German Car Zone

It's an iDrive Ver. 2.0 prototype cockpit.
Mounted into E61 5er Touring.
BMW used it for testings purposes ...

So how did AutoLies managed to get those photographs then?

BMW Group PressClub





Yesterday a press release on iDrive was issued by BMW AG (German press site) ... With text in German, and the photos ...

The above posted ones are labeled: "BMW iDrive Erprobungsfahrzeug, Basis ist ein BMW 5er Touring" ... meaning: "BMW iDrive test vehicle, based on BMW 5er Touring"

Pheeww...I was worried there for a sec. Looks cheap. That console....

It's a cockpit for simulation purposes but something similar could appear on the horizon.

It's not another "Exclusive" But actually an official press release from BMW on the new idrive interface.
But that other "Exclusive" about the 350i from sources in Munich.
which sources ? definetly not from BMW.

The next couple of years will be very busy for BMW as it launches a handful of new models including new versions of current top sellers and some models we’ve never seen before. The new X1, revealed in these latest spy shots and computer generated renderings, falls into the latter category, taking the carmaker into the compact SUV market currently dominated by the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.

This rendering shows the BMW designers will stick closely to the lines of the Concept X1 showcased at last month's Paris Motor Show.

This latest set of spy images, meanwhile, are the most revealing yet of the upcoming X1 - the latest prototypes shedding the heavy camo gear seen on previous test cars in favor of more revealing covering. We also get a chance to look inside the interior for the first time. The automatic transmission and predominant mph markings on the speedometer suggest this is likely a U.S. spec [COLOR=black ! important][COLOR=black ! important]car[/color][/color] being tested. As the renderings show, the X1 will also share a bit of the X6 crossover's updated styling, though avoids the awkward stance and front end of the larger vehicle.

The new X1’s running gear is based on the 1-series compact car but its ride height will be taller and BMW’s X-drive AWD system will also feature.

Engine options will range from a 145hp 1.8L four-cylinder petrol engine to a range topping 3L diesel. Transmissions will include a conventional six-speed manual as well an optional six-speed self shifter. Expect to see elements from the CS concept car make it onto the new X1 including an enlarged grille, wrap around headlights and an aggressive bumper.

Production is expected to top the 100,000 mark and will start at a BMW plant in Leipzig by the middle of next year. The X1 will be priced higher than the 1-series, likely starting close to the $30,000 mark. Much of the car’s components will also be shared with an upcoming SUV model from Mini to save on development costs, although the BMW model is expected to be significantly larger than the Mini.


Source: Preview: 2010 BMW X1 SUV - MotorAuthority - Car news, reviews, spy shots

I don't like the interior, looks very dull with the buttons and layout on the center console giving me E46 and X3 vibes.

Hassan...:

Oh