2011 M3 Fall Updates Summary (Beginning September 2010 Production)

Jason · 09-08-2010, 06:05 PM

> Reported on M3POST HOMEPAGE.

BMW Model Year 2011 Fall Update

* September 8, 2010
* Press Release

Woodcliff Lake, N.J., September 8, 2010... For most BMW models, the 2011 model year began in spring 2010. Below, we outline each of the 2011 models including the changes that will take place from September production.

BMW’s new inline-6 gasoline engine.

Beginning with model year 2011 production, several BMW models (135i, 335i, 535i, 535i Gran Turismo, X5 xDrive35i, and X6 xDrive35i) will switch to the new, single twin-scroll turbocharged inline-6 “N55” engine. The newest BMW inline-6 engine is the first BMW inline-6 to combine turbocharging, High Precision direct fuel injection, and Valvetronic variable intake technology. It features a single, mid-sized turbocharger with a “twin-scroll” housing to boost performance and minimize the response lag. Together, this combination produces the same at 300hp and 300 lb-ft of the previous N54, but the fuel efficiency improves and the emissions are reduced.

A further advantage of turbocharging is that this is the most weight-efficient method to boost engine power and performance. The N55 turbocharged inline-6 weighs approximately 150 lbs. less than an equally powerful eight-cylinder engine displacing 4.0 liters. This lower weight means a significant advantage not only in fuel economy, but also in balancing the car's weight distribution.

Using Valvetronic for the first time on a turbocharged inline-6 allows the engine to “inhale” air for combustion with virtually no delay and with reduced pumping losses. As a result, the engine makes power more quickly than ever before, and this is proven by the N55’s ability to reach peak torque at 1200rpm, 200rpm earlier than its twin-turbo predecessor [N54].

Packaging is better for the new engine, as the BMW Digital Motor Electronics (DME) control unit is now mounted directly to the engine, shortening the required wiring harness length and providing more efficient cooling to the DME through the use of intake air. Furthermore, using a single turbocharger means only a single exhaust stream must find its way to the catalytic converter, so only a single catalytic converter is used on the new engine. The single catalytic converter can be activated more quickly at cold start than the preceding twin-catalyst configuration, so the new engine has a cleaner cold start emissions signature than its predecessor. The new “N55” engine will be installed in the 135i Coupe and Convertible, the 335i Sedan, Coupe and Convertible (excludes 335is models), the new 535i Sedan when it arrives this summer, the 535i Gran Turismo arriving this spring and finally, the X5 xDrive35i and X6 xDrive35i Sports Activity Vehicles® starting with April production.

2011 BMW M3 Sedan, Coupe, Convertible

BMW raised the performance benchmark once again with the introduction of the 4th generation M3. The latest M3 is again available, as was the 2nd generation, as a Sedan ($56,275), Coupe ($59,275) or Convertible ($67,925). All share the unique, high-revving, 414-horsepower V-8 engine and choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed M Dual Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic.

For the M3’s 2011 model year, which started in March 2010, buyers of the M3 Sedan and M3 Coupe can choose a new Competition Package which reduces vehicle ride height by 10mm and includes unique 19” wheels with wider offset for enhanced stability, standard Electronic Damping Control with enhanced programming, and higher-threshold programming for the M Dynamic Mode (if equipped).

Starting with September 2010 production, the 2011 M3 will receive a number of further enhancements. Mineral White Metallic exterior paint becomes available, as do new Palladium Silver / Black / Black and Fox Red / Black interior upholsteries. The celebrated M Drive system becomes standard. Identified by its now-famous M Button on the steering wheel, M Drive allows the M3 driver to pre-program two “personalities” for the vehicle and toggle between them with a press of the M Button. The button will:

* Activate the “second level” of Dynamic Stability Control known as M Dynamic Mode (MDM).
* Activate the Sport setting of the Servotronic variable power steering system.
* Arm the shift lights (when equipped with M-DCT).
* Select the pre-stored setting for Electronic Damping Control (EDC), if equipped.
* Select the pre-stored setting for Drivelogic (when equipped with M-DCT).

Finally, BMW’s Auto Stop-Start feature becomes standard on the M3 with September production. Auto Start-Stop is a BMW EfficientDynamics fuel saving measure previously unavailable in the US except on ActiveHybrid models. Auto Stop-Start will automatically stop the engine when the transmission is placed in Neutral and the clutch is released. The engine will immediately restart as soon as the clutch is depressed. The system is driver selectable and will only function once the engine is up to operating temperature and the ambient temperature is between 37 Degrees F and 85 Degrees F.

