Time flies. Only 2 years after its introduction, BMW is apparently already preparing a facelift (AKA “LCI”) for the popular X1 SAV. As these images show, BMW sticks to their usual facelift approach.

The front bumpers will be reworked significantly for a more sporty and wider appearance, similar to the existing M Sport package. The rear bumpers will follow the same lead with a more ‘diffusor style’ appearance. Head and rear lights will get new graphics (updated rear lights not yet shown in these images).

It’s hard to tell for sure from these images but we wouldn’t be surprised if the X1 LCI also got its side indicators moved to the rear view mirrors. The camo tape over the redesigned mirrors and the side indicators at the front … CONTINUED

Reactions to the F32 coupe spy photos and videos we’ve posted so far have included some complaints that the F32 looks too long or has lost its sporty proportions. We beg to differ.

We revisited the earliest E92 coupe test prototype photos from back at the end of 2005 and we’ve posted below a comparison of the F32 coupe at this early stage camouflage compared to the E92 coupe during its early stages of testing.

Scrutinizing the photos, it’s easy to see how a camouflaged coupe appears overly lengthy and bulky, especially with respect to the front and rear fascias, which still have heavy and cumbersome camouflage.

Keeping in mind how attractive the E92 coupe turned out in production form, we wouldn’t bet against BMW with respect to the … CONTINUED

For weeks we’ve been hearing that the F33 4 Series convertible (or 3-series convertible, as BMW has not yet officially confirmed a badge change) had recently begun public testing. And now we can now share with you the spy photos from its first ever sighting!

As clearly seen, the F33 4 series will retain its folding hardtop. The car is still heavily masked and it appears that it may feature a bit of a false trunk or heavy camouflage on the trunk lid, making it look more extended or larger than the actual design underneath. This is the reason for the odd-looking gap and space in the transition area to the rear lights.

Aside from the roofline, the trunk, and the roof-to-trunk transition, the F33 appears to share … CONTINUED

After the first F32 coupe photos, we now bring to you the first spy video of the upcoming BMW 4 Series (or 3 Series, as name change is not yet confirmed) coupe out testing in Munich.

The live look provided by a video always provides the best perspectives because we are able to see and perceive the physical aspects (size, proportions, transitions, and scale) of the car in one continuous moving view. Seeing a car in motion among other cars and natural elements also provides the most realistic look.

The F32 coupe certainly looks to have good size and proportions in the video, not appearing as long or stretched as some spy photos may have made it appear. Have a look for yourself below.

Some weeeks ago we brought bring you the very first video of the 2013 BMW M3 sedan internally dubbed F80. We’ve now posted the first footage of F80 M3 prototypes on and around the Nurburgring and conducting high speed performance runs!

As you’d expect from an M3, the F80 prototype looks very planted and stable while being pushed around the Nurburgring. The video provides the best listen yet at the F80’s engine/exhaust noise. And although we can tell with certainty that it’s powered by a 6 cylinder engine (to be turbocharged), it’s difficult to discern whether the engine is an inline or V configuration. BMW M CEO Dr. Nitschke recently stated that they wouldn’t do a V6, but we’ve also been tipped otherwise.

The number and type of … CONTINUED

We’ve caught BMW’s FWD 1-series model based on the FWD UKL platform on video for the first time and the previous silly camo on the tailgate has been dropped, revealing its shape. The UKL platform is BMW’s platform which the FWD 1-series GT will share with the next generation of MINIs.

The FWD 1-series will come in various forms, including a traditional 5-door hatchback, a sporting estate model, and a gran touring version (seen in the video). They’ve been referred to by insider Scott26 as the “City Compact,” the “F.A.S.T. Family Activity Sports Tourer,” and the “GT”. The upcoming Z2 roadster is also rumored to being considered for the UKL platform.

These FWD 1-series models will join the rest of the 1-series lineup which in the next generation … CONTINUED

We’ve brought you photos of 6 series Gran Coupe prototypes being put through the paces on the Nurburgring, and we’ve now caught it on video in live action. Despite its character as a grand touring car, BMW is still intent on delivering a sporty and well handling Gran Coupe. The continuing testing on the Nurburgring should go far in ensuring that.

Both the 640 and 650 gran coupe models are spotted in this video, with the 650 model wearing 6-series M sport wheels.

Current expectation is for the Gran Coupe to hit showrooms in 2012 as a 2013 Model Year vehicle. Engine range is expected to be identical to the 6-Series Coupe. An M version of the 6 series gran coupe is also in the BMW product … CONTINUED

M3 and manual transmission fans can now exhale. These latest spy photos of the F80 M3 sedan by a Autoweek reader show the first interior photos of the F80 M3 sedan and as luck would have it, a manual shifter is clearly visible! This confirms that the F80 M3 should come with both manual transmission and M-DCT options. A smooth shifting M-DCT equipped F80 M3 has already been spied on video previously.

This comes as relief for manual transmission traditionalists as even BMW M has recently stated that it’s unsure how long it will keep developing M models with manual transmission and at some point it will simply not be offered.

The US should receive the manual transmission option as it remains the market which demands it most. … CONTINUED

We’re happy to share the best spyhots of the F32 4 series coupe to date. Days after the first ever spotting of the F32 4 series coupe, our spies have caught another F32 prototype, this time in white.

Compared to the recently unveiled F30 3 series sedan, the 4 series coupe will have a more muscular and sleek appearance. The shoulder line at the rear quarter panel is more pronounced and the roofline lower. These shots also allow us a better look at the shape of the rear windows and the famous Hofmeister kink.

Keep in mind that the car looks larger than it actually is due to some of the camouflage paneling, particularly on the front fascia. The heavy camouflage on the front and rear also obscure … CONTINUED