Two of the most significant introductions for the U.S. market at the Frankfurt Auto Show are the BMW X1 and the 5 Series Gran Turismo. The X1 is obviously the smaller, entry level version in the X line which has the X3, X5 and X6. The engines: a 258 horsepower straight 6 will get 25 mpg in the X1 xDrive28i and there's the European 204 horsepower twin turbo four cylinder xDrive23d (pictured above).
A more interesting entry that won't have the popularity of the X1 is the 535i Gran Turismo which its project director Hans-Jurgen Branz calls "a business jet on wheels". Either a five-seater or optional four-seat configuration with rear arm rest to "travel in style" as Branz puts it. The engines: a 407 horsepower V8 mated to an 8-speed transmission and a 306 horsepower turbo 6. Europe of course will have the 245 horsepower diesel power plant. A unique feature is the two-door truck which can open a small access to the rear or a larger opening when the tailgate opens in hatchback style. This niche 5 Series hits showrooms in Europe Oct. 24 and arrives in the U.S. in December. An X-drive version will be coming next summer after the all-new 5 Series sedan comes out in the Spring.
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