Thanks Donna for writing to us!

"I just bought a car from her and took deliver. Truly good service."-Donna

Tuesday Tech Tip:

Turn your phone into the Ultimate Driving Machine with a BMW ringtone. The sweet sounds of your favorite BMW will beckon with every call. Check out our selection of ringtones here.

Versatile and agile for the breed, BMW's biggest crossover is a classy choice in the midsize luxury market.

As a card carrying Winter Denialist, I'm loving this season. I know that some people like snow. But me? I'm good. Had a ton last year, saw some this year. Bring on Spring. There's a theory among we WD's that certain actions can help keep Ol' Man Winter at arm's length. For example, if you buy a new snow blower, the Fickle Universe may respond by refusing to snow, so you can't use it. There are other variations on this theory — buying new snow tires, even new skis. This year, I'm trying another variation: test driving a lot of four wheel drive vehicles. Therefore, this week's test drive (and sacrifice to the Weather Gods) is the 2012 BMW X5.

The X5 is a midsize, luxury crossover. One of the pioneering entries in this class (first offered in 1999), it's still one of the best, wrapping luxury, utility and sportiness in a handsome package. All models are All Wheel Drive (which carry the designation xDrive, in BMW-speak). Excluding the Uber Performance, X5 M, three models are offered, each with a distinct engine. The xDrive 35i packs a three liter six cylinder. The turbocharged six is rated at 300 horsepower and 300 lb. ft. of torque. Next up is the xDrive 50i, which is powered by a 4.4 liter V-8. The 50i ups the ante on turbos (twin) and muscle (400 horsepower and 450 lb. ft. of torque). Naturally, raising the power lowers the time it takes to get from 0-60. The six makes the trip in the mid-six second range, while the V-8 shaves about a second off of that time. The third engine choice — and the one fitted in our test driver — is BMW's 3.0 liter, 6 cylinder turbo diesel. While its 0-60 time (about 7 seconds) is still quite respectable for a 2 1/2 ton vehicle, the focus of the xDrive 35d's engine shifts from m.p.h. to m.p.g's. The turbo diesel gets an EPA estimated 19 miles per gallon in town, and 26 mpg's on the highway. A 22.5 gallon fuel tank gives this model a theoretical cruising range of 585 miles. With 425 lb. ft. of torque on tap to go along with 265 horsepower, the turbo diesel ladles out the low end power in generous helpings. The X5 diesel feels snappy off the line, and travels comfortably at highway speed, with only some slight valve clatter to remind you that it's a diesel.

Considering its class, the X5 handles quite well, its four wheel independent suspension imparts an agility that feels more like a car than an SUV. Ride quality is passenger friendly and while the power steering has a little more heft at low speeds than the norm, I found that a plus — not a minus.

The X5's interior is comfortable, functional and well-constructed. The second row is very accommodating, holding adults with no excuses, and the seatbacks fold nearly flat forward (though you may need to move the first row seatbacks to get clearance for the headrests). The X5 holds five, and if you opt for the third row seat ($1,700), you'll add room for a pair of kids. Use of the third row for passengers also cuts cargo space appreciably. The base amount of 23.2 cubic feet rises to a quite usable 75.2, with the third row folded flat. Access to the cargo bay is by means of a split, tailgate/liftgate combination. If you're over 6' tall, you'll need to duck under the liftgate, and if you don't drop the tailgate, your gear will have to be hoisted over a high liftover.

Front cabin storage rates about average in volume. The center console has a split, center opening that's more cumbersome and less useful than a simple, rear mounted hinge would be. And, if you opt for the iPod attachment, the cradle resides in the console, robbing you of stowage space. The interior is well constructed and has a low-key, luxurious look and feel. Suggestion: choosing lighter tones on the inside instead of all black brightens the look appreciably. Controls housed in the base of the center stack require your eyes to travel a long way from the road to take in. The available navigation system demands some study time to master. The option list is long and tempting and potentially hazardous to your car budget, if you don't exercise some restraint. Some stand-alone examples: head's-up dash display ($1,300), keyless entry ($1,000), adaptive drive ($3,500). The gear shifter resembles a gaming joystick and I found it a little more fussy to operate than I'd like. New for 2012, BMW Assist, an iPod/USB adapter and Hi-Fi sound system are standard on all models. The 35d also picks up a laundry list of newly standard items this year. The roster includes: a power adjustable steering column, power liftgate, roof rails, floor mats, auto dimming mirrors, lumbar support, heated front seats, park distance control, ambient lighting, privacy glass and leather upholstery.

