BMW has long powered many of their 4-wheeled vehicles with an inline six-cylinder engine, particularly roadsters, so it seemed only prudent that the smoothness provided by such an engine configuration would be a natural application for a luxury touring motorcycle, since both share open air motoring experiences.

An inline six was first developed for marine use back in 1900 by Forest, a French engine company, and three years later, Spyker of Holland made the first such engine for an automobile – a monstrous 15-liter six for the Paris-Madrid race. 1978 saw Honda become the first  motorcycle manufacturer to place an inline six-cylinder into a production bike – their CBX model. A year later, in 1979, Kawasaki introduced their six-cylinder, liquid-cooled KZ1300.

Enter the BMW K 1600 GTL  for 2012  – there’s also a K 1600 GT version that is lighter, quicker and somewhat more aggressive– but both K 1600 models are powered by the first inline six-cylinder motorcycle engine to be offered in a BMW motorcycle, albeit in a transverse mount orientation. This now brings motorcycles into the mix of BMW’s 95-year history of building smoothly operating inline six-cylinder engines for autos and aircraft.

At first glance, the K1600 GTL is somewhat intimidating due primarily to its size and overwhelming technological content, but actually riding it sets aside any issues of intimidation. It comes with more features than many four-wheeled forms of transportation, and while it isn’t inexpensive (base price is $23,200), It delivers an impressive inventory of features and equipment for the money. Its technology, performance capabilities and characteristics combined, are more than likely to set a new benchmark in the luxury touring motorcycle category. Available extras include a Premium Package that adds: Dynamic Traction Control; a full audio system including iPod connectivity; a central locking system for the saddlebags; anti-theft alarm, ESA II (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), which adjusts suspension settings and more. With all the extras, the bike’s total as we tested it came to $25,845.

The base model GTL standard equipment list includes: Xenon headlight with dynamic leveling, heated seat and grips, cruise control, multi-function display with on-board computer and Multi-controller that’s similar to the iDrive system found in BMW luxury sedans, but more intuitive and easier to use, integral ABS, luggage rack, three riding power modes, white LED turn signals, power adjustable windshield, Bluetooth, audio system with tuner, Sirius satellite radio, iPod/USB/3 5mm connectivity, top case in body color, comfort backrest for top case, comfort footrests and chrome body kit.

Riding the new 776 pound K1600 GTL, (which, as already stated, mounts the inline six-cylinder motor in an East/West orientation across the frame) instantly bolsters one’s confidence and sense of security, giving way to a feeling of superior riding skills on the road. It is incredibly smooth and precise in every aspect across the board, including acceleration, shifting, handling and braking. Despite its mass, this latest Bavarian tourer is truly dreamlike to ride with near perfect balance in virtually every riding scenario. It is exceptionally composed at speed, whether traveling in a straight line or when cornering.

The K1600GTL replaces the K1200LT in BMW’s  luxury stable, retaining or enhancing the LT’s inherent qualities while elevating roadworthiness and handling characteristics to totally new heights.

The power curve and torque delivery is incredibly linear, making it possible to accelerate from slow speeds (below 1000 rpm) in sixth gear to bullet-train fast, without downshifting. Essentially, the bike is always at the ready whether riding solo or two-up with luggage that’s fully packed with gear. The bike revs to a redline of 8,500 rpms – not unusually, or impressively high, but the sound that emanates from the six individual exhaust outlets (three per side) borders on orgasmic – we’re talking Indy car or Formula One audible notes here. The bike actually seems happiest above 6,000 rpm.

The engine is the world’s lightest and most compact six-cylinder motorcycle engine in serial production today, weighing in at 226 pounds (including the clutch, gearbox and alternator) and measuring less than 22-inches wide. It is comparable in size to existing four-cylinder powerplants.  It is slightly undersquare in terms of stroke/bore, with a ratio of 67.5 to 72 millimeters (0.938) with a relatively long stroke and very small cylinder center distance spacings of 77 millimeters. The distance between the cylinder sleeves is a mere 5 millimeters.

The GTL version K-bike delivers a more compliant and smoother ride quality than the GT model, providing a more upright riding position and a lower and more forward placement of the broader surfaced footpegs. The aluminum handlebars are more swept back and the stock seat height measures 29.8-inches. An optional 1.2-inch taller seat is available at purchase for no additional cost, which can be raised even more by inverting the frame mounts.

