2015 North American International Motor Show Highlights

Cobo Hall, home of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

2015 North American International Auto Show Highlights
 

When I was growing up as a child in the suburbs of Detroit, the one thing I always made my parents do was to take me to the annual car show. At that time (late 1950’s) it generally only involved the “big three” and was held in conjunction with the Michigan State Fair in, if memory serves correctly, late September. Shortly before my parents decided that they had enough of the “dirty white stuff”, moving the family to California, the show was moved to the newly constructed Cobo Hall.

This year is the 27th time it has been held on an international stage, and more than 200 exhibitors gathered at the COBO Center on the Detroit River to present their latest offerings to a large audience. More than 18 million people have visited the show since 1989.

Although we didn’t hear the song once in Detroit, “The Boys are Back in Town” by Thin Lizzy, it could have been the show’s theme song. Remember the times before 2008 when outrageous design, halo and sport cars were the rage? After a short? 7 year stretch when small and economical choices led the marketing sheets most companies seem back, full steam ahead, into the stuff which dreams are made of. Whether that is fantastic looking sports cars harking back to symbolic brethren such as the original Acura NSX or Ford GT 40 or the brute force conveyed by trucks such as the Nissan Titan and Ford’s F150 based Raptor.

The companies haven’t completely backed down from the Eco roots planted during the last few years. Plug-In Hybrid appears to be where more manufacturers are heading but the Eco capabilities were not the leading message.

It may have been cold outside (+7 to +11 degrees F.) but it certainly was warm inside the Ford exhibit. It appears that Ford has stolen the show and hearts of the journalists with the “surprise” world premiere of the 2016 Ford GT. Not as a concept but as an actual purpose built race car. The street legal version will require subtle changes from the version shown.

The 600-plus horsepower Ford GT after its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Set for production in 2016, as a nod to the 50th Anniversary of the 1966 24-Hours of Le Mans where the Ford GT 40 won the event, it is expected to run in the 2016 event.

Front and rear of the 600-plus horsepower Ford GT after its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show. Image Credits: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Powered by a 3.5 liter twin-turbocharged Eco-boost engine making "more than 600 horsepower it exhibits a 0-60 time of around 3 seconds and a top speed greater than 200 mph. According to Ford, "the GT will exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car," thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber construction. The car also has racing inspired pushrod suspension and active aerodynamics.

The world premier of the long awaited Acura NSX Hybrid at the North American International Auto Show.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

One of the most highly anticipated introductions was of the Acura NSX. After a hiatus of 10 years the new car did not disappoint. Powered with a 75-degree DOHC V6 engine, up from the originally planned unit, with dry-sump lubrication it is able to produce an estimated 450 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Coupled to a 9-speed dual clutch transmission it also has a rear direct-drive electric motor and twin front electric motors.

Front and 3/4 rear side views of the 2016 Acura NSX Hybrid as seen in Detroit.
Image Credits: Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Cost is estimated to be around $150,000.00 with deliveries beginning late this year.  If you want one you will have to wait behind Jay Leno and Jerry Seinfeld as they are vying for unit number 1.  To further solidify his interest, Seinfeld was present for the World Premier.

Rear valances on the 2016 Acura NSX Hybrid at the world premier in Detroit. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon T. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The 1975 IMSA GT Championship 3.0 CSL. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

This year marks two milestones for BMW. The first is the 40th Anniversary of BMW North America. The second is the 40th Anniversary of BMW Motorsports’ first wins in North America. This was marked by the presence of the Sebring winning #25 3.0 CSL.

The world premiere of the refreshed BMW 650i Grand Coupe. Image Credit: Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

BMW chose Detroit to showcase their recently revised 6-series line-up. Comprising over 50% of the 6-series sales the Grand Coupe has three engine options. The 450 horsepower 4.4-liter V8 TwinTurbocharged engine produces 479 pound-feet of torque. The 320 horsepower 6-cylinder TwinTurbocharged engine produces 332 pound-feet of torque or the 313 horsepower Twin Rail Direct-Injection diesel yielding 464 pound-feet of torque.

The world premiere of the refreshed 2015 BMW M6 Coupe at the North American International Auto Show. Image Credits: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The new M6 is powered by the 560 horsepower 4.4-liter V8 Twin Turbocharged engine which yields 501 pound-feet of torque. Also available in 2015 will be the M6 Grand Coupe and M6 Convertible. On hand was the all new 650i Convertible.

