Have a happy New Year everyone! And please be safe out there.

Congratulations, Matt, on This Outstanding 5-Star Review!

"I highly recommend Matt if you want a stress-free, no pressure, informative car buying experience..." - Customer

Click here to read the complete review on our DealerRater page!

Hey Fans! Take a look at the BMW xDrive and be surprised beyond expectations!

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Congratulations, Michael, on This Outstanding 5-Star Review!

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“I really enjoyed working with Michael. I had a hard time deciding which vehicle to buy, but he was very patient and objective while helping me make the right choice…” – Jason H.

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Thank You, Frank, for This 5-Star Review!

"The best experience I ever had buying a new vehicle..."- Frank L.

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Congratulations, Scott, on Another 5-Star Review!

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“We felt like we were a priority to him. I will always drive a BMW and will come back to him every time…” - Customer

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2014 BMW Z4 roadster revealed ahead of Detroit auto show

BMW will update its Z4 roadster with a series of subtle exterior and interior refinements for the 2014 model year. The update keeps the Z4's sweeping hood, long wheelbase, and low-slung rear end. The folding hardtop stays as well.

So what changes? Well, there are a few new colors including gray metallic, silver metallic and a striking color called Valencia orange metallic. That last can only be had if you opt for the Hyper Orange package, which also includes orange door-panel trim and orange on the lower part of instrument panel. The black leather seats have orange stitching and an orange accent stripe.

The Hyper Orange package replaces the previously available Citrus Yellow package. Also new inside are glossy black surrounds for the air vents and the iDrive control system's folding display.

Engine choices remain the same, with one turbo four-cylinder and two turbocharged inline-sixes. The four develops 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter inline-six produces 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, while the top-of-the-line six develops 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.

The comfort, sport and sport-plus modes, which adjust the stability system, gearbox and suspension, remain as well.

The 2014 BMW Z4 roadster will be shown first at the upcoming Detroit auto show and will arrive in U.S. showrooms next spring.

SOURCE: Autoweek

Thanks Rich and Holly, for this 5-Star Review!

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“In summary, it was a wonderful buying experience and renewed my faith in Checkered Flag BMW. Now, I want to buy another car from them but I already have four vehicles…” - Rich and Holly A.

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Another Happy 5-Star Customer Review!

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“Our experience at Checkered Flag BMW was FABULOUS. On a scale of 1 (low) to 5 (top), Scott and the Checkered Flag team is a #6. They don't get any better…” - Senchova

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Automotive Tip: Maintain your Transmission

Check out this tip from Reader's Digest about maintaining your transmission: "Change automatic transmission fluid and filter after the first 5,000 miles (8,000 km) and after every 25,000 miles (40,000 km) or two years thereafter, or as recommended in your owner’s manual. If you use your vehicle for towing, change the fluid and filter every year. For manual transmissions, change the lubricant (motor oil or gear oil, depending on the car) after the first 5,000 miles and after every 50,000 (80,000 km) thereafter. Use synthetic motor oil or gear lube for longer transmission life unless the manufacturer recommends otherwise."

Another Happy Customer Review!

"Our experience at Checkered Flag BMW was FABULOUS. Would DEFINITELY recommend Scott and the Checkered Flag Team in Virginia Beach again..." - Senchova

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Without a doubt, this is one of the most impressive things we've seen in a long time. Check out Porter as he cruises around the track!

2012 BMW Championship Earns PGA TOUR’s Tournament of Year Honor

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – December 11, 2012… The 2012 BMW Championship was named the Tournament of the Year by the PGA TOUR. Held at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Carmel, IN the BMW Championship was one of the top attended tournaments on the PGA TOUR in 2012 attracting more than 143,000 spectators and raising more $3.1 million on behalf of the Evans Scholars Foundation, the sole beneficiary of the event.

Hosted by BMW and conducted by the Western Golf Association, the BMW Championship is the penultimate event in the FedExCup Playoffs. All proceeds from the BMW Championship benefit the Evans Scholars Foundation, the WGA’s 82-year-old sister organization, which has been sending caddies-to-college since 1930. Since 2007 BMW has raised more than $14.1 million for the charity.

