The F10 5 series explained.

Enjoy!!!

F10 5 Series Engine Variants.

These are the official launch engines with the F10. I suspect it will only reach our shores by mid 2010 at the earliest, or by end of 2010 realistically. Can only guess QAF will bring in the 535i for the launch and most will be the 523i with a couple of 520d or 525d depending on the specs.

Official F10 5 Series Launch......

Looks like this will be another benchmark for the 5series. Sporting some designs from the 7 series and more smoother lines and curves. Enjoy.

5 Series F10

The International reveal for the new 5 Series is right round the corner. Codename the F10 it shows a new generation front grill, similar to the new 7 series and 5seriesGT. Enjoy these teasers.....

Ex Singapore APEC 7 series

Heard the first round of Unused APEC 7 series are sold out. Some were really highly spec, with DVD player for the rear, comfort close, Eectric rear seats, etc

Don't fret, as more are coming. However, these would be the used ones. Selling slightly cheaper though.......

Back....

Been busy with other non-BMW stuff recently, hence unable to keep you all updated.

BMW front - Bridex Cars has been really popular. Sold like hot cakes.....or around this part of the world Hot Banana Fritters.

APEC 7 series are in town. Th unused brand new ones are all sold out. Highly spec and going at about 40k off the normal spec, showroom piece......a steal if you're planning on getting one sooner or later.

X5, the demo X5 has been given the works. 20 inch M rims, bodykit, panoramic roof, rear view camera and a wider tv function screen.......

325i coupe

325i selling for 109k.....sorry for the poor photo, will blame the salesman.

125i Coupe

This would be the second black 125i coupe in town. Going for BND79,800.

120i cabrio

120i cabriolet selling for 88k.

X1 update

X1's should be in town by end of October. What specs it will arrive with? Your guess is as good as mine. Supposedly coming in petrol and diesel.....thats all i know. Pricing......still contentious. However till, it arrives, there is time to review the prices. Globally the X1 should be in a unique market band, but should not be imposing on the X3's market share.....

Z4...

The 2 supposed launch Z4's have been sold. One in White and the other in Platinum Bronze. The White is 35i and should have been on the road for a month or so now. The other still waiting to be registered.

120i cabrio and 125i coupe

The 1 series is making a return after a short break. 2 units of 120i cabriolet available now for 88k. One is white while the other is Silver. The 125i coupe making a solo return in black. Selling for 79k. Do give the 125i a try......a nice package. Will post the fotos soon.

320i Performance kit.

A standard 320i refitted with BMW Performance body kit and rims (19") available in black now....85800k

Been Away, but I'm Back!!!

Been occupied with stuff recently.....but back now......Stay tuned.

Active Hybrid......Power & Efficient

This could be the way to go. 400 plus horsepower and the potential to be more efficient than a normal diesel during peak urban driving. Even Jeremy Clarkson would be happy with this.

Orginal BMW Accessories

There are plenty of Original BMW accessories available. Normally a catalog of accessories available for your BMW are located at the parts section or if not, can be found online. Not all are practical for Brunei roads and for sure,orginal does not = cheapest, but there is the satisfaction of knowing it can be JPD approved and the warranty does help you sleep better at night......almost.

BMW X1...more promo videos

BrideX BMW's

All sold with booking fees paid and a waiting list. Good to see the healthy appetite of BMW fans in Brunei. Maybe those tempted by the good offer. The cars were booked pretty quick....all 70 cars and 10 standby in just over a week. Wonder if this will dampen the market for future 3 series sales? Perfect time to launch something new....X1 anyone?

Bridex BMW's Update...

All the BMW 523i's sold out. As for the BMW 320i's, only left the black and silver......selling like hot cakes.

Latest.....Z4

BMW Z4 launch has been cancelled as the 2 launch Z4s has been sold. Should be able to spot them on the road.

The Promo Video for the New BMW X1

X1 update

Latest news is the X1 coming to town will have 2.0d engine producing 130KW/177HP. Suspect it will come in both 2WD and Xdrive......

BrideX BMW's Update...

Just dropped by the showroom to have a look at the BrideX 3 series and 5 Series. Even before the advert for sale, i can confirm that already 20+ cars have been booked. The 3 series comes with 17' alloys with runflats, Bi Xenon/ LED lights and Sports Leather Seats. However the seats are manual adjustments as well as the air conditioning. The 5 series has 16" alloys with Normal Tyres, new idrive (spider) controller and dual zone air automatic climate control. Book early if you're interested cos they are flying off the shelves.

Will we see these M cars in town?

