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08/10/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Convertible

Only a few short months after the Z06 coupe's debut, the drop-top version of Chevrolet's most powerful Corvette joins the lineup after being unveiled ahead of the New York International Auto Show. Like the coupe, the 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 convertible boasts a massive horsepower boost over the base Corvette Stingray, as well as plenty of slippery aerodynamic enhancements.

This is the first factory-built Z06 convertible since the 1963 model year because previous engineering challenges prevented the Z06's structure from being rigid enough to handle a topless design. Now, thanks to a chassis that uses five custom aluminum segments, the 2015 Corvette Z06 is 20-percent stiffer than the previous hardtop Z06 and can thus handle the immense load of pulling Gs around a fast corner.

Under the hood is the same engine used in the 2015 Corvette Z06 coupe, a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 rated at a whopping 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, making it the most powerful production car GM has ever made, and surpassing early estimates of 625 hp and 635 lb.-ft. To put that into perspective, the previous Corvette ZR-1 supercar makes 638 hp, while the current standard Corvette Stingray's makes 455 hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque. Like the base Corvette, the Z06's powerplant uses direct injection, cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing to maximize efficiency.

Transmission choices will include a 7-speed manual, or a new 8-speed automatic, which Chevrolet claims is faster than Porsche's PDK dual-clutch transmission. The new automatic is also lighter, due to extensive use of magnesium and aluminum, and is expected to improve fuel economy by about five percent. Early 0-60 mph estimates for the 2015 Corvette Z06 were about 3.4 seconds with the manual transmission, though with the new horsepower ratings it's possible we could see an even quicker time. The automatic transmission is also expected to be a couple of tenths faster.

Like the Z06 coupe, the Z06 convertible also features a stiffer suspension, big Brembo brakes (with optional carbon fiber rotors) and wider tires. A redesigned front air dam, wider fender flares and giant rear wing help improve aerodynamics and add downforce for increased stability around corners.

As with the standard Corvettes, the latest iteration of the Z06 is also improved on the inside, with better finishes and materials. Sport seats are built using an underlying structure of magnesium for reduced weight and added stiffness.

The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 convertible is expected to hit dealerships in early 2015. Pricing hasn't been announced, but we'd estimate a starting price of around $84,000.

08/10/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2014 Volkswagen Passat

The Volkswagen Passat is a four-door midsize sedan designed to compete with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, and Hyundai Sonata. Volkswagen's goal was to make the Passat the most American of any car VW builds. It was designed for Americans, launched as a 2012 model, and is built at a sparkling new assembly plant at Chattanooga, Tennessee.

A new turbocharged engine is available for the 2014 Passat, bringing the number of engine choices to four: the new 1.8-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder, the original 2.5-liter five-cylinder, a 3.6-liter V6, and a 2.0-liter turbo diesel. The five-cylinder is being phased out and replaced by the more efficient 1.8-liter turbo four.

The new 1.8-liter turbocharged gasoline engine makes 170 horsepower (same as the five-cylinder) and 184 pound-feet of torque (an increase of 7 foot-pounds), all delivered at lower rpm than that of the five-cylinder. With manual shift, the turbo Passat gets an EPA fuel-economy estimate of 24/34 mpg City/Highway, 2-3 mpg better than the outgoing five-cylinder.

Passat 2.5L models come with the 170-horspower, 2.5-liter inline-5 mated with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The TDI turbocharged diesel, which is unique in the market segment delivers an EPA fuel-economy estimate of 31/43 mpg City/Highway with manual transmission. The Passat TDI can be fitted with VW's slick direct-shift gearbox, or DSG, which is a twin-clutch, 6-speed manual transmission that shifts electronically, sans clutch pedal.

The top-of-the-line Passat 3.6L comes standard with the DSG and a VW-exclusive, 400-watt Fender sound system. Leather, navigation, a sunroof and keyless push button start/stop, along with other semi-luxury features, are available.

We found Passat ride quality comfortable without being soft, well tuned for American interstates. Handling is what most drivers expect from a mainstream, midsize sedan: predictable and forgiving, properly suited for the ins and outs of the daily commute.

Fit and finish has that Teutonic feel, with tight tolerances and quality materials. Nothing flashy, just solid, functional controls and easy-to-read gauges communicating the essential data. The optional wood grain looks better than the real wood in some higher-priced cars. Visibility is good, although there's a bit of blockage out the rear due to the three head restraints.