“On behalf of the PGA TOUR, I am pleased to acknowledge and congratulate the BMW Championship and the Western Golf Association on an outstanding event and to recognize the tournament team for its outstanding efforts,” said Andy Pazder, PGA TOUR executive vice-president and chief of operations. “The Western Golf Association and title sponsor BMW should be extremely proud of being recognized as the best among their peers on the TOUR.”

Pazder said the event’s successful tournament activation, ticket and corporate sales, attention to detail, and player amenities all played a significant role in its earning Tournament-of-the-Year status. The award was presented Thursday at the PGA TOUR Tournament Meetings in La Quinta, Calif.

Since the event’s inception BMW has made an effort to heighten the tournament experience for both spectators and players. BMW owner benefits have included complimentary tickets, exclusive parking shuttle transportation on-site, concierge service and private hospitality areas featuring some of the best views of the course. In addition, tournament patrons were treated to a 10,000 square foot BMW Experience interactive area, dynamic BMW vehicle displays, and premium concession and merchandise areas.

Players had the opportunity to test drive some of BMW’s newest vehicles throughout the week along with a unique “BMW Driving Experience”. BMW also staged a table tennis exhibition for PGA TOUR players to challenge US table tennis player Timothy Wang.

“On behalf of BMW of North America and the Western Golf Association, I would like to thank the PGA TOUR for honoring the BMW Championship as Tournament of the Year,” said Western Golf Association vice president of tournaments Vince Pellegrino. “The PGA TOUR co-sponsors more than 40 outstanding events each season, and to be singled out from among this esteemed group is truly humbling.

“Much of the credit for this honor should go to BMW, because its unparalleled commitment to excellence sets high standards for the event at every level of execution,” Pellegrino said. “The support BMW provides is unique among sports marketing partners. The WGA and Evans Scholars Foundation are grateful to have BMW as our sponsor.”

The BMW Championship also received PGA TOUR Tournament of the Year honors in 2008, when Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis hosted the event.

The 2013 BMW Championship is set for September 9-15 at Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest, Ill.

Courtesy of BMW USA news

Thanks for the five-star review!

"They are an asset to the dealership..." - W. E. Robbins

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Thanks for the five-star review!

My experience there was completely pressure free and they consistently worked to ensure that I was completely satisfied and ready to make my purchase on my own time.

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BMW Concept 4 Series Coupé

Two For One Oil Change Special!

Get your oil changed with Checkered Flag!

Disclaimer:

2 for 1 Oil Change – bring in both vehicles on the same day and get one FREE! Valid only at Checkered Flag BMW Mini. Cannot be combined with any other specials, discounts, or offers. See Checkered Flag BMW Mini for complete details. Offer expires 12-31-2012

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MINI celebrates design at blickfang Copenhagen

$79.95 Four Wheel Alignment Special!

It's that time again! Grab these great offers before they are gone! Get your wheels aligned for only $79.95!

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28 MINI FANS CRAM INTO THE RECORD BOOKS

A team of gym members from East Sussex have today smashed two Guinness World Records™ world records for the number of people inside both a classic Mini and a 2012 MINI.

28 flexible ladies crammed their way into the MINI Hatch at Potters Fields Park, London as part of the eighth annual Guinness World Records day. The team broke their own previous record of 27 people, which they set in Eastbourne last year.

The ladies made full use of every inch of space available in the MINI, including the dashboard, the footwells and they even managed to squeeze four people in the boot.

As soon as they celebrated their first record the ladies dashed off to the ITV studios to attempt the second record live on This Morning, where by squeezing a staggering 23 ladies into a classic Mini, they managed to beat the previous record by two people.

Today more than 400,000 people around the world are taking part in record-breaking events for the eighth annual Guinness World Records Day, which commemorates the day in 2004 when Guinness World Records became the world’s best-selling copyright book.

Courtesy of MINI USA News

Donate at Checkered Flag BMW MINI!