The X5 still impresses, in the segment that it helped create. The turbo diesel engine adds a combination of fleetness and fuel economy that isn't often found in crossovers and SUV's. Versatile and agile for the breed, BMW's biggest crossover is a classy choice in the midsize luxury market.

Source: Times Union

BMW Car of the Week:

See the full gallery on Posterous

Our customer Mark’s 550xi started life nice and fast then got super fast with some ‘tweaking and has the looks to match! Congrats Mark! Love it! Send us your cars all done up – we’d love to see what you’ve done. Haven’t modified your BMW yet? Call us today for all the options – this is all we do and we do it well!

Happy Friday fans! In honor of the NBA All-Star Weekend...Caption this hilarious photo!

BMW 328i raises the bar as it takes a new path

Imagine if Orson Wells was expected to improve on "Citizen Kane" every six years, or if Kobe Bryant's contract demanded that every time he put Nike to hardwood, he needed to score 60 points.

Such is the sphere of influence where BMW's 3 Series operates.

The company says one out of every three BMWs sold since 1975 is one of these compact sport sedans — that's 12.5 million in all.

Not only has the car been the automaker's most recognizable ambassador to the car-buying masses for the last 30 years, but with such volume comes corresponding profit.

If brand identity and corporate affluence weren't big enough burdens to bear for the 3 Series, consider that more than one rival automaker has lost plenty of sleep trying to capture the gestalt-in-a-bottle the car has long represented.

So, you know, no pressure on BMW in bringing this 2012 328i to life.

The biggest change for this new model, other than some interesting design choices, is the 328i's engine. Reflecting the trend toward smaller and more efficient, this model, starting at $35,795, is now moved by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four cylinder.

Although size drops by two cylinders from the previous in-line six cylinder, this direct-injected turbo unit is up on power. Its rating of 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque is a gain of 10 horsepower and 60 pound-feet of torque over the old engine. BMW says the 328i I tested with an automatic transmission will go from zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds.

That boost in power, and more important the max torque that comes at 1,250 rpm, is a welcome change. The engine doesn't have the delightful voice of the old in-line six, but it sounds plenty strong when pushed toward its redline, and it moves toward that point with brevity. The only time it's off-key is when it's idling and sounds like it's hiding a diesel motor somewhere.

Complementing the added power from the engine is a sizable jump in fuel economy. Paired with the new eight-speed automatic transmission (a six-speed manual is also available), the 328i is rated at 24 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway. In a week of driving mostly on the highway, I averaged 29 mpg.

That automatic transmission is both new and good. Shifts are well-timed and incredibly smooth, with none of the continuous hunting for the right gear that can plague lesser gearboxes. Drivers also have the option of changing gears manually with the joystick-like shifter on the center console. Curiously, BMW seems to have those shift directions backward; one must pull back to upshift, push forward to downshift.

I'd tell you to just use the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, but my car didn't come with them since they're optional. Maybe I've swallowed too much motor oil over the years, but if BMW bills its products as the Ultimate Driving Machine, anything bearing the company's logo — station wagons, sport-utility vehicles, tricycles — should come with paddle shifters.

What BMW has included is a standard feature that would make Ed Begley Jr. proud. It's known as Driving Dynamic Control and is now common throughout BMW's lineup. The system enables drivers to select three and sometimes four settings that adjust the response of the throttle, steering, stability control and engine. Default is the Comfort mode, with Sport mode dialing things up and Eco Pro mode making things more efficient. Sport Plus is optional on some models.

Furthering the 3 Series' green credentials is a start/stop function for when the car is at a rest, and a brake energy regeneration system that powers much of the car's electrical system.

If you fancy yourself a regular Nick Heidfeld, you're going to want to avoid Eco Pro and keep the car in Sport mode for spirited driving. Also, you should probably fancy yourself a race car driver other people have actually heard of.

It's in Sport mode that the oft-imitated harmony of this sports sedan reaches its zenith. The steering, too vague in Comfort mode, tightens up, the engine revs high and long and the throttle is ready before you are. The balance and handling this 3 Series exhibits is excellent; you have to be a talented idiot to find fault with the way it moves.

That much is objective. Subjective is the way this new 3 Series looks. I liked the old 3 Series better.

