SoMo Showdown – 2009 BMW 128i Convertible vs 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible

September 15th, 2009

SoMo Showdown:

2009 BMW 128i Convertible vs 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible

Here we have two great cars testing their mettle in a standard array of road tests. Though South BMW awards victory to the 2009 BMW 128i in most of the tests, the MINI keeps it close. The MINI’s ability to remain a worthy opponent throughout the battle is even more impressive when considering the MSRP difference between the two. In the end, both cars prove themselves to be an incredible value on the performance circuit. While the BMW 128i proves the victor in the 0-60 and quarter mile categories, the MINI’s triumph on skid pad shows its trademark bulldog stance and go-kart handling can’t be counted out of the fight.

Whether you decide on the BMW 128i or the MINI Cooper S, South BMW has the car for you. With a vast selection of vehicles and flexible financing options available onsite and through BMW FS, you can find the perfect BMW or MINI for your South Florida lifestyle. Shop our selection online or visit us in person at South BMW. At South BMW, the customer is always the winner!

BMW Vision Efficiency Dynamics

September 15th, 2009

It gets hip to go green

“Going green” has proven difficult for America. Most green vehicles have proven to be impractical, half-baked and, in some cases, produce more environmental harm during their production than a standard fuel-consuming vehicle. It appears the road to true freedom from fossil fuels is longer than we first expected.

However, BMW appears to be much further along that road than its competitors with its Vision Efficient Dynamics concept vehicle. The concept reveals BMW’s foray into “fuel sipping” technologies, and this one isn’t about hydrogen.

The core of the VED concept is to provide a more middle-of-the-road option to the mass market than the options currently available on the market. It combines a three cylinder diesel engine with two electrical motors to provide speed, power and, best of all, unparalleled fuel economy to deliver a combined horsepower of over 350HP. It is a hybrid concept that doesn’t require an additional national infrastructure change (adding hydrogen stations to every corner) or other power sources lining the roadways of the world. It is something, with a good mass marketing approach, that could be introduced to the population immediately and without dependency on a national change to our infrastructure.

With the practicality of a Prius, the performance of a BMW and the aggressive styling of the world’s best sports cars, the VED is a gorgeous solution to improved fuel economy without sacrifice of performance. This is finally the car that makes it hip to be green, and does it without compromise.

SoMo Showcase: 2011 Infiniti M

September 15th, 2009

MIAMI, FL: Last month, the all-new 2011 Infiniti M made its virtual appearance at the 59th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, and the press has been discussing it ever since. This 3rd generation of Infiniti’s popular M will be the first one sold around the world in all 32 markets that Infiniti serves.

This next-generation design will be offered in a V6 and V8 trim level. The M with the V8 is expected to produce more than 400 HP, and both will have a completely redesigned body, with classical sports sedan proportions, aggressive styling and a low front end sporting deeply sculpted fenders. It will be no surprise to anyone that the inside is rich in luxury and an enhanced quality feel…in a nutshell, typical Infiniti attention to the finer, richer things in life. Performance from the engine has improved, while fuel economy has increased as well.

As usual, the all-new 2011 Infiniti M will be laden with the latest in technology. A specific one to note would be the revolutionary blind spot intervention system. This industry-first feature will alert the driver if another vehicle is detected in an adjacent lane during a lane change, and then help the driver to return the vehicle to the center of his own.

The 2011 Infiniti M Lease or purchase will be available starting in the spring of 2010. Here’s some early shots of this beautiful car, brought to you by South Infiniti.

SoMo Showcase: 2010 Honda Accord

September 15th, 2009


Introducing the 2010 Honda Accord

MIAMI, FL: “The 2010 model year for the Honda Accord lineup offers something for a diverse range of people seeking anything from a comfortable family car to an aggressive coupe with looks and power”, says Erik Berkman, VP of American Honda Inc.

The 2010 Honda Accord Sedan’s exterior is an upscale and powerful presence with a distinctive 6-sided grille, flared fenders and inset character lines sculpted throughout the body. The Coupe, building on the sportiness of the sedan, looks even more muscular with an elongated stance, projector beam headlights and a sleek, lower profile.

Available engines include a V6 and a 4-cylinder engine. The 3.5 liter, 24 valve SOHC i-VTEC V6 produces 271 HP with VCM while the 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine produces 190-HP. As usual, the cabin has a host of safety features standard, and is no deviation of the expected Honda quality and attention to detail.

All in all, the changes to the 2010 Honda Accord promises to make both the sedan and coupe models remain at the top of their class. All the remarkable enhancements only enhances the appeal of the Accord model, and supports its already legendary reputation in quality and customer satisfaction.

Additional details on a Miami lease or purchase of a 2010 Honda Accord can be found by visiting South Honda online.

New 2010 Insight

September 15th, 2009

MIAMI, FL: Honda introduces their entry to win the hybrid crown with their 2010 Honda Insight. With four-doors, a sedan shape, better MPG and a lower price tag, the Insight is a clear threat to its primary competitor, the Toyota Prius.

The insight begins its challenge to the Prius with its Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system. IMA has a 1.3 liter 4-cylinder gas engine producing 88 HP and 88 lb-ft of torque. This is complimented by an electric motor the generates another 13 HP and 58 lb-ft of torque – which is powerful enough power the Insight up to 30 MPH without even engaging the gas engine. Additionally, the electric engine’s battery packs are charged in transit thanks to regenerative braking. Braking in the car feeds the battery a new charge. Even when the electrical motor is the only thing running, the gas engine’s crankshaft never stops spinning, which prevents lurches and rumbling seen in the electric-to-gas transitions in the first generation of hybrid vehicles.

Acceleration is adequately perky, and fuel economy is absolutely stellar. The Insight is rated at an EPA-Estimated 40 MPG City/ 43 Highway / 41 Combined, but it is surprisingly easy to exceed this in regular travel. In addition to saving at the pumps every week for the life of the car, you’ll also be saving big on the price tag. A loaded Insight EX WITH the navigation system doesn’t cost much more than a bare-bones Prius, which puts the Insight in a nice position during comparisons.

Inside, the cabin is loaded with the high quality and thoughtful ergonomics that is typical fare for Honda. Drivers will appreciate the comfort options, including the telescoping steering column which the Prius does not have, and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. All major controls are intuitively-placed including the standard automatic climate system.

The Honda Insight is by far the most enjoyable hybrid hatchback to drive. The ride is firm and the handling is confident, and there is a seamless transition between electric and fuel powering. Stop in at South Honda today, and give the Insight a good look. If you are in the Miami market to lease or purchase an affordable, economical hybrid, it is hard to beat the Insight’s value.

Take a look at the 2010 Honda Insight and South Honda’s new and used car selection by clicking here.