The world premiere of the refreshed 2015 BMW 650i Convertible at the North American International Auto Show. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

2015 BMW i8 Plug-In Hybrid as seen at Detroit. Image Credit: Brandon T. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The 2015 BMW i3 Plug-In Hybrid was at Detroit for the Auto Show. Image Credit:  Brandon T. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

BMW continued to highlight their Plug-In Hybrid technology by bringing both the i8 and the i3 to Detroit. When asked if we could see an i5 and i7 Ian Robertson said that it was too soon to tell if it would expand fully into its own line.  He did say that some of the technology will be migrating to the other series.

The 2015 Cadillac CTS-V upon its debut at Detroit. Image Credit: Brandon T. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

To compete in the power race, primarily still controlled by the Germans, Cadillac unveiled the most powerful version of the CTS-V or any Cadillac to date. Sure the Hellcat still wins the power numbers but those still looking for a hellacious amount of power, 640 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque, with a nice serving of refinement while being able to hit 200 mph will certainly flock to the Cadillac. I say good job to Cadillac by not just being satisfied with a “me too” CTS-V based on the standard Corvette Stingrays raved about 455 horsepower engine but going that extra mile with inclusion of Z06 model engine.

Cadillac and Lexus (GS F ~450 horsepower) went different directions and the power, insert Tim Allen grunt here, side of me hopes that Cadillac is rewarded through the sales numbers.

The suspension with the third-generation Magnetic Ride Control and Performance Traction Management system allows four driver-selectable settings – Tour, Sport, Track and Snow which electronically calibrate performance variables to optimize the car for driving conditions.

Performance Traction Management is offered in Track mode and features five settings of torque reduction and brake intervention for track driving. The Cadillac executives even commented that the testing video of the CTS-V getting all four wheels off the ground at Nurburgring has gone viral. Cadillac is definitely targeting Mercedes-AMG and BMW M both on the road and the track with this car.

The newly announced Shelby GT 350R in a special "auto Show" coordinated color. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

While we continue with the Made in America theme, Ford also announced the Shelby GT 350R. Even though the new Shelby GT 350 was only recently unveiled and no sales date has been offered Ford wasted no time in announcing an even more brutish rendering.

The "standard" Shelby GT 350 as seen in Detroit. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon j. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Not for the faint of heart, like its 1965 predecessor the GT 350R was stripped of its back seats, stereo, air conditioning, carpets, trunk floorboard, and backup camera. Lightweight racing features such as carbon fiber wheels were added. This car is ready for the track and everything a race car driver is looking for.

The brutish Shelby GT 350R as seen at the North American International Auto Show. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

"The Shelby GT350R Mustang is a no-compromise car in the pursuit of maximum track capability," said Raj Nair, the Ford Group's vice president of global product development. "It is a thoroughbred street car making use of technology and ingenuity to deliver performance few enthusiasts have ever experienced." At the heart of the Shelby is a 5.2-liter 500-horsepower V8 engine built using technology from Ford's motorsports experience.

The large rear wing on the Shelby GT350R adds the extra down-force this car needs. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

"The Shelby GT 350R Mustang is a car with the nimbleness and power delivery you want on a road course" Nair said, "This isn't just about horsepower. The Shelby GT 350R is an all-around balanced athlete - one that is extraordinarily precise and agile."  Expect to see the whole Shelby line-up in showrooms later this year.

The 2015 Buick Avenir concept on display at the North American International Auto Show. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

On a less dramatic scale, power wise, Buick premiered its’ latest concept. The Avenir – French for future – is distinguished by its premium sports proportions and all-new interpretations of traditional Buick cues. It is a flagship sedan exploring progressive design with new levels of passenger well-being and technology integration.

The new Buick grille design as seen on the Avenir concept in Detroit. Image Credit: Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

A long hood, wheels-at-the-corners stance and a sloping, rear deck that pays homage to historical models, such as the Riviera, distinguish the Avenir’s proportion. The most striking departure from contemporary Buick models is a new grille design that puts a new face on the brand. It features a large opening accented by a return to the three-color – red, silver and blue – Buick tri-shield insignia, accented by wing-shaped elements. The grille is flanked by bold headlamps featuring full LED lighting.