This new design certainly isn't ugly. The front flirts with avant-garde, with the depth of the chrome that surrounds the grille exposed where it intersects with a smaller headlamp opening. The sheet metal on top of those headlights has been pulled down low.

This gives the 3 Series a prominent brow and the impression that it's either concentrating hard on being stylish or it's about to sneeze. In my week with the car, I did come to appreciate it more, but it still looks a bit flat and two-dimensional.

Meanwhile, the rear of the new 3 Series is handsome and sleek, though it's a near clone of the larger 5 Series sedan.

The car as a whole is 3.7 inches longer than its predecessor and rides on a 2-inch longer wheelbase. It's well put together, as you'd expect BMWs to be. In fact, maybe a little too put together; the doors and trunk lid needed practically a full body-blow to shut properly. Trivial, but annoying.

Inside reveals another questionable design, but fortunately this fumble can be avoided.

In addition to the base 3 Series, three trims are offered, each with specific aesthetic elements inside and outside the car. The Sport line goes for $2,500 and comes with an excellent sport-tuned suspension, while the Luxury and Modern lines are $2,100.

The car I tested was a $50,245 328i Modern that had possibly the oddest optional wood trim I've seen inside a vehicle. It was matte and heavily textured and gave the impression that you had ordered your BMW with decorative ripples of stale chocolate.

The confectioner's-delight theme continued with the car's dashboard and leather seats, which were a color BMW calls Dakota Oyster. "Delicious nougat" is closer. The entire experience was like driving inside a Three Musketeers bar.

Otherwise the interior was noteworthy for its solid comfort and lack of drama. The iDrive controller has been revised for greater intuitiveness, and it and a corresponding 6.5-inch screen are standard. Don't count that as navigation, though, since that feature is part of a $2,550 technology package. Interior space is up, which enables rear passengers of normal and normal-plus height to sit comfortably.

Minor aesthetic foibles aside, the 2012 BMW 328i is a success because its performance and handling remain sublime. It uses as inspiration the best, and — like Kobe or Orson — the best just happens to be itself.

Source: LA Times

Stop in this week at BMW of Minnetonka!

Every once in awhile, it's good to give your car a check-up! We are currently offering a diagnostics check for only $49.95. Offer is only good thru the end of next week! It includes a diagnostic printout, consultation on any recommendations, vehicle inspection & premium car wash. Stop in soon!

Tuesday Tech Tip: Winter is far from over! Check out this video highlighting BMW's winter tires.

Happy Friday fans!

In honor of Presidents' Day on Monday, we ask: If you had the chance to meet face to face with any U.S. President, who would it be?

It's not too early to think about Summer!

Take a look at this 2012 BMW 128i convertible that we have! You'll be amazed at what we have it listed for. Just picture yourself with the top down! Stop in today and take first-hand look.

Click here for more information

Cooks for Kids Program with Ronald McDonald!

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We wanted to thank The Ronald McDonald House and their Cooks for Kids Program for allowing us to serve dinner last night.  We had a wonderful time and felt privileged to be able to serve family’s calling The Ronald McDonald House home during a difficult time. For more information on this amazing organization visit www.rmhtwincities.org

BMW Car of the Week:

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BMW Performance 135i. 

We’re here to help!  Check back in a couple of weeks for a customer’s car that has been ‘tweaked!

Yet again, BMW raises the bar for the sports sedan segment.

As one of the most iconic and significant vehicles ever made, the BMW 3-Series has been the exemplar of German automotive engineering for decades, the sports sedan that all other sports sedans aspire to be.

For 2012, BMW has made the 3-Series faster and more powerful than ever before. It has also packed it with more standard features and given the 3-Series a refreshing yet obvious style update, both inside and out. This new 3-Series is exactly what we expected from BMW. It's also exactly what we'd hoped for.

 

Model Lineup

Like its predecessor, the new 3-Series sedan comes in two primary models, the 328i and the 335i. The top-thrill M3 will arrive later, as will the all-wheel-drive xDrive variants. The new models deliver luxury and style with a strong emphasis on driving enjoyment.

For 2012, the 3-Series models are given three optional trim lines: Sport, Luxury and Modern. Each of these offers the expected assortment of relevant equipment, design and materials. As before, a host of packages and options are available.

All 3-Series vehicles are available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or an all-new 8-speed automatic.

