The  rumor mill has the new M1 concept making its presence felt at the Geneva Auto Show. This is of course just a rumor, but here are some renderings that are circling.

“The M1 will differ from the standard 1er with a more muscular appearance especially at the front which receives a trapezoid grille flanked by two intakes to allow air to cool the six piston brakes. The larger grille at the front of the car also allows air into the High Performance Intercooler. underneath the headlights the M1 follows the typical M look by having enclosed headlights or “eyebags” this helps pronounce the front of the car and providing a more sporting look than the conventional 1er Coupe.

Summary:

* More muscular appearance than standard 1-series
* Trapezoid grille flanked by two intakes to allow extra brake cooling
* Six piston brakes
* High performance intercooler
* Sportier looking headlights than standard 1-series
* Small lip spoilers above brake duct inlets to provide extra air flow and downforce
* The front wings of the car are massaged slightly to accommodate the wider track. Rear end is also wider.
* Standard 18? 5-spoke wheels with optional 18? Competition wheels (18? will be the optimum wheel size for the M1)
* Signature M side vent
* Broader wheel arches to accommodate larger track
* “Ducktail” CSL style rear trunk (integrated spoiler)
* Rear valance/diffuser area takes its direction from the standard 135i but with open ducts for aerodynamic purpose
* Signature M quad exhaust pipes
* Reinforced carbon fiber roof

What’s your thoughts on the styling. I like it overall, but it’s going to take a good clear look before I make judgment. Not sure if I’m totally sold on the teardrop headlights.

Technorati Tags: BMW, M1, Spy Shots

This new beauty recently unveiled at the Detroit Auto show looks sure to make a splash with the VW crowd. Classy exterior styling mixed with a great Interior cabin which still has some of they current Passat hardware, yet is totally fresh and new. Let’s hope this makes it to production with little cutbacks as it would be a shame to lose this beauty in current form.

Not only does it put the segment stalwarts to shame in both style and space, VW took pains to make the rear seats actually habitable. There’s ample leg room and a trick center console with independent climate controls for both passengers, a quad-zone setup we hope makes the transition to production.

Although there’s sure to be countless variants of the Coupe when it arrives in production guise (were sure a few versions of the 2.0T will find their way underhood), in the “concept” motivation is provided by a 1.4-liter TSI inline-four, putting out 150 horsepower and 110 pound-feet of torque. However, when partnered with its hybrid system (a 20-kilowatt electric motor drawing pour from a lithium ion battery), output is boosted by 27 ponies to 177 hp and an equal amount of torque. VW estimates that U.S. mileage should average around 45 mpg and with its hybrid setup, the Concept Coupe can be driven in full electric mode for an unspecified range. With it’s seven-speed dual clutch gearbox, VW pegs the Coupe’s 0-60 time at 8.1 seconds, with a top speed of 141 mph.

I’m really digging that interior color combo. It will be interesting to see what other power plants make it in, as I’m sure the 2.0 will make its way in the lineup. The back seat is actually usable, and may even work for a small family who would otherwise look at only sedan options.

Technorati Tags: VW Concept