Plato still leads the...
Plato still leads the series as the tin-top teams arrive at Croft in North Yorkshire for the next round, but in recent races the SEAT star has seen his early season advantage eroded by Vauxhall’s hard-charging Italian ace.
Called the V3, the newcomer...
Called the V3, the newcomer will use a platform which borrows many mechanical parts from the 1-Series, as well as elements of the suspension system from the high-riding X3.
Codenamed internally as the RFK (Raum Funktionales Konzept, or functional space concept), the V3 is one of two MPVs which BMW is developing. The second is a larger 5-Series-based model which will be badged the V5 and take on the Mercedes R-Class. However, it"s the V3 that will claim the majority of sales. It offers room inside for five, while the rear chairs fold flat into the floor. To be a success, the BMW will need to tempt downsizing executive car buyers as well as attract drivers of top-spec compact MPV models. Engines will be borrowed from the 1-Series, but the V3 is likely to use some of BMW"s latest technology, too.
Hybrid powertrains will feature under the bonnet, while a stop-start system similar to that fitted to Citroen"s C2 and C3 is also expected.
While development of the V3 and V5 has been progressing for some time, both are still a long way from the showroom. BMW will first launch three-door and convertible 1-Series variants before revealing the V5 in 2008. Compact MPV buyers can expect the V3 in 2009.