BMW News

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Tyler Rampersaud – September 30, 2022

BMW x Kith Collaborate With A New BMW i4 M50 Limited To 7...

The second collaboration between BMW and Kith is here. Better yet, it’s electric. As BMW celebrates the 50th anniversary of its M division and looks forward to the future of its luxury and performance, the brand collaborates with famed fashion and lifestyle brand Kith for the second time, this time through an exclusive BMW i4 M50. The car, designed by Kith founder Ronnie Fieg, who himself is a BMW fan, features a color called Kith Vitality Green, with an interior finished in BMW Individual Caramel Merino leather. MUST READ: The New BMW XM Is Revealed As BMW M’s First Electrified High-Performance Car In addition, the car celebrates a car from the beginning of BMW M’s history 50 years ago, the BMW 1602, which during the 1972 Munich Olympics. The car hs been converted into an electric car and finished in the same Kith Vitality Green. Only 7 of these incredible special BMW i4 M50 cars will be available for the public, with just one being auctioned to a global public audience. Along with the special vehicles being created, a 51-piece lifestyle collection has also been created inspired by the colors in the cars, and it’s available in stores and online for sale. View All BMWs For Sale Source: BMW

By Tyler Rampersaud – April 01, 2022

Alpina Releases New 4 Series-Derived B4 Gran Coupé

The BMW tuning house known for generous power and luxurious comfort is back again with a four-door coupe. The iconic Alpina B7 has long been known as a unique take on the BMW 7 Series sedan. With added power, unique design touches, and an added commitment to luxury, the B7 has always been the enthusiast’s luxury sedan. Alpina has extended the same principles to much of the BMW lineup, and the latest offering from the brand is the new Alpina B4 Gran Coupé. MUST READ: The New i7 Is BMW’s Electric Flagship Sedan With A 31-Inch Screen In The Back Available to order now, the B4 Gran Coupé takes a BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé and adds power, style, classic Alpina pieces, and an added level of luxury. With twin turbochargers, the B4 Gran Coupé’s straight-six engine produces 495 horsepower and a formidable 538 lb/ft of torque. With a rear-wheel biased all-wheel drive system based on the xDrive system, the B4 is capable of getting from 0-60 in as little as 3.7 seconds, and climbing to an incredible top speed of 187 mph. Alpina’s classic aero kit, and 20-inch Alpina 20-spoke wheels make it absolutely unmistakable that you’re driving an Alpina, with the heritage and craftsmanship that come with it. Another reminder of this craftsmanship is in the interior, where optional naturally tanned Lavalina leather is available for the entire interior, known for its superior softness and put together bespoke in Alpina’s in-house leather workshop. The new Alpina B4 Gran Coupe is the latest statement of German automotive heritage and dedication to performance and luxury, and it’s available to order now, with deliveries slated to commence in July. Source: Alpina

By Edward Jones – June 09, 2021

2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe Revealed

More space and new style. The new 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe has been revealed and it brings with it many upgrade befitting of a second generation. Its new exterior features BMW's modern kidney grille along with new air vents that take away from the grille's size. BMW also changed the entire body of the new 4 Series Gran Coupe by expanding it in multiple directions, making it 5.9-inches longer, 1-inch wider and 2.1 inches taller. The wheelbase is also 1.8-inches longer and the tracks 1.6-inches bigger in the front and 0.7-inches in the rear. This increase in size allows the interior of the new Gran Coupe to be more spacious for passengers on the five full-size seats. As for power, it all depends on the model as BMW has unveiled two, the M440i xDrive Gran Coupe and 430i Gran Coupe. The more powerful M440i is powered by a TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that produces 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the 430i Gran Coupe's TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 255 hp and 295 lb-ft. Expect the new 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe models to launch in August 2022. The M440i xDrive Gran Coupe has an price of $58,000 while the 430i Gran Coupe's price is $44,800. Both prices do not include the $995 destination fee. See All BMWs For Sale Source: BMW

By Andrew Nabors – May 03, 2021

Watch The 2022 BMW M4 GT3 Scorch The 'Ring

He's going the distance! In order to build the Ultimate Driving Machine, the Bavarians pulled out all the stops. Last Thursday, fans at the Nurburgring Nordschleife were treated to the latest M4. BMW's GT3 cars look and sound ready to take on the world, and these hot laps made sure it was ready to race. The forged S58 3-liter is their latest straight-6, and it can be had with an 8-speed automatic or six-speed stick. Adjustable cams and twin-scroll turbos offer 510 horsepower to the rear wheels, but our dealers can order xDrive for the new M3 and M4 Competition. Are you ready for this year's endurance races? Tell us what you think of the fast BMW in the comments below. Shop BMW M4 Images (C) BMW M GMBH

