Carsut – Understand cars and drive better

Category: BMW

BMW car reviews, test drive, road test, pricing, and all kind of critics about things that are not so good.

  • BMW X1 sDrive20d Review

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    The BMW X1 sDrive20d was first introduced by BMW in 2009 and it gained a very high popularity in Europe. In recent years, it is getting more and more popular and it has reached the U.S. and Asian market due to the luxury outlook, comfortable interior design, and satisfied performance. We stand a chance to put our hands on the latest 2012 model at the 2012 Motor Show after the car has been launched for three years. Now we are going to share every little bit of this rear-wheel-drive diesel-powered compact crossover SUV from head to toe.

    A view from far, the BMW X1 looks smaller and shorter when it stands beside the BMW X3 but the performance is very much related to both the 1 Series and 3 Series especially its handling thanks to its short height at only 61 inches. Overall, it looks like a big-short-small man. However, this doesn’t sacrifices any space in the cabin. The X1 offers a comfortable cabin that sits five adults contentedly.

    Engine and Performance

    The BMW X1 sDrive20d is powered by a 1,995cc four-cylinder engine producing a maximum output of 177 hp at 4,000 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1,750-3000rpm (Now, you can see what is horsepower and torque in a car?). This power has allowed the X1 sDrive20d the capability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds and continuously to a top speed of 205 km/h. All it takes is 29.3 seconds to accelerate from a standstill position to 1 km. Partnered with a six-speed automatic transmission, the BMW X1 give a smooth and responsive handling. Drivers will get the “instant power” feeling when they step on the accelerator. There is another version of the X1 sDrive which is the sDrive18i. With 150hp/200 Nm of torque engine under the hood, the sDrive18i accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds.

    Underneath, a set of lightweight allow wheels add an expressive touch to the car. Coupled with the car chassis, it provides an optimal suspension comfort. The wheels look fantastic but they also feel incredible.

    Interior

    BMW X1 Interior
    When our crews sit into the car, it doesn’t really feel like a compact car. The roomy cabin feels like a sedan and we almost forgot we are viewing the X1 but not the X3. It is definitely a pleasure to be in. Take two steps to the rear seats, the space is generous. Legroom is huge enough for tall person. When buying a BMW, it is always more than just buying a car. Take the X1 sDrive20d for example. It features a lot of technology that other cars may not have such as the anti-dazzle function for the rearview mirror, Bluetooh and USB compatibility function for the sound system, automatic wiper (rain detector), cruise control, keyless system, semi command sitting position, one button stop/start technology, shift light, parking radar and sensors, etc.

    BMW X1 legroom
    BMW X1 sDrive20d rear seat legroom

    At the back of the car, there is a Mini TV player where rear passengers can connect many devices to it through AV Input or USB port. Rear passengers can also have two separate headsets if some other passengers is taking their rest during a long journey drive.

    As for the cargo space, the 420 liters of storage space is relatively huge for many large items as you can see from the photos. It can be increased to 480 liters with the back seats pulled a little to the front and up to 1350 liters with the back seats folded. If that is not enough, the multi-functional BMW roof carrier rack system is capable to carry more items especially bicycle. The roof carrier rack system is made of high-strength aluminum alloy which is durable and corrosion-proof. So we say the new X1 is an ideal crossover SUV that is suitable for those who love travel.

    BMW X1 Cargo
    BMW X1 Cargo Space

    Fuel Economy

    The BMW X1 sDrive20d diesel engine is typically fuel efficient, with an official combined fuel economy of 16.4 km/l (38.57 mpg). The tank capacity is approximately 61 liter and the CO2 emissions are rated at 160 g/km which is considered eco-friendly. As for the X1 sDrive18i, it has a combined fuel economy of 11.9 km/l (28 mpg).

    Price

    • BMW X1 sDrive18i Highline: THB.2,499,000 (Thailand)
    • BMW X1 sDrive20d Highline: THB.2,799,000 (Thailand)
    • BMW X1 sDrive20d: RS 2,440,000 (India)
    • BMW X1 sDrive20d EfficientDynamics: £26,090 (UK)
    • Price in the United States: N/A

    BMW X1 sDrive20d’s competitors or similar cars: Audi Q3, BMW X3 xDrive20d, Nissan Murano, and BMW 3 Series.

