Tag Archives: BMW

News

BMW had a better start to the year than Audi and Mercedes-Benz

According to Automotive News BMW has taken a commanding lead in the European executive car segment, with the 5 Series outperforming key rivals from Mercedes-Benz and Audi in Q1 2025.

Between January and April, BMW sold 20,402 units of the 5 Series across Europe—an impressive 56% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Notably, over 60% of buyers chose the Touring wagon variant, highlighting strong consumer preference for practicality alongside luxury.

In second place, Mercedes-Benz recorded 15,811 sales of the E-Class, up 19% year-on-year. Audi followed with 13,774 units of the A6 sold, marking a 10% increase over the previous year.

Electric variants are also gaining traction. BMW’s i5 electric model posted strong growth with 8,843 units sold—a 55% jump. It led the premium EV sedan segment, followed by the Audi A6 e-tron (7,460 units) and the Mercedes-Benz EQE (3,740 units).

When it comes to powertrain choices for the 5 Series, buyers are nearly evenly split: plug-in hybrids and diesels each accounted for 30% of sales, while pure electric models followed closely with 27%. Traditional gasoline engines made up the remaining 11%.

Although this generation of the 5 Series debuted just two years ago, BMW is already preparing a redesign—continuing the brand’s tradition of staying ahead of the curve, even amid strong sales momentum.

Source: Automotive News

Auctions

1976 Alpina B2 is for sale

Ever since 1965, Alpina has worked closely with BMW turning their cars into extraordinary creations, such as the Alpina B2, which was produced in the 70s. This model is considered by many BMW fans to be the first true limousine from the Bavarian manufacturer. One of the very few examples powered by a naturally aspirated engine, the 1976 Alpina B2 is now up for auction.

The Alpina B2 is based on the BMW E12 528, a car produced between 1972 and 1981. This example has been completely restored, including the engine, transmission, steering, suspension and rear axle. It is painted in Fjord Blue, while the bodywork is adorned with blue and green stripes at the front, sides and rear. The car is in excellent condition with only 14,893 miles on the odometer. It sits on lightweight 14-inch Alpina wheels with new tires.

Inside, the seats are upholstered in fabric, while the steering wheel is wrapped in leather. In front of the driver is an Alpine instrument cluster, and the interior also features wood accents on the door panels, dashboard, and shifter.

Under the bonnet is a naturally aspirated 3.0-L inline-six with 233 hp and 265 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The engine is equipped with three dual carburetors, forged pistons, an improved combustion chamber, and a reworked crankshaft.

The auction will take place on May 16, 2025, and the car’s estimated value is $150,000 – $175,000.

Source: Mecum Auctions

Gallery:

1976 Alpina B2 is for sale
Motorsport

2026 BMW M2 Racing

In November 2023, BMW began development of a racing car, the M2 Racing, which M boss Frank van Meel said would offer a lot of performance and enjoyment for less money. Sales will start in June and the car will cost 98,000 euros.

The BMW M2 Racing is powered by a 2.0-L turbo 4-cylinder engine (B48), instead of the 3.0-L inline 6-cylinder, which develops 313 hp and 420 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a 7-speed ZF automatic transmission with a mechanical differential lock, which sends power to the rear wheels. It can reach a top speed of 270 km/h.

The car is equipped with LED headlights, rear fog lights, a traction control system, a speed limiter when entering the pits, KW shock absorbers, adjustable stabilizers, and air conditioning. Optionally, the car comes with a rear spoiler, brake pads optimized for multi-hour races, night lights, a data transfer/processing system, a jack, and an illuminated number plate. It sits on lightweight and reinforced 18-inch wheels wrapped in 265/660 Good Year Eagle tires.

The cabin features GT-AM seats, seat belts, a fire extinguisher, and a roll cage that meet current FIA standards.

Source: BMW

Gallery:

2026 BMW M2 Racing