Quote:
Originally Posted by SCOTT26
Let's get this one out first.
But the direction of the next M3 would probably begin with the next generation BMW M5.
It is known that the Carbon Age at BMW has begun and that core models will definitely benefit from the resources of this material technology.
We know the 7er begins this transition and come the launch of the new 7er in 2015 this will be communicated as loud as possible so our competitors can see who has the momentum.
The next 5er will also benefit by the sharing of resources , as it becomes far more cost effective so will the transition.
The next 5er will concentrate its CFRP use in the heaviest areas of the car namely in the chassis and structure, it will not spread CFRP across each body panel which will be on the 7er.
The 5er will concentrate on aluminium for these areas. Although the 5er will not be at a disadvantage. The next 5er in 520d will weigh the same as the 320d.
The reason being the M5 will be able to feature CFRP more extensively especially on the bonnet , roof and bootlid. The timescale will allow this to be applied cost effectively as the M5 will not be shown until 2017.
Although it is apparent that the M3 ,M4 and especially the forthcoming BMW X5M provide the more "functional" appearance to the direction of the M family.
Aerodynamics and dynamics with one purpose.
It is too early to discuss the appearance of the M5 but the standard 5er is ready and waiting.
Its evolutionary in its outline there is a slight wheelbase stretch that accommodates a slightly more dynamic rounded swoop in the roofline. The Touring also has a slight slope at the rear.
The Details are revolutionary , more angled headlights , wider grille joined to the headlights as the typical new BMW design language. It adds individuality and a much more fuller facia including a more sporting edge.
More dimension can be found in the character elements , there are pronounced wheel arches like the current models, and as EfficientDynamics features an Air breather is assisted by more three dimensional elements in the lower flanks leaving room for model line character personalisation.
It is kind of like this render but not completely 100% accurate. The grille was bit squarer around the outline.
These were scale models so details such as inner headlight shapes , exterior detailing , door handles etc and interior etc were not present.
The Gran Turismo, yes a replacement is coming. Strong sales in Asia and Europe all but confirm the replacement and because the car will be based upon similar shared architecture. The GT is a good example of a high profit niche vehicle but entirely cost effective to develop for both the 5er GT and 3erGT. BMW have passed first year projections for 3er GT units sold.
The next generation GT will be based on the China only 5er Li.
The new 5er GT is slightly longer and more like a five dr Coupe , the roof is lower especially at the rear and there is a slightly longer rear deck but the purpose will remain the same. And that is to offer existing 5er customers more luxury and exclusivity as before. Design wise Its a bit more closer to the looks of the 5er but features ideas born from the 3er GT for exclusivity and variation purpose.
In the meantime there is invested interest in progress for the new M3 and M4 , especially a Competition Packet will arrive during the cars life cycle.
Of course further exclusive progress is expected and considered for both models which could use CRT (M3) or indeed GTS or CSL (M4).
The direction depends on what the competition will do. But already the new M3 and M4 have an advantage.
When the cars were introduced internally the previous week , they were announced as the new BMW M3 And BMW M4... A few moments of silence and then the words that echoed across Germany....
Your move....
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@SCOTT26 What is the internal codename/number of the 5 Series, just for curiosity?