Latest news with #M40i
The Citizen
13-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Why M50 is now the most M car money can buy in BMW X3 stable
293kW of power and 580Nm of torque get this fast SUV from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.66 seconds. If BMW's new X3 20d xDrive M Sport is the sensible choice in the range – 'frugal and fast' – we called it a few weeks ago, then the X3 M50 xDrive should simply be called 'fast'. Because it really is. And who cares how much fuel it uses! The new G45 BMW X3 now wears a M50 badge instead of the M40i badge from the previous generation X3. And just in case you were wondering, it still runs the same engine. Which is a 3.0-litre straight-six, turbocharged petrol unit from before. But now with 48V mild hybrid technology onboard, and it offers more power and torque that the model it replaces. For 2025, the BMW X3 M50 delivers 293kW and 580Nm. The X3 M40i churned out 285kW and 500Nm. This means the engine in the X3 M50 is the most powerful six-cylinder in-line petrol powerplant yet fitted in an BMW M Performance model. ALSO READ: New BMW X3 ticks all the boxes with versatile powertrain line-up M Performance car But the X3 M50 is not a full-blown M car. It's a M Performance car. So what does this mean? In BMW-speak this means that the BMW X3 M50 would normally be the middle of the performance options in their range of vehicles. Now, this is where you need to pay attention. It's not middle-of-the-range anymore. This M Performance X3 is it. There will be no new hardcore BMW X3 M. Not as in maybe later this year or the next. Or some other time down the line. We have been told that's it. Last year's 375kW/650Nm, super car chasing X3 M is done. But before you feel shortchanged, this X3 M50 is the most M car you can buy for the money. Talking of which, you will need to part with R1.5-million to park it in your garage. Think twice before taking on this badge when the traffic light turns green. Picture: Supplied For this money though you do get the likes of a M Sport suspension with variable sport steering, M Sport brakes, 20-inch M light-alloy wheels and an M Sport differential integrated into the rear axle all as standard fitment. An adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers offers a level of agility and dynamism that a family SUV should not offer. All the usual M goodies Further M-specific design features abound; you have a full M interior, M kidney grille with horizontal bars and BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting. There are also large quad exhaust tailpipes, that you expect to bark out the performance credentials of the BMW X3 M50, but disappointingly so, the soundtrack is rather subdued. ALSO READ: Frugal and fast BMW X3 20d proves that diesel is not dead yet What isn't disappointing is that this X3 M50 really gets up and go when you jump on the gas. Thanks to that small injection of electricity from the mild hybrid system, it outguns the old M40i. And anything else that the competition is offering now. Activate Launch Control. Build some boost. Let the brake go. And bam, 100km/h came up in just 4.66 seconds during The Citizen Motoring's test. You will be doing over 200km/h not long after, and before you know it the car will on the speed limiter at 250km/h. You will have a big smile on your face. And this is exactly why you would buy the BMW X3 M50 over the X3 20d. BMW X3 M50 test data
Miami Herald
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Why This BMW Stick-Shift Won't Disappear Just Yet
In an increasingly rare piece of good news for fans of manual sports cars, BMW is set to extend production of a key enthusiast model beyond the expected timeline. We're referring to the Z4 M40i with the brand's classic six-cylinder engine and stick-shift transmission, which was expected to go out of production in October this year. However, a reliable source over at Bimmer Post has revealed an extended production run that stretches all the way to May 2026. One can only assume that strong sales have led to the decision to keep the Z4 M40i around a little longer. For the 2025 model year, BMW introduced the Handschalter package for the M40i variant, which includes a six-speed manual in addition to the version with the eight-speed automatic. According to BMW's latest sales figures for Q1 2025, Z4 sales were up by 29% year-on-year in the United States, reaching 503 units. Yes, that's not a lot of cars in BMW world, but the Z4 is a low-volume sports car, not a family-friendly SUV. Considering that only the M40i is getting an extended production run until May 2026, we can presume that the increase in sales is due to the success of the M40i, not the base four-cylinder variant. Intriguingly, it looks like the Toyota GR Supra, with which the Z4 shares engines and other components, will also stick around until May 2026. The current Z4 starts at $54,050 for the 255-horsepower sDrive30i model with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine. To upgrade to the 382-hp M40i, you must spend at least $66,450. From there, a further $3,500 is required for the Handschalter package, which adds the six-speed manual along with extras like extended Shadowline trim, black mirror caps, M Sport brakes with red calipers, and black high gloss trim. It's not the cheapest new BMW, but fans have clearly being willing to pay for it. Besides the Z4 M40i manual, the German manufacturer has several other manuals available in its lineup, including the M2 coupe, M3 sedan, and M4 coupe. All have variations of the brand's sporty and powerful six-cylinder turbo engine. After eliminating dual-clutch automatics from its lineup recently - a more engaging alternative to traditional automatics - there was a fear that BMW manuals weren't long for this world, either. However, a BMW Blog report from March 2025 indicates that BMW isn't ready to ditch manuals entirely, even though the take rate for a stick-shift is low. For now, we have a six-cylinder manual Z4 to savor for a while longer, and that's a good thing. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