 The Avenir’s four-place interior rewards the senses, makes managing technologies easier and enhances the feelings of personal space and well-being. Interior surfaces - inspired by nature and sea waves receding on a beach - flow seamlessly through the cabin. It is a motif featured on the seats and carried through in other trim components – even the carpet. In fact, a patterned insert for the carpet carries the motif in silk and bamboo. A color palette of light and natural tones blended with oiled and buffed wood trim, and Galvano satin-chrome accents, enhance the Avenir’s ambience.

Avenir’s designers are also pushing the technologies for home integration, which would allow accessing home security cameras or the capability of turning on outside lights and closing a garage door that was inadvertently left open. Rear-seat passengers, can access USB ports and video screens allowing occupants to plug in to their favorite media and slip into complete relaxation, arriving at their destination refreshed and rejuvenated.

The flowing lines of the 2015 Infiniti Q60 Coupe concept as seen at the Detroit Auto Show.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

"One look and it is clear: Q60 concept is a strong statement from Infiniti designers that the exhilaration is real," said Roland Krueger Infinity Motor Co’s new president, “Design is a key driver for developing a strong brand. Q60 concept is another building block in Infiniti's quest to refresh its portfolio with a strong and consistent design language. And in 2016, we will launch a new model heavily inspired by the Q60 concept."

3/4 front profile, Formula 1 front fascia, small central ridge on the hood as seen on the Infinity Q60 Coupe concept.
Image Credits: Top Photo: Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images, Bottom Two: Brandon T. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Ali Abela standing by the "officially" announced Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe at the North American International Auto Show.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider as seen for the first time at the Detroit Auto Show.
Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

After a prolonged tease Alfa Romeo “officially” rolled out the 4C Coupe. What was new was the “talked about” 4C Spider which was shown for the first time to the American market. The Spider is very appealing. Showing the family lineage, Alfa Romeo brought in a beautiful 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale. We give Kudos to Alfa Romeo for a job well done in transferring the design cues into the new generation 4C.

The 1967 Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

As previously mentioned Eco, although less dominant, was still present in Detroit. Chevrolet led the charge, pun intended, with their new Volt and Bolt EV Concept vehicles.

The 2015 Chevrolet Bolt EV concept being displayed for the first time at the North American International Auto Show.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The Bolt EV concept that appears to have the BMW i3 in its sights– its vision, an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle designed to offer more than 200 miles of range starting around $30,000.

Drivers will be able to select operating modes designed around preferred driving styles such as daily commuting and spirited weekend cruising, for uncompromising electric driving. The modes adjust accelerator pedal mapping, vehicle ride height and suspension tuning. The Bolt EV concept is also designed to support DC fast charging.

The bold use of glass all around yield an airy feel to the interior of the 2015 Chevrolet Bolt. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The Bolt EV concept’s airy interior ambience is enhanced with bold use of glass all around – as well as a full-length, frosted glass roof with unique, faceted design elements. A high beltline sweeps upward with the D-pillar, culminating in an integrated roof spoiler, for a lean, athletic stance.  An advanced nano-composite rear hatch and wraparound rear window give the Bolt EV concept a distinctive appearance and flood the interior with more natural light.

“The Bolt EV concept is a game-changing electric vehicle designed for attainability, not exclusivity,” said General Motors CEO Mary Barra. “Chevrolet believes electrification is a pillar of future transportation and needs to be affordable for a wider segment of customers.”

A cutaway version of the entirely new 2016 Chevrolet Volt as seen for the first time in Detroit. Image Credit:  2015 Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Chevrolet unveiled the all-new 2016 Volt electric car with extended range, showcasing a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration. The Volt’s new, efficient propulsion system will offer a General Motors’-estimated total driving range of more than 400 miles and with regular charging, owners are expected to travel more than 1,000 miles on average between gas fill-ups.

The newly designed 2016 Chevrolet Volt at the Detroit Auto Show. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon T. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The newly designed 2016 Chevrolet Volt at the Detroit Auto Show. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon T. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The 2016 Volt will use an 18.4 kWh battery system featuring revised cell chemistry developed in conjunction with LG Chem. While overall system storage capacity has increased, the number of cells has decreased from 288 to 192 as the result of a revised chemistry. The cells are positioned lower in the pack for an improved (lower) center of gravity and the overall mass of the pack is 21 pounds (9.8 kg) lighter.