Don't forget fans! We are currently collecting non-perishable items to donate to the Hampton Roads Foodbank! Stop by any time to drop off your donations and check out some of the great new BMW's and MINI's we have in our showroom!

Keep up the great customer service Brett!

"If there is an issue that needs resolved during the leasing process or during the lease period, Brett is eager to make sure that I am satisfied with the experience and the vehicle. Thanks for the great service!" -kscott1

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EICMA 2012. BMW Motorrad Highlights.

Thank you for this great review!

See the full gallery on Posterous

"Brian was awesome...he really knows the Mini's and was awesome through the whole process..." -Crisi

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Keep up the great work Steve!

"It was a pleasure working with Steve when we bought our 2013 BMW 535i. He was pleasant and extremely knowlwdgeable about the car..." -pegcrutch

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MINI John Cooper Works Accessories: Duel

MASTERING THE ASPHALT ARTS - STEERING

Freestyle racing is a sport. To excel, you’ll want to log some closed-course cockpit time and practice these tips and techniques before employing them in competition, As always, remember to keep your MINI under control and drive safely. In the meantime, this should give you plenty to talk about when hanging out at the water cooler with fellow racers.

STEERING

1. 9 AND 3 O’CLOCK - Trust us, your high school driver’s ed. teacher was wrong. And not just about the latest fashions in footwear. To provide the greatest range of motion for steering,
the ideal hand positions are actually 9 and 3 o’clock, not 10 and 2 o’clock. Not so coincidentally, the steering wheels (especially the Leather Sport steering wheel) in a MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S were designed to provide your hands the most
support possible in the 9 and 3 o’clock positions, while also providing constant feedback from the front wheels.

2. GRIP – Remember, gripping your steering wheel tighter won’t give your tires any more traction, so relax. Grabbing too tightly will only exhaust your hands and cause them to lose
sensitivity to vital feedback they receive through the steering wheel such as the amount of traction your tires have at any given moment. Practice taking deep breaths and relaxing your
grip while still maintaining good control.

3. TURNING – On turns, it’s actually better to push the wheel then pull it because on a push your wrist will stay locked and provide better control. So say you’re taking a left turn. Instead of pulling your left hand down to the 6 o’clock position, try pushing your right hand up to 12  o’clock. In general, you’ll only want to pull the wheel when making quick, minor steering adjustments such as changing lanes.

4. CORNERING – As always, smoother is better. When cornering, try to make your turns fluid, calculated movements to maximize your traction. Many beginner drivers take a smaller, tighter radius than they need to, resulting in understeer through the first half of the turn. And as you accelerate out of the corner into the straight, let the wheel “unwind”. You’ll know you’ve taken the correct line if, after your initial turn, you don’t have to adjust the wheel again until you begin to straighten out roughly 50-75% of the way through the corner.

5. DEALING WITH UNDERSTEER – Understeer can happen when the front tires aren’t getting enough grip and the car wants to go straight ahead even when the driver turns the
wheel. In a high-performance, front-wheel-drive car like the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S, you can generally deal with understeer by understanding how weight transfer affects
handling. If your MINI is not turning into the corner enough, you can transfer weight to the front tires by either braking (or braking a little harder if you’re already braking), or by gently easing off the gas pedal. These shift weight to the front wheels, thereby increasing their grip and willingness to turn.

6. DEALING WITH OVERSTEER – Oversteer happens when the front tires have a better grip than the rear tires. This usually makes the back end want to swing around through a
turn and aim the nose of the car towards the inside of the corner. As you might have figured out based on the techniques for dealing with understeer, weight transfer is also the key to dealing with oversteer. If you’re turning more than intended or is desirable, you’ll usually want to transfer weight from the front tires to the back tires. If you’re braking, just ease up some
and you’ll be surprised at how much more cooperative the car becomes. On the other hand, if you’re exiting a corner and the back end starts to come around, the worst thing you can do in a front-wheel-drive car is to let off the accelerator or hit the brakes. Because either of those actions will simply transfer more weight away from the rear tires that are already losing traction, you’ll want to gently squeeze a bit more pressure on the accelerator to help take the weight off the front tires. This will shift weight, and traction, to the rear tires, thereby helping them hold their ground.