The X5M and the X6M are the first SAV cars to roll out of BMW's M factory. The performance is expectedly breath taking and the published numbers are simply unbelievable. I wonder when one will arrive our shores? In the mean time, if you wanna drool, click here BMW X5M and here BMW X6M

Price wise? I can only suspect it will be about 230 to 24Ok?

Bridex Offer....Official

Everyone, its official....Bridex cars BMW 320i will be sold for $55800 showroom and BMW 523i for $76800 showroom. Can't confirm what the exact options/specs are but heard the 320i will be fitted with more options than the regular ones sold. Colours available are White, Black and Silver. Contact BMW for more details. Book early to avoid disappointment.

BRIDEX.....I wonder?

Just recently, i mentioned about having another APEC type offer......well.....its not that far fetched.....stay tuned and i'll see what i can dig up. Fingers crossed.

Perfect MINI launch in BRUNEI

Eventhough Mini's aren't officially on the list of models offered by BMW Brunei, Mini's have on several occasions been brought in to supplement the sales and to test the market response. Cooper S, Cooper and One's have been brought in, you might see a JDW Mini once in a while but that would have been a self-import.

As that was the status, i have been rather reluctant to add MINI's to this blog. I know for a fact that BMW Brunei are actively pursuing more MINI's for sale in Brunei. Whether that comes as One-Offs or in a proper MINI showroom, thats still being discussed. However with the arrival of the MINI Crossover(Countryman?) in the near future, that might set the stage of the perfect launch for MINI (official) in Brunei......

This Could be One HOT BMW

Just a Artist rendering of what could be a future BMW. Possibly a 6 series replacement, possibly the next R8 killer.....whatever it is, its definitely HOT.

Range Topper 7 series will be........

The Head of M division of BMW, Dr Kay announced that there will be no M7 model. He said the All wheel drive 760Li will be able to meet fill the market for those wanting similar M-like performance. For the record, the 760Li will be powered by a V12 6litre aluminium engine and if that wasn't enough......Twin Turbo as well. This will pump out around 544BHP and a max Torque of 533lb-ft. Here i thought the 750Li in town was powerful enough!

Child Car Seats

The law on children using child car seats are a bit vague, according to http://www.bruneiroadsafety.org.bn/rulesregulation/index.htm ,
children under 3 years must be fastened securely in government approved car seats. Not only does it not mention the type of restraint, it doesn't specify, seats, weight and height of child and exceptions if any...eg, taxis and buses. Have a look at this reference for uk law on child car seats - http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/law/index.htm#under3

I wonder how many parents actually take note of this law/regulation. Waiting for my kid to finish school one day, i noticed maybe only a handful of cars actually had car seats....in fact about 3 out of 10 would be a fair estimate. Maybe more should be done to make parents or future parents aware of what dangers it may pose to their precious ones.

This video will definitely wake a few people up.
http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/carseatsvideo/chapter1a.html

What really worries me, is that the authorities aren't doing much about enforcing this law. If they were, they wouldn't be so brief with their description of child car seats, they wouldn't be charging 20% tax on child car seats, hence treating it like other car parts and lastly do they even know which child car seats are approved by the government?

BMW has a range of child car seats designed specifically to fit their models. They don't come cheap but they are definitely worth the piece of mind plus you know it has met and surpassed the Ultimate Driving Machine's safety standards. Having used the junior child seat i must say, my kid settled nicely into it and it is easy for parents to install....the BMW badge makes it look awesome too.

The next time you buckle up for your Pure Driving Pleasure, make sure your kids will be safe while enjoying the ride.

Stay Safe.

Chris Bangle's Take On Car Designs.

Chris Bangle the guy responsible for most of the current(modern) BMW designs, tells us a little bit of what goes into designing a car. FYI, the new guy now is Adrian Van Hooydonk. The new 7 series and the up and coming Z4 are start of a his design era.

Headlight Restoration

Every now and then, you come across a fair few number of Continental cars whose whole looks just gets let down with the dull, blurry, faded and yellowish looking headlights. Obviously i'm biased, but generally it seems to occur more with the 3 pointed star brand cars rather than the Ultimate Driving Machines. Being a believer of Meguiar's products, let me share with you this product coming to the Brunei agent (Max Tyre) soon.

Its the Headlight Restoration Kit. From the video, it seems to fix scratches with ease. Its meant to remove the oxidised plastic as well, so it should be a highly anticipated product for all avid car lovers esp for those with older cars

BMW for APEC but.....

