Here is the best look yet at the gullwing / butterfly doors which will be featured on the production BMW i8 when it hits the market in 2014. The doors appear to open in the same fashion as did the BMW i8 concept.

Judging by photos, it’s apparent that the doors will not be constructed from glass, as in the concept i8. According to Scott26, the door skins are made of CFRP, but BMW is working on applying type of film over the CFRP which can be unpainted - giving the door a smooth glass-like finish and bringing the look of the i8 concept’s glass doors without actually using glass (which are impractical for many obvious reasons).

As with any new model release, it’s very interesting to see how the new model fares against the predecessor. We were curious how the stunning all-new BMW M6 Coupe (F13) and Convertible (F12) compare to old M6 (E63/E64), so we’ve compiled a photo and specs comparison. Big thanks to member HKS786 who put together the comparison photos.

In each of their segments both the BMW X3 and the BMW X5 are seen as the benchmark for agility and driving pleasure. In the spring of 2012, the sporting character of the two BMW X models will be further underscored by innovations added to the range of engines and equipment features. A new and particularly powerful N20 engine for the BMW X3 xDrive28i, Driving Experience Control for individual vehicle settings for all variants of the BMW X3 and the M Sport Edition of the BMW X5 ensure targeted optimisation of sporting qualities.

Furthermore, the choice of optionally available driver assistance systems featured by BMW ConnectedDrive is being further extended for the BMW X3.

Details inside.

First videos of the 2013 BMW M6 coupe (F13) and convertible (F12). BMW M’s sporty new coupe and convertible looked great in photos, but look even better in motion. Check it out via the “VIDEOS” tab inside.

The debut of the all-new 2013 BMW M6 models also marks the debut of the long-awaited M Carbon Ceramic Brakes option. Details are limited so far but we’ve compiled what’s known so far:

The M Carbon Ceramic Brakes have bigger rotors at the front axle (410mm vs 400mm standard), reduce the unsprung weight by 19.4 kg or 42.8 lb, and obviously increase fade resistance. While the standard brake calipers for the M6 models are painted in dark blue metallic, the carbon ceramic brakes are painted in a noble gold shade.

There’s no word on pricing yet, but they won’t be cheap for sure (option code is 2NK). The M Carbon Ceramic brakes will be available for the BMW M6 models and — from July production on — for … CONTINUED

Presenting the all-new 2013 BMW M6 coupe and convertible! See all official info, media, and press release inside.

At a Glance

New edition of the BMW M6 in Coupe and Convertible body variants; generous dose of M feeling combined with alluring design aesthetics, a luxurious aura, seating for four and innovative equipment features; high-performance sports car with superior performance attributes and extremely exclusive character; BMW M6 Coupe and BMW M6 Convertible both occupy a unique position in the premium segment of the executive class thanks to their blend of outstanding dynamics, hallmark M conceptual harmony and everyday usability; further development of both concepts breaks new ground with significantly improved efficiency, optimised controls for individualising the car set-up and a wider variety of driver assistance systems and infotainment … CONTINUED

Here is another look at some of the F30 3 Series launch events/presentations around the world - this one in Moscow, Russia. We get a look at some of the fancy projection presentation being used at many of the worldwide F30 launch event presentations in these videos inside.

The retail launch for the 2012 BMW 3 Series Sedan (F30) is today, February 11. But Hong Kong held its launch event for the F30 on 7th Feb 2012. The venue was Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center, the most famous convention center in Hong Kong. All generations of 3 series were on display to welcome the guests. One of the common themes seen at all the F30 launch events is a special projection illumination display on the F30.

The entrance was decorated by the big famous “Angel Eye” of BMW. Of course the venue also packed with people. Check out some event photos inside.

As you may already have seen, a member recently took delivery of his 2012 328i (F30) sedan and wasted no time in getting it strapped to the dyno. The 2012 328i sedan is powered by the twinpower twin-scroll turbo 4-cylinder inline “N20″ engine, factory rated at 240hp / 255lb-ft torque.

This F30 328i was tested on EAS (European Auto Source)’s Dynojet 224xLC and put down an impressive 226hp / 230lb-ft torque (at the wheels), with just 91 octane gasoline.

What does this equal to at the crank (for comparison to BMW’s factory quoted power figures for the 2012 328i)? Assuming a 15-17% drivetrain loss, this dyno result translates to approximately 265-272hp / 270-277lb-ft torque at the crank, or +25-32hp and +15-22lb-ft torque more than the factory figures!

Is … CONTINUED