Also new for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is a six-month, no-charge trial of VW Car-Net connected services, initially included on the Wolfsburg edition. Security/convenience features include automatic crash notification, roadside assistance, and stolen vehicle location assistance, as well as remote vehicle access and boundary/speed alerts.

07/14/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT

It's unusual for a carmaker to upstage its newest hot rods, but that's precisely what Dodge is doing with its 2015 Challenger lineup.

Just one month after unveiling its updated Challengers at the New York International Auto Show, an extensive freshening topped off by the 485-horsepower 392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker package, Dodge has upped the ante with a super Challenger propelled by the most potent street legal V8 Chrysler Corporation has ever produced.

It's called the Hemi Hellcat.

Operating on the long-established principle that too much power is almost enough, Dodge and its Street and Racing Technology (SRT) performance group have conspired to produce a supercharged version of Chrysler's 392-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) Hemi V8 capable of churning up more than 600 horsepower and 575 pound-feet of torque, according to the company.

There will be two versions of the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT: the standard version uses a naturally aspirated version of the 392 Hemi (485 hp, 475 lb-ft), and the supercharged Hellcat.

Both engines will be offered with a choice of a 6-speed manual transmission, borrowed from the Viper inventory, or Chrysler's TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic.

The distinction between the Challenger 392 Hemi Scat Pack Shaker and the SRT version is subtle. Engine output is identical, but the SRT sports the bigger Brembo brake package; with 15.4-inch rotors and 6-piston calipers, it's the biggest brake and caliper components ever offered on an SRT vehicle. Other upgrades include 9.5 x 20-inch forged alloy wheels wearing 275/40 Pirelli P-Zero tires.

Those same brakes and wheels support the Hellcat version, but the big news is underhood, where the supercharged engine sends power to a limited-slip rear differential via a drivetrain that's been strengthened in every component: transmissions, clutch, halfshafts, and of course the rear end.

The starting point for the engine was Chyrsler's 6.4-liter Hemi, iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, but the piston stroke has been shortened from 94.6 to 90.9 mm, reducing displacement to 6.2 liters, to accommodate a heftier forged crankshaft.

Though the Hellcat's architecture is otherwise the same as the 6.4-liter version, Dodge claims that 92 percent of its content is new.

The IHI supercharger is a Lysholm screw-type. Dodge's SRT power mavens chose supercharging over turbocharging for its instant throttle response. They also developed a Hellcat specific exhaust system with low back pressure and a menacing V8 rumble.

Hellcat exterior distinctions are more than mere cosmetics. The hood scoop, for example, extracts hot air to the intake system. SRT also removed the inboard headlamps and devoted those openings to cold air intake. And the lower front fascia openings that contain fog lamps in other Challengers are empty, plugged by covers the owner can remove to feed cooling air to the brakes for track days.

However, while the Hellcat will undoubtedly give a good account of itself in race track time trials, Dodge division boss Tim Tuniskis insists that it's designed to be useful as an everyday car.

With everyday use in mind, Hellcat owners will get two keyfobs, one red, one black. When the driver starts the car with the red fob, it makes the engine's full power potential available, while the black fob reduces peak output substantially. That's the fob owners will hand over to valets and/or other drivers, minimizing temptation.

Due to reach showrooms in the last quarter of the year, Hellcat pricing is a matter of conjecture. But we can glean clues from super versions of competing pony cars. The 580-hp supercharged Chevy Camaro ZL-1, for example, starts at about $60,000, while the pricetag of the 505-hp track-ready Z28 soars to a heady $75,000. A new Mustang is due to go on sale this fall, with a supercharged Shelby version sure to follow. In the meantime, the current 660-hp GT 500 starts at less than $60,000.

The current 2014 Challenger SRT, for its part, starts at less than $40,000. Expect the 2015 version to open closer to $40K.

06/11/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 BMW X4

The recent onslaught of new BMW products continues with the introduction of the 2015 BMW X4, officially revealed for the first time at the April 2014 New York International Auto Show.

Like the larger BMW X6, the midsize BMW X4 crossover shares similar proportions and the low, coupe-like roofline. It's slightly longer than the BMW X3, but also slightly lower, with a sleeker, more hunkered-down shape, compared with the more upright silhouettes of the X3 and X5.

