BMW to Debut Slew of New Models at 2019 L.A. Auto Show
BMW brings eight new and exciting vehicles to 2019’s L.A. Auto Show, most of which focus on performance.
Car show season is officially in full swing, which means we enthusiasts have lot of awesome new models to look forward to. Next up on the docket is the always-excellent L.A. Auto Show, which runs November 18-21 for the press, then opens up November 22-December 1 for the public. This year’s event promises to host the unveilings of a whopping 65 new models in total, which is a truly astounding number. Many of which will sport a BMW nameplate.
In fact, BMW has more new and revised cars and SUVs to show off in SoCal this year than almost any other automaker. The brand is using this year’s L.A. Auto Show to debut a grand total of eight vehicles. And at least in our humble opinion, they’re all pretty exciting for fans of the brand. So without further ado, let’s take a look at each of them and what makes them quality additions to BMW’s already impressive lineup.
BMW M2 CS
Some folks were understandably a little disappointed when the M2 Competition arrived with a slightly detuned version of M3/M4’s twin-turbo inline-six engine. But of course, BMW didn’t really want to steal thunder from those more prestigious models, now did they? Regardless, the M2 CS refuses to stand behind its bigger brethren, offering fans a direct transplant of the M4 Competition’s 444 hp mill.
Even better, buyers can stick with the standard 6-speed manual transmission or opt for a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The new engine shaves 0.2-tenths of a second off both car’s 0-60 times, bringing them to 4.0 and 3.8-seconds, respectively. BMW’s M Adaptive Suspension comes standard for the first time as well. And those seeking even more grip can opt for a set of sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber.
2-Series Gran Coupe
Many will lament the fact that the 2-Series Gran Coupe is a front-wheel drive vehicle, but it’s important to BMW regardless. The automaker needed a new low-price leader to compete with the Mercedes CLA, and that’s exactly what this stylish sedan aims to do. Plus, the drive wheel configuration also doesn’t mean buyers have to settle for mundane performance, either.
The Gran Coupe’s base engine is a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder producing 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. But you can also step up to a more powerful version producing a solid 301 hp and 332 lb-ft. Coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the latter will do 0-60 mph in the mid-four-second range, which is pretty decent. Not too shabby for a car that starts in the low $30k range.
M8 Competition Gran Coupe/Gran Coupe Competition
For those seeking a big, stylish four-door sedan that also packs serious performance, the new M8 Gran Coupe and Gran Coupe Competition look to be solid contenders. BMW has stretched its M8 coupe to provide room for rear seat occupants, yet its just 100 pounds heavier. Under the hood, you’ll find a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 600 hp in the regular Gran Coupe, and 617 in the Competition. Both cars offer the same 553 lb-ft of torque.
Sending power through an 8-speed transmission and a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system, the Gran Coupe will do 0-60 in 3.1-seconds. The Competition shaves a tenth off that time, coming in at 3.0-seconds flat. Unique forged wheels, a sporty exhaust system, dark exterior trim, and special interior accents complete the attractive package. And it even costs around $3k less than the M8 Coupe and M8 Competition. Who says you can’t get more for less?
X5 M/X5 M Competition, X6 M, X6 M Competition
The new X5 M and X6 M offer SUV fans a big step up in the world of performance ‘utes, both packing the M5’s glorious 4.4-liter twin-turbo mill. Both the non-Competition ‘utes feature an output of 600 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, which BMW says is good enough for a 0-60 time of 3.8-seconds. Step up to the Competition models, and you’ll get 617 hp. You’ll also shave a tenth off that time and do the deed in just 3.7-seconds.
Interestingly, all these hot SUVs are also outfitted with dual oil sumps and oil, transmission, and turbo coolers, which makes them more than fit for track duty. Which sounds kind of crazy. But with all-wheel drive and massive 15.6-inch front and 15.0-inch rear brakes, that isn’t out of the question. Especially when you’re rolling on huge 295/35ZR front and 315/35ZR rear tires.
Clearly, BMW is kicking off this car show season with a bang. So be sure and stay tuned, because we here at 5-Series will be bringing you live coverage from the 2019 L.A. Auto Show all week!
Photos: BMW