BMW 1 Series
BMW is poised to shake up the compact executive segment with the arrival of the new 1 Series. Featuring four engines, three gearboxes and rear wheel drive, a combination not found in any of its competitors, the BMW 1 Series makes its entrance in Autumn 2004 and will immediately offer a new benchmark to driving dynamics in its class. Engines include a 1.6-litre unit as an entry-level 116i and a 118d diesel unit. A 2.0-litre engine tops the range from launch.
Measuring just 4.23 metres long, but with a relatively long wheelbase of 2.66 metres, driving dynamics have been cleverly worked into a practical four-seater. The new 1 Series offers ample shoulder and legroom for rear passengers and, thanks to split fold rear seats that fold virtually flat, a similarly generous luggage capacity of between 330 to 1150 litres of storage space.
Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control, Dynamic Brake Control and Electronic Differential Lock help ensure the 1 Series provides the highest standards of active safety without impacting unnecessarily on driving enjoyment. An airbag system that includes head airbags for all occupants means the new BMW 1 Series also meets the most stringent passive safety requirements.
The 2004 BMW 325 returns with little changes from last years model. New for this year in all coupe and convertibles are new front and rear bumper contours, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlight control and a newly configured climate-control panel. Standard in all models is the suspension system, a vehicle and key memory that allows users to personalize electronic comfort, convenience and security features and a multi-function remote control that includes selective unlocking and automatic climate control. Also standard in the 325 models is the anti-theft AM/FM/CD audio system with Radio Data System and a diversity antenna system. 
For 2004 the BMW 5-Series has been completely redesigned. The new line-up is made up of four models - 525i, 530i, 545i and 545i six-speed. Changes to the models include enhanced passenger comfort, increased size for more passenger and trunk room, an all new body that's stiff but more lightweight than the previous model, and a new Active Front Steering System. The AFS also works with Adaptive Headlights which are controlled in conjuction with the angle of the steering wheel, yaw rate and speed of the car. Also available on the 5-Series is the same Active Cruise Control on the 7-Series models. The system uses radar technology to maintain a safe distance at highway speeds. Options include Active Roll Stabilization and Run-flat Tires . 
For 2004, BMW introduces the all new 6-Series. Models for the 6-Series include the 645Ci coupe and the 645CiC convertible. Both models are powered by a 4.4L V8 engine producing 333 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque and capable of reaching 0-60 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds. Three six-speed transmission choices are available along with sport suspension and adaptive cruise control. The interior can be ordered with either dark or light birch appliques as well as heated front seats. The optional Sport package offers active steering, sport bucket seats, shadowline exterior trim, and unique 19+ Ellipsoid Alloy wheels with performance tires. Additional options include park distance control, a head-up display, and Sirius Satellite radio. 
For 2004, BMW returns with the 760Li to the 7 Series line-up consisting of the 745i and 745Li. The 745's are powered by a 4.4L V-8 engine producing 325-hp while the 760Li is powered by 6L V-12 that generates 438-hp and 444 lb-ft of torque. The AM/FM stereo cassette player is still available as a no charge option on all models. The heated steering wheel is available when ordered with heated front seats or the Luxury Seating Package on the 745's. The Premium Sound Package features a Logic seven premium audio system and an in-dash six-disc CD changer. Also available on the 745's are rear door mounted side impact air bags for rear passengers. The 760Li comes very close to being completely loaded besides some minor optional features. ten months exclusively in white and silver. 
The 2004 BMW M3 returns again available in coupe and convertible bodystyles. The M3 is equipped with a 3.2L 6-cylinder engine that produces 333 horsepower at 7900 rpm. For 2004, aluminum interior trim returns. The optional Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), includes Parking Distance Control (PDC), which is also available as stand alone option. Nappa leather sport bucket seats are standard on convertible models, while power lumbar support seats and a removable hardtop roof are available as options. Also, the rear spoiler delete is now available as a no charge option. The optional Premium Package is available on coupe models only, includes leather-trimmed sport seats, power seats, and a power moonroof. 
BMW's new all-wheel-drive wagon is sportier but slightly smaller than most luxury SUVs. X3 slots below BMW's larger, costlier X5 SUV, but it has virtually the same passenger space, more cargo volume, and is some 600 lb lighter. It takes its inline 6-cyl powertrains from BMW's 3-Series cars. The X3 2.5i has a 184-hp 2.5 liter, the X3 3.0i a 225-hp 3.0. Both team with a 6-speed manual transmission or optional 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. The X3 seats five and has a liftgate without separate-opening glass. Despite 8 inches of ground clearance, X3 is intended for only light-duty off-road work. It shares with X5 BMW's new xDrive AWD, designed in large part to enhance on-road handling. xDrive lacks low-range gearing, but hill descent control automatically limits steep downhill speeds to a crawl. ABS and antiskid/traction control are standard. So are front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags; rear torso side airbags are optional. X3 comes with 17-inch wheels. A Sport Package option includes firmer suspension, 18-inch wheels with all-season tires, and sport front seats. Optional on the 3.0 are 18-inch wheels with summer performance treads. Leather upholstery is optional, as are dual sunroofs with sliding front panel and glass rear skylight. Other options include a navigation system, xenon headlamps, and front- and rear-obstacle detection . 
The X5 enters 2004 with some minor revisions. The 4.6is model has been discontinued leaving two trims: 3.0i and 4.4i. Besides receiving an exterior update, the X5 upgrades it AWD system with the introduction of the xDrive system. Also new for this year are the six-speed manual (3.0i) and six-speed automatic transmissions. The 4.4i reformats it's 315-hp V8 engine by adding a completely variable intake system and the Valvetronic feature. New dealer-installed options include a satellite radio and a hands-free cellular phone. Heated rear seats are made an option on the 3.0i, while xenon headlamps are made standard on 4.4i models. Other options include the BMW Assist communication system, parking distance control, and side impact airbags. 
The Z4 remains largely unchanged since its introduction last year and is available two models - 2.5 and 3.0 Roadster. Standard equipment on both models includes rollover protection system, dynamic stability control, tire pressure monitoring system, passenger airbag deactivation switch and limited slip differential. Optional equipment includes bi-xenon headlamps, navigation system, heated seats, 8-way power seats with memory and fully automatic power top. The 3.0 upgrades the 2.5 with such features as Premium Sound System, fog lights, leather seating, cruise control, and on-board computer. Available on both models is a STEPTRONIC automatic transmission or SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) 6-speed manual transmission.