Two models will be available, both with all-wheel drive as standard equipment: The xDrive28i is powered by BMW's TwinPower turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that makes 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The X4 xDrive35i uses a 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 300 hp and 300 lb.-ft. of torque. BMW estimates the xDrive35i will sprint from 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds, very brisk performance. Both models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Suspension on the BMW X4 is tuned more aggressively than on X3 and X5 models. The X4 suspension also features Performance Control, which uses the electronic stability control system to guide power to the outside rear wheel when cornering, reducing understeer (plowing).

Meanwhile, variable sport steering allows for more stability in high speeds in a straight line, but tightens up in corners and at lower speeds for better maneuverability.

Standard features will include BMW's iDrive interface, as well as a power tailgate that opens when the keyholder swipes under the bumper with one foot. Options include the usual array from BMW, like navigation, a color head-up display and the ConnectedDrive services, which allow users to pair their smartphones to access multiple apps and information. Active safety options include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot detection and pedestrian/collision warning with automatic braking. Subscription to the BMW Assist eCall emergency crash notification system is included for ten years.

Like other BMW models, the 2015 BMW X4 will be available with an M Sport option, which adds an even more aggressively tuned sport suspension, unique interior trim, special exterior colors and an aerodynamics package. There's also a choice of 19- or 20-inch M alloy wheels.

If the X6 is any indication, the 2015 BMW X4 should keep the sharp handling of a sedan, while offering additional storage. However, like the X6, the X4's low roofline makes for a less roomy interior than in the more upright crossovers. With all seats in place, the 2015 BMW X4 offers 17.7 cubic feet of space, expandable to 49.4 cubes. A standard 40/20/40-split rear seat makes the X4 more versatile.

Notably, the 2015 BMW X4 will be built in the USA at BMW's Spartanburg, SC assembly plant. BMW recently announced it would expand the plant's capacity to make room for the X4 (and possibly future vehicles), which, upon completion, will make Spartanburg BMW's largest assembly plant worldwide.

The 2015 BMW X4 goes on sale in the U.S. in Fall 2014 with a starting price of $45,625 for the xDrive28i and $48,925 for the xDrive35i, including destination and handling

06/04/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 Ford Focus

The latest version of the top-selling Ford Focus compact sedan made its North American debut at April's New York International Auto Show.

The 2015 Ford Focus sedan is restyled with a new hood, headlights and grille. The grille uses Ford's new signature trapezoidal-shaped opening and strong horizontal lines, scaled proportionately to the compact Focus, giving it a stronger family resemblance to the midsize Fusion and the subcompact Fiesta. In the rear, the 2015 Ford Focus gets a redesigned trunk lid and new tail lights.

Inside, the 2015 Focus gets more sculpted seats and a new center console, including a new cupholder design. Enhanced features of Ford's Sync infotainment system include connected apps that can access real-time vehicle data including speed, acceleration, odometer and location information, as well as refinements to the voice-activation system and a more seamless integration with compatible iPhone and Android devices. Also standard on the 2015 Ford Focus is a rearview camera and Ford's MyKey system, which allows owners to limit vehicle speed and audio volume, as well as block incoming calls and text messages to paired phones.

Options include a new heated steering wheel and a number of active safety technologies, like blind spot detection, lane keeping assist and cross-traffic alert.

Making its debut on the 2015 Ford Focus is Ford's 1.0-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine, a small but efficient powerplant used also on the Fiesta, mated to a new 6-speed manual transmission. Official specs haven't been released, but the 1.0-liter engine makes 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque in the smaller Fiesta. We'll see if those numbers hold true for the heavier Focus.

Ford's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 160 horsepower will also be offered, with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

From an engineering standpoint, the 2015 Focus gets a revised suspension with a new shock absorber valve design, revised electric power steering and software updates to its dual-clutch automatic transmission, which Ford says will equate to better performance and handling, as well as a quieter ride.

Deliveries of the 2015 Ford Focus sedan are expected to begin in the latter half of 2014. Pricing hasn't been announced, but we expect a modest bump over the previous model, starting at around $18,000.

06/04/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 Dodge Challenger

If you're old enough to remember the heyday of American muscle, this car will look familiar. Though if your memories of that era are exceptionally sharp, you may be a little puzzled. Was it 1970? Or 1971?

