After presenting the
X6 Active Hybrid in Toronto last year, it's the new
7-Series ' turn to show off the gas and electric powertrain.Jointly developed with Chrysler and GM, BMW's version of the hybrid unit features two electric motors and a 4.4-litre V8 that is said to develop over 400 horsepower. An 8-speed automatic is part of the deal, and the ActiveHybrid should offer a 15% fuel consumption improvement over the conventional 7-Series.
The
2009 Z4 is totally redesigned and features a power-retractable hard top, a BMW first, that opens and closes in 20 seconds.The Z4 sDrive35i boasts a twin-turbo, 3.0-litre inline-6 that develops 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and is mated to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed double-clutch automatic. The sDrive30i gets a naturally-aspirated 3.0-litre six that produces 255 horses and 220 pound-feet, bolted to either the 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic with manual mode.The cabin is roomier, and for the first time, the Z4 is available with the company's iDrive multimedia system. The new roadster will turn up this spring.
photo: Matthieu Lambert