space and an ambience typical of a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle. Power front seats are now standard and provide a seating position raised by more than one inch in the front and more than 2.5 inches in the rear when compared to its predecessor. Leg room in the rear has increased by 1.5 inches in standard specification and by up to 2.6 inches with the optionally adjustable rear seat while accessible storage areas like the compartment in front of the shifter emphasize the versatile character of all new BMW X1. The driver focused cockpit and generously sized surfaces define the interior of the new BMW X1 as a classic Sports Activity Vehicle. The flat surfaces of the instrument panel and center console controls all angled towards the driver aim to help and maintain control over the surroundings at all times regardless of changing road conditions . The rear seatback can be split 40:20:40, with the three sections folding down individually or jointly. An optional sliding and reclining rear bench with individual elements that can slide forward or back by up to five inches allowing seating comfort and storage capacity to be adjusted even more precisely. The tilt angle for the rear-seat backrest can also be adjusted when fitted with the optional equipment seats and ranges from 31 degrees all the way to a near-vertical cargo position of 1 degree. A power-folding feature enables the rear seats to be folded at the touch of a button inside the luggage compartment. Cargo space has been increased by more than 15 percent (based on European measurements) allowing plenty of storage practicality. The standard automatic tailgate operation makes using the X1’s load-carrying capacity even easier, and Comfort Access, offered as part of the Premium Package also includes a hands-free tailgate opening and closing function. The passenger compartment of the all new BMW X1 has large door pockets and offers a selection of smaller storage areas. A storage compartment is integrated into the instrument panel on the driver’s side. Positioned in front of the gearshift selector lever in the center console beneath a sliding cover are two cupholders. The front armrest for the driver and front passenger includes an integrated storage compartment. The standard storage package includes features such as nets in the backrest of the driver and the front passenger seat and a central armrest with cupholders for the rear adding to the new X1’s storage offerings. Safe transportation of goods is assured with a strap and net in the trunk. Attractive equipment variants and exclusive comfort-enhancing options Customers can choose between two non-metallic and nine metallic exterior paint finishes, allowing them to tailor their new BMW X1 to their individual tastes. Estoril Blue metallic is exclusively offered in combination with the M Sport package. Mirroring brand specific characteristics, the new BMW X1 offers a broad range of individualization. The M Sport package, available later this year, provides a sportier, quicker and slicker look and feel thanks to the 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission featuring steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters supported by M Steering Wheel and M Sport suspension and Sport Seats. The Premium Package highlights once more BMW core attributes achieving an even higher look and feel of quality. The optional panoramic moonroof, increased in size compared to the outgoing model, underlines the roominess of the vehicle’s interior whereas the full LED headlights, both available with the Premium Package, highlight a strong and powerful stance on the road. Standard equipment also includes front fog-lamps, alarm with remote-controlled central locking and keyless engine ignition, electric window controls, electrically adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, a multifunction leather steering wheel adjustable for height and reach, a rain sensor including automatic headlight control and Dynamic Cruise Control. Commanding presence, robust proportions, dynamic lines The signature BMW X model design cues shape the all new BMW X1, while the height has been increased by an additional 1.7 inches, for a robust stance in all driving situations. The large, upright BMW kidney grille, lower air intake done in three sections and characteristic “six-eyed” looked formed by the twin round headlights and fog lamps give the new BMW X1 its distinctive face. Emphasizing the bold look of the new BMW X1, LED Daytime Running Lights are now standard with LED headlights available in conjunction with the Premium Package. Flared wheel arches and lines converge in an X-shape into the kidney grille, contributing to the authoritative presence of the new BMW X1. Black borders on the lower edge of the body, the square contour of the wheel cutouts and the generous volume of the surfaces above them, all underline the solid statute of the compact BMW X-models. The center of the new BMW X1’s rear apron rises up significantly, mimicking the characteristic element of the front design. Their flat outline emphasizes the width of the rear end, with the vertically arranged black aeroblades which perfectly mirrors the roof spoiler, adding sporting accents. The all new BMW X1 offers standard 18-inch run-flat all-season tires with non-run-flat all seasons and a