Those were the years when the Dodge Challenger joined the pony car derby, a latecomer to the field, but formidable, with Hemi horsepower and snappy styling.

Extensively updated for 2015, Challenger retains its retro roots, with revised styling drawn from the 1971 model, rather than 1970, according to the Dodge. That year was the high water mark for Challenger performance, its second year on the market and final year with the option of 426 Hemi V8 power.

The styling changes from 1970 to 1971 were subtle, and that's true of this freshening. The front and rear fascia have been redesigned with a thinner split grille slot, deeper front air dam, an LED halo surrounding the quad headlights, a bigger power bulge in the new hood, a new Shaker hood option, and LED taillights on the revised rear.

But as was true of the transition from 1970 to '71, the 2015 Challenger's profile is essentially the same as before. With the exception of a new cast aluminum axle housing and electric power steering, that's also true of the chassis. The loyalty to yesteryear also extends to the paint palette, which includes B5 Blue, Tor Red, and Sublime, an incandescent green that guarantees visibility. Dodge calls them high impact heritage hues. And there are seven heritage-inspired stripe options.

While the exterior maintains its cosmetic ties to the early '70s, the all-new interior blends retro design with contemporary technology. Highlights include a new 7-inch TFT cluster between the tachometer and speedometer, with programmable information via Dodge's Performance Pages feature; a new 8.4-inch touchscreen option with Chrysler's Uconnect telematics; driver selectable operating modes; and a new rearview camera. An S3 card slot, auxiliary audio input and USB outlet are integrated into a new media hub housed in the center armrest.

The front seats have been redesigned, with upholstery choices ranging from cloth to Nappa leather, and the option of heating and cooling for seats clad with leather. There's also a performance seat option with more pronounced thigh and torso bolsters.

Dodge claims more rear seat legroom for the 2015 Challenger versus the Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro, although this distinction seems academic, rather than practical. The Challenger is rated for five passengers, but the rear center position is barely habitable, and only for short distances.

Pony cars have always been about performance, and there's no shortage of hustle in the Challenger powertrain inventory. Engine choices are familiar: Chrysler's 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V6, and 5.7- and 6.4-liter Hemi V8s. Output for the 5.7-liter Hemi ranges up to 375 hp and 410 pound-feet of torque in the Challenger R/T, when intake air enters via the optional Shaker hood and the engine is paired with a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission.

The Shaker package goes beyond cold air, extending to chassis elements via the Super Track Pack, with upgrades to suspension, brakes, steering, three-mode stability control, and Goodyear Eagle F1 performance tires.

The 6.4 Hemi, (known as the 392 within Dodge), generates 485 hp and 475 lb-ft with the Scat Pack Hemi package. Both V8s will include the option of Chrysler's TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic (standard with the V6), replete with paddle shifters and a new electronic shift feature.

In addition to the 6.4-'s Scat Pack Hemi option, Dodge has also introduced an entire line of Scat Pack accessories from Mopar that includes 5.7-liter engine hardware, performance suspension parts, 20 x 9-inch forged alloy wheels, and Brembo brakes, plus a Scat Pack appearance package with a 276-watt audio system and animated start-up screen.

The 2015 Dodge Challenger models will reach showrooms this fall, with some of the high performance elements due later in the year.

06/04/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 Hyundai Sonata

An all-new 2015 Hyundai Sonata made its North American debut at April's New York International Auto Show with subtler styling, more standard features and the promise of better driving dynamics. The redesigned Sonata midsize sedan is expected to go on sale in early summer 2014.

Most noticeably, the 2015 Sonata drops the swoopy curves of its predecessor, following the recently refreshed Genesis in adopting Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language. Straighter lines, less chrome, a wider and more angular grille opening, as well as new LED fog lamps give the Sonata a more grown-up (though some say less exciting) look.

Engines carry over from the previous generation, but have been revised to improve performance and efficiency, mostly in the low RPMs. The base 2.4-liter inline-4 makes 185 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 is good for 245 hp and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Both are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Three trim levels offer slightly different takes on the 2015 Sonata: Sonata SE models get LED daytime running lights, a rear lip spoiler, chrome trim around windows and 16-inch alloy wheels. Sonata Limited models get rocker panel extensions and a dual exhaust. Sonata Sport has a unique front grille and side chrome molding. Sport 2.0T models get a quad rear exhaust.

