Canadian BMW dealer holding contest to find ultimate blogger, $65K job up for grabs

2011 BMW 335is

2011 BMW 335is – Click above for high-res image gallery

Endras BMW in Ajax, Ontario has a sweet blogging gig open. The winner of the dealership’s Ultimate Blogger contest gets a free condo for a year, a new Bimmer every six months and a $65K a year starting salary.

Endras is looking for someone to represent it online, a job that includes attending press events, junkets and auto shows, as well as handling the outfit’s social media efforts.

To enter, write and submit a 200-word blog post on anything BMW-related. After Endras BMW management weeds out the entries that fail to impress, 20 semifinalists be asked to produce a video proving their obsession with performance.

In the last round of eliminations, the 10 finalists will get face-to-face interviews at Endras. After that, someone’s got a new job. If you want a shot at it, hop over to EndrasBMW.com and fire up your writing skills.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 BMW 335is

[Source: EndrasBMW]

Canadian BMW dealer holding contest to find ultimate blogger, $65K job up for grabs originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Feb 2011 14:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 BMW 650i Convertible configurator comes online

Filed under: Convertible, BMW

BMW 650i configurator

The new-for-2012 BMW 650i Convertible is still bigger and heavier than most of the competition, but there are still a whole slew of notable new features about the updated car. Designers filed off some of the more audacious curves in favor of a bit more subtlety. Power from the 650i’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 now sits at 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque – up 40 hp and a whopping 90 lb-ft from the last-gen 6 Series – and the six-speed gearbox has been replaced with a slick eight-speed unit. All good stuff, and judging by the fact that BMW has launched the online 650i Convertible configurator, it appears this big droptop is ready for prime time.

The price tag begins at $92,375 once $875 is added for destination and the dreaded $1,000 gas guzzler tax is applied. The price only goes up from there, with packages like Driver Assistance ($3,900) and premium sound ($1,800) bringing things over the $100,000 mark. Check off all the options and you’re looking at a MSRP of $110,375, or enough money for a loaded 550i and a nicely optioned Mazda Miata. Click here to head over to the 650i configurator to price out some high-zoot open-air motoring for yourself.

[Source: BMW]

2012 BMW 650i Convertible configurator comes online originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #218: 2012 Honda Civic, BMW “i”, Chevy MyLink, and GMC Granite

Filed under: Podcasts, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Dodge, GMC, Honda, Rumormill

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Autoblog Podcast #218 is here, and Chris, Dan, Chris Paukert and Zach return to talk about Chevrolet MyLink, the GMC Granite’s rumored re-greenlighting, the 2012 Honda Civic and BMW’s new “i” sub-brand. Questions and feedback wrap it up, and it’s an hour and thirty-three minutes of fun this week. Thanks for listening, we’ll see you next week!

Autoblog Podcast #218: 2012 Honda Civic, BMW “i”, Chevy MyLink, and GMC Granite

  • Chevrolet MyLink
  • 2012 Civic
  • GMC Granite Confirmed again
  • BMW’s new “i” sub-brand

In the Autoblog Garage:


2011 Ram 1500
2011 Chevrolet Cruze LTZ RS
2011 Dodge Durango Crew AWD
2011 Audi A6

  • Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert

Runtime: 01:33:00


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Autoblog Podcast #218: 2012 Honda Civic, BMW “i”, Chevy MyLink, and GMC Granite originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW’s new eco sub-brand to be called “i”

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Marketing/Advertising, Technology, Hatchback, BMW, Electric, Diesel

BMW i sub-brand

BMW ‘i’ sub-brand – Click above for high-res image gallery

We’ve known for some time that BMW has been hard at work developing a range of high-tech green vehicles, from the oft-mentioned MegaCity runabout to a production version of its Vision EfficientDynamics eco supercar. But up until now, we didn’t know how the Bavarians intended to name these very different new models.

BMW i sub-brandWe do now. BMW has just announced that its new sub-brand will be called “i.” The i family will house the German automaker’s “sustainable vehicles and mobility solutions” when it arrives in 2013. The first two models will be the as-yet unreleased i3 and i8, otherwise known as the MegaCity and VED production cars (both are teased in the rendering above). While BMW isn’t saying where the i3 will be built, it has confirmed that the smaller-volume i8 supercar will be assembled in Leipzig.