BMW just confirmed that a total of 295 BMWs of 7 series and 5 series will be used as the APEC official car this year but unfortunately the venue.....SINGAPORE and not Brunei. I guess there will be 295 lucky BMW owners after the meeting as the cars are usually sold at a tax free price. Wonder if BMW could be the official car for the next big International Event in Brunei. Hmmm......i wonder?

BRake(typo) Energy Regeneration.

Another simple yet effective way of achieving Efficient Dynamics. Available in the new 7 Series and the up and coming Z4 roadster.

BMW Z4 launch date...

The latest rumour is the launch date for the Z4 E89 Roadster will be in August. The exact specs and options available are still kept under wraps, however expect to see a highly optioned Z4 35i commonly the case for the launch.

E90 Commercial

Maybe something BMW Brunei can offer for future 3 series customers

Another great ad for the 3 series. Would definitely be nice to see these ads in the showroom or on the local media

Show Off your Beemer(Bimmer) here...

Am trying to get BMW owners to share photos of their rides on this blog. Not only share with us what you like, dislike, added, modified or thinking of doing, but also a brief history of your Ultimate Driving Machine. You can distort the licence plate if you like. Looking forward to seeing some awesome local Beemers(Bimmers). email to bmw8brunei@gmail.com

3 Series GT?

This will be the evolution of the 3 Series into the GT range. It looks aggressively smart and proportional plus with a 3 litre twin turbo engine, the 335i GT could be the next big hit. Could we see this in Brunei?

X1 in motion.....

BMW X1 Promotional Footage from MotoringFile/BimmerFile on Vimeo.

BMW Technology......What Makes It a Driver's Car.

50:50 weight distribution.

The perfect balance of performance and precision: the ideal distribution of weight between the front and rear axles makes your BMW superbly agile.

Through the intelligent use of lightweight components and innovative production processes, it is possible to keep the vehicle weight to a minimum while at the same time achieving optimum weight distribution. The front and rear axles are made entirely out of aluminium, and in some models (BMW 5 Series and 6 Series), the entire front of the vehicle is made of this light yet strong metal. Engine components are made of aluminium, or alloys containing magnesium, and carbon-fibre composites further enhance your BMW's power-to-weight ratio.
Every kilo less represents a measurable increase in agility and safety, and even the vehicle’s structure can be adapted to optimise axle load - little overhang at the front, engines and transmission located as far back as possible. Weight should ideally be concentrated close to the vehicle’s centre of gravity.
Equal weight distribution results in greater agility, neutral self-steering behaviour and outstanding traction. Supported by Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) your BMW remains stable and controllable even in extreme situations: reduced weight means increased driving pleasure.

Source: BMW.com

Undoubtedly for me this is what makes BMW's a driver's car. The way it handles just instill confidence when you drive, be it a 118i or a 750Li. The Balance weight distribution is what makes it The Ultimate Driving Machine.

Offer price on the 325i Cabriolet.....

For those interested, the 325i Cabriolet is going for 112k, a one time offer (original price of 125k). More than 8k cheaper than the 325i Coupe.....very tempting.

325i coupe Vs 325i Cabrio

Just saw the latest arrival.....a 325i coupe. The 325i cabrio is selling for 125k whereas the coupe is yours for 120.8k. I must say i've always been a sucker for Coupes and Cabriolets and if i was to choose between the two, it would be a tough choice. After some careful and not impulsive thinking, i will have to opt for the coupe. Except for the " Blue Water" colour, its more practical for daily use in Brunei, its more than 4k cheaper and the stronger chassis makes a difference in handling. The Coupe also comes with the new styled idrive which has a sleeker(spider) looking control unit and more user friendly and upgraded display style.

1 Series Coupe and Cabriolet Update.

Just been told a white and silver 120i cabriolet coming soon. Also a black 125i coupe on the way.....
Having driven the 125i coupe, i can tell you first hand its offers a responsive Go-Kart feel and is by no means under powered. It is actually a detuned 2996cc 6 cylinder engine producing 218HP, so it has the torque and horses for a fun ride. If you have driven the outgoing Z4 model E85, than you can appreciate the similarities in road handling and feel. I believe its one of the better valued cars offered by BMW.

Here is a taste of the performance accessories that you can opt to get.....

Official X1 Photos....

The official photos of the X1 are out and its pretty nice too. I was slightly skeptical about the looks when i saw the teasers and spy photos but its actually quite a nice looker. The rear is the nicest bit......the front, probably not far off from the outgoing X3. The Havana colour seems to be quite fitting for it.

Launch for the BMW Z4...

Sources has it that the launch date for the BMW Z4 E89 is on 26th July......I believe 2 different engine variants will be on offer, the sDrive 35i 2979cc twin turbo 306HP and the sDrive 23i 2497cc with 204HP.....Colour wise, my guess is Deep Sea Blue, Black Sapphire, Crimson Red or Havanna......

