Detroit Auto Show: BMW Intros xActivity SAV and 2004 3 Series
January 6, 2003, Detroit, MI... The xActivity Concept Sports Activity Vehicle makes its world debut today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Also making their world debuts are the 2004 3 Series Coupe and Convertible which not only feature updated styling but many technological enhancements as well. Fresh off its North American debut in Los Angeles, the BMW ALPINA ROADSTER V8 will also be featured. Sharing the BMW spotlight at this year's NAIAS is the V12 760Li luxury sedan and the all-new Z4 roadster. xActivity SAV concept combines sporty driving dynamics, versatility and open-air driving pleasure This Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is an example of how sporty driving dynamics, enormous versatility and the pleasure open-air driving can be combined into one. The xActivity uses typical BMW SAV styling elements and proportions, such as a long wheelbase and short overhangs, which have been reinterpreted for a fresh and youthful appearance. The most striking element of its styling is the xActivity's roofline, a so-called "frame-structure convertible" which combines an open-air driving experience with the strength of an SAV. Longitude members on both sides run from the A-pillar to all the way to the back. This provides a completely open environment for driver and passengers with no B- or C-pillars. Moreover, numerous cleverly thought-out details make the xActivity a versatile vehicle and an ideal companion for active people who participate in outdoor activities and need to transport their sports equipment with them. The interior features state-of-the-art technologies such as pressure-sensitive "smart materials" which allow the seats themselves to become control elements for seat adjustment. The unconventional cargo loading system does justice to the name "Sports Activity Vehicle". As soon as the tailgate is opened cargo, such as mountain bikes, is partially ejected for easy unloading. The selection of materials and colors reflect the wide spectrum of uses for the xActivity: The exterior features refined, high-gloss surfaces combined with numerous matt-finished elements. The body color, "Bronze Moss", changes between bronze, green and blue-grey, depending on the light, reflecting the xActivity's versatility. The materials chosen for the interior combine elegance with sportiness, but are ready to withstand any weather condition as needed. Natural cowhide has been combined with flexible, water-resistant materials and seat covers made of neoprene. In order to match the exterior, the color scheme used inside the vehicle incorporates carefully selected beige, olive and grey color tones. The xActivity is powered by BMW's widely acclaimed 3.0-liter in-line 6-cylinder engine delivering 231 bhp (225 hp in the US). Power is transmitted through a manual gearbox to generously sized wheels with 245/45 tires at the front, 275/40 tires at the rear on 18-inch wheels. The well-tuned suspension and low center of gravity ensure quick handling and a high degree of agility in all driving situations. Even the most challenging of winding roads becomes a pleasure to tackle. 2004 3 Series Coupe and Convertible incorporate updated styling with innovative technology The 2004 3 Series Coupe and Convertible will not only bring fresh new looks but also a number of innovations that will enhance both the driving dynamics and active safety. The 3 Series Coupe and Convertible look even more striking and have even greater presence with wider kidney grille, modified powerdome on the hood, closed and more compact front apron and the new headlight units with the directional indicators which reach up higher at the sides. The headlights not have a new look but feature optional adaptive controls. This revolutionary feature, offered in combination with Bi-Xenon headlights, allows the headlights to actually follow the road. By applying networked data such as steering angle and direction, road speed, and yaw rates, the headlights will turn in order to follow the road. In addition to LED taillights US versions of the 2004 3 Series Coupe and Convertible will feature BMW's dynamic adaptive brake light technology. During hard breaking, such as in an emergency, the rear taillights join the brake lights at the same intensity, giving a bolder warning to following drivers. The 330Ci Coupe and Convertible are renown for their driving dynamics. Those dynamics will be further enhanced for 2004 with the addition of a standard six-speed manual transmission. This fall both the 325Ci and 330Ci Coupes and Convertibles will be available with an optional six-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox. The 2004 3 Series Coupe and Convertible begin production in March and arrive at BMW centers in April. BMW 760Li - BMW's V12 flagship combines an unparalleled driving experience with sophisticated technology and unparalleled luxury The BMW flagship offers the ultimate in performance-luxury automobiles. It was created to enhance the experience of owning and driving what was already the world's most advanced concept in motor vehicles. The 760Li takes luxury to an even higher level than that of the 745i and 745Li, and adds a V-12 engine, which delivers 438 horsepower. The 760Li can go from 0 - 60 in just 5.4 seconds. This all-new 6-liter V12 not only combines VANOS infinitely variable valve timing, and BMW's patented VALVETRONIC but introduces gasoline direct injection. Dual-tone ash wood trim with inlays highlights an interior, which features Active Support, Active Ventilation and three-stage heating for front seat passengers. Rear seat passengers enjoy the ultimate in luxury with 14-way power seats, which include lumbar support, Active Ventilation and three-stage heating. Rear climate controls and rear seat mini cooler are also available as an option. Updates to the entire 7 Series line for 2003 include available Active Cruise Control. As of January production STEPTRONIC steering wheel mounted shift controls will become standard for all US 7 Series models. The standard integrated hands-free phone will be upgraded as of January production to the CPT 9000, which is based on the Motorola V60. BMW ALPINA ROADSTER V8 a new edition of BMW's contemporary classic This limited edition of BMW's contemporary classic has been created both by BMW and ALPINA. This unique sports car brings together the timeless design and scintillating performance of the BMW Z8 and an automatic transmission. In creating the ROADSTER V8, ALPINA specially developed a higher-performance version of BMW's 4.4-liter V-8 engine and mated it to a 5-speed automatic transmission which features SWITCH-TRONIC steering wheel mounted shift controls. The new 375 horsepower 4.8 liter V8 propels the BMW ALPINA ROADSTER V8 from 0-60 mph in five seconds. ALPINA 20-inch wheels are mated to Y-rated performance tires. ALPINA will build only 555 BMW ALPINA ROADSTER V8s in total. Approximately 450 will come to the US ensuring that this special car is destined to become a much desired collectible. BMW Z4 Roadster blends thoroughly modern styling, classic roadster proportions and a driving experience second to none The winner of Automobile Magazine's 2003 Design of the Year Award, the BMW Z4 sets new standards for premium roadsters with its innovative, influential design. The new Z4, making its first appearance at the NAIAS, is a modern interpretation of all the classic roadster features - a long and sweeping hood, a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a low seating position in a cockpit that is set back. Its artfully dynamic exterior design features groundbreaking use of concave and convex lines. The handling and responsiveness of the Z4 is unparalleled thanks to its incredibly rigid chassis, sure-footed suspension based on the much-lauded 3 Series suspension and Electric Power Steering. Both the Z4 2.5i and 3.0i offer optional Sport Packages, which include upgraded wheels and tires and Dynamic Drive Control. The unique-folding soft-top features an integrated tonneau cover and heated glass rear window. The available fully-automated soft-top can be raised or lowered at the touch of a button in less than 10 seconds. Beginning with April production both the Z4 2.5i and 3.0i will be available with an optional six-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox. BMW Group in America BMW of North America has been present in the United States since 1975. Since then, the BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales and financial service organizations for the BMW and MINI brands; a South Carolina manufacturing operation; DESIGNWORKS/USA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. The BMW Group is represented in the U.S. through networks of 340 BMW car, 327 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle, 148 BMW Motorcycle retailers and 69 MINI car dealers. BMW US Holding Corp., the Group's headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
