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A History of the BMW X5

1 September 2017

BMW has a distinctive history of both pushing the boundaries with new models and developing excellent improvements and revisions on time-tested classics. For instance, BMW fans have eagerly awaited the latest incarnation of the X5, so how about a look back at its history?

The Spirit of the X5

As with any BMW vehicle, the X5 was carefully designed to meet a specific demand. In this case, it was to enter the SUV market, as the X5 was BMW’s first production foray into luxury utility vehicle design. Instead of simply calling it an SUV, the company branded it as a Sports Activity Vehicle, highlighting the importance of its design as a crossover vehicle, boasting a balance between on-road elegance and off-road versatility. The E53 was released as its first generation in 1999, and unlike the first generation of the competing Mercedes-Benz M-Class, it utilized a unibody chassis and independent suspension.

Further Developments

After manufacturing the E53 from 1999 to 2006, BMW released the X5’s second generation, the E70. It was bigger and more technologically advanced than its predecessor, enhanced by an optional third row of seating as well as their new iDrive system. When 2009 came around, BMW upped their game. They expanded the X5’s market reach by rolling out a diesel variant and kicked performance power up a notch with the 555 HP X5 M. With the launch of the F15 in 2013, the X5 had entered its third generation, newly equipped with rear wheel drive and improved fuel efficiency.

The Next Step

The third generation has taken the X5 into even more modernized territory in recent years, including 2015’s plug-in hybrid. But what’s new for “The Boss” in 2018? Over the course of this year, the occasional glimpse has appeared from time to time, teasing subtle new design changes to the grille and hood as well as an increase in size and a more spacious interior. It will also boast a new automatic transition and a backup camera, not to mention a host of other high-tech features. BMW’s timeless crossover has definitely still got it!

What new BMWs are you excited about? We all love staying up to date on the latest BMW developments, but don’t forget that keeping your scheduled maintenance in line is one of the key responsibilities of any car lover. Give us a call at (403) 453-0269 to make an appointment!

Dealer Service vs. Independent BMW Specialists

22 May 2017

Whether you need exterior repairs, engine diagnostics, or a part replacement, the decision of who you go to will boil down to two major options: a BMW dealership or an independent BMW certified technician. To determine the wiser choice, we’ll look at some of the most important factors.

Cost

When it comes to the price paid, which option wins out? That depends on your situation. If you’ve run into an issue that is completely covered by warranty, some say you should get it done at the dealer. This is up to each driver to decide, but it’s important to consider what you’re getting with that service. The dealership might give you the bare minimum, while an independent service shop will go above and beyond to give your BMW the treatment it really needs. When it comes to things not covered by warranty, however, opting for an independent team of qualified technicians will consistently save you money and give you better value for the work performed.

Variety of Service

When it comes down to it, there’s only so much you can get out of dealer service when you compare it to what is offered by a good independent shop. Service and maintenance are a given, but don’t forget about upgrades and extensive knowledge of both OEM and approved aftermarket parts. If you’ve taken your BMW to get a pricey repair at the dealer and have been thinking about a powerful performance upgrade, you won’t get the kind of expertise on the subject that you will from a certified technician who has explored the possibilities of BMW ownership well beyond the standard offerings.

Quality of Service

This is one of the most important factors contributing to a superior experience at an independent shop. Let’s say you’ve chosen a team of technicians who are truly dedicated to a friendly and more than satisfactory, community-driven client experience. When you arrive for your service, no matter what you need, you’ll benefit from a personal touch and down-to-earth relatability that dealer service often lacks. You’re not just entrusting your prized BMW to a mechanic, you’re working with a fellow BMW lover to keep that vehicle in the best shape possible and enjoying the process!

There’s nothing quite like working with a team of certified BMW technicians who are dedicated to you and your vehicle. The best service is informed not only by technical expertise, but a solid customer service philosophy. Call us at (403) 768-3163 to find out what we’re all about!

BMW Design: The Hofmeister Kink

15 May 2017

We could all spot a BMW from a mile away, thanks to an iconic approach to design that has managed to innovate while still maintaining that signature look. This is a tricky balance to strike, but it all comes down to a number of key features. One of them is the Hofmeister kink.

What Is It?

The greenhouse of a car is structured and supported by a series of vertical pillars, each designated a letter. The A pillar is frontmost and frames the windshield, continuing rearward with the B, C, and, in touring vehicles and SUVs, D pillars. The angle and curvature of these pillars as they align with the horizontal base of the windows will vary between manufacturers and models, but in the vast majority of BMWs, you’ll see a distinctive frontward bend at the base of the C or D pillar (whichever is rearmost). It’s a subtle touch, but it has contributed to the look of nearly every BMW automobile since 1961.

Origins and History

From the mid-’50s until the end of the ‘60s, Wilhelm Hofmeister was head of BMW’s design department. During a difficult post-war period in which BMW had only narrowly been saved from bankruptcy, the company was preparing to release its New Class series. To debut this influential generation of sedans and coupes, they introduced the 1500 and 3200CS at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September of 1961. As well as being the first two BMW vehicles to feature Hofmeister’s distinctive C-pillar design, they helped spark a comeback that would both solidify the iconic BMW look and bring the company back to life in a big way.

