IAA 2011: Alpina Charges into Frankfurt with the B6 Bi-Turbo Cabrio

The pride and joy of the Alpina stand in Frankfurt is the new B6 Bi-Turbo Cabrio based on the new BMW 650i Convertible.

The German tuning house has beaten its factory support to the punch with a high-performance version of the roofless 6-Series that boasts an uprated 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine generating 507-horsepower and 700Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of peak torque between 3,000 and 4,750 rpm.

All that power is transferred to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic Switch Tronic transmission. The B6 Bi-Turbo Cabrio runs the 0-100km/h (62mph) sprint in 4.8 seconds and has a top speed of 311km/h (193mph), while returning an average fuel consumption of 10.9lt/100km (21.6mpg US).

The transformation also includes some subtle aero bits such as the front apron, boot lid spoiler and rear diffuser along with a set of larger alloy wheels shod in performance tires and a variety of interior mods like the bespoke trim and leather upholstery.

 

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IAA 2011: European Debut for the 2012 Mazda3 Facelift

Making its European debut alongside the all-new CX-5 compact crossover in Frankfurt is the facelift version of the Mazda3.

The updated C-segment model, which is available in both four-door sedan and five-door hatchback derivatives, features some minor cosmetic touches in the form of a reworked front end with a different bumper and grille design, new alloy wheels and a restyled rear bumper.

Inside, the Japanese company claims that the Mazda3 is now an even nicer place to be thanks to the use of higher quality materials and new colors, improved ease-of-use for the driver, new equipment and a quieter cabin.

The updated Mazda3 retains the same engine lineup as before including four petrols and three diesels paired to either a six or a five-speed manual, or a five-speed automatic transmission.

 

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