The new Manual M Sport Seats (M3 Sedan, Coupe) offer the same adjustments as the previous electric seats but with manual adjustment in order to save weight (approximately 5kg per seat) and expense when power memory seats are not required. Lumber support and seatback side bolters remain electrically adjustable. Power Seats remain standard in the M3 Convertible.

BMW EfficientDynamics

The Intelligent Way to Reduce Fuel Consumption and Emissions.

BMW’s commitment to reduce harmful emissions and help protect the environment is unique in the automobile industry. BMW applies its EfficientDynamics principles to each model by using lightweight components in key areas, new technologies for improved powertrain efficiency and more importantly, planned sustainability for the long term reduction of fuel consumption and emissions output.

A recent Environmental Defense report shows that BMW’s fleet average for CO2 emissions was reduced by 12% from 1990 - 2005 and its fuel economy improved by 14%, despite the introduction of many new passenger cars and light-duty trucks. This not only demonstrates our long-standing dedication to help the environment, but our ability to do so with every vehicle that wears the BMW roundel.

In this period of time, BMW has introduced many industry-leading technologies across its entire model range, such as Valvetronic throttle-less engine control, on-demand coolant and hydraulic pumps for reduced parasitic losses, and High-Precision Direct Injection. In 2009, BMW added two 50-state BMW Advanced Diesel models for an unprecedented combination of performance and low emissions. In some 2010 and 2011 models, BMW introduced Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start-Stop technology and two BMW ActiveHybrid models. It is our unending goal to develop technologies and vehicles designed to combine the efficiency our customers desire with dynamics and performance our customers expect.

BMW ConnectedDrive Innovations: Advanced on-board use of mobile phones and music players.

Beginning with September production there will be enhancements to BMW Assist with Bluetooth and the iPod/USB Adapter. These enhancements extend the functionality through improved integration of mobile devices into the vehicle. These new features are made possible by hardware advances. (All Models)

BMW Assist with Extended Bluetooth

The Bluetooth functionality is extended beyond hands-free and phonebook support with multiple innovations. Feature support is dependent upon compatibility with the mobile device.

RIM Smart Phone Integration

* Mobile Office: The industry-first mobile office integration of BlackBerry Smartphones, a customer can access email, text messages, and notes through the iDrive system providing seamless integration with the vehicle. Safety and avoiding driver distraction is paramount at BMW. In order to maintain the driver’s focus on the road, the vehicle’s voice control system (included with navigation) will read messages aloud via text-to-speech. The central screen will also display the only the first three lines of text. The full text can only be displayed when the vehicle is parked. Compatible BlackBerry hardware, firmware, and feature set will be announced later.
* vCard photo support: Images of contacts stored in your phonebook are downloaded from the device and shown on the vehicle display. When the mobile phone rings, a picture of the caller will appear on the vehicle display.
* External Call Lists: External call list handling downloads the “re-dial” and “received calls list” at every reconnect of the mobile device and after each call.
* Bluetooth Music Streaming: Bluetooth music streaming offers wireless audio streaming from the mobile device to the vehicle. Music stored on the mobile phone is played and controlled through the iDrive controller.

iPod/USB Adapter

· iPod One-wire integration: The iPod connection no longer requires the “Y-cable” for separate aux-input for sound. The iPod USB cable supplied with the iPod is all that is required to connect the device to the vehicle. The music is transferred directly from the iPod digitally to the sound system via the USB connection.· Album Cover Art: If cover art is contained in the metadata of a particular song, it will show on the vehicle display while the song is played.· Voice Control of Devices: The driver can control external devices and select genre, artist, album, and song title with the voice control system included with Navigation System.· Mobile Phone Device Driver Update: In combination with BMW Assist, the USB port can be used to upload new mobile phone and audio player device drivers. (Release timing for this feature and device driver availability are subject to change.)

Locksmythe · 11-29-2010, 10:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jason

Lumber support and seatback side bolters remain electrically adjustable. Power Seats remain standard in the M3 Convertible.

Side bolsters are adjustable?

lve2xlr8 · 12-01-2010, 01:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Locksmythe

Side bolsters are adjustable?

Yes it's the rocker switch on the front corner of the seat bottom.

Carver · 12-02-2010, 11:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jason

> Reported on M3POST HOMEPAGE.

iPod/USB Adapter

· iPod One-wire integration: The iPod connection no longer requires the “Y-cable” for separate aux-input for sound. The iPod USB cable supplied with the iPod is all that is required to connect the device to the vehicle. (Release timing for this feature and device driver availability are subject to change.)

