[Aqualung]

The current (October 04) issue of Automobile Mag has a blurb on the 1-seres "one to watch".

They report that in 2006, a "striking two-door notchback coupe will be launched" and come to the US. It will most likely get a 2.5 liter good for 218 HP. Then, a four-seat convertible, sporty wagon, compact Z1 roadster, and brawny 300 HP M version.

But....

• "the rear-seat compartment, which is disappointingly short, narrow, and low. To add insult to injury, access is awkward, the footwell is cramped, and the packaging borders on the claustrophobic.
• The driver and the front-seat passenger, however, have little reason to complain.
• The controls fail to confuse (unless you specify the nav system and, with it, iDrive.
• The clutch is velvety smooth on the way to the grocery store, but it can be sharp-fanged at the lights.
• With the front wheels free of propulsion duties, the steering is a gem.
• But what it desperately needs is a more inspiring drivetrain. Although the 163 HP diesel fited to the most powerful Euro modelis OK for torque and fuel mileage, it fails to make the adrenaline flow. The ridiculously overgeared six-speed gearbox shares part of the blame.

Overall a fairly positive article. And a fun bonus is an amusing story of a Forumula 1 neophyte going to the Canadian Grand Prix..."Since I'm an F1 ignoramus and Heather asks if there will be mullets at the race..."

The cover story is the "100 Coolest Cars". The MINI Cooper is #85, whilst the 1961-71 Mini is #67. The 63-67 Corvette Sting Ray is #1. Oh yes, and a quick review of the A3 too...I didn't realize it has that new grille...

[R1]

I'm test driving a BMW 1 Series this weekend at the UK launch party at my dealers.