dale
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Joined: 22 Aug 1999 Posts: 3087 Location: Seattle, WA USA
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Posted: Tue Mar 23, 2004 9:40 am Post subject: BMW Announces the new 1 series |
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http://www.bmw.com/generic/com/en/products/highlights/1series/1series/campaign/index. html
BMW is poised to redefine the compact executive segment with the arrival of the exciting new 1 Series. Featuring four engines, three gearboxes and rear wheel drive, the new BMW 1 Series offers a combination not found in any of its competitors. The BMW 1 Series makes its entrance in Autumn 2004 and will immediately offer a new benchmark to driving dynamics in its class.
Power is delivered via a six-speed manual gearbox in the 118d, 120d and 120i models, while the 116i has a five-speed manual gearbox. An optional six-speed automatic will also be offered on 120i and 120d models. The 120d is the range leader with a 0-62 time of just 8.1 seconds. All diesel models will be EuroIV compliant, saving company car drivers the Government’s 3% BIK personal taxation surcharge.
After slipping behind the wheel and firing up the engine via a starter button, the driver will enjoy BMW’s renowned 50:50 weight distribution and front engine, rear wheel drive set-up – unique in this class. Coupled with a technically elaborate aluminium front axle and five-link rear suspension, this ensures optimum handling and traction and the most invigorating drive in the compact executive segment. A drag coefficient of just 0.29 helps the new BMW 1 Series slip through the air with maximum efficiency and the minimum of noise. Standard fit 16-inch run-flat tyres also mean that the days of motorway hard shoulder tyre changes are over.
Measuring just 4.23 metres long, but with a relatively long wheelbase of 2.66 metres, driving dynamics have been cleverly worked into a practical four-seater. The new
1 Series offers ample shoulder and legroom for rear passengers and, thanks to split rear seats that fold virtually flat, a similarly generous luggage capacity of between 330 to 1150 litres of storage space.
Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Dynamic Brake Control and Electronic Differential Lock help ensure the 1 Series provides the highest standards of active safety without impacting unnecessarily on driving enjoyment. An airbag system that includes head airbags for all occupants means the new BMW 1 Series also meets the most stringent passive safety requirements.
The high level of standard safety features combined with structural integrity means that the new 1 Series is clearly aiming for five stars in the EuroNCAP crash test.
Meanwhile, optional extras include Bluetooth capability, sports seats with backrest width adjustment, acoustic Park Distance Control at the front and the rear and Bi-Xenon headlights. Keyless access and voice-activated radio and navigation systems will appear after launch.
Prices for the all-new 1 Series will be announced later in the Spring.
http://www.theonly1.co.uk/
[ 03-23-2004: Message edited by: dale ] |
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