The 2012 BMW K1600GTL is nearly the perfect motorcycle for luxurious, long range cruising. It tends to steer with a much lighter feel than many sportbikes at cruising speeds, but it can also be pushed hard with more than satisfactory results. Its overall load capacity may not seem overwhelming at 438 pounds, which is less than Kawasaki’s Concours 14, but it’s more than that of Honda’s Gold Wing. Shifting gears is smooth and easy, either up or down.

In terms of potential improvements for the K1600GTL, a reverse gear might prove to be a nice addition, along with wider spacing in the passenger hand grips, which would allow for a more substantial grasp, since the wide seat and side bolsters of the backrest tend to interfere with the grip’s ergonomics.

Bottom-line, this latest luxury tourer and technology showcase from BMW is a work of art as well as ranking as a phenomenal motorcycle that may be properly considered to be both a luxury tourer and sport tourer in one. Will it appeal to and pull loyalists from other brands in the same category? Only time will tell, but we definitely think so.

Compared to the prior generation, this X3 offers more interior space and generally improved usability. But the real advantage to the new X3 is in the drivetrain. You can get your new X3 with your choice of the normally aspirated 3-liter BMW inline 6-cylinder engine at 240 horsepower, or upgrade to a turbocharged engine at 306 horses. In either case, you get a new 8-speed automatic transmission designed for both performance and fuel economy.  One standout feature of this new drivetrain is start-stop technology, which actually kills the engine when you’re waiting at a stoplight and then instantly refires it when it’s time to move.

That drivetrain technology is how the BMW X3 gets 19 MPG in the city and 25 on the highway. Not fantastic in this day and age, but this is a luxury and performance CUV, not a hybrid. With any luck, BMW will begin importing the diesel variant of the X3 soon – it’s on sale now in Europe.

BMW has also improved the xDrive all wheel drive system in the X3, and gifted the crossover with a new suspension to handle both off-road needs and pleasant yet sporty driving on pavement. The AWD system features electronically-controlled power distribution for traction on slippery surfaces, and also increased traction in cornering for a sports car feel. This is a BMW, after all.

Not to be left behind in the technology department, BMW has also upgraded the ConnectedDrive system in the X3. Using ConnectedDrive, the X3 the only vehicle in its class with an optional Heads-Up Display in which dashboard information is projected onto the windshield, and the X3 has an option for in-car Internet access. This is all on top of the usual Bluetooth hands-free phone support, state of the art stereo system, navigation, backup camera and radar, and all the usual luxury features you expect in a CUV of this class.

Driving the X3 is both fun and nice. There’s no mistaking the BMW feel – solid to the point of feeling like you’re part of the Earth, yet confident that you can take any corner with grace and dignity.  The seats are comfortable, the vehicle is convenient, and it goes like a scalded dog when you lay into the throttle. What more could you want from a beemer?

The 2011 X3 is priced from $36,750, and from about $40,000 with the turbo engine.

So, the bottom line on the 2011 BMW X3? If you’re shopping luxury crossover SUVs like the Volvo XC90, Cadillac SRX, Mercedes-Benz GLK350, Audi Q5, or the Lexus/Infiniti/Acura models, you should definitely check out the BMW X3.

Should you happen to be a fan of open-air vehicles and would prefer to own nothing but a convertible, there’s no need for you to read further into this review. Instead, you should refer to my review of the 2012 BMW 650i Cabrio. This particular review is of the new 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, which comes with a base price that is $7,500 less than its droptop counterpart, but it is certainly no less sexy, and happens to share all of the same mechanicals and dimensions except for the weight (it’s 298 pounds lighter than the Cabrio) and height which is only 0.2-inches higher.

Both vehicles are longer, lower and wider than their predecessors. In addition, both feature taller and more upright signature twin kidney grilles and more accentuated character lines along with a “Shark Nose” featuring flat headlights that project a bolder and more powerful image. Fog lights are integrated into wide air intakes, and the hood accent lines draw one’s vision rearward. Wheel arches display a bold flair, and the fully integrated rear decklid spoiler joins the L-shaped LED taillamps. The rear is finished off by dual rectangular exhaust outlets. The Convertible or Cabrio is not however, simply a Coupe sans top. Each vehicle was designed and engineered separately and individually to serve its intended purpose in the most efficient manner.