In addition, the automaker has founded BMW i Ventures, a holding company based in New York City with $100 million in backing. The company’s goal is to propogate ‘vehicle-independent services’ – things like smart phone apps. BMW i Ventures has already started staking other businesses, including My City Way, a company whose self-titled app provides details on public transportation, parking and entertainment in more than 40 cities in the U.S.

We can’t help but note that in the accompanying press release (available after the jump), there is almost no discussion of preserving BMW’s reputation of being ‘fun-to-drive’ and a leader in dynamics. (“Sustainable vehicles and mobility solutions” certainly isn’t terminology to set the enthusiast’s heart alight.) That said, if the production i8 can preserve the promise of the Vision EfficientDynamics showcar, driving entertainment will almost certainly be a part of the program for that car, and hopefully the i3 will be a lightweight and nimble little thing when it hits the market.

Gallery: BMW i

BMW i sub-brandBMW i sub-brandBMW i sub-brandBMW i sub-brand

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW’s new eco sub-brand to be called “i”

BMW’s new eco sub-brand to be called “i” originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW’s new eco sub-brand to be called “i”

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Marketing/Advertising, Technology, Hatchback, BMW, Electric, Diesel

BMW i sub-brand

BMW ‘i’ sub-brand – Click above for high-res image gallery

We’ve known for some time that BMW has been hard at work developing a range of high-tech green vehicles, from the oft-mentioned MegaCity runabout to a production version of its Vision EfficientDynamics eco supercar. But up until now, we didn’t know how the Bavarians intended to name these very different new models.

BMW i sub-brandWe do now. BMW has just announced that its new sub-brand will be called “i.” The i family will house the German automaker’s “sustainable vehicles and mobility solutions” when it arrives in 2013. The first two models will be the as-yet unreleased i3 and i8, otherwise known as the MegaCity and VED production cars (both are teased in the rendering above). While BMW isn’t saying where the i3 will be built, it has confirmed that the smaller-volume i8 supercar will be assembled in Leipzig.

In addition, the automaker has founded BMW i Ventures, a holding company based in New York City with $100 million in backing. The company’s goal is to propogate ‘vehicle-independent services’ – things like smart phone apps. BMW i Ventures has already started staking other businesses, including My City Way, a company whose self-titled app provides details on public transportation, parking and entertainment in more than 40 cities in the U.S.

We can’t help but note that in the accompanying press release (available after the jump), there is almost no discussion of preserving BMW’s reputation of being ‘fun-to-drive’ and a leader in dynamics. (“Sustainable vehicles and mobility solutions” certainly isn’t terminology to set the enthusiast’s heart alight.) That said, if the production i8 can preserve the promise of the Vision EfficientDynamics showcar, driving entertainment will almost certainly be a part of the program for that car, and hopefully the i3 will be a lightweight and nimble little thing when it hits the market.

Gallery: BMW i

BMW i sub-brandBMW i sub-brandBMW i sub-brandBMW i sub-brand

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW’s new eco sub-brand to be called “i”

BMW’s new eco sub-brand to be called “i” originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW offering M Performance exhaust for M3 range [w/video]

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, BMW

BMW M Performance Exhaust

BMW M Performance exhaust – Click above for high-res image

BMW has released a new exhaust system for the current M3 coupe, sedan and convertible. This new M Performance system is crafted from lightweight, heat-resistant Inconel, and when combined with the current M3’s high-revving 4.0-liter V8, the end result is a much more throaty, powerful sound.

The M Performance exhaust is approximately 20 pounds lighter than the standard setup, made up of perforated inner pipes and polished titanium tips with the BMW M logo. What’s more, this flow-optimized exhaust reduces overall back pressure, allowing for more aurally stimulating sound.

But the truth is, words don’t do this new exhaust system justice. Thankfully, BMW fitted the M Performance exhaust system to an M3 coupe and created a video, which you can watch after the jump. If you like what you hear, BMW even offers the M Performance exhaust note as a ringtone (seriously), available at bmwusa.com/news. Hit the jump for the details, including the price: a steep $4,374, not including installation.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW offering M Performance exhaust for M3 range [w/video]

BMW offering M Performance exhaust for M3 range [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: De Tomaso SLC Concept looks like a BMW 5GT fighter

Filed under: Concept Cars, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Videos, Crossover, Luxury

De Tomaso SLC Concept

De Tomaso SLC Concept – Click above to watch video after the jump

Now here’s a question worth racking your precious brain over. If you were asked to choose between the recently unveiled De Tomaso SLC Concept and a BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo, which would you park in your driveway? If you chose a used Audi RS6 Avant, congratulations, you just made our holiday card list.