Inside, the redesigned interior echoes the straighter lines of the exterior. Controls are simpler, more elegant and well placed. Most plastic materials have a soft-touch feel. A new steering wheel design matches the latest Sonata's grown-up look.

Standard features will include voice recognition, Bluetooth, satellite radio capability, auxiliary audio jack and USB port. Options include navigation with downloadable apps and a 8-inch display, Hyundai's BlueLink telematics, and a 400-watt Infinity premium audio system.

Optional safety features include forward collision warning, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert and lane departure warning.

Although the 2015 Sonata competes in the midsize sedan category, it's larger than many of its competitors and is classified by the EPA as a large sedan.

Cargo space in the 2015 Hyundai Sonata measures 16.3 cubic feet, about the same or slightly more than other sedans in its class including the Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.

Driving dynamics should be improved thanks to a number of engineering revisions, which include a more rigid platform that Hyundai says is 41-percent stiffer. A new multilink rear suspension design should equate to better ride and handling. Additional sound deadening materials should reduce noise, vibration and harshness.

The 2015 Hyundai Sonata will be built at Hyundai's manufacturing plant in Montgomery, Alabama. Pricing hasn't been announced, but we expect a modest price increase from the 2014 model, starting at around $22,000

05/20/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 Dodge Charger

For a car to merit the all-new label, its makeover should include structure and engines, as well as the elements the prospective buyer can see and touch.

By that standard, the 2015 Dodge Charger rates as an extensive freshening. There are new aluminum axles and axle housings, but the chassis is otherwise unchanged and the engines, the basic 3.6-liter V6 (292 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque) and optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 (370 hp, 395 lb-ft, available with R/T and R/T Road & Track models), are carryover. With the V6, the 2015 Charger is EPA-rated for 31 mpg Highway, best in class, according to Dodge.

A new supercharged Hemi is anticipated, as is a higher performance SRT model from Chrysler's in-house hot rod shop, but neither was part of the Dodge presentation at April's New York International Auto Show.

But there is one significant power delivery addition: Chrysler's 8-speed automatic transmission becomes a standard feature with the Hemi V8, as well as the V6, and is the only transmission offered. All-wheel drive continues to be available, and features a new active transfer case that automatically disconnects the front axle when it's not needed. Dodge claims this feature can improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent.

However, if the engines are familiar, the sheetmetal is almost all new: grille, headlights, hood, fenders, and rear fascia. The roof and rear doors are the only exterior panels that survive, although the base of the rearmost roof pillar has been angled aft, giving the rear window a faster slope and visually reducing the rear overhang.

Other new exterior details include projector beam headlamps, LED fog lamps, a three-piece rear spoiler (standard on R/T models), redesigned center high-mounted stop lamp, and Dodge's racetrack LED taillight array spanning the entire rear end. The wheels are also new for all four trim levels, with six different 20-inch styles, including a forged aluminum set, 20 x 9 inches.

The overall design goal was to preserve the Charger's muscle car aura of power while simultaneously making it appear smaller and lighter, even though the 2015 Charger dimensions are almost exactly the same as those of the current (outgoing) car. Response to the visual sleight-of-hand remains to be seen; this is still a full-size sedan and looks like it. But the new Charger does sustain the powerful presence that has distinguished this car since its 2006 introduction. Dodge cites the 1969 Charger as the inspiration for the 2015 redesign, from the heyday of the muscle car era. Never mind that the '69 Chargers were coupes.

The all-new interior includes new seats, extensive soft touch material on the dash, center console, and door panels, with eight different trim packages, including cloth and leather upholstery choices.

The sporty three-spoke steering wheel is new, backed by paddle shifters (optional). A new electronic feature delivers brisk shift times, 400 milliseconds, according to Dodge, diminishing to 250 milliseconds in sport mode, which also holds the selected gear to redline. Sporty also applies to the electronic power steering, updated to provide three modes, normal, comfort, and sport, that vary effort to suit the driver's mood.

New telematics abound in the 2015 Dodge Charger. A standard 7-inch TFT (thin film transistor) programmable screen nestles between the speedometer and tachometer, with programmable info including Dodge Performance Pages. The new center stack embraces a 5.0-inch touchscreen (standard) or 8.4-inch version (optional), with a next generation radio and premium audio options, as well as the available nav system. Chrysler's optional Uconnect Access provides a variety of connectivity features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and mobile apps.

