Automobilia

Sunday, October 13, 2013

Next-gen Mini could sire 10 different models

The first generation of the reimagined, BMW-backed Mini was a simple things, confined to two body styles - hatchback and four-seat convertible. It wasn't until the second-generation platform came along that Mini began truly expanding, offering a long-wheelbase model, a roadster, a coupe, a five-door crossover, and a three-door, um, thing?

BMW is aiming for 10 to 12 different vehicles from just two brands off one platform.

Besides growth plans, Schwarzenbauer hints that Mini's range of three- and four-cylinder, turbocharged, gas engines may be joined by EVs, plug-in hybrids and the long awaited (for US customers) diesel model. The EV and PHEV models are especially notable, as it signifies both that Mini is ready to expand into alternative energy, which it's avoided outside of the Mini E, while also pointing out that BMW's i division won't be the only ones playing with electricity.

More: http://www.autoblog.com/2013/10/12/next-gen-mini-could-sire-10-different-models-including-phev

Since the Mini was reintroduced, I was excited to see a small car with an efficient diesel engine in the US market. Nearly all firms have ignored this segment, with even fewer offerings in the last decade. The Germans are the only ones offering cars in this segment these days, and it looks like this could expand even more in the future. I've always liked the Audi compact wagons like the A4, or Volkswagen's Jetta wagon. Just add AWD and I'd be sold on a diesel Mini, or even an X1.

Friday, June 28, 2013

Who Thought A Jeep Named 'Comanche Eliminator' Was A Good Idea?

Hmmm, something funny in that marquee...

http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/jalopnik/full/~3/gBPq1jpGHcE/who-thought-a-jeep-named-comanche-eliminator-was-a-go-576610241

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Oil and Water - BMW R1200GS Comparison

If the GS was not just outside of my budget, it might tempt me to a Bavarian bike, especially given the advancements in the series. Given its massive scale, I would be more likely to hack a GSA with a sidecar and drag passengers along on my adventures.

In our opinion, there’s really no better way to compare two things, than to put them side by side. It’s an excellent opportunity to observe obvious differences and to note the things they have in common. So when BMW introduced their new water-cooled R1200GS motorcycle, naturally we wanted to compare the new bike with the one it would be replacing, our much loved 2011 R1200GS. For the comparison test we headed south to the lonely roads and back country byways of Utah to spend a week riding the bikes both on and off-road. There was only one rule for the week-long comparison, we had to switch bikes each time we filled the gas tank.