BMW launches teaser video of new faired sport motorcycle, possibly F 450 RR
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AutoPapo
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BMW launches teaser video of new faired sport motorcycle, possibly F 450 RR

BMW has released a new teaser video showcasing a faired sport motorcycle. This new model is scheduled to be officially unveiled on the 15th. Although complete technical details have not yet been revealed, there are indications that it will be a variation of the 450, derived from the platform of the new F 450 GS, following the standard set by the F 450 R.

The likely name for this variant is F 450 RR, which follows the brand's nomenclature for base models (F) and faired sport versions (RR). Visually, the model strongly resembles the manufacturer's 1000 RR motorcycles, whether the 'S' or 'M' versions. It features front wings, characteristic of German sport design, in addition to a fuel tank that appears robust and a low rider seat, while the passenger seat offers considerable space.

In terms of safety and components, the model is expected to feature an ABS system, along with single discs on both the front and rear wheels. Even without final technical specifications, the model's base should be identical to that of the last two 450 motorcycles.

If everything goes as expected, the new 'F 450 RR' will be equipped with a 420 cc parallel twin, liquid-cooled engine, and a six-speed gearbox. This engine generates 48 hp at 8,750 rpm and 4.38 kgf·m at 6,750 rpm, values adjusted to meet the A2 category of the European driving license, which restricts power for less experienced riders. This limit justifies the little change expected in the technical sheet of the faired version.

In the recently launched F 450 R, BMW mentioned having performed an engine recalibration focused on asphalt performance, without modifying power or torque; this change is noticeable in the sound and behavior of the bike. There is a possibility of a third adjustment being implemented in the new RR.

Both 450 motorcycles maintain 80% of their torque available at 3,000 rpm, use a crankshaft with 135° phased pins, and feature a balancing shaft to reduce vibrations. The riding configuration should also be shared: the steel tubular chassis integrates the engine as a structural part, and it uses a 43 mm inverted KYB fork in the front and a cast aluminum swingarm with a central KYB shock absorber in the rear.

The R's 17-inch wheels come with 110/70 tires in the front and 150/60 in the rear. The braking system includes a 310 mm disc with a four-piston Brembo caliper in the front and a 240 mm disc with a one-piston ByBre caliper in the rear, consistent with the single discs seen in the teaser.

The electronic package of the naked F 450 R is already quite complete from the entry version, including ABS Pro (which works in curves), DTC and DBC traction control (to prevent unwanted acceleration during hard braking), and MSR (which manages engine braking during downshifts). Features such as Rain, Road, and Dynamic modes, a 6.5-inch TFT display, full LED lighting, and a USB-C port are standard equipment, while the quickshifter and automated ERC clutch are reserved for the more expensive versions.

The main difference between a naked bike and a faired bike lies in the riding posture, seat height (790 mm on the R), and suspension tuning. Although the curb weight is referenced at 175 kg, the addition of the fairing may modify this value. None of these details has been disclosed by BMW so far.

BMW has not yet provided information on prices or launch markets for the F 450 R, much less for the sport bike to be shown on the 15th. The brand has only confirmed the F 450 GS, which will be manufactured in Manaus (AM), but it also lacks a defined price or debut date.

Given that all three motorcycles share the same base, assembling the faired version on the same production line would be the logical path, fueling local enthusiast expectations. However, a logical path does not constitute confirmation, as BMW has not announced anything about the arrival of the naked or sport bike in Brazil yet. The AutoPapo vehicle attempted to contact BMW Brazil for more information about the new 450s but received no response. The project is recent, and it is likely that even the Brazilian plant does not have exact data on the arrival of these motorcycles. The vehicle's communication channels remain open should BMW wish to comment.

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Automotive News: Combustion BMW 3 Series, Fiat Argo X, Electric Range Rover Sport, and Porsche Multimedia
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flatout.com.br

Automotive News: Combustion BMW 3 Series, Fiat Argo X, Electric Range Rover Sport, and Porsche Multimedia

The automotive market has received several new developments, including the launch of the new combustion engine BMW 3 Series, initial glimpses of the Fiat Argo X, the electric version of the Range Rover Sport, and a multimedia update for classic Porsche models.

New Combustion BMW 3 Series

After just over six months since the electric variant, BMW introduced the new combustion engine 3 Series, identified by the code G50. Although both are named 3 Series and share strong visual similarities, they utilize distinct platforms. The visual identity follows the Neue Klasse style adopted by the manufacturer, with standardized headlights and taillights.