Like the battery system, the next-generation Volt’s two-motor drive unit delivers increased efficiency and performance along with reduced noise and vibration. The drive unit operates up to 12 percent more efficiently and weighs 100 pounds (45 kg) less than the current system. 

Both motors operate together in more driving scenarios, in both EV and extended-range operation. The ability to use both motors helps deliver a 19 percent   improvement in electric acceleration from zero to 30 mph (2.6 seconds) and a 7 percent improvement from zero to 60 mph (8.4 seconds). 

The newly introduced Mercedes-AMG GLE 6.3 S Coupe as seen in Detroit. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Mercedes-Benz was on hand to introduce four new models and also show their F 015 Luxury in Motion concept vehicle that was introduced to the world at the recent Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

Like BMW, Mercedes-Benz has added a new SUV/Coupe combining the sportiness of a Coupe with the utility of an SUV.  The Mercedes-AMG GLE 6.3 S Coupe  has a 5.5-liter V8 producing 577 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque. Another model will also be available with the 3.0-liter V6 producing 362 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. Mercedes are calling it the GLE 450 AMG 4Matic.

The new 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 320 Plug-In Hybrid. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Mercedes-Benz also announce that by the end of 2017 they will have 10 new Plug-In Hybrid models. Following its premiere in the S-Class Mercedes-Benz is now offering its most advanced hybrid technology in the C-class. Called the C 350 Plug-In it will be available in dealerships in the fall.  Powered by a 208 horsepower turbo I-4, coupled to the 80 horsepower electric, it has a total horsepower rating of 275 and produces 443 pound-feet of torque. In pure electric mode it is expected to go 20 miles.

With the S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE and the Future Truck 2025, Mercedes-Benz has made the vision of autonomous driving reality. Its latest self-driving luxury sedan concept, the F 015, Mercedes-Benz is illustrating how the car is growing beyond its role as mere transport.  This vehicle is designed to take its occupants to the opera or board meeting in style and without fuss.

Just after its premiere at the CES in Las Vegas the Mercedes-Benz F 015 Luxury in Motion concept arrived in Detroit. Image Credit: Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The front grille and interior of the Mercedes-Benz F 015 Luxury in Motion concept at the Detroit Auto Show. Image Credits: Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The mass of arctic air that moved across the country this week may have put a chill on the Detroit area and the spirits of the attendees during the Media and Press preview days but once they were inside, the rush of masculine adrenaline found within Cobo Hall quickly thawed everyone out..

The Detroit River with ice flows and the Ambassador Bridge which connects Detroit to Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Image Credit: Brandon J. O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

ENDS

TUDOR United Sports Car Championship At Long Beach

The Tequila Patron Sports Car Showcase overall winning Wayne Taylor Racing Chevrolet Corvette DP at Victory Circle.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

TUDOR United Sports Car Championship at Long Beach
By: Brandon O'Brien - Photography By: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images unless otherwise specified

The TUDOR United Sports Car Championship (TUSCC) is a combination of the Grand-Am Series and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) which had its first full season in 2014. It is sanctioned by IMSA and  TUDOR has a five-year sponsorship.

With three of the twelve planned 2015 races now in the books the TUDOR United Sports Car Championship is turning into a very interesting series to follow.  The races are all timed events, with the shortest (Long Beach and Detroit) being 100-minutes and the longest (Daytona) 24 hours .

What makes the series exciting and interesting for both the spectators and drivers is, at the majority of the venues, there are four classes racing at the same time.

Making its first appearance at Long Beach was the Claro / TracFone DeltaWing Racing Delta Wing DWC13 - Elan. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Prototype (P) is the flagship class featuring the fastest and most technologically advanced cars in North America by combining Grand-Am Daytona Prototypes with the ALMS P2 class prototypes and Deltawing cars.

The Action Express Racing Chevrolet Corvette Daytona Prototype on the starting grid at Long Beach, CA.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Prototype Challenge (PC) is a spec class carried over directly from ALMS featuring open-cockpit Le Mans Prototype cars built by Oreca with engines supplied by Chevrolet and tires by Continental. These cars are driven by a team of two drivers, one a full-time professional and the other a part-time "amateur" driver.

Grand Touring Le Mans (GTLM) is a continuation of the ALMS GT class of cars using the same technical regulations as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Based on production models, they are engineered to produce the maximum performance possible.