Hi, I am new to this forum, and trying to get my first M3. Need to understand if I still need to get the ipod option ($400) or it is simply the cable what comes with this option. Or the $400 gets the car set for aux-iPod and cable.

Still trying to decide the right package-color combo. Now that M bottom is standard, I might not getting idrive and keep it simple....

thx in advance,

c4pet0wn · 12-27-2010, 01:35 AM

Does anyone know if these updates ( such as the bluetooth streaming ) will be a software update to those of us that ordered our vehicle one friggin month before the refresh?

Commence PWND comments yeah yeah yeah....

424D57 · 12-27-2010, 09:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by c4pet0wn

Does anyone know if these updates ( such as the bluetooth streaming ) will be a software update to those of us that ordered our vehicle one friggin month before the refresh?

Commence PWND comments yeah yeah yeah....

Haven't seen a definitive statement one way or the other, but my understanding is that the 'Combox' controller is the update which enables bluetooth streaming, email integration on BB, better ipod interface etc is hardware and that a software update would not be possible. How many of the features rely explicitly on the hardware I can't say.

-424D57

rezi · 12-28-2010, 03:44 PM

@c4petown

for bluetooth audio streaming, ... you need the combox built in since 3/10.
for older modells there are no updates at the moment.
regards steven

c4pet0wn · 12-29-2010, 11:43 PM

Cheers 424D57 and Steven!

My vehicle was built in June/July so does this mean I should be able to upgrade my vehicle software to enable these features as per your March 2010 build requirement ? I'm going to ask my SA as well to see what he says and pass back the info as soon as I hear back from him.

CapeTown

M3Cabrio · 01-09-2011, 06:22 PM

Was Cold Weather Package ordered on your car?

I too am debated between CLP and the stand alone heated seats. My thought is that the headlight washer makes a big mess on the front end.

Your thoughts?

Sedan_Clan · 01-10-2011, 08:14 PM

Are there any pictures available of the new manual/electric seats?

drjoe66 · 01-10-2011, 09:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by M3Cabrio

Was Cold Weather Package ordered on your car?

I too am debated between CLP and the stand alone heated seats. My thought is that the headlight washer makes a big mess on the front end.

Your thoughts?

I just got heated seats. Good enough for me and my old people back. I never cared for the mess the headlight cleaners made.

mongui56 · 01-19-2011, 09:16 PM

I did the same, just the bun warmer, no mess outside.
I ordered the mineral white color, and it is very nice.
The new dual-cluth technology is much smoother than the prevoius M3 that I had with the SMG.