13-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Every sub-$100k convertible you can buy in America in 2025
It's no secret that automakers have been struggling to profit from selling convertibles in recent times. They occupy an increasingly narrow market segment and often sacrifice functionality and even handling dynamics in favor of a more visceral driving experience. Despite their niche appeal, the gradual loss of available convertible models is an alarming sign of things to come. The dwindling of new convertible offerings signals a growing problem in the automotive industry. More and more manufacturers are reducing the diversity of their model ranges in an effort to maximize profitability. It makes sense that since crossovers, for example, are very popular, manufacturers would make plenty of them and not nearly as many convertibles. The consequences for you and me–the consumers–however, are that we're seeing our freedom of choice significantly reduced to maximize the profitability of major multinational corporations. Despite this worrisome insight, the sub-$100k convertible still exists in North America for now. Only a few remaining convertibles are being offered by mainstream manufacturers, such as the Jaguar F-Type Convertible and the Audi A5 Cabriolet, so let's take a look at what's still alive for versions of BMW's bread-and-butter compact coupe have roamed the streets of America since the 1980s, starting with the E30 generation 3-series. Although the latest iteration of the icon's chopped-top variant dons a massive snout on its face and lacks the option for a manual transmission, its aggressive powertrain options mean it's still more than just a fashion accessory. The 430i Convertible comes standard with a 255-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive is also standard, though xDrive all-wheel drive is available at an additional cost. Upgrade to the M440i Convertible, and you'll find a 374-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six under the hood, paired to the same 8-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive, or optional all-wheel drive. Available for the 2025 model year only in "Competition xDrive" form, the BMW M4 Convertible combines the legendary performance capabilities of the M4 with the open-top excitement of a cabriolet. Powered by a 523-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six, the M4 Convertible can rocket from 0-60 mph in just 3.6 now, most people realize that the current BMW Z4 is essentially a re-skinned Toyota GR Supra without the hardtop roof. Its base variant–which costs around the same as the GR Supra–comes equipped with a much less powerful, 255-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Want the punchier, turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six-powered M40i variant? That'll cost you upwards of $67,000. Despite the added cost, the M40i is the one we'd go for, with its available 6-speed manual transmission, 382 horsepower, and 369 lb-ft of torque. Although the 2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible starts at $76,995, the standard C8 Corvette can be had for just $69,995 and is still technically a convertible, thanks to its removable roof panel. But if you insist on a power-retractable hardtop on your mid-engine 'Vette, the convertible variant is the way to go. Powered by a 490-horsepower, naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V8 and paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, the C8 Corvette Stingray pulls off an incredible 2.8 second 0-60 mph time. It's also one of just four naturally aspirated V8-powered sports cars you can still buy in Mustang Convertible has been around since 1964, and its fundamental philosophy has remained unchanged ever since. It's still one of the most affordable convertible sports cars on the market, and it still offers raw, naturally aspirated V8 power and an available manual transmission if you seek the added thrill. The second vehicle on the exclusive list of remaining naturally-aspirated V8 sports cars is the Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible. It is equipped with a 486-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8, and can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic. Opt for the even more affordable EcoBoost Convertible, and you'll find a 315-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine under the hood. Though it's a very different type of vehicle compared to the Mustang, the Bronco still counts as a convertible, thanks to its removable roof. The Mustang GT might blow the doors off the Bronco in a head-to-head drag race, but that's alright because the Bronco's doors are removable, too! Just because it's not a sports car doesn't mean it isn't fun, either. Like the Mustang, the Bronco can also be equipped with a manual transmission, albeit a 7-speed unit with a