The Team Falken Tire  GTLM Porsche 911 RSR as seen in the Paddock prior to racing at Long Beach, CA.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

GT Daytona (GTD) is a class that combines the Grand-Am GT and GX classes along with the Porsche GT3 Cup cars, all built to FIA GT3 specifications. These, like the PC cars, are driven by professional and amateur drivers.

A World Challenge Truspeed Motorsports prepared Porsche 911 GT3 Cup car which is similar to the GTD class of cars. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Long Beach celebrated its 41st straight year hosting racers on the temporary street circuit.  The longest running street race in North America it is a favorite among the drivers.  Although, like any street circuit that does not tolerate foolish moves, it is one where the drivers can truly race with a number of passing zones.

Unlike previous years there were only two classes of cars running this year; Prototype and GTLM.  Ricky Taylor placed the Konica Minolta Wayne Taylor Racing Chevrolet Corvette DP on the pole with a qualifying lap record time of 1:14.790. Scott Pruitt was close behind in the Chip Ganassi Racing Riley DP - Ford EcoBoost with a time of 1:15.048

The overall winning Chevrolet Corvette DP in the Fountain Turn during the Tequila Patron Sports Car Showcase at Long Beach, CA.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The second place Ford EcoBoost Riley DP driven by Joey Hand exiting the Fountain Turn at Long Beach, CA.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

In the GTLM class the RLL BMW's tied up the first two slots with Bill Auberlen in No. 25 setting a qualifying lap record time of 1:17.268 followed by John Edwards in No. 24 at 1:17:516 in the other BMW Z4 GTE.

The pole winning GTLM Team RLL BMW Z4 GTE qualified by Bill Auberlen exiting the Fountain Turn at Long Beach, CA.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Also starting on the front row was the sister Team RLL BMW Z4 GTE qualified by John Edwards at Long Beach, CA. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Once the Green Flag was dropped, the Prototype Class ran nose to tail in qualifying order for the fist few laps.  Most position changes were due to mechanical issues or contact. Throughout the race, the first two positions never changed.

For the third race in a row, a different team was able to stand on the podium for the Prototype class. Jordan Taylor in the No. 10 Konica Minolta Wayne Taylor Raqcing Chevrolet Corvette DP was able to keep hard driving Joey Hand in the  No. 01 Chip Ganassi Racing Riley DP - Ford EcoBoost in his mirrors. After the race the Taylor's gave credit to Brembo for working with them allowing them to drive further into the corners than their competition.

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For most of the race the Risi Competizione Ferrari F458 Italia was the front running GTLM car. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The first three positions of the GTLM competition were hotly contested throughout the 100-minute race as can be seen as they exit Turn 5 at Long Beach.  Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Bill Auberlen stated, "when it came to the race the extent of my lead was on the pace lap." Once the green dropped, former Formula 1 driver Giancarlo Fisichella in the third place Risi Competizione Ferrari F458 Italia made a charge for the front, first passing the No. 24 BMW driven by John Edwards for second after drag racing him down Shoreline Drive to Turn 1 and, by Turn 5 was ahead of the pole sitting BMW driven by Auberlen. The race continued in that order for the opening stint with Auberlen pressing the Ferrari hoping that Fisichella would make a mistake.

Auberlen pitting on lap 31 turned the car over to co-driver Dirk Werner. A fuel venting problem slowed the filling time and Werner re-entered the race in fifth place.  The next lap saw the No. 24 BMW in the pits and Lucas Luhr was able to re-enter in second place due to the usual quick team service.

With an hour in the books, Werner in the No. 25 BMW was able to make up all of the time lost in the pits and was now in fourth place. He moved into third place on lap 45 and due to brake issues on the No. 24 BMW was able to shortly pass for second. The Ferrari, now being driven by Pierre Kaffer, had an 8 second lead.  With twelve laps to go, after setting a new race record lap time of 1:18.009 Werner drove the No. 25 BMW past the Ferrari for the lead and the victory.

Class winning drivers celebrating in Victory Circle. Left to Right: Dirk Werner, Bill Auberlen (GTLM), Ricky Taylor, Jordan Taylor (Prototype). Image credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Auberlen stated, "This is a special win as it has been a long time for our team. On top of that it is my home race. Between Dirk and myself we pretty much checked off every box this weekend.  We won, we had pole and the lap record in qualifying and Dirk brought it home with the win and a new lap record in the race. You can't do much better than that".