space saver spare available as a no-cost option for the first time. Our sport oriented customers can chose 19-inch run-flat performance tires as optional equipment. The interior offers harmonious balance between driver focus and elegance befitting the classic style of a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle. The flat surfaces of the instrument panel and center console controls angled towards the driver providing great overview inside and outside the vehicle. The controls located in the lower section of the center console are surrounded by high-quality surfaces and are with a newly designed trim accent bar. The instrument cluster, consisting of two circular instruments and framed by a small binnacle, also helps the driver to focus on driving. The iDrive operating system’s Control Display comes in the form of a high resolution 6.5-inch or, optionally, 8.8-inch freestanding monitor. The interior trim accent and air vents are surrounded by an interior trim spanning the full width of the instrument panel. The interior trim and accent strip extend through the door panel trim, with the effect that occupants in all seats are surrounded by premium surfaces with a uniform material and color structure. Other standard interior features include: Power front seats with driver-side memory, Anthracite headliner, storage package and multifunction sport leather steering wheel. Standard equipment for the new BMW X1 also includes an all-new SensaTec seat surface available in both Black and Canberra Beige and a Black high-gloss interior trim with Pearl chrome accent strips. Perforated Dakota leather trim is available in Black, Canberra Beige, Mocha, and Oyster as are interior Brushed Aluminum and fine-wood matt Oak Grain and Fineline Stream interior trims. The standard sound system with 7 loudspeakers provides high quality audio. The optional Harman Kardon HiFi system, complete with 12 loudspeakers and a digital amplifier with 360-watt output, provide an outstanding audio experience while on the road. Powertrain and driving experience The second generation BMW X1 uses an all-new powertrain and chassis technology to build systematically on the compact BMW X model’s versatile sporting ability in its segment. The newly developed chassis technology, which ensures not only precisely controllable handling, but also noticeably improved ride comfort is another key factor that further enhances agility on the all new BMW X1. Together with the car’s low center of gravity, a wide track, short overhangs, optimized weight and the impressive rigidity of the body and chassis, all contribute to lay the foundation for a driving experience familiar to BMW drivers but without parallel in the class. Highest power in it’s class The all new BMW X1 will be available from launch with an all-new 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo engine featuring a twin-tailpipe design that draws further attention to the sporty character of the all new BMW X1. The BMW X1 xDrive28i features BMW’s new modular BMW EfficientDynamics engine, a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder unit with a TwinScroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection, VALVETRONIC fully variable valve lift, and Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing. This powerful engine develops 228 hp at 5,000 rpm, representing the highest power output in the entry model class and thanks to BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology. The peak torque of 258 lb-ft, which is available between 1,250 rpm and 4,500 rpm ensures once again that the driving torque is effortlessly and instantly delivered for a dynamic and agile driving experience. Its instantaneous pulling power enables acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. The new BMW X1 xDrive28i CO2 emissions stand at 152– 49 grams per kilometer (in the EU test cycle, depending on the tire format specified). US EPA mileage estimates will be available closer to launch. Flexible, quick to respond and more efficient than ever: the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system in the new BMW X1 The compact, low-weight and efficient all-wheel-drive system distributes the engine’s power between the front and rear axle exactly as the situation requires – at all times. Working closely with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) allows the system to act preemptively to counteract any tendency on the car’s towards oversteer or understeer. The BMW xDrive system therefore ensures excellent traction, optimized directional stability and enhanced cornering dynamics in all weather and road conditions. Furthermore, the combination of the DSC system and xDrive also includes Hill Descent Control. The xDrive system of the all new BMW X1 consists of a single-speed bevel gear and a rear-axle drive unit with an electrohydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch than controls longitudinal torque distribution. The two are connected by a two-piece drive shaft. When required, the multi-plate clutch – with the help of an electrohydraulic pump – diverts up to 100 percent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. It does so in less than 250 ms and unnoticed by the driver. The DSC system keeps the pump’s control unit constantly supplied with important data for analyzing the driving