The interior is driver oriented with functional controls angled toward the driver, and materials are softer and more inviting. Nappa leather wrapping is standard with the sport steering wheel, and there is now a 10.2-inch flat screen display for navigation and vehicle function information. Gauges and instrumentation features Black Panel Technology. Starting the engine brings the onboard information and check control light to life, and once the vehicle is running, prompts appear from the navigation and active driver assistance systems between the dials, including navigation arrows and various system warnings. Instrumentation illumination changes from white to classic BMW amber at night. Also featured is a new 80GB hard drive as well as a new and improved hard-drive-based Navigation system with a fully browse-capable Electronic Driver’s Manual. 12 GB is reserved for the entertainment server, which can rip music from the CD/DVD reader, or of transferring music or media images through the USB port. HD radio comes as standard fare.

The new 650i’s 400 horsepower is generated by a state-of-the-art reverse flow, 4.4-liter DOHC, 32-valve V-8 with TwinPower Turbo technology, High Precision Direct Injection and Double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing. The engine, which s mounted forward in a longitudinal orientation, also develops 450 pound feet of torque, and is connected to an eight-speed Sport automatic with wheel mounted paddle shifters that meters power to the rear wheels.

My test BMW 650i Coupe wore a rich Red exterior coat and featured a striking Ivory White Nappa leather interior. The base sticker was set at $83,000. While the final sticker came to $83,875. After adding options and the Destination charge.

SUMMARY: I’ve long held that the BMW 650i Convertible may well be one of the most beautiful vehicles to come from Bavaria – at least in modern times, but now, the Coupe ranks as equally beautiful.

The 650i in either body style is a wonder to behold and is exhilarating to drive. Acceleration is available instantly on command, steering is immediately responsive and the ride quality, though extremely stable and flat is not punishing at all – that is, unless you want it to be by selecting Sport+ through the Dynamic Damping Control – other settings are: Normal and Comfort.

There are loads of Driver Assistance features that are optionally available to further enhance both one’s driving pleasure and prowess. I believe that the only aid not found on any of the vehicles in the program, was the Integral Active Steering, which essentially incorporates four-wheel steering for more precise directional control.

The 650i Coupe comes with all the same features and underpinnings as the Cabrio, and if you are able to live without the open air motoring experience that the Convertible provides, the purchase of the Coupe makes perfect sense. I still personally prefer the sun and the wind in your face and hair experience over the closed car driving scenario.

            The compact SUV market is tough, especially with the proliferation of new models, from nearly every manufacturer.  In the segment, BMW has had good success since 2004 with the X3, selling more than 600,000 worldwide and 150,000 in the U.S.

Now in its second generation the X3 is being built in BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant and exported around the world.  The X5 and X6 Sports Activity Vehicles are also built in Spartanburg.

With a traditional BMW kidney grille, powerful-looking front fascia and signature “Corona Rings” around the headlights there is no confusing the X3 with competitors.  The silhouette is accentuated by three character lines that emphasis the wedge-shaped body.  Large taillights and horizontal sculpting add to the unique character of the rear end.

Inside the cockpit is filled with quality materials including available real woods and upgraded leathers.  The controls and instruments take a horizontal orientation giving the interior a broader and more open feeling.  Seats are firm, comfortable and supportive.  There are also a generous number of storage compartments, trays and drink holders in the console, doors and in the cargo area.  The X3 has 19 cubic feet of cargo area, and with all three sections of the 40/20/40 split rear seatback folded that space increases to 56.6 cubic feet.  The seat back also includes a ski pass-through that allows skis to be carried inside the vehicle while still using two of the three rear seating positions.

The X3 comes in two engine defined all-wheel drive models, the xDrive 28i and the xDrive35i.  Our test vehicle, the 28i was powered by a magnesium/aluminum 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine.  Like all BMWs it had the company’s unique Valvetronic variable valve lift and Double-VANOS system.  The 240-hp engine propels the two-ton+ vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in a very quick 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph when equipped with the optional sport package.  The 35i engine is the same 3.0-liter six-cylinder, but with direct injection and twin-scroll turbo charging producing 300 hp. This engine is capable of a very impressive 5.5-second 0 to 60 mph time and top speed of 150 mph.

Both engines are attached to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, which uses “taller” cruising gears to make a significant improvement to the fuel economy.  The 28i is rated at 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway and the turbocharged version is slightly better at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.   The new transmission is so responsive and flexible, it will even make a shift from eighth to second gear to maximize acceleration.

