What's new for 2009

CONFIRMED:

3-SERIES: A diesel-powered version of the 3 called the 335d will join the 3-series lineup for 2009. The 335d is powered by a 3.0 liter inline six cylinder engine producing 265 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque. BMW estimates a 0-62 MPH time of 6.2 seconds. The engine will use AdBlue urea injection and will be 50-state emissions compliant.

X5: The same 3-liter turbodiesel found in the 335 will be available in a version of the 2009 X5 SUV called the X5 xDrive35d. Power output is the same as in the 335d, with 0-62 acceleration estimated at 7.2 seconds and fuel economy predicted to be 19 MPG city/25 MPG highway or better.

X6: BMW is calling the 2009 X6 a Sports Activity Coupe, and calling it the first vehicle of its kind. (Some might argue that the X6 is a four-door sedan, and that it looks an awful lot like now-defunct Subaru's Outback SUS (Sport Utility Sedan)). Semantics aside, the X6 will be available in two versions, the X6 xDrive35i (3.0 liter twin-turbo inline six, 300 hp, 300 lb-ft) and the X6 xDrive50i (4.4 liter V8, 400 hp, 450 lb-ft), both with a six-speed automatic and all wheel drive.

Z4: Discontinued. (A replacement is rumored to be in the works for 2010.)


RUMORED:

7-SERIES: A new version of BMW's flagship sedan is expected for 2009.