    We have stated most of the pros and cons of the BMW X1 sDrive20d. However, if we would to use one sentence to describe this car, it is a small-size luxury crossover with one of the best handling, powerful engine, good fuel economy, and very reasonable price.
    BMW X1 sDrive20d

  • BMW Z4

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    The BMW Z4 is no doubt one of the most stunning sports cars available on our planet. 90% of car lovers will love this two-seater sports car and 10% of haters usually are gay. A view either from the front, side, or rear, it looks strikingly cool. It is cool to drive this car to a five-star hotel front door and throw the key to valet and let them park the car. It is cool to drive this car to club or disco at night to show off and it is definitely cool to drive this car to college.

    On top, the Z4 features sleek retractable hardtop. With just one press on the button, the hardtop will be folded to the back in an elegant way within seconds. When the top is raised, the trunk is big enough for large items. Other than the outlook, there are numerous of inner beauty can be found in this car including high mpg, reliable engine, and comfortable ride. Special features such as paddle shifters, controllers at steering wheel, and a set of nice stereo systems make the car lively and energetic.

    Design

    The 2012 model is now 148mm longer. The designer put the car seats a little bit further back towards the rear axle in order to create more space for passengers. A view from the side, the silky FR (front-engine Rear-drive) roadster has a long hood but the side mirrors are place nicely in the middle. Other than elegant, stylish, and luxury, what else we could describe the car? Look at the photo took by Carsut photographer, it says a million word, isn’t?

    Engine and Performance

    There are four power options available for the Z4:

    The BMW Z4 sDrive20i is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 181 hp and 199 Nm of torque. From 0 to 62mph it takes 6.9 seconds which isn’t disappointed for many roadster lovers. The car hit a top speed of 146 mph and has a curb weight of 1470kg.

    The BMW Z4 sDrive28i is powered by an award-winning turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that provides 240 hp and 260 Nm of torque. It is partnered with a standard manual transmission but there is an eight-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. It takes less than 6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph.

    The BMW Z4 sDrive35i is a little bit more powerful. It is equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine that produces 300 hp and 300 Nm of torque. Same as the sDrive28i, rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission is standard. It takes only 5.2 seconds to reach 60mph from a standstill position. It is more powerful but the mpg is much lower compared to sDrive28i.

    The BMW Z4 sDrive35is is for buyers who want to achieve 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds. It uses a revised 3.0-liter inline-6 engine that pumps 335 hp and 332 Nm of torque. A seven-speed automated dual-clutch manual transmission (DCT) is the only available transmission.

    Interior

    While the camera move to the interior, it gives a feeling that “I want to sit in, start the engine, and step hard on the gas pedal” The cabin is designed nicely with high quality leather and it is roomy. Back in old days, some good looking sports cars are powerful but they are not comfortable to drive for long journey because of the small and tight cabin. But now BMW has proved it with the Z4, go and get a test drive at any BMW dealers and you will know what we mean.


    BMW Z4 interior

    Safety

    The 2012 BMW Z4 convince its customer with many standard safety features including ABS brakes, stability control, traction controls, side airbags as well as knee airbags. Parking sensors that helps the driver to control the park distance and BMW Assist emergency communications are optional.

    Fuel Economy (MPG)

    • BMW Z4 sDrive20i: combined 41.5mpg
    • BMW Z4 sDrive28i: 24/34/27 (Manual) and 24/33/27 (Automatic)
    • BMW Z4 sDrive35i: 19/26/21 (Manual) and 17/24/19 (DCT – automated Dual-clutch Manual transmission)
    • BMW Z4 sDrive35i: 17/24/19

    Why people love Z4?

    • Beautiful and eye-catching outlook.
    • Fuel efficient.
    • Creative interior (Wooden dashboard are optional)
    • Comfortable ride with large trunk.
    • Thousands of aftermarket parts for the Z4 available across the country in cheap price.

    What is not so good?

    • Expensive price tag and expensive optional features.
    • Not a daily use car for people who does not get use to the sport setting.

    Price

    • United States: MSRP from $48,650
    • United Kingdom: from £32,650.00

    BMW Z4’s competitors or similar cars: Mercedes-Benz SLK, Porsche Boxster, Nissan 370Z, Honda S2000, and Audi TT.

    In conclusion, for BMW fans or BMW fans-going-to-be who look for a two-seater sports car that looks cool, practical to be used, and fun to drive, this is it! BMW Z4 is the one.