Courtesy of MINI USA

MINI’s 2012 WRC Season Finale

In rounding off the 2012 WRC season Dani Sordo once again proved the big potential of the MINI WRC. On the final day of the Rallye Spain, Dani won four of six special stages.

The 13 rallies making up the 2012 WRC season have now been consigned to history. Once again world champion Sébastien Loeb proved unstoppable. In Spain the Frenchman took a perfect ninth win of the season while he will only contest selected WRC events next season. Meanwhile, Dani Sordo of the Prodrive WRC Team was once again responsible for several highlights during the season closer. Driving the number 37 MINI John Cooper Works WRC, the Spaniard flew through the first three stages of the final rally day to win all these stages in succession in front of his home crowd.

After placing second on the Powerstage, Dani gave it his all in spectacular style on the last test to take his sixth win in Spain, completing an impressive run from 30th overall to ninth in just one-and-a-half days. He had once again extracted the maximum from the MINI WRC, as he had already done on the season-opening Rallye Monte Carlo, where he finished a sensational second overall. Although further targeted podium finishes evaded him, his promising performances on the second and third days of the Rallye Spain certainly ensured a rewarding end to the season for Dani and the MINI marque. “I gave it everything, and I’m looking forward to the future,” said Dani afterwards.

Three MINI WRC in the Top Ten

The overall fastest MINI WRC in Spain was that of Finland’s Jarkko Nikara, who celebrated his MINI debut with a highly promising fifth place for the Prodrive WRC Team. He was followed closely by Chris ‘Atko’ Atkinson in seventh in the number 12 MINI WRC entered by the WRC Team MINI Portugal, making it a triple in the Top Ten for MINI in Spain. Atko, too, celebrated a successful end to the season, having four times scored points in five starts, and registering the best finish for MINI on a gravel event this season with fifth place overall on the Rallye Italia. “It’s been a great season for me,” said Atko. “Driving the MINI has been enormous fun.” Abdulaziz Alkuwari of the Seashore Qatar Rally Team was the fourth MINI home in 14th place, with the finish of Paulo Nobre in the second WRC Team MINI Portugal entry completing the MINI quintet on the 2012 Rallye Spain.

The WRC now takes a short winter break before the 2013 season kicks off with the Rallye Monte Carlo on 15 January. However, MINI motorsport fans need not wait long for more action. The MINI Motorsport website, Facebook and Twitter will shortly be bringing extensive coverage about Stéphane Peterhansel title defense in the X-raid Team’s MINI ALL4 Racing at the 2013 Rallye Dakar. So from 5 to 20 January it will be again: DUST. DESERT. DAKAR. Be MINI.

Courtesy of Motoring File

This is the BMW Facebook Superfan

Looking for a new car? Grab this great offer!

Looking for a new car? Grab this great offer!

$500 off any IN STOCK New or Pre owned car

Details:Valid only at Checkered Flag BMW Mini. Cannot be combined with any other specials, discounts, or offers. See Checkered Flag BMW Mini for complete details. Offer expires 11-30-2012

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2013 BMW M3 Coupe Frozen Limited Edition

See the full gallery on Posterous

BMW announced the 2013 BMW M3 Coupe Frozen Limited Edition. For the first time, the M3 Frozen Limited Edition will be available in a choice of frozen exterior finishes. Appropriate to this election season in the US, those choices are Frozen Red, Frozen White and Frozen Blue. The interior will sport black extended Novillo leather with contrasting stitching to match the exterior color. In total,150 examples will be available for US customers with production beginning in January 2013. In addition to the standard equipment included in the base MSRP of $76,395 (including Destination and Handling), customers will be able to tailor their 2013 M3 Coupe Frozen Limited Edition with a selection of optional equipment.