Wheel sizes have been increased by 1 inch over 2011 models, with the base 328i now coming standard with 17-inch rollers (wrapped in 225/50 rubber) and the base 335i with an 18-inch set (225/45). Each trim line gets its own unique wheel design, which increases size another inch as well, to 18 inches and 19 inches, respectively, and wrapped in lower-profile tires.

Like the previous generation, neither model's alphanumeric nomenclature represents the size of its engine — a relatively recent change after decades of strict BMW model-naming rules. Another significant change this year is the death of the 3-Series coupe — technically, at least. From here on out, the 2-door variants will be known as the 4-Series. It's a logical change, but one that will take some getting used to.

See: New Luxury Sedans

Under the Hood
The new 328i comes equipped with a brand-new engine, a turbocharged a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder dubbed the N20. First seen in the latest Z4, this mill is the first 4-cylinder that BMW has brought to the United States in over a decade, replacing the previous N52 inline-6 engine of 2011's 328i. The new engine produces 240 horsepower at 5000 rpm over a broad spread of 260 lb-ft of torque that starts at just 1250 rpm and lasts until 4800 rpm. Compared to the previous unit, peak figures are up by 15 horsepower and a whopping 55 lb-ft of torque, an increase in power that's evident in the car's performance. When equipped with the 6-speed manual, zero to 60 mph occurs in just 5.6 seconds. The 8-speed automatic transmission slows this figure to 5.9 seconds.

The engine carries over from last year largely unchanged in the top 335i model, meaning it's the same vaunted N55 mill, the latest evolution of the turbocharged inline-6 cylinder. It's good for a clean 300 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque, which plateaus from 1200 rpm to 5000 rpm. While not excitingly new, it's a world-renowned engine and its presence in the new 3-Series is obvious. While the performance of the 328i is now getting dangerously close to the 335i's, the bigger 3 still takes the lead, getting from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds with either transmission.

Inner Space
While the new interior is functional, modern and a welcome change over the Spartan cabin of the last generation, it's not without fault. The instrument cluster and primary driver controls are excellent, logically placed and of high quality. However, confusion begins as we explore toward the center panel and passenger areas, and intensives as we delve deeper into the car's computerized settings. This car is actively doing quite a lot, perhaps more than is really needed. We wonder if that will translate to "just more stuff that can go wrong," a trend we began to see in the BMW E90.

Still, we enjoyed playing around with many of the new features, particularly the Driving Dynamics Control, which enables drivers to switch between various drive modes, including an Eco Pro mode, which tracks efficiency on the fly and reduces the power of gas-guzzling bits like heated seats and the air conditioning to maximize fuel mileage. Needless to say, high-tech features abound in the new 3-Series, including an available heads-up display and 6.5-inch iDrive display.

As for interior style, it's a good blend between function and form. Some of the design elements we could've done without, particularly the anodized, colored stripes of the Sport trims. When equipped with the piano black accents, the vibe is surprisingly reminiscent of a Japanese vehicle, albeit a nice one. Aside from style, the sport seats are well designed, comfortable and supportive during spirited driving. Frustratingly for this segment, genuine leather upholstery remains optional, as do power seats.

Compare: BMW 3-Series vs. Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs. Audi A4

On the Road
True to form, the new 3-Series is a great drive, and the new N20 engine is a perfect fit for the application. Although we recently experienced the same engine in the latest Z4 roadster, it inexplicably feels better in the 328i. It revs happily to redline, with a high-rpm rush that surprised.

While we didn't have the opportunity to sample the 6-speed manual, there's no reason to doubt it'll feel as slick as ever. The 8-speed automatic is a surprising star here, providing the right gear ratio whenever needed and shifting quickly and smoothly. Also appreciated are proper shift paddles, which are a big improvement over the previous setup. The new transmission includes an automatic start-stop feature that, while noticeable, is not intrusive and did its job without issue. We expect this to be a strong selling point in the U.S. market.

As automotive journalists, we take an oath to gripe about today's electric power-steering systems whenever possible. But truth be told, the steering in the new 3-Series is almost as good as electric gets. It's certainly the best in its class — smooth and communicative with immediate turn-in, although it did require a bit more micro-adjustments than we'd like, and it could have been a bit weightier. Regardless, the car feels well composed yet lively around even the tightest curves. There's just no denying the handling prowess of a BMW.