What Does It Mean?

The Hofmeister kink was no arbitrary act of flare. It was implemented not only to create a recognizable and aerodynamic look, but also to symbolize and emphasize an important aspect of BMW’s approach to vehicle engineering. Since its earliest years, the company has become well-known for favouring the implementation of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive with a rear bias in order to provide optimal weight distribution and traction. The Hofmeister kink lends to a rear-leaning poise that pays tribute to that philosophy. A signature look inspired by a signature function!

No matter what stylistic feature stands out to you, taking good care of your BMW cosmetically and mechanically is of the utmost importance. Motorwerkes offers a comprehensive range of repair, maintenance, and upgrade services. Call us at (403) 768-3163 to schedule an appointment!

Spring Cleaning: The Importance of a Clean BMW After Winter

1 April 2017

As we’ve discussed in previous blogs, weather and road conditions aren’t exactly kind to a vehicle during winter. After all that moisture, dirty slush, and road salt have had a chance to give your BMW a run for its money, a proper spring cleaning should get things back to normal!

Taking Care of the Exterior

By the end of winter, even if you’ve taken it to be cleaned once or twice, your BMW is bound to have fallen prey to many different kinds of build-up. When temperatures go up and the roads get wet and slushy, dirty puddles dent to splash up onto the exterior and dry into an abrasive film. If not washed properly, it can cloud your headlights and windows, not to mention wreak havoc on your paint job. Likewise, letting moisture and salt accumulation on the underside of your BMW go unaddressed can lead to corrosion and other issues.

Shaping Up the Interior

You may not think that winter can have as big an impact on the interior of your BMW as on the exterior, but things like plant debris, road salt, moisture, and dirt are all carried into your vehicle each time you step inside, and the same occurs with each of your passengers. You’d be surprised by how many places they all end up! Take some time in the early spring season to assess the condition of your upholstery and floors as well as surfaces like your dashboard, vacuuming and cleaning with the appropriate cleaning products.

A Post-Winter Detailing

During the transition between winter and spring, it becomes clear that keeping the body, interior, and inner workings of your BMW clean is an important maintenance issue in and of itself. This is why it’s important to make a thorough inspection of the vehicle so that you can determine if a professional detailing is necessary. Taking your BMW to a specialist will give you the best possible results and spare you a significant amount of time. It can be a great feeling to return to the shop and find your vehicle freshly cleaned, ready for those summer drives!

Getting off to a good start during spring will keep things in great shape for the sunny days and road trips ahead. As well as maintenance and repairs, Motorwerkes offers extensive washing and detailing services, so give us a call at (403) 768-3161 to get your BMW looking great again!

What Are the Advantages of Owning a MINI?

22 March 2017

Much like any model under BMW’s other vehicle lines, the MINI has an unmistakeable look, feel, and philosophy. Now that Motorwerkes offers comprehensive service for MINIs, we feel it’s right to take a look at what makes them a distinctive and appropriate choice for so many drivers.

Economy and Efficiency

One thing that the MINI is best known for is its excellent economy. This is made possible through both smart engineering and its compact size. The 1.5L base engine of a 2016 2-door Mini Cooper hardtop, for instance, boasts an EPA MPG of around 32 combined city/highway, and some models and configurations can get you upwards of 40. They’re not just economical in terms of fuel consumption, they’re also pretty efficient investments, as they can give you a lot for your money when they’re well-maintained by the right technicians and with certified parts. On the whole, they’re relatively affordable purchases and tend to maintain impressive resale value.

Power, Performance, and Control

Naturally, when you combine a powerful engineering approach with a compact size and low curb weight, you’re going to benefit from excellent speed, handling, and more. MINIs are widely known for their impeccable, go-kart-like steering and brisk acceleration. A 2015 John Cooper Works Mini with a 228 horsepower 4-cylinder 2.0L turbocharged engine can get you from 0 to 60 in 6.1 seconds. Even the more affordable 2016 Mini Cooper S Clubman can reach 60 in 6.6 seconds, despite offering some extra cargo space for those who find other MINIs a bit too tight. Both these and other recent models boast control and stability that more than lives up to the MINI name.

A Personalized Drive

On top of efficiency and performance at a good price, many drivers love MINI for the diverse range of configurations and customizations available. There’s an offering for every personality, and this kind of flexibility is something that is becoming more and more desirable to today’s modern driver. With the right certified factory and aftermarket parts, you can enhance and fine-tune your MINI in a number of ways. Best of all, they benefit from highly personal, dedicated service by certified BMW technicians!

Are you a current or soon-to-be MINI owner? A specialized car deserves specialized repair and maintenance service from properly certified technicians. Motorwerkes is Calgary’s go-to shop for BMWs and MINIs alike, so call us at (403) 768-3168 to make an appointment!