All 2013 M3 Coupe Frozen Limited Editions will include the following features:

• BMW Individual Frozen Red, White, or Blue exterior paint
• Competition Package including:
  • Matte black 19” light alloy wheels
  • Electronic Damper Control
  • Lowered suspension (-10 mm)
  • Sport mapping for EDC and DSC
• Premium Package
• Black Extended Novillo leather with contrast stitching in exterior color on seats, headrests, door inserts, armrests, middle console, and door pulls.
• Carbon leather trim with contrast stitching in exterior color
• High-gloss black kidney grilles
• High-gloss black side gills
• High-gloss black exhaust pipe tips
• 6-speed manual transmission
• Carbon fiber roof panel

In addition, customers will be able to tailor the 2013 M3 Coupe Frozen Limited Edition with the following options:

• Cold Weather Package
• M-DCT Transmission
• Rear spoiler delete
• Moonroof
• Heated Front Seats
• Automatic High Beams
• Satellite Radio with 1-year subscription
• BMW Apps
• BMW Individual Enhanced Premium Sound

Customers have the option to begin the relationship with their limited edition BMW M3 with either European Delivery at BMW Welt in Munich or with a Performance Center Delivery in Spartanburg, SC where a range of driver education experiences, including the BMW M School are available.

Courtesy of BMW News

Keep up the great work BMW team!

"We choose to drive to Checkered Flag because the sales people are very friendly and personable, and the selection on the lot is much better than the other two dealerships..." -skywalk1

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Monday Night Footbal Fact!

Monday night football time! Today marks the day the American Football League was formed. American football has an established tradition of tailgating, cheerleaders, pizza and wings. Sure it's a great sport to play, but it's definitely the most fun to watch with your friends. Tell us your favorite team to cheer for!

Five-Stars for Darrell!

"Buying a new car can be stressful at times but Darrell made it wonderful. He gave me a great deal got me all the discounts, explained everything in detail, really took his time, he was professional, courteous, and caring..." -wanniyah

Click here for more awesome reviews!

Shout out to our great customers for these great service reviews!

J.D.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nov 01, 2012

I brought my 2009 mini in for repair and was completely satisfied. I was in a bit of time crunch as I had a conference to attend and as well as personal commits all which required a vehicle. The staff there was solution-oriented and found a way for me to get the repairs I needed without inconveniencing me. I am especially impressed with the climate; everyone is friendly and focused. Frank Lindsay exceeded my expectations and was always quick to inform me or return a call.

Duane A
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nov 01, 2012

I brought my 550i in for diagnosis, they did a great job and didn't give me the run around like carmax does...they don't seem to know what they're talk about

Lawrence Y.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nov 01, 2012

Just completed Engine cooling Fan repair and a major service on my 2004 Mini Cooper S. As usual the service was excellent and Mr. Frank Lindsey and the rest of the BMW/Mini team did a fantastic job (friendly, courteous, on-time, and the repair was done right).

The team washed and cleaned my Mini Cooper – Did an excellent job. That’s why after all these years (since 2004) I still bring my Mini into the dealer for services and repairs. No reason to go to a 3rd Party repair shop.

Neal & Angela
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nov 01, 2012

Just wanted to drop you a note that our recent visit to service to have a replacement windshield installed in our 2010 Mini Clubman was great as always. Frank takes care of the car as if it was his own, mentions sale items not just the trick of up-selling service but real money savers.

Chuck G
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nov 01, 2012

Frank Lindsay wowed me today! Yesterday I had my Mini serviced at 97,000 miles. He has serviced it since new when I purchased it from Checkered Flag. He has been outstanding and it makes me realize that it is all about the people. People like Frank help build the business every day for Checkered Flag. He is the WOW factor!

BMW Night Vision.

Thank you for this awesome review Richard!

"I have bought several BMW's from Stephen Reid. He is the best automobile sales person that I have had the pleasure of dealing with. He is an asset to Checker Flag BMW, and an excellent representative for the BMW brand!!!" -Richard G.

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Southeast London Calling: A Paceman Gastro Tour

Watching Sam Bompas and Harry Parr feasting in the street on exquisite slices of Norwegian smoked salmon, it seems that pleasure comes in no finer form than food. In fact, it’s indisputable. At least it is on a sunny Saturday morning in the gastronomic Bermondsey enclave that is Maltby Street.