Right for You?
The BMW 3-Series has sold over 12.5 million units since its introduction decades ago. It's a wildly popular vehicle, and it's hard to imagine it not suiting anyone in the market for a sedan. It truly does everything well, ranging from legitimately track-worthy performance to gadget-laden luxury cruising. While it isn't some revolutionary new breed, its uncanny ability to balance everything results in a near-perfect product. This has long been the 3-Series' successful formula, and despite the inevitable toll modern technology and design has taken on "soul," this claim to fame won't be changing for 2012.

It's worth pointing out that the 3-Series' competition is not lacking, though — not even close. The C-Class from Mercedes-Benz has also just received a mid-generation update, and Audi's A4 models are very much on the fast track to challenging BMW's crown. In fact, the brilliant Audi S4, which competes with the 335i, remains the fastest in its class, and has many other admirable attributes.

Although the $36,650 starting price ($44,150 for the 335i) is a slight increase over the 2011 models, the new cars do include more standard goodies to compensate. For those looking for a do-everything sedan, there's no denying the allure of the 3-Series, and we'd waste no time in recommending it. It's simply the standard by which luxury sports sedans are measured. Sorry if you've been reading that line for decades, but the fact is, it's true.

Every once in awhile, it's good to give your car a check-up!

We are currently offering a diagnostics check for only $49.95 thru the month of February! It includes a diagnostic printout, consultation on any recommendations, vehicle inspection & premium car wash.

Click here to print your coupon!

TUESDAY TECH TIP:Onboard Navigation System with Traffic Alerts

TUESDAY TECH TIP: Driving off to a weekend getaway and don't know where you're going? With BMW's Onboard Navigation System taking care of directions, you can concentrate on more important things like enjoying every twist and turn along the way. With it's GPS sateilite, you can choose the fastest route, the shortest route or the one that avoids traffic. Best of all, you can see everything clearly on the large, high-resolution screen.

CAR OF THE WEEK: You know it as The M3 Coupe with a Competition Package

You know it as The M3 Coupe with a Competition Package. Everyone else knows it as REALLY cool LED Adaptive taillights … :)

Come support our charity car wash Saturday, February 4th. Only $10! 100% of the sales go to The Randy Shaver Cancer Fund

BMW of Minnetonka is a proud sponsor of The Randy Shaver Cancer Fund. We are proud to have them as our Charity Car Wash Partner during February and March. We are offering $10 car washes on Saturday, February 4th, with 100% of the sales going to this wonderful organization. Also on Saturday, February 4th, BMW of Minnetonka is matching all donations! All makes and models are welcome.

Click here to learn more about the Randy Shaver Foundation.

BMW i3 Still Being Tested

Rumors are flying that the BMW i3 will show up at the dealers in 2013. The BMW i3 Rex model is scheduled to become available shortly thereafter. In the meantime, BMW is continuing to test the tiny electric car in Norway. BMW bills the i3 concept as “Sustainable Mobility for the Megacity”. They claim to leave nothing under investigated in order to fulfill their goal of offering a car for the future.

The BMW i3 Concept uses LifeDrive architecture making is a lightweight yet sturdy vehicle and has dynamic driving capabilities designed for long distance driving on a single charge while also offering top of the line safety features. BMWs eDrive technology defines an electric motor that is innovative and offers an intelligent engine management system. Do not let the demure size or electric engine fool you. This car will perform. It is currently reported at going from 0 to 63 in less than 8 seconds. The electric motor is installed over the rear axle. This allows it to generate 184 pound feet of torque and 170 horsepower.

BMW calls the interior of the i3 Concept a “Life Module” and promise that it will feel more spacious than any other conversion vehicles being made. They chose specific materials in order to gain an expansive feeling in the cabin and went for a lounge-like vibe. The passenger’s seats are raised to promote a good view while travelling and also makes it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. The seat benches are full-width in the front and back to create a new connected feeling for driver and passengers.

BMW is also proud to use renewable raw materials in the interior to further enhance the overall sustainability of the car. It has natural fibers in the instrument panels and door paneling and uses natural tanned leather for the seats. The four doors have a “coach” style wide opening feature. It also has a large trunk and another compartment in the front for additional storage space. This will make it the roomiest of conversion models available.

Source:Automotivediscovery.com

Discerning drivers will appreciate the 2011 BMW 535i!

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Representing the optimal blend of tarmac tearing performance and silky smooth highway refinement, this 2011 BMW 535i is perfect for speed seekers. Turbocharger technology provides forced air induction, enhancing performance while preserving fuel economy.

Learn more about this vehicle!