            BMW uses a unique transmission control level that takes a little getting used at first.  The button on the side of the lever must be depressed to get it in gear, and “park” is activated by pushing the button on top.   BMW engineers insist that manual shifts are made by pushing forward on the lever to shift up and pulling back to down shift.  That’s the opposite of most manufacturers, but it makes sense when you think of the movement the vehicle makes when the shifts are made.  It always takes a few days to adjust to the differences between the BMW and most other vehicles.

The third generation xDrive all-wheel drive system has been revised with more flexibility, quicker response and improvements that help the vehicle handle even better.  It works in conjunction with BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control system and Integrated Chassis Management to make instant adjustments to maximize traction and handling dynamics.  Under normal conditions the rear wheels are the drive wheels, but as traction decreases, as much as 40 percent of the torque can transfer to the front in variable allotments.

The X3 uses a double-joint spring-strut suspension at the front and a multi-link rear suspension with and an optional Electronic Damping Control to  adjust the shock absorbers to any level of firmness, quickly adapting to road conditions and the driver’s demands. The system helps maintain a neutral handling characteristic by adjusting the xDrive torque split to 20 percent front/80 percent rear in steady state cornering.

           BMW calls the X3 a Sports Activity Vehicle, which is probably more accurate than clumping it in with some of the competitors as an SUV.  The X3 is one of the best handling and fastest vehicles in the category, but it is also one of the most expensive.  Pricing starts at $37,625, including the destination charge for the xDRive28i and goes to $41,925 for the xDrive 35i.  With more than two dozen options on the price sheet, the price can climb to the mid-$50,000 level.

            By Bill & Barbara Schaffer

“We are marking another milestone in the history of the BMW Group. As Chairman of the Board and an engineer myself, I am very proud of this project,” declared Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.  “As the world’s leading premium car manufacturer, our aim is to offer customers purpose-built electric-drive cars as well,” he added.

With its zero-emission electric drive and a range of approximately 93 miles, the BMW i3 Concept has been specifically developed for use in an urban environment.  It’s powered by a 125 kW electric motor and rear-wheel drive ensuring BMW-style dynamic handling.  The car uses an innovative LifeDrive architecture featuring a carbon passenger cell to keep the weight down to under 2,800 pounds while maintaining the highest crash safety levels. With four seats and a seven-cubic foot of cargo space, it well suited for everyday use.

This will be the first volume production car with carbon fiber bodywork. The i3 is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph is under eight seconds, and it will have a high-speed charger that produces an 80 percent battery charge in just one hour.

 The i8 is BMWs look at the next generation sports car.   The concept accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds and had fuel consumption of about 78 mpg.  Its plug-in hybrid drive with a system output of 260 kW allows a range of up to 21 miles in the electric mode – sufficient for most everyday journeys. For more dynamic driving or out-of-town routes, a high-performance three-liter gas engine also comes into play. The sports car has an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph and space for up to four occupants.

DesignworksUSA and BART will work together to create the “Fleet of the Future,” a new generation of train cars that will enter service by 2017.  The goal is to deliver a premium ridership experience for its passengers. BART, which began picking up passengers in September 1972, presently operates the oldest fleet of train cars in the USA. 

The scope of work assigned to DesignworksUSA for BART includes the train cars’ exterior, which will convey a style and shape with unique signature expression to the exterior passenger information system. Inside the new train cars, DesignworksUSA will create the main interior design features of the new train cars, and incorporate the controls in the design of the train operator’s cab.

“DesignworksUSA is invigorated to join BART in their continuing commitment to delivering a premium ridership experience,” says Laurenz Schaffer, President, BMW Group DesignworksUSA. “We are passionate about creating innovative solutions for mobility in increasingly dense urban centers such as the Bay Area, and we are excited as our collaborative partnership with BART gets underway,” Schaffer continues.

BART’s mission is to provide commuters with a viable alternative to driving, and therefore DesignworksUSA’s deep expertise creating premium design and user experiences not only in the train category, but also in the aviation and automotive categories, was a key differentiator that further guided their selection for this project.

The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District is the 5th largest all-rail train system in the USA. Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) trains serve the residents of four counties and the 26 cities that surround its 44 stations. Every weekday 350,000 customers ride BART, which operates the oldest fleet of train cars in the USA.