09-08-2010, 06:05 PM	#1
Jason Administrator 40865 Rep 21,240 Posts Drives: F80 M3 Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: USA iTrader: (0)	2011 M3 Fall Updates Summary (Beginning September 2010 Production) > Reported on M3POST HOMEPAGE. BMW Model Year 2011 Fall Update * September 8, 2010 * Press Release Woodcliff Lake, N.J., September 8, 2010... For most BMW models, the 2011 model year began in spring 2010. Below, we outline each of the 2011 models including the changes that will take place from September production. BMW’s new inline-6 gasoline engine. Beginning with model year 2011 production, several BMW models (135i, 335i, 535i, 535i Gran Turismo, X5 xDrive35i, and X6 xDrive35i) will switch to the new, single twin-scroll turbocharged inline-6 “N55” engine. The newest BMW inline-6 engine is the first BMW inline-6 to combine turbocharging, High Precision direct fuel injection, and Valvetronic variable intake technology. It features a single, mid-sized turbocharger with a “twin-scroll” housing to boost performance and minimize the response lag. Together, this combination produces the same at 300hp and 300 lb-ft of the previous N54, but the fuel efficiency improves and the emissions are reduced. A further advantage of turbocharging is that this is the most weight-efficient method to boost engine power and performance. The N55 turbocharged inline-6 weighs approximately 150 lbs. less than an equally powerful eight-cylinder engine displacing 4.0 liters. This lower weight means a significant advantage not only in fuel economy, but also in balancing the car's weight distribution. Using Valvetronic for the first time on a turbocharged inline-6 allows the engine to “inhale” air for combustion with virtually no delay and with reduced pumping losses. As a result, the engine makes power more quickly than ever before, and this is proven by the N55’s ability to reach peak torque at 1200rpm, 200rpm earlier than its twin-turbo predecessor [N54]. Packaging is better for the new engine, as the BMW Digital Motor Electronics (DME) control unit is now mounted directly to the engine, shortening the required wiring harness length and providing more efficient cooling to the DME through the use of intake air. Furthermore, using a single turbocharger means only a single exhaust stream must find its way to the catalytic converter, so only a single catalytic converter is used on the new engine. The single catalytic converter can be activated more quickly at cold start than the preceding twin-catalyst configuration, so the new engine has a cleaner cold start emissions signature than its predecessor. The new “N55” engine will be installed in the 135i Coupe and Convertible, the 335i Sedan, Coupe and Convertible (excludes 335is models), the new 535i Sedan when it arrives this summer, the 535i Gran Turismo arriving this spring and finally, the X5 xDrive35i and X6 xDrive35i Sports Activity Vehicles® starting with April production. 2011 BMW M3 Sedan, Coupe, Convertible BMW raised the performance benchmark once again with the introduction of the 4th generation M3. The latest M3 is again available, as was the 2nd generation, as a Sedan ($56,275), Coupe ($59,275) or Convertible ($67,925). All share the unique, high-revving, 414-horsepower V-8 engine and choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed M Dual Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. For the M3’s 2011 model year, which started in March 2010, buyers of the M3 Sedan and M3 Coupe can choose a new Competition Package which reduces vehicle ride height by 10mm and includes unique 19” wheels with wider offset for enhanced stability, standard Electronic Damping Control with enhanced programming, and higher-threshold programming for the M Dynamic Mode (if equipped). Starting with September 2010 production, the 2011 M3 will receive a number of further enhancements. Mineral White Metallic exterior paint becomes available, as do new Palladium Silver / Black / Black and Fox Red / Black interior upholsteries. The celebrated M Drive system becomes standard. Identified by its now-famous M Button on the steering wheel, M Drive allows the M3 driver to pre-program two “personalities” for the vehicle and toggle between them with a press of the M Button. The button will: * Activate the “second level” of Dynamic Stability Control known as M Dynamic Mode (MDM). * Activate the Sport setting of the Servotronic variable power steering system. * Arm the shift lights (when equipped with M-DCT). * Select the pre-stored setting for Electronic Damping Control (EDC), if equipped. * Select the pre-stored setting for Drivelogic (when equipped with M-DCT). Finally, BMW’s Auto Stop-Start feature becomes standard on the M3 with September production. Auto Start-Stop is a BMW EfficientDynamics fuel saving measure previously unavailable in the US except on ActiveHybrid models. Auto Stop-Start will automatically stop the engine when the transmission is placed in Neutral and the clutch is released. The engine will immediately restart as soon as the clutch is depressed. The system is driver selectable and will only function once the engine is up to operating temperature and the ambient temperature is between 37 Degrees F and 85 Degrees F. The new Manual M Sport Seats (M3 Sedan, Coupe) offer the same adjustments as the previous electric seats but with manual adjustment in order to save weight (approximately 5kg per seat) and expense when power memory seats are not required. Lumber support and seatback side bolters remain electrically adjustable. Power Seats remain standard in the M3 Convertible. BMW EfficientDynamics The Intelligent Way to Reduce Fuel Consumption and Emissions. BMW’s commitment to reduce harmful emissions and help protect the environment is unique in the automobile industry. BMW applies its EfficientDynamics principles to each model by using lightweight components in key areas, new technologies for improved powertrain efficiency and more importantly, planned sustainability for the long term reduction of fuel consumption and emissions output. A recent Environmental Defense report shows that BMW’s fleet average for CO2 emissions was reduced by 12% from 1990 - 2005 and its fuel economy improved by 14%, despite the introduction of many new passenger cars and light-duty trucks. This not only demonstrates our long-standing dedication to help the environment, but our ability to do so with every vehicle