Much of BMW’s U.S. market lineup is making the switch to a 2011 model year designation early this spring with the highlight being a new version of the 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine dubbed N55. The N55 has the same 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque as the previous N54. However, the previous twin turbocharger configuration is now replaced by a single twin scroll turbocharger. The twin scroll has two inlets letting the exhaust gases into the turbine. The inlets are spaced to allow the exhaust pulses to be balanced for better responsiveness.

The N55 gets a new cylinder head with high pressure direct injection and BMW’s Valvetronic infinitely variable valve timing and lift system. Valvetronic allows BMW to eliminate the throttles and just use the intake valves to control intake flow. The reduced pumping losses, along with the increased precision of fuel delivery, results in a seven percent improvement in fuel efficiency.

The BMW 135i, 335i and 535i Gran Turismo get the N55 this spring. The 535i sedan gets the engine when it goes on sale this summer and the X6 xDrive35i gets the N55 in the fall. The X6 and 535i (sedan and GT) all get a new eight-speed automatic transmission and brake energy regeneration as well.

M3
The M3 Coupe, Sedan, and Convertible models become 2011 models this spring . BMW ups the ante on the M3 Coupe and Sedan by offering a new “Competition Package” for MY2011. The package further enhances the highly responsive chassis by installing a 10mm lower suspension and 19″ wheels with greater offset for a wider track. Combined with remapped Electronic Damping Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems, the M3 with Competition Package is the best handling production M car ever built.

The MSRP of MY2011 M3 Sedan, Coupe, and Convertible remain unchanged at $56,275, $59,275, and $67,925, respectively. All prices include $875 Destination & Handling. The Competition Package is available on the Coupe and Sedan models for $2,500.

M6 Coupe and Convertible
The BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible will continue as a 2010 models until the fall of 2010. The MY2010 M6 Coupe and Convertible start at $103,225 and $109,025, respectively, including $875 Destination & Handling.

X5 M and X6 M
The BMW X5 M and X6 M went on sale last fall as 2010 models in the United States. This spring they become 2011 models.

BMW ALPINA B7
The 2011 BMW ALPINA B7 sedan will join BMW’s North American product range as the most dynamic 7 Series model. The BMW ALPINA B7 represents the second generation of ALPINA automobiles based on the BMW 7 Series to be offered in the US. The first BMW ALPINA B7 was offered as a limited edition for the 2007 and 2008 model years. Newly interpreted and based on the current BMW 7 Series platform, the B7 will again set the benchmark in terms of performance, refinement, technology, luxury and exclusivity.

3 Series Coupe
BMW has substantially updated the 3 Series Coupe for model year 2011. Headlining the changes are new headlights and tail lights, a new hood and kidney grille, new side skirts, new wheels, and new front and rear fascias. Under the skin, the 335i Coupe has been fitted with the new “N55″ twin scroll turbocharged inline-6 engine, and may be coupled to the standard 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed automatic transmission. In addition to the new Vermillion Red and Deep Sea Blue exterior colors, Mineral White Metallic exterior paint will be available on the Coupe starting in June. On all 3 Series models, the optional Harman Kardon Surround Sound System replaces BMW’s HiFi Professional System. Also, as part of the update, BMW has made new Bamboo Anthracite Wood trim available on the interior.

Perhaps the biggest news for enthusiast coupe drivers is the arrival of the BMW 335is Coupe. This high-performance model features BMW’s award-winning twin-turbocharged inline-6 (N54), with output of 320 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. A special overboost function permits a temporary torque increase to 370 lb-ft. Cooling the extra heat generated by the increased power is a standard oil cooler and an extra water cooler (radiator), as well as the enormous front air ducts included with the standard M Sport upgrades. An emotionally charged sport exhaust system has been fitted to perfectly capture the serious driving intentions of the 335is. Black kidney grilles, mirror caps, and Shadowline exterior trim lead the eyes to the rear where a rear diffuser with a body-color and black insert is located. Inside, the 335is Coupe receives a full M Sport enhancement with unique trim and badges. Those enthusiasts who prefer not to have it will appreciate the ability to delete the standard glass moonroof. For the first time on the 3 Series (excluding M3) the Double Clutch Transmission (DCT) will be available on the 335is as a $1,575 option.

[Source: BMW]