1: The big news surrounding the smallest Bimmers is undoubtedly the introduction of the X1 sport-utility vehicle, which is slated to go on sale in the U.S. toward the beginning of 2011. We've known about the X1 since European editor Georg Kacher's sneak peek over a year ago, but BMW isn't counting on the X1 to be a volume seller.
Among the 1 Series coupes and convertibles, the models recently received BMW's new N55 single-scroll, turbocharged I-4, as well as an optional seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Further down the line, the hot 1 Series M Coupe will join the existing lineup, and a complete redesign isn't scheduled for several more years.
Kacher also speculates that a front-wheel-drive MPV may join the lineup, tentatively called "Joy."
3: The 3 Series lineup isn't scheduled for a refresh until 2012, when it will likely grow in size and incorporate a new four-cylinder engine. Following the launch of a new 3 Series sedan, the traditional coupe, convertible, and wagon variants are likely to follow. A non-traditional accompaniment may be a scaled-down Gran Turismo MPV.
The all-new X3, which will debut in early 2011, on the other hand, has been scaled up. It will measure within inches of the original X5's dimensions, and feature a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter I-6, as well as a turbocharged 3.0-liter that will produce 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque.
Z4: No major changes are planned for the Z4 range until 2013. The most recent addition to the Z4 stable is the sDrive35is model, which produces 335 horsepower.
5: The 5 Series, all-new this year, will gain an M5 based on the F10 platform in 2011. Powering the M5 will be the same 4.4-liter, twin-turbocharged V-8 currently in the X5 and X6 M. It will reportedly put out over 500 horsepower, giving it more power than the outgoing M5's V-10.
The don't-call-it-an-MPV 5 Series Gran Turismo range will gain an all-wheel-drive model later this year, and is due for a refresh in 2013. The X5 sport-ute will also be refreshed in 2013.
6: The next 6 Series will be influenced by the design language of the OK-ed Gran Coupe, adding a four-door to complement the two-door coupe and convertible. It will likely be powered by the existing 4.4-liter V-8.
The X6 is due for a refresh no earlier than 2012.
7: No major model updates for BMW's flagship sedan are planned for several more years. The latest 7 Series models are the six-cylinder 740i, whose engine produces 315 horsepower, and the ActiveHybrid 7, which carries a six-figure price tag.
In the pipeline
We've reported the details on BMW's upcoming Megacity electric vehicle, which will be a radical departure from its current lineup. The Megacity will be targeted at densely populated urban areas, but its styling may eventually influence more conventional future BMW models. The EV prototype is expected to launch with the 2012 London Olympics.
The Megacity, which is scheduled for a '13 model year launch, may eventually spawn a separate sub-brand for BMW.
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