Bill Auberlen speaking to the press at the post race press conference while team-mate Dirk Werner looks on. Image Credit: 2015 Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Next stop - May 1-3 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca will be a 2 hour 40 minute event where all four classes of cars will be competing.


TAGS: TUDOR United Sports Car Championship, Grand-Am Series, American Le Mans Series, Toyota Grand Prix Of Long Beach, Prototype, Prototype Challenge, Grand Touring Le Mans, GT Daytona

BMW At The 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

The 2015 BMW X6 M and X5 M. Image Credit: BMW AG

BMW At The 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

As usual, BMW did not disappoint the car enthusiast with its presentations at Los Angeles.  BMW chose diversity in unveiling four models at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show.  Two of these were World Premiers while the other two are new to the US market.

The aggressive 2015 BMW X6 M in Laguna Seca Blue as seen at the LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

"Innovative technology and powerful presence" is the way BMW describes the new X5 M and the X6 M.  Both making their world premier in Los Angeles. These vehicles are unfazed by any weather and road conditions and yet can be "thrillingly dynamic" on the track. Like all Motorsport BMW's they have been designed for an exceptional driving experience.

The 2015 X5 M as seen at the LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Both the X5 M and X6 M are powered by the same V8 with M Twin Power Turbo technology generating an output of 575 hp and a maximum torque of 553 ft. lbs.  Both vehicles are equipped as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic propelling them from 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds. Even with this substantial power, fuel economy and CO2 emissions are about 20% lower than previous models.

The interior of the X6 M. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Joey Hand, of BMW racing fame, was on hand for the premier. Stepping out of his current ride, a BMW M4 DTM, he had a chance to take the X6 M for a few laps at Texas and was impressed with the its agility, speed, and stopping power. He was looking forward to driving the car more at Laguna Seca which is one of his favorite tracks. It sounds like BMW hit the mark again with it's new X6 M.

The US Premier of the 2015 BMW 228i Convertible. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

One of the new models for introduction into the US market in February 2015 is the BMW 2-Series Convertible.  Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO of BMW North America mentioned that Los Angeles was the perfect location to unveil this new model because of its great top-down year round weather.  The electrically operated soft-top is acoustically optimized for comfort and can be closed in 20 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.

The 2-Series Convertible will be available as two models; the 320 hp M 235i and the 240 hp 228i.  The M 235i will go from 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds while the 228i takes 6.1 seconds.  The M 235i can be equipped with a Six-Speed manual transmission or the Eight-Speed  Steptronic Sport transmission which will be standard on xDrive versions as well as the 228i Convertible.

The driver oriented interior of the 2015 BMW 228i Convertible with optional red leather. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The interior is driver focused and contains the high-quality materials that BMW is noted for.  The specially designed climate control panel features a display with white readouts.  With the top down the standard climate control system takes into account the impact of the airstream on the temperature.  The optional leather trim includes surfaces that use SunReflective technology to reduce the extent the leather is heated by the sun.

The rear seating area as seen on the 2015 BMW 228i Convertible. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Intelligent connectivity between driver, vehicle, and the outside world is another step forward for BMW. Among items found in the BMW ConnectedDrive program are the rear view camera, Parking Assistant, System Driving Assistant which includes Lane Departure Warning and Collision Warning.  The 2-Series Convertible is BMW's first model that can be upgraded with the new-generation Navigation system Professional which allows free over -the-air updates via the built-in SIM card.

The 2015 BMW X6 making its debut at the LA Auto Show. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

The final vehicle making it's first US showing is the 2nd generation BMW X6. The X6 captures the imagination of the Sport Activity Coupe with its even more potent presence, the extrovert athleticism of its design, and its standout performance.  The X6 will be offered as two models.  The xDrive 50i offering 445 hp and the xDrive 35i offering 300 hp.

The beautiful interior as seen on the 2015 BMW X6. Image Credit: Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images

Both models come equipped with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and BMW xDrive all wheel drive technology. Optioned with one of the three Adaptive Suspension packages the new X6 offers a supreme driving experience to any type of driver wanting the sporty looks and functionality that the X6 offers in a larger sport activity coupe.

(words and photographs by Brandon O'Brien / Motor Driven Images unless otherwise noted)