5 Series Commercial.

The 5 series or E60 has been out for a good 5 years now. Already spy photos of the next generation 5 Series are coming out. The E60 has been really solid for BMW. It not only looked good when it was launched, but can still turn heads effortlessly with its sharp well proportioned looks and not to mention its trademark Double Angel Eyes. Engine ranges from the 4 cylinder 520i and 520d right though to the 5 litre V10 M5. If the next generation 5 series can better the E60......it'll be awesome.

5 Series Crash Test.

For those of you considering a 5 Series, or who already have the pleasure or owning one, you may find these videos reassuring......

Maybe Next Year......

Could this 5series GT be in the showroom sometime next year? Initially, i didn't think much of the design. Looking at it now.....it reminds me of a X6 with a 5 series front end and a lower stance. Meant to have a roomier and more 7 series"ish" styling in the cabin. Could be quite popular if the price is right.

BMW Prices in Brunei Darussalam.....

For those interested in getting a Beemer in the near future, you may want to know what stocks are available or arriving shortly and what they are priced at.

Bmw 325 cab monaco blue exterior cream beige interior showroom 125k,
Bmw 335 cab Black sapphire exterior coral red interior showroom 148k,
Bmw 520i Barbera red exterior natural brown interior showroom 82800,
Bmw 530i Monaco Blue exterior black interior showroom 138k,
Bmw X3 2.0 Diesel alpine white exterior beige interior showroom 79,888,
Bmw X3 2.0 Diesel alpine white exterior black interior showroom 79,888,
Bmw X3 2.0 Diesel Black sapphire exterior black interior with panaromic roof showroom 82,800,
Bmw X5 3.0 petrol alpine white exterior black interior showroom 142k,
Bmw X5 3.0 petrol titanium silver exterior black interior showroom 142k,
Bmw X5 3.0 petrol Monaco blue exterior black interior showroom 142k,
BMW X5 3.0 diesel Titanium silver exterior black interior showroom 142k,
BMW X5 3.0 diesel Titanium silver exterior black interior showroom 142k,
BMW X5 3.0 diesel Titanium silver exterior black interior showroom 142k,
Bmw 740Li Titanium silver exterior black interior showroom 198k,
Bmw 740Li Black sapphire exterior black interior showroom 198k,
Bmw 750Li Black sapphire exterior black interior showroom 245k

Cars arriving Brunei By 7th july ,
Bmw 520D Alpine white exterior Black interior showroom 82k to 85k subject to epu approval,
Bmw 520D Black exterior Black interior showroom 82k to 85k subject to epu approval,
Bmw 520D Black exterior Black interior showroom 82k to 85k subject to epu approval,
Bmw 523i Titanium silver exterior Black interior showroom 102 to 105k subject to epu approval,
Bmw 523i Monaco Blue exterior Black interior showroom 102 to 105k subject to epu approval,


The X3 with the panoramic roof is definitely a rare specimen.....one of two in Brunei. So if you're thinking of getting a X3, that is one worth considering esp when its in black.

The 520D will be kinda new to market even though the engine is similar to the x3's 2litre diesel.

Happy Shopping!!!

The Ultimate Performer.....

Michael Jackson 1958 to 2009

Better Bang for the BUCK!!!

During this economically uncertain times, almost everyone would like to see their dollar stretch further. To help the customers, BMW Brunei has recently introduced their very popular 4.75% hire purchase interest rates. So overwhelming was the demand, that it outstripped supply....for the moment anyway.

For some, the opportunity to have in their possession a Ultimate Driving Machine is made more achievable. For others, there is still that question of "am i getting the Best Bang for My Buck". I'm sure most of you have been around to check what BMW main competitors offer....

For those Current BMW owners : What would be the one option that you'll like to see offered on your current or next Ultimate Driving Machine?

For Future BMW owners : What would be the one option that you'll like to have, making the good offer even more sweeter?

Better Late Than Never....

I know i know...its not 1st of April....but i thought i would share with you some BMW humour. BMW's advertising agency has over the last few years been coming up with almost believable ads for New BMW technological advancements.....Enjoy!

Test Drive At The Sheraton...

To all the fortunate fathers celebrating Father's Day at the Sheraton Utama Hotel tomorrow afternoon, do bring along your driving shoes. As you'll be able to test not 1 but up to 5 Ultimate Driving Machines.....the BMW 320i, BMW 520i, BMW X3 2.0d, BMW X5 3.0i and the brand new 740i. See you there tomorrow....and Happy Father's Day!

