BMW M is entering a new era with the introduction of the XM super-crossover, the first Bavarian plug-in hybrid. The novelty differs from the usual “emoks” not only in a powerful gasoline-electric power plant: XM has non-standard design solutions and a unique naming of the top version. The BMW XM also became the first autonomous model of the M division in almost 45 years, because the 5.1-meter crossover does not have and will not have “ordinary” analogues.

The serial version of the BMW XM largely repeated last year's prototype: there are many differences in the nuances, but the general concept has been preserved. Of the noticeable simplifications - traditional door handles, by no means "secret" headlights and lanterns of a less sophisticated form. The XM is comparable in size to the X7: the wheelbase of the crossovers is the same (3105 millimeters), but the super hybrid is four centimeters shorter, half a centimeter wider and five centimeters lower.

Continuity with the previous unique development of BMW M - the M1 sports car of the late 1970s - is achieved through laser-etched logos on opposite sides of the rear wing. An unexpected design decision - a bet on golden elements. The upper edge of the windows, window sill line, grille trim, diffuser elements and spokes of optional 23-inch wheels are made in contrast.

The BMW XM charging hatch is located in the front left fender and is exposed, as if reminiscent of an unusual power plant. Under the hood is a modified 4.4-liter V8 with the S68 index (489 forces, 650 Nm), which works in conjunction with a 196-horsepower (280 Nm) electric motor built into the 8-speed “automatic” and an all-wheel drive system with a clutch in the drive front axle. Peak output - 652 horsepower and 800 Nm, which allows the new product to be called the most powerful production model of the M family.

Dynamic performance is by no means a record: from standstill to 100 kilometers per hour, the BMW XM accelerates in 4.3 seconds, the maximum speed is 250 or 270 kilometers per hour (with the M Driver`s package). The unofficial Emok flagship turned out to be slower than the non-hybrid X5 M / X6 M with the prefix Competition, and this is not surprising, because the curb weight of the novelty is as much as 2750 kilograms. However, BMW did not hide the fact that the XM will be the heaviest model in history.

There are three things that may please BMW fans. First, the XM hybrid is equipped with a battery with an effective capacity of 25.7 kilowatt-hours, which will allow you to drive up to 88 kilometers on the WLTP cycle without starting the internal combustion engine. Secondly, fuel consumption in the combined cycle of a fully charged crossover will not exceed 1.6 liters per 100 kilometers. Thirdly, the promised 745-horsepower Red Label top version with a torque of under 1000 Nm is on the way - it should not only be heavy, but also fast.

Other positives include an ideal 50:50 static weight distribution, a fully steerable chassis, a suspension with active anti-roll bars unique to the emos, and a very luxurious interior. In terms of architecture, everything is very similar to the updated X7: almost the same door cards, a similar iDrive 8 multimedia system, identical front panel and central tunnel. "Emka" is distinguished only by a fixed transmission joystick, decor and finishing materials.

The show car is adorned with coffee-colored leather and dark blue nappa, and not only the contour lighting, but also a hundred LEDs in the “sculptural” ceiling are responsible for the atmosphere in the cabin. Interestingly, genuine leather is chosen for the XM, rather than an artificial vegan substitute. An important nuance is the layout according to the 2 + 3 scheme: the third row is not provided in principle.

Assembly of the BMW XM will begin before the end of the year at the American plant of the brand. The base crossover will cost $160,000, while the 745-horsepower version will ask for $185,000, and you will have to pay extra for personalization of the interior, 23-inch wheels and special decor. By comparison, the BMW X6 M costs $114,000 in the United States, while a comparable three-row X7 M60i can be purchased for $103,000.

The mileage of the 96-year-old car is only 36,000 kilometers.
American dealership Classic Auto Mall, specializing in the sale of classic cars, put up for sale a rare 1926 Pontiac Hill Climb Speedster. This model is the first sports car of the company. In addition, it was this car for the first time in the history of the brand that became the winner of the racing series. Nearly a hundred years later, the perfectly restored sports car was offered for $290,000.

Initially, the car, built in 1926, was a standard Pontiac Six. But after a fire, as a result of which the car almost completely lost its interior, the dealership bought it back. The burnt-out Pontiac was sent to a workshop that converted a road-going Pontiac into a racing speedster.

The sports car was equipped with a 3.1-liter V6, which was paired with a three-stage “mechanics”. In a similar modification, Pontiac won the race in its class in New York, and also took third place in the overall standings.

After the triumph, the model took part in various racing series for almost ten years. In 1932, the sports car was sent to the dealership, where it spent the next 50 years. After the dealership closed, the car was bought by a private collector who sold it to the current owner in 1997.

The last owner carried out a deep restoration of a rare car, during which the speedster returned to a completely authentic external and technical condition. The owner is ready to part with the first racing Pontiac for $ 290,000

An American came to France to buy a dream Ferrari. The car burned down on the way to the inspection.
The buyer came for a vintage supercar from another country.
A US resident named Tarek Salah posted a video online in which he shared his unsuccessful trip to France. A man traveled to another country to buy a 1994 Ferrari F355. Before concluding the deal, the buyer and the seller went to a local technical center to assess the condition of the sports car. During a test drive on the highway, the car caught fire. Before the arrival of rescuers, the car burned to the ground.

Tarek Salah revealed in the video that he has always dreamed of driving a Ferrari F355 through the streets of France. Together with the owner of the sports car, they went to a local mechanic who was supposed to evaluate the technical condition of the car before concluding a deal. On the way, Salah smelled gasoline, but did not attach any importance to this. Some time later, motorists passing by signaled to the Ferrari driver that the engine compartment was on fire.

The men jumped out of the burning car directly onto the highway, after which they called the fire department. While rescuers got to the scene, the flames completely destroyed the vintage supercar, which, in addition to its perfect appearance, was distinguished by optional sports seats.