The maximum output of 240 horsepower is achieved at 5,000 rpm, 1,500 rpm lower than in the normally-aspirated 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder. The peak torque of 260-lb.ft. starts at just 1,250 rpm.  Not only is that 30 percent more torque than the previous inline-six, it also peaks 1,500 rpm earlier.  The vigorous power comes on early and climbs steadily all the way to redline. 

The four-cylinder engine with its all-aluminum crankcase is lighter and more compact than a 6-cylinder engine of equivalent power. The turbocharger is a twin-scroll system.

The cooling effect of the injected fuel also allows for a higher compression ratio than might otherwise be possible. This results in further efficiency improvements. The new engine is mated to BMW’s newest eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2012 528i accelerates from 0 – 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, 0.4 seconds quicker than the 2011 model and will deliver up 15 percent better fuel efficiency (final EPA results are pending).

The BMW 528i will also feature Engine Auto Start/Stop. This feature switches off the engine when the car is stationary at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic in order to minimize idling.

For 2012 528i is offered for the first time with xDrive all-wheel drive as an option.  BMW xDrive provides the reassurance of sure-footed traction in all weather and road conditions, but it also makes driving on dry surfaces safer.  BMW’s Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) is able to identify and limit understeer by shifting torque rearward (initially 80% to the rear axle) while preserving the stability. As a second step, ICM can then apply a precise combination of throttle and individual rear-corner braking in order to maintain neutral handling in a corner – regardless of road surface conditions.

Every BMW xDrive model receives standard Hill Descent Control. This selectable function allows the driver to descend slopes in extremely slippery conditions while maintaining control at a pre-set speed.

The new four-cylinder turbo BMW 528i arrives at U.S. dealership in Fall 2011.

Los Cabo, Mexico – BMW just introduced their all-new third generation premium 650i convertible in Mexico’s Riviera playground. The latest iteration German luxury drop top is a stunner in the looks department, and is certainly no slouch in the performance category either. The 2012 BMW 650i convertible enters the fresh-air luxury motoring scene in a longer, lower and wider form that without question has become ever more elegant and beautiful as time progresses.

At first glance in the glowing sunlight on a scenic terrace of the Las Ventanas all Paraiso Resort overlooking the Gulf of Mexico’s azure waters and crashing surf, this latest, third generation, open air 6 Series doesn’t look dramatically different from its predecessors, but it definitely is, albeit in a subtle, and understated way. The Blue and White Rondelle team also treated the attending press to a preview example of the all-new 6 Series coupe which made its debut at the Shanghai Motor Show and which will be available in the Fall along with BMW’s x-Drive all-Drive System.

Both vehicles are longer, lower and wider than their predecessors. In addition, both feature taller and more upright signature twin kidney grilles and more accentuated character lines along with a “Shark Nose” featuring flat headlights that project a bolder and more powerful image. Fog lights are integrated into wide air intakes, and the hood accent lines draw one’s vision rearward. Wheel arches display a bold flair, and the fully integrated rear decklid spoiler joins the L-shaped LED taillamps. The rear is finished off by dual rectangular exhaust outlets. The Convertible or Cabrio is not however, simply a Coupe sans top. Each vehicle was designed and engineered separately and individually to serve its intended purpose in the most efficient manner.

The Convertible’s layered retractable cloth soft top opens electrically at the touch of a button in 19 seconds and closes in 24 seconds, operational in either direction while underway at speeds up to 25 mph. The new top also allows for improved trunk storage with the top when either stowed or raised.  Wind buffeting is minimal even with the top and windows down, and there is a windscreen that reduces the wind’s effects for rear seat passengers.

The interior is driver oriented with functional controls angled toward the driver, and materials are softer and more inviting. Nappa leather wrapping is standard with the sport steering wheel, and there is now a 10.2-inch flat screen display for navigation and vehicle function information. Gauges and instrumentation features Black Panel Technology. Starting the engine brings the onboard information and check control light to life, and once the vehicle is running, prompts appear from the navigation and active driver assistance systems between the dials, including navigation arrows and various system warnings. Instrumentation illumination changes from white to classic BMW amber at night. Also featured is a new 80GB hard drive as well as a new and improved hard-drive-based Navigation system with a fully browse-capable Electronic Driver’s Manual. 12 GB is reserved for the entertainment server, which can rip music from the CD/DVD reader, or of transferring music or media images through the USB port. HD radio comes as standard fare.