New safety features include lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist; adaptive cruise control capable of a full stop and speed resumption; and forward collision Warning-Plus, which will provide autonomous braking if the driver fails to respond to the situation.

The freshened Charger will go on sale this fall as a 2015 model.

05/20/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 BMW Alpina B6

Once in a blue moon, the Bavarian performance manufacturer Alpina works with BMW to produce fast, rare and low-volume powerhouses. Its latest creation: The 2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe.

Revealed at the 2014 New York International Auto Show in April, the 2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe Gran Coupe is available as a special-order vehicle with limited production.

More skewed toward luxury than BMW's own high-performance M vehicles, Alpina takes the body of the four-door BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe and packs it with a 4.4-liter Alpina Bi-Turbo V8 that cranks out 540 horsepower and 540 pound-feet of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Power is sent to all four wheels via BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The result is a 0-60 mph time of just 3.7 seconds, with a top speed of 198 mph. That's compared with a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds from the BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe's 445hp V8. Not only is the Alpina B6 faster, it sports unique exterior elements, like a front splitter and additional aero work that directs airflow over and around the body, instead of underneath for added high-speed stability. Big 20-inch wheels use a distinctive, 20-spoke design. In the rear, elliptical aluminum exhaust pipes further differentiate the Alpina model.

Inside, the 2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe is wrapped in premium leather, trimmed in myrtle wood or a black piano finish and branded with the Alpina logo. Certain elements are finished by hand, such as the stitching on the steering wheel. Those willing to plunk down the cash for the Alpina B6 will have the option to further customize their vehicles with a variety of exterior and interior color schemes and options. Exclusive exterior colors include Alpina Blue and Alpina Green.

Like other BMW Alpina models, the B6 Gran Coupe body is built in the BMW 6 Series plant in Dingolfing, Germany, then hand-finished with select components at Alpina's Buchloe, Germany factory.

The 2015 BMW Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe Gran Coupe starts at $118,225, including $925 destination and handling. Buyers can choose a European Delivery option at the BMW Welt delivery center in Munich, or U.S. delivery at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, SC.

05/08/2014 - Nicolas Popov wrote:

2015 BMW M4 Convertible

A convertible version of the high-powered BMW M4 goes on sale this summer. Revealed at April's New York International Auto Show, the 2015 BMW M4 Convertible joins BMW's expanding lineup that now includes the two-door M4 coupe and four-door M3 sedan.

Like the newest generation of M4 and M3 fixed-roof cars, the 2015 BMW M4 Convertible uses a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 425 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automated gearbox or a 6-speed manual.

The high-revving engine is lighter and more powerful than the V8 used on the last-generation M3, redlining at 7300 rpm. Peak torque is available from just 1800 rpm to 5500 rpm. BMW estimates the M4 Convertible can race from 0-60 mph in just 4.2 seconds with the dual-clutch and 4.4 seconds with the automatic.

The 2015 BMW M4 convertible shares the same architecture and body with the 4 Series convertible, with a three-piece retractable hardtop and a noise-absorbing headliner, which BMW says is quieter than the previous-generation 3 Series convertible and provides added insulation. According to BMW, the power-folding top can completely fold up or down in 20 seconds and be operated at speeds of up to 11 miles per hour.

Weighing about 90 pounds less than the outgoing M3 convertible, the M4 convertible uses more lightweight materials in place of heavier steel; the front fenders and hood are aluminum, and the drive shaft of the M4 is made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP).

Performance features are the same found on the M4 coupe and M3 sedan, including a standard Active M differential and a more aggressively tuned electromechanical steering setup with three driving modes. Adaptable suspension is optional, and lets drivers choose between Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus modes. Carbon ceramic brakes are also optional.

In the cabin, new front bucket sport seats use a single-piece back panel, which BMW says was inspired by racecars. Signature contrast stitching, as well as the M logo, can be found throughout the interior. And just to make sure nobody forgets they're driving an M car, the M logo on the seat backrests in the M4 convertible are illuminated.

Like other BMWs, the 2015 BMW M4 Convertible can be equipped with a bevvy of infotainment and electronic options, including navigation, a head-up display, and the Active Driving Assistant, a collision mitigation and pedestrian warning system.

The 2015 M4 Convertible goes on sale in Summer 2014 with a starting price of $73,425 including destination and handling.

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