The combustion 3 Series features a more elongated hood, indicating its basis on the CLAR II platform, an evolution of the previous generation's architecture. BMW highlighted improvements such as widened front and rear tracks and a revised steering system, making it more precise and communicative. In contrast, the electric i3 model is built on the NAx architecture, the same one used in the iX3 SUV.

The vehicle's design occupies a peculiar position; although new BMWs rarely receive unanimous acclaim at launch, the trend suggests that enthusiasts will become accustomed to them over time. However, the new 3 Series carries the weight of the Neue Klasse name, referencing the iconic 1960s BMW 2002 without direct visual references, which might displease purists.

On the other hand, the G50 aligns with the brand's modern trend, presenting cleaner lines and more balanced proportions, eliminating excessive creases and folds and the prominent grille that was the target of criticism. While it cannot be classified as ugly, current criticism points to an excessively generic character.

Dynamics remain a strength of BMW. In the 3 Series G50, the highlight is the new M350 xDrive, which tops the combustion line in the absence of a new M3. This engine uses a classic 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six, complemented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. Power reaches 443 hp, allowing the sedan to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds.

A notable feature for enthusiasts is the system called 'Drift Moment.' BMW adapted a functionality typical of pure M models, allowing the xDrive system to disconnect the front axle, directing 100% of the power to the rear wheels for lateral maneuvers in corners.

For daily use, the 320 version maintains the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, also with mild-hybrid assistance, generating 208 hp and coupled to the eight-speed transmission. The brand also confirmed the existence of an entry-level 318 version with 154 hp for Europe and anticipates plug-in hybrid versions for next year.

To accommodate these powertrains, the chassis tuning was specifically developed for the gasoline platform, incorporating a dedicated front suspension geometry, a recalibrated multi-link rear setup, and stiffer bushings compared to the electric model.

Internally, the differences between the electric and gasoline versions are minimized, and the cabin embraces the minimalism of the Neue Klasse language. The interior is dominated by an imposing 17.9-inch curved central display, focused on the driver, along with a new panoramic head-up display. The operating system is BMW OS X, based on Android, promising continuous updates and signaling BMW's commitment to reducing physical buttons on the dashboard.

In terms of dimensions, the G50 underwent a typical generational transition elongation to reinforce its road presence. The sedan now measures 4.76 meters long (5.2 cm longer than the previous one), is 1.85 m wide, and increased the wheelbase by almost 1 cm, reaching 2.88 meters.

Production was also segregated: while the electric i3 will be manufactured at the historic Munich headquarters, the entire combustion line of the new 3 Series will come from the Dingolfing assembly lines.

Considering the positive and negative aspects, BMW managed to find an intelligent way to preserve the mechanical essence that established the 3 Series, without neglecting what many consider the future of the industry. It remains to await the launch of the new M3.

Fiat Begins Revealing the Argo X

So far, everything known about the Fiat Argo X, which may be the brand's most relevant launch in the coming months, came from journalistic investigations and unofficial photos. However, the Italian-Minas manufacturer has finally released the first teasers with details of the vehicle.

The details are limited, consisting only of the emblem with a square typography and a close-up image of what appears to be the headlight. An initial surprise is that Fiat apparently will maintain the pixelated headlight of the European Grande Panda, the model that will serve as the basis for the Argo X. This is not a common aesthetic solution and certainly won't please everyone, but it is undeniable that Fiat will preserve the tradition of incorporating playful and creative design elements, as happened with the New Uno last decade (although this also did not have universal acceptance).

It is crucial to note that the Argo X should present significant structural changes compared to the model sold in the international market, given that its apparent function is to gradually replace the current Argo in the brand's entry-level lineup. This reflects Fiat's pattern of adapting its 'national versions,' simplifying engines and suspension systems for the Brazilian market, aiming for greater price competitiveness.

It is certain that two different mechanical units will be used, depending on the version. The most basic configurations should employ the well-known 1.0 naturally aspirated Firefly three-cylinder, six-valve engine, which delivers 75 hp and 10.7 kgfm, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. More expensive versions may adopt the T200 Hybrid powertrain, equipped with a mild-hybrid system, producing 116 hp and 20.4 kgfm, always with a CVT gearbox simulating seven speeds. This engine is the same one used in the newly launched Jeep Avenger.

The Argo X is expected to arrive at dealerships soon, with projections pointing to the last quarter of 2026, although optimists bet on October.

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