The new 650i’s 400 horsepower is generated by a state-of-the-art reverse flow, 4.4-liter DOHC, 32-valve V-8 with TwinPower Turbo technology, High Precision Direct Injection and Double-VANOS steplessly variable valve timing. The engine, which s mounted forward in a longitudinal orientation, also develops 450 pound feet of torque, and is connected to an eight-speed Sport automatic with wheel mounted paddle shifters that meters power to the rear wheels.

My test BMW 650i Convertible wore a rich Black Sapphire exterior coat and featured a striking Ivory White Nappa leather interior and Black top. The base sticker read $90,500. The final tally came to $107,625 after adding: the Cold Weather Package; Driver Assistance Package; Luxury seating Package; Premium Sound Package; 20-inch wheels with performance tires; Active Roll Stabilization; IP with leather; Ceramic controls; BMW Apps; Night Vision with pedestrian detection; and the Destination charge.

SUMMARY: I’ve long held that the BMW 650i Convertible may well be one of the most beautiful vehicles to come from Bavaria – at least in modern times (I was a big fan of the Z8, but alas, that has been out of production for years). This latest example of the 650i Convertible raises the bar even higher in all regards.

The car is a wonder to behold and is exhilarating to drive – especially with top stowed as it should be, and with wind and sun in your face and hair. There’s nothing like a scalp massage provided by Mother Nature at speed.

Acceleration is available instantly on command, steering is immediately responsive and the ride quality, though extremely stable and flat is not punishing at all – that is, unless you want it to be by selecting Sport+ through the Dynamic Damping Control – other settings are: Normal and Comfort.

There are loads of Driver Assistance features that are optionally available to further enhance both one’s driving pleasure and prowess. I believe that the only aid not found on any of the vehicles in the program, was the Integral Active Steering, which essentially incorporates four-wheel steering for more precise directional control.

The base price of the 650i Coupe with all the same features, will be $7,500 less than that of the Convertible when it becomes available in the Fall if you are able to live without the open air motoring experience that the Convertible provides. I’ll personally take the sun and the wind thank you very much.

It has been nearly 25 years since US enthusiasts were introduced to the veritable “wolf in a business suit”.  The BMW Concept M5, which makes its public debut at the Auto Shanghai 2011, represents the latest interpretation of this unmistakable vehicle character.

Based on the design vocabulary developed for the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the near-series concept car reflects the characteristic styling features of a BMW M automobile, with which the car’s further enhanced dynamic potential is captured.

A new high-revving V-8 engine with M twin-turbo technology powered the latest M5.  Both performance and efficiency have been significantly increased in comparison to the previous engine through numerous drivetrain innovations and other enhancements which have lead to a reduction in fuel consumption and emission levels by more than 25 percent.  The new engine and a seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic combine with M-specific suspension and steering to create the ideal prerequisites for an unrivalled driving experience.

Watch iVeho.com for all the M5 details.

Since BMW purchased the iconic Mini brand in 1994 and produced the first of the new generation of Mini Coopers in 2002, the size of the classic small car has increased by more than 34 percent from the original. (The original Mini which was built from 1959 through 2000 was about 120 inches long.  The latest Mini Cooper Countryman is 161.8 inches long.)

Enter the Rocketman, no that’s not a character from an Elton John song or a Disney movie sequel, its BMW’s study of what it might be like to bring the mini back to a more diminutive size – 134.6 inches or less.  That is at least 8 inches shorter than the first new generation Mini from 2002.

Debuting at the recent Geneva auto show, the Mini Rocketman concept is a study of what kind of vehicle might work best for people living in big cities.

The mini Mini is designed as a 3+1 passenger vehicle with wide-opening doors with double-hinge joints and integrated sills facilitate entry. Inside, lightweight seats are contoured in customary Mini style and can be arranged in a variety of different positions. This allows owners to choose between maximum driving fun two-up, a comfortable amount of room for three occupants, or even an exceptionally efficient division of space accommodating four seats.

Rocketman uses a weight saving carbon fiber spaceframe construction that is visible at the front end of the car, a

round its doors and in the interior.

The capacity of the luggage compartment can be adapted to passenger requirements just as flexibly. The two-part tailgate consists of one section which is attached to the roof and opens extremely high, and a lower section which extends out of the body in the form of a drawer.

A 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine is expected to be under the hood in both gasoline and diesel variants and in a horsepower range from 75 to 155.

Production has not been approved for this smallest of Minis and it would likely be until 2017 if it is approved.