To fill the gap in the 3-series lineup between the 300-hp 335i and the 414-hp M3, BMW is introducing the new 335is coupe and convertible. We were unaware that said gap needed to be filled, but we’re told that the 335i is seen in the U.S. as just an ordinary 3-series, and, as such, there’s room for something more exotic than a 335i but less outlandish than an M3. Now that we’ve been given the chance to drive the 335is coupe, we’re coming around to accepting this whole gap idea.

More Power and a Body Kit and …

Conceptually similar to the 330i Performance Package model that was available as part of the previous-generation 3-series lineup, the 335is doesn’t go so far as to threaten the M3’s supremacy, but it definitely ups the sportiness quotient. To that end, the 335is gets 320 hp and 332 lb-ft torque from the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, and an overboost function allows for seven-second blasts of 370 lb-ft of torque. Unlike the regular-grade 2011 335i, the 335is sticks with the older twin-turbo engine for the simple reason that BMW engineers had more experience tuning it. This same engine can also be found in the Z4 sDrive35is that was introduced at this month’s Detroit auto show. In the Z4, the engine makes 335 hp; a more restrictive intake on the 3-series accounts for the 15-hp difference.

Read more »

Despite the popularity of station wagons in Europe, as well as their greater versatility compared with conventional four-door sedans, two-box cars like this Audi A4 2.0T Avant still don’t resonate with most U.S. consumers. Americans for the most part remain tied to visions of Clark Griswold trundling across the country in a puke green, wood-paneled Ford LTD Country Squire, and would rather drive something else. But this country has in fact been in love for the past 20 years with what are essentially wagons. Witness the rise of the SUV and the recent explosion of crossovers, all of which are basically five-door wagons with higher seating positions, greater (but often unused) towing and payload capacities, and cruddier fuel economy.

Move ’Em Out

This Audi makes a great case for the traditional wagon, however. While it’s no fire-breathing RS6 Avant, our A4 Avant was far more maneuverable and exciting to pilot than those SUV and crossover mall cruisers. Based on the A4 sedan, our Avant was fitted with Audi’s excellent 211-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder—the only engine in the A4 lineup for 2010—plus a six-speed automatic and Quattro all-wheel drive. It also had the optional S-line package, which includes a sport suspension, 19-inch wheels with summer rubber, front sport seats, various interior-trim upgrades, and S-line bumpers and rocker panels. Thus equipped, the A4 Avant recorded a 6.3-second run to 60 mph and a quarter-mile time of 14.8 at 91 mph, times which beat all the players in our last comparison test of six-cylinder luxury crossovers. Perhaps more important, the Audi’s 0.92 g of skidpad grip blows away that group’s average of 0.80 g, as does its fun-to-drive quotient on back roads. And it’s the same with 70-to-0 braking ability: 159 feet for the A4 wagon versus an average of 174 for the crossovers.

Read more »

A more dynamic, driver-focused version of the Lexus LS sedan. Currently available only on short-wheelbase, rear-wheel-drive models, the Sport package adds functional upgrades such as the IS F’s quicker-shifting version of the standard LS’s eight-speed automatic gearbox—which includes full manual control via paddle shifters or the console shifter, along with lock-up clutches for all gears except first—as well as larger Brembo brakes all around. The electric power-steering system has been tweaked for better turn-in response, while the adjustable, sport-tuned air suspension has firmer anti-roll bars and specific tuning for the dampers. Split 10-spoke, 19-inch wheels with all-season tires round out the performance improvements. Lower body extensions and a darkened honeycomb grille differentiate the exterior, while the interior is only offered in a two-tone, black/saddle configuration with unique matte-finished wood trim.

Read more »

So the Germans were wrong about the market’s desire for hybrids, and now they are trying hard to catch up. Proof? Even the 1-series, BMW’s self-proclaimed "spritual successor" of the 2002, is slated to gain a hybrid powertrain. As these spy photos show, prototypes using current 1er bodies are on the road. And while we don’t expect the 1-series to become available as a full hybrid, the next generation is almost sure to get an electric motor and a pack of batteries to allow owners an extra degree of eco-smugness.

While this 1-series hatch may seem unfamiliar to you, it is the standard body style for most other markets. Pretty it ain’t, but it provides a nice, flexible cargo area and works well in urban habitats. The next-generation 1-series will be based on the 3-series platform, as it is today, and it will be available with several body styles again, including hatch, coupe, and convertible.

Read more »