situation. The data includes the vehicle’s speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering lock, wheel-speed, pitch, accelerator position and the Driving Dynamic Control and DSC settings. This information is used to determine – and instantly generate – the ideal power split between the front and rear wheels, seamlessly and flexibly. A recipe for enthralling agility: sophisticated chassis technology The chassis technology of the original X1 has been totally redeveloped for the new model with aluminum wheel hubs, as well as axle carriers and control arms made from high-strength steel, reduce weight and increase the rigidity of the front axle, which in turn helps to ensure an agile turn-in response and direction-changing precision. The rear axle also employs a high proportion of high-strength steels. Tube-shaped anti-roll bars at the front and rear axle, innovative axle mounting and specially tuned elastokinematics contribute to the agility and ride comfort of the all new BMW X1, as do the connection of the dampers to the body via sophisticated three-way support mounts. The all new BMW X1 is equipped with standard Servotronic speed-sensitive steering assistance. This system allows parking and turning maneuvers to be completed safely and comfortably with little steering effort, and at higher speeds drivers can also benefit from steering precision and straight line stability as the steering effort is increased just the right amount. The Driving Dynamic Control switch on the center console allows the driver to give the car’s set-up an even sportier, more comfort-oriented or efficiency-optimized character. Calling up COMFORT, SPORT or ECO PRO mode at the touch of a button adapts the responses of the accelerator pedal and steering as well as shift characteristics of the automatic transmission are also adjusted if the relevant equipment has been specified. The Dynamic Stability Control stability system includes features such as the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist system, Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying Braking and Start-Off Assistant and Performance Control. When DSC is deactivated, an electronic locking function for the front axle differential – known as Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) – comes into play. In tight corners the system brakes a spinning wheel as required and ensures power is diverted to the other wheel. The enhanced functional effectiveness of all powertrain components, intelligent energy management, the rigorous application of BMW Lightweight technology and far-reaching measures designed to optimize aerodynamics all play a role in enhancing the efficiency of the all new, second generation BMW X1. The innovations developed under the BMW EfficientDynamics umbrella delivers greater driving pleasure. Optimized exterior design The all new BMW X1 also has smooth underbody paneling, air deflectors on the front wheel arches and vertical aeroblades, which form a unit with the roof spoiler to channel the airflow around the rear of the car to best effect. The Air Curtains integrated into the outer air intakes channel the onrushing air precisely behind the front fenders causing it to hang over the wheels like a curtain and thus reduce turbulence. Engine, gearbox and BMW xDrive: lower weight, improved efficiency The engine in the BMW X1 xDrive28i benefits from the latest incarnation of BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with TwinScroll turbocharger and the most recently updated generation of VALVETRONIC. This latest 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine incorporates aluminum crankcase and cylinder head, forged steel crankshafts with an integrated balance shaft drive, low-weight pistons, forged connecting rods, friction-reduced cylinder coatings and map-controlled oil pumps. With the reduced weight and enhanced internal efficiency, the new 8-speed Steptronic transmission also helps to optimize efficiency. The reduced converter slip of the new automatic transmission cuts energy losses, and its wider gear spread keeps revs lower at higher vehicle speeds contributing to the reduced emissions. The BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system developed for the new BMW X1 is considerably lighter with powertrain losses that are reduced by 30 percent in normal driving situations .The improved functional effectiveness of the new rear differential also helps to deliver a particularly efficient all-wheel-drive experience. Intelligent energy management, ECO PRO mode with coasting function The BMW EfficientDynamics technology employed in the new BMW X1 includes intelligent energy management. Brake Energy Regeneration enables extremely efficient power generation for the on-board power supply. The Electric Power Steering and on-demand fuel and coolant pumps work with maximum efficiency. ECO PRO mode – activated via the Driving Dynamics Control switch – also allows drivers of new BMW X1 to make use of the coasting function. At speeds between 30-100 mph, the powertrain is disengaged when the driver takes his or her foot off the accelerator. Further efficiency gains have been achieved with items including reduced-friction wheel bearings. BMW EfficientLightweight technology ensuring efficiency The enhanced functional effectiveness of all powertrain components, intelligent