that wears the BMW roundel. In this period of time, BMW has introduced many industry-leading technologies across its entire model range, such as Valvetronic throttle-less engine control, on-demand coolant and hydraulic pumps for reduced parasitic losses, and High-Precision Direct Injection. In 2009, BMW added two 50-state BMW Advanced Diesel models for an unprecedented combination of performance and low emissions. In some 2010 and 2011 models, BMW introduced Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start-Stop technology and two BMW ActiveHybrid models. It is our unending goal to develop technologies and vehicles designed to combine the efficiency our customers desire with dynamics and performance our customers expect. BMW ConnectedDrive Innovations: Advanced on-board use of mobile phones and music players. Beginning with September production there will be enhancements to BMW Assist with Bluetooth and the iPod/USB Adapter. These enhancements extend the functionality through improved integration of mobile devices into the vehicle. These new features are made possible by hardware advances. (All Models) BMW Assist with Extended Bluetooth The Bluetooth functionality is extended beyond hands-free and phonebook support with multiple innovations. Feature support is dependent upon compatibility with the mobile device. RIM Smart Phone Integration * Mobile Office: The industry-first mobile office integration of BlackBerry Smartphones, a customer can access email, text messages, and notes through the iDrive system providing seamless integration with the vehicle. Safety and avoiding driver distraction is paramount at BMW. In order to maintain the driver’s focus on the road, the vehicle’s voice control system (included with navigation) will read messages aloud via text-to-speech. The central screen will also display the only the first three lines of text. The full text can only be displayed when the vehicle is parked. Compatible BlackBerry hardware, firmware, and feature set will be announced later. * vCard photo support: Images of contacts stored in your phonebook are downloaded from the device and shown on the vehicle display. When the mobile phone rings, a picture of the caller will appear on the vehicle display. * External Call Lists: External call list handling downloads the “re-dial” and “received calls list” at every reconnect of the mobile device and after each call. * Bluetooth Music Streaming: Bluetooth music streaming offers wireless audio streaming from the mobile device to the vehicle. Music stored on the mobile phone is played and controlled through the iDrive controller. iPod/USB Adapter · iPod One-wire integration: The iPod connection no longer requires the “Y-cable” for separate aux-input for sound. The iPod USB cable supplied with the iPod is all that is required to connect the device to the vehicle. The music is transferred directly from the iPod digitally to the sound system via the USB connection.· Album Cover Art: If cover art is contained in the metadata of a particular song, it will show on the vehicle display while the song is played.· Voice Control of Devices: The driver can control external devices and select genre, artist, album, and song title with the voice control system included with Navigation System.· Mobile Phone Device Driver Update: In combination with BMW Assist, the USB port can be used to upload new mobile phone and audio player device drivers. (Release timing for this feature and device driver availability are subject to change.) __________________ Check on the Latest BMW News Become a fan of Bimmerpost Facebook Follow us on Bimmerpost Twitter Subscribe to Bimmerpost Youtube Channel
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12-27-2010, 01:35 AM	#5
c4pet0wn DJ CURTIZ - Bringin' that fresh Electro House 2ya! 27 Rep 77 Posts Drives: 2011 M3 Interlagos Blue Coupe Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Orange County iTrader: (0)	Does anyone know if these updates ( such as the bluetooth streaming ) will be a software update to those of us that ordered our vehicle one friggin month before the refresh? Commence PWND comments yeah yeah yeah....
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12-28-2010, 03:44 PM	#7
rezi Enlisted Member 6 Rep 36 Posts Drives: M3 E92 Coupe Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Austria iTrader: (0)	@c4petown for bluetooth audio streaming, ... you need the combox built in since 3/10. for older modells there are no updates at the moment. regards steven
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12-29-2010, 11:43 PM	#8
c4pet0wn DJ CURTIZ - Bringin' that fresh Electro House 2ya! 27 Rep 77 Posts Drives: 2011 M3 Interlagos Blue Coupe Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Orange County iTrader: (0)	Cheers 424D57 and Steven! My vehicle was built in June/July so does this mean I should be able to upgrade my vehicle software to enable these features as per your March 2010 build requirement ? I'm going to ask my SA as well to see what he says and pass back the info as soon as I hear back from him. CapeTown __________________ www.djcurtiz.com - Fresh beats since 4-3V@ Free downloads of my House Tracks - www.soundcloud.com/djcurtiz
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01-09-2011, 06:22 PM	#9
M3Cabrio BMW God 1 Rep 22 Posts Drives: '88 E30, '11 E93, '00 Z3 Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Colorado iTrader: (0)	Was Cold Weather Package ordered on your car? I too am debated between CLP and the stand alone heated seats. My thought is that the headlight washer makes a big mess on the front end. Your thoughts?
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01-10-2011, 08:14 PM	#10
Sedan_Clan Law Enforcer 25108 Rep 22,288 Posts Drives: '22 Chalk Gray Porsche C2S Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: ..in your rearview!!! iTrader: (26)	Are there any pictures available of the new manual/electric seats?
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01-19-2011, 09:16 PM	#12
mongui56 Member 0 Rep 24 Posts Drives: 2014 650i gran coupe Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Belleville, Il. iTrader: (0)	I did the same, just the bun warmer, no mess outside. I ordered the mineral white color, and it is very nice. The new dual-cluth technology is much smoother than the prevoius M3 that I had with the SMG.
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