low gear for crawling. Its standard powertrain is the 300-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, which can be paired with the manual or an optional 10-speed automatic. The Bronco can also be upgraded with a 330-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V6, but it comes paired exclusively with the automatic. Don't want to sacrifice genuine sports car performance for off-road capability? The Bronco Raptor, which starts at $90,035, has a 418-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and propels from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 2025 Jeep Wrangler tells a similar story to the Ford Bronco. Pairing four-wheel drive off-road capability with the thrill of toplessness, the Wrangler is a North American institution. Like the Bronco, the Wrangler can be had with a manual transmission, and its doors are similarly removable. Unlike the Bronco, however, the Wrangler can be had as a plug-in hybrid via the 4xe package, which pairs a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a lithium-ion battery and an electric motor to produce a combined 375 horsepower. The standard Wrangler comes equipped with a 285-horsepower 3.6-liter V6, and an optional turbocharged 270-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder is available as well. Essentially a Wrangler with an extended wheelbase and a pickup truck bed, the Jeep Gladiator combines the Wrangler's off-road chops with the functionality of a midsize truck. Since neither Ram nor Dodge offers a truck in this segment, at least for now, the Gladiator is the only midsize truck that Stellantis offers in North America. The Gladiator is equipped exclusively with the 285-horsepower, naturally-aspirated Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. Like the Wrangler and Bronco, it features a removable top and Mazda MX-5 Miata needs no introduction. You've likely heard the term, "Miata Is Always the Answer," and it's a phrase that still rings true today–perhaps more than ever. Mazda's ND-generation MX-5 is nothing short of a masterclass in well-packaged excitement and sports car refinement, yet remains the most accessible brand-new convertible money can buy. Powered by a 181-horsepower, naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the 2,366-lb roadster can be had in soft top form or as the "RF" with a retractable, electronically folding hardtop roof. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels. A 6-speed manual transmission comes standard, but a 6-speed automatic is available for a more sedate experience. Opt for the Club package, and you'll add BBS wheels, Brembo brakes, and heated Recaro bucket seats. A recent introduction in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the CLE Cabriolet replaces both the C-Class Cabriolet and the E-Class Cabriolet, combining the two models into one package, much like the CLK-Class of previous years. The Mercedes-Benz CLE's main focus is comfort, and the convertible variant is no exception to this rule. The standard CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet comes equipped with a 255-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with mild hybrid drive. Opt for the CLE 450 4MATIC, and you'll get a 375-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six with mild hybrid drive. Want even more performance? The Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Cabriolet will deliver with a 443-horsepower, turbocharged, AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter straight-six with hybrid assist and an electric auxiliary Porsche allegedly planning to end 718 Cayman and Boxster production in October 2025, according to our very own Jonathon Ramsey, the iconic roadster trudges on for now. Although it can't be fitted with a flat-six power plant for less than six figures, the standard 718 Boxster and the sportier Boxster S meet this list's requirements. The standard 718 Boxster comes equipped with a 300-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four engine, whereas the Boxster S places a 350-horsepower, turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four within its mid-section. Both models come standard with a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, but a 6-speed manual transmission is also available at no additional cost. Although America's love affair with the convertible is coming to a gradual end, it's refreshing to see how much variety exists within the handful of convertibles that can still be purchased new today. From lightweight roadsters to brutish muscle cars and capable off-road pickup trucks, it's obvious that the joy of being outdoors can enhance almost any type of driving experience. We hope to see more manufacturers keep the wind-in-hair dream alive and offer more affordable convertibles to North American buyers or perhaps find ways of integrating the drop-top experience into more "normal" vehicles through the use of convertible roofs, retractable ragtops or even t-tops. Do you want to see more convertibles offered stateside, or do you think the body style belongs in the past? Are you a lover of the open-roof driving experience, or do you hate fun and prefer structural rigidity for marginally better performance? Let us know your stance in the comments–we love to hear from you! Love reading Autoblog? Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get exclusive articles, insider insights, and the latest updates delivered right to your inbox. Click here to sign up now!
