Montréal Auto Show: BMW & MINI

There is lots of action at the German automaker's stand, since they are unveiling four Canadian premieres in Montreal. The M3 Coupe is there, with its 4.0-liter V8 that develops 414 hp at 8,300 rpm as well as 295 lb-ft of torque, and mated to a 6-speed manual. The engine is 7% lighter and 8% more efficient than the 6-cylinder it replaces.

2008 BMW 1-Series

The four-seat 1-Series will arrive this spring in coupe and convertible form. The 135i versions will get M aerodynamic add-ons as well as uplevel features such as a navigation system and leather seating. Under the hood of 128i models is a 3.0-liter inline-6 that produces 230 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. The 135i models get the twin-turbo version that develops 300 hp and 300 lb-ft.

Based on the X5, the X6 crossover gets a sportier appearance, thanks to a dramatically-sloping roofline. The X6 will be the base for the company's first hybrid model, to be launched later on. Two versions of the X6 will be available: the xDrive35i and its twin-turbo, 3.0-liter 6-cylinder (300 hp and 300 lb-ft) and the xDrive50i and its twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V8 (400 hp and 450 lb-ft).

2008 BMW X6

Finally, a second version of the Cooper is now available, the Clubman. With 4 doors, the car's ergonomics is improved. The Cooper Clubman, in base and S trims, receive the same powertrains as the Cooper: the 118-hp 1.6-liter as well as the supercharged 172-hp engine.
photo:BMW, Philippe Champoux