Still, it’s difficult not to draw comparisons between the recently unveiled De Tomaso and the awkwardly-proportioned 5-Series family hauler. Both vehicles have managed to meld the crossover and sedan realms in a way that few other vehicles have.

While we’ve already been privy to a few photos of the De Tomaso SLC Concept, a video of the vehicle has now made its way to the internets. The quick clip gives us a slightly better look at what the vehicle will bring to the table when it gets an official unveil early next month at the Geneva Motor Show. Here’s hoping it looks better in the flesh. Hit the jump to have a look-see of your very own.

[Source: YouTube via Carscoop]

Continue reading Video: De Tomaso SLC Concept looks like a BMW 5GT fighter

Video: De Tomaso SLC Concept looks like a BMW 5GT fighter originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Feb 2011 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 1 Series

Filed under: Spy Photos, Europe, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

BMW 1 Series Spy Shots

BMW 1 Series Spy Shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

Our elite squad of spy photographers has managed to nab a handful of photos of the upcoming BMW 1 Series. Given that a refreshed model has just debuted for 2012, it’s understandable that details on the next-gen model are still squirmy at the moment. In any case, this new batch of shots show off a bit more of what we can expect to see on the production version when it lands in showrooms. If this mule is any indication we can expect the 1 to come bearing the company’s first turn signals integrated into the sideview mirrors, and it appears that the squared angel-eye headlights of manufacturer’s recent concept cars have finally made their way off of the show circuit and onto the street.

Inside, BMW has finally seen fit to add a little color to the cabin with a few splashes of red stitching as well as a dash accent. It looks like the 1 will also come bearing a pop-up navigation screen when it arrives in dealerships.

As of right now, there’s little word as to what will show up under the hood of this wee beastie when it comes Stateside, but we hear that this particular machine was powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine and an eight-speed automatic. The car was also spotted testing alongside two xDrive products vehicles and an Audi A4, so there’s a good chance that we’ll see all-wheel drive crop up on the next 1, too.

Gallery: BMW 1 Series Spy Shots

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 1 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW X6 to get five-seat option among other changes

Filed under: Crossover, BMW

BMW X6 three-across rear seat

BMW X6 now available with room for five – Click above for high-res image gallery

Have you always wanted to drive a BMW X6, but felt that leaving one of your four friends waiting on the curb was a drawback? Tell that friend to buck up and head over to your local BMW dealer, because the X6 is getting an optional third rear seat.

The additional seat is available on all version of the X6 with the exception of the ActiveHybrid variant. Along with the extra (and from the looks of the pic above, tiny) middle squab, the Spartanburg, South Carolina-built BMW X6 is getting new 20-inch alloy wheels, interior leather options, and vicinity lighting.

In addition, there will be available enhanced content for Apple iPhone users. Through the BMW Apps system and ConnectedDrive, iPhone users will be granted access to Facebook and Twitter. The BMW Apps system also allows iPhone users to listen to radio stations from around the world regardless of where they’re located. Learn more in the official press release after the jump, which also details changes to the X6’s kissing cousin, the more capacious X5.

Gallery: BMW X6 now offers seating for five

BMW X6 now offers seating for five

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW X6 to get five-seat option among other changes

BMW X6 to get five-seat option among other changes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: BMW M6 convertible caught on snowshoeing shakedown

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, BMW

spy shot bmw m6 convertible

Spy Shots: BMW M6 convertible caught frolicking in the snow – Click above for high-res image gallery

Our own Chris Paukert recently spent some time getting to know the 2012 BMW 6 Series Convertible, and he did so under the hot South African sun. BMW engineers are busy testing their upcoming hi-po M6 droptop, but they’re doing so in a place where the top is definitely going to stay up.

Spy photographers have caught the powerful two-door out playing in the snow during winter testing. Last time we saw the camouflaged convertible, it was out running on a track and making good use of its rumored 560 horsepower and 530 pound-feet of torque. This time around we imagine that whoever’s behind the wheel is going to be a bit more conservative with the throttle. Check out the cold-weather testing of the BMW M6 convertible in the gallery below.

Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW M6 convertible

Spy Shots: BMW M6 convertibleSpy Shots: BMW M6 convertibleSpy Shots: BMW M6 convertibleSpy Shots: BMW M6 convertibleSpy Shots: BMW M6 convertible

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW M6 convertible caught on snowshoeing shakedown originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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