energy management, BMW Lightweight technology and measures designed to optimize aerodynamics all play a role in ensuring that the new BMW X1 it is significantly more efficient. The innovations developed under the BMW EfficientDynamics banner form an overall package that delivers greater and more efficient driving pleasure. An intelligent mix of materials for the body structure and chassis components of the new BMW X1 allows increased agility, lower vibrations and enhanced safety to be combined with optimized vehicle weight. The targeted use of hot-stamped, high and ultra-high tensile steels reduces the weight of the X1 yet also significantly improves torsional rigidity and strength. Contributing to the Lightweight construction of the BMW X1, components like the hood, the bumper supports and wheel hubs – among other areas of the car – are made of aluminum. The weight of the chassis has been reduced by the deployment of components such as tube-shaped anti-roll bars, output shafts and damper piston rods, not to mention the increased use of aluminum. The integrated BMW EfficientLightweight concept also contains solutions for construction details, such as the production of steel with optimized material strength – in the form of tailored rolled blanks – for the front bulkhead and B-pillar support beams. BMW ConnectedDrive: Progress through intelligent connectivity The second generation BMW X1 also brings significant advances in the field of intelligent connectivity over its predecessor. The new selection of options designed to optimize comfort; safety and the use of infotainment functions, such as the Head-Up Display, take their cues from those available from other BMW Sports Activity Vehicles. BMW ConnectedDrive features on the new BMW X1 now include the newest BMW Head-Up Display which projects driving-related activities directly onto the windshield. The optional high-resolution 8.8-inch Control Display with touchpad controller will host BMW Online, BMW Apps, Remote Services and provide Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information. As an option, a high-resolution 6.5” screen navigation with BMW Online, BMW Apps, Remote Services, Advanced Real Time Traffic Information is also available. By adding to the functionality of the infotainment system the new BMW X1 allows for increased safety by simultaneously providing greater comfort, all based on user selection. Technology Package including BMW Head-Up Display The Navigation option assists route guidance on the standard Control Display with direction arrows and sophisticated map graphics, including views from various angles. With the standard multifunction steering wheel, the destination can also be entered by voice command. Another, in many respects pioneering option is the Navigation system, which comprises a bigger 8.8-inch Control Display, an instrument cluster with extended features, including a split-screen function as well as the BMW Head-Up Display. This system allows High Guidance instructions including lane recommendations to be shown in the instrument cluster’s TFT display or projected onto the windshield, as desired. The BMW Head-Up Display projects this and other information directly into the driver’s field of view, allowing him or her to register the information without having to divert their gaze from the road ahead. The graphics are displayed using the full spectrum of colors. The 8.8-inch Control Display in conjunction with the standard multifunction steering wheel destination also allow for info input by voice command. Driver Assistance Plus The camera-based assistance systems available for the new BMW X1 ensure greater assurance and safety in different driving situations. The Driver Assistance Plus package encompasses Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, Automatic High Beams, as well as Frontal Collision Warning with Pedestrian Warning and City Collision Mitigation. In addition to these functions, the Driver Assistance Plus package also features the Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function. Park Distance Control and the Rear-View Camera are part of the Driver Assistance Package that transfers images onto the Control Display, making precise and comfortable parking maneuvers that much easier. Parking Assistant is included with the Driver Assistance Package and also helps the driver to find and make use of parallel parking spaces. BMW ConnectedDrive Services and apps The ConnectedDrive Services option enables the use of the BMW Online internet portal via the SIM card embedded in the vehicle, as well as the integration of smartphone apps into the car. Standard features also include BMW Assist eCall and BMW Teleservices. The steadily growing selection of smartphone apps comprises web radio functions as well as the use of social network services such as Facebook and Twitter or services like Spotify, Life 360, iHeartRadio among many more. The ConnectedDrive Store offers even more flexibility. A one-time registration allows customers to adapt the range of services available to their individual needs – there and then or at a later stage. The ConnectedDrive Store is not only available on the internet but also directly in the car. The functions purchased are made available for use just minutes later. Pricing will be announced closer to launch. View full article