By Andrew Nabors – September 30, 2020

2021 BMW 4 Series Convertible To Arrive With Soft Top

Folding Hardtops are entertaining and insulating, but their weight and complicated systems are sacrifices. That is why the 2021 BMW 4 Series convertible will arrive with a soft top. Without a dozen synchronized motors, cloth allows the new 4 Series to have a lower center of gravity and lower curb weight. BMW has been building the best new convertibles for 35 years, and the new 4 Series is a departure from the norm. Instead of building a coupe without a roof, the body stands alone in their lineup. While it closely resembles the 4 Series coupe, the chassis and body required more steel to offer the same driving experience. Torsional rigidity and steering response are identical to the coupe thanks to a new "panel bow" soft top. The roof is 40% lighter while having class-leading thermal and acoustic insulation. The six-cylinder models will have mild hybrid assistance, with the base model offering 374 horsepower. Click the button to learn more and stay with us for all your BMW news. Browse BMW 4 Series For Sale

By Edward Jones – July 01, 2020

Production of the New BMW 4 Series Coupe is Now Underway

It's time to get excited, because the new BMW 4 Series Coupe is now in production at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. This new model is being produced at the plant alongside the updated BMW 5 Series Sedans, like the M5 and 5 Series Touring. In total, the Dingolfing plant is launching the production of five different models at the very same time. For many, the most exciting is the new 4 Series Coupe that dons a whole new design. Sitting at the top of the range is the M440i xDrive Coupe, which is powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine that delivers 374 horsepower. We can't wait to see these new BMWs finally hit the road. See All BMW 4 Series for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 29, 2020

2021 BMW 4-Series Coupe is Almost Ready

Whipping up a new blend of special herbs & spices, something mean and lean is about to debut in München. Their new sports coupe is a clean sheet redesign, focused on effeciency and driver excitement. We're anticipating something unprecedented, as the 2021 BMW 4-Series coupe is almost ready. In their latest press release, we learned it will no longer share suspension geometry with the 3-Series sedan. This was done to move the axis of roll and yaw closer to the driver's seat. It is 2-1/4" lower than the 3-Series, with an inch wider track width. The front wheels have more negative camber for crisp steering and more grip. Perhaps the best innovation for us car nerds are dual ball joints on the front control arms. Stronger strut towers and a shear panel on the firewall will make every day feel like a track day. As always, our dealers have all the details. They need to make room for the new car, so click the link below to find one near you. Browse BMW M4 For Sale

By Edward Jones – September 02, 2018

2018 BMW 430i Convertible Review

With the 2018 BMW 430i, you can choose between three different body styles: convertible, coupe and Gran Coupe. We recently had a chance to test out the convertible version of the 430i and it was most definitely a pleasurable open-top drive.For the 2018 model year, BMW made a few small changes. The suspension has been adjusted to be a tad bit stiffer, the front and rear have had their design revamped with new headlights and taillights and a few other minor changes. It comes in with an MSRP of $52,950.The 2018 430i is powered by a surprisingly potent 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that pushes out 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque @ 1450-4800 rpm. Mated to this engine is an 8-speed automatic transmission that gets every bit of acceleration out of the small four-cylinder engine. Acceleration of the car is rated at 6 seconds.Inside, the 430i is driver-centric, but with plenty of room for passengers for a two-door convertible. However, the hard-top roof takes up a good chunk of space in the trunk. Additionally, that hard-top roof adds a few extra pounds to the overall curb weight of 4,037 lbs.Joining the 2018 430i Convertible in BMW 4 Series lineup, in terms of drop-tops, is the 440i, which is just about $8,000 more. However, it adds in a twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine. Basically, you have to decide if the extra bit of power is worth the money when choosing the 440i. For us, the 430i was plenty and definitely worth a look for those wanting a sporty convertible.

By Andrew Nabors – May 21, 2015

BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Introduced

The 4 Series has been a runaway hit since it arrived on our shores, but since the launch of the M4, a sizable gap in price and performance has existed between it and its little brother, the 435i. To fill in the gap, BMW has resurrected the ZHP package, as a May 20 press release tells us. First introduced on the E46 M3, this package provides quicker steering and firmer suspension with improved aerodynamics and engine performance.Starting where it counts most, the engine’s software in the new 435i is revised, which allows the turbo to offer more boost pressure. The exhaust is also less restrictive for a combined gain of 35 hp and 32 lb-ft. A locking differential and four piston brakes are bolted to 18” M Sport wheels. 435i Coupe ZHP EditionActive M Suspension controls variable shocks and also offers more steering feedback at speed. An M Performance Aerodynamics Package adds carbon reinforced plastic front and rear spoilers, as well as a rear diffuser. 435i Coupe ZHP EditionWith the 3.0-liter inline-six engine making 335 hp and 332 lb-ft with the automatic transmission, it will be a well rounded and sporty coupe. It's not quite enough to overpower the car, but still fun enough for spirited driving. Only 100 examples will be produced, and colors are limited to Alpine White or Black Sapphire Metallic.(See Also: First BMW Art Journey Winner Announced) Take a moment to check out this new generation in the gallery below, and if this model isn't quite for you, browse our exclusive listings of BMWs for sale, and find its big brother or another relative for your collection. As always, stay tuned to Autofluence for more BMW news.BMWs For SaleGallery (Source: BMW) See More BMW News

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