RUN FLATS......

This video is slightly on the morbid side but does bring to light how something we take for granted can be of a serious safety consequence.....(sorry bout the poor video quality)

Bridgestone is at the forefront of Runflat Technology........click here for their take on Run Flats

Personally, i like the peace of mind when i'm on my Run Flats. Having said that, there are sacrifices that one has to make, such as firmer rides and more costly to replace. Then there is the question of whether to repair or replace? What sort of punctures are repairable on Run Flats if at all? Anyone with any ideas?

In Brunei, most people opt not to change back to Run Flat Tires come time to replace them. Having contemplated such a scenario, one has to think about 1) safety in case the normal tires experiences rare blowouts 2) with the Run Flats originally fitted, normally no spare tire is provided 3) if that is the case, is there a temporary tire repair kit availble for minor punctures? 4) Can the driver do tyre changes if you indeed have a spare 5) Inconvenience.

1 Series Coupe

Only a pair of Yin and Yang 125i coupe and not to mention the limited Sedona Red 135i on our roads.......I'll let this video do the talking.....

My Engine of The Year 2009.

Definitely the Bi Turbo 2979cc straight SIX.......Winner in its engine capacity class. Winner of the Engine of the Year, for the past 2 years. Turbo's seems to be the way to go nowadays with more emphasis on putting out more horses for less fuel and emissions. The torques coming out from this power train is nothing less than brilliant. 400NM.....fantastic. Currently found on our Brunei roads in the form of 335i, X6 Xdrive 35i, 740i and a very limited edition 135i......but soon to be followed by the Z4 35i.

Having driven the X6 and 740i, i must say, it oozes power throughout the rev range......more refine on the 740i though. If it keeps churning out this sort of performance, Turbos on BMWs are here to stay.....

Safety in the SEVEN!!!

I wonder how much attention to safety people place on the cars that they consider? Looks nice not necessarily means safe. The occupants of this BMW model would definitely enjoy peace of mind.

BMW Z4 almost here......

Thought we should be prepared for the arrival of the Z4......personally i love the looks(apparently some designer were ladies). Just how a modern roadster should look like. Can't wait to have a go in one.....yummy!

lets talk about Xdrive baby......

Xdrive..... popularly found in BMW's X range of cars. Rarely seen in Brunei on the sedans or tourings as its a pricey option. Having driven BMWs with and without the Xdrive, it makes a massive difference in driving and handling. Dont confuse it with 4wd system commonly found in S"U"Vs. The Xdrive concentrates on improving traction and handling, not just to haul you out from a sticky situation. On the X5, it really makes it handle like roadster.....considering it is a 2 ton SAV, now thats a major feat.

The new X5 has been around for about close to 2 years now.......The slogan than was "The Boss is Back"......trust me it should say...."The BOSS Never Left!!!" Respect.

Showroom Etiquette in Brunei!!!

Just recently i went around a couple of the car showrooms in Brunei. Mainly to see what was on offer and see how sales etiquette has changed.

First and foremost it hasn't changed very much. There is still the idea of selling the price,installment and financial perks, rather than to sell the car. Hands up, if you've walked into a showroom and first words......satu bulan $### and nada deposit! For sure it has to be financially viable before one can afford a car. But does that mean a man who can only afford a Hyundai i10 should not be told about functions of ESP, DTC, iDrive, Adaptive Drive, Xdrive.....etc?

Partly i suspect its the trend customers are showing when the enter the showroom. They like the looks, can afford the price......3 months salary slip...here you go. How many of us actually drill the salesman (ahem....sales executive) about the functions, the safety aspect, the handling, factory recall and maintenance issues?

At one particular showroom, the salesperson couldn't even be bothered to tell me about the car, except for....its made in Japan and here's the catalog. Not so long ago, while i was in the showroom where they stock the popular 3 pointed stars, i literally circled a SUV 3 times without any salesperson even approaching to ask if i was interested. And btw, they were all chatting away starring at me parading away.....away out of the door eventually.

At the home of the Ultimate Driving Machine.....biased as i may be, the attitude is slightly different. The staff are genuinely friendly and approachable. Not as informative on technical issues as i may like, but better than most of the competition in Brunei. smartly dressed and always willing to offer a no obligations test drive so that you can experience for yourself The Sheer Driving Pleasure. At the end of the day, they are indeed sales executives but they genuinely take pride in being part of the process for you to Own your Ultimate Driving Machine.

BMW's R8 Killer?

Could this be BMW's first supercar? A Audi R8 challenger? One can only hope......