This was once a murky corner of Southeast London, home to slum dwellers, leather workers, coal porters and river rats. With boatloads of exotic food imports chugging through, however, you could still stand on the banks of the River Thames and smell the world.

Today Bermondsey has a different spirit. A sense of that industrial, watery history lingers, as does the evocative old architecture. But a tide of culinary intent has been rising in the area, and this morning on Maltby Street the wares of butchers, bakers and baristas are spilling out from beneath brown-brick railway arches.

Bermondsey locals, jelly makers and self-proclaimed “architectural foodsmiths” Bompas and Parr are out for a spin in the new MINI Cooper S Paceman, a sporty yet elegant car, perfect for jaunts about town. Running their food installation and events business from a studio up the road, they’re well versed in the gastronomy of the area, and knew about the inconspicuous three-year-old Maltby Street market long before you or I did.

It’s a rare weekend off for them from their business of making jelly. “Not just jelly in a bowl as you know it,” explains Bompas, “but glow-in-the-dark jelly, jelly moats, entire jelly lakes to row a boat through.” (Not to mention business side-lines of chocolate climbing walls, cake-based golf courses and walk-in clouds of gin and tonic.) “We don’t just make pudding,” adds Parr. “We’re food experimenters, manipulating people’s perceptions of food and exploring its possibilities through science, setting and performance.”

They, too, are part of that performance, expressing their own unique style. Rarely seen without their trademark bow ties on, Bompas and Parr are quirky, playful and ambitious, animated by abstract ideas, creatively driven. “If I was a fictional character, I’d be Brigadier Gerard,” says Bompas, “for his swagger and dash, while Harry would be Captain Nemo, an enigmatic scientific mastermind.” Their MINI Cooper S Paceman in Starlight Blue – an urban, energetic two-door, distinct in design, fun to drive – fits their aesthetic as perfectly as liquid jelly in a freshly cast mould.

Parking up near Maltby Street, where Union flags flutter between the railway arches and aromas of baked bread and sweet basil mingle in the morning air, they begin their day with cappuccinos from Monmouth Coffee, which roasts its high-grade beans on-site.

A stone’s throw from Monmouth is St. John Bakery, peddling custard doughnuts from Archway 72. Anyone who knows anything about London gastronomy has heard of Fergus Henderson, and the bakery is an offshoot of his St. John restaurant, which serves sweetbreads and ox tongue from an old Smithfield smokehouse. “We exploded St. John’s doughnuts as the culmination of a meal for the Brighton Festival,” explains Parr matter-of-factly.

On a mission to pick up ingredients for a Sunday lunch with friends, the boys don’t linger. They move with purpose from stall to stall, buying slices of jamón ibérico de bellota from Tozino, vine tomatoes from GreenFly, mozzarella from the Ham & Cheese Co. and sustainably sourced Faroe Island salmon from their friend on the Hansen & Lydersen stand.

“Such pleasure!” exclaims Bompas, over a wafer-thin slice of prosciutto. But real pleasure, sadly, is fleeting. Maltby Street traders open to the public for just four hours each week, devoting the rest of the time to sourcing produce and supplying it to top London restaurants.

The last two stops before a slap-up lunch are LASSCO Architectural Salvage and the nearby Bermondsey Farmers’ Market. LASSCO sells architectural relics from a bygone London, while the farmers’ market descends on Bermondsey Square once a week to supply locals with walnut loaves and sausage sandwiches.

Slap-up lunch comes in the form of traditional pie and mash, and not from just any old pie joint. M. Manze on Tower Bridge Road – with its servers dressed in pea-green aprons and recipes unchanged since the 1900s – is a step back to another era. Besides the pies, it does the best jellied eels this side of the river, and you can’t get more typically British than that.

Close to M. Manze is Hartley’s Jam Factory, a link between old and new Bermondsey. “Once devoted to large-scale industry, such as ship-building, the wharves bought into food processing as an industrial spin-off,” explains Parr. Hartley’s, established in 1903, earned Bermondsey the nickname of Biscuit Town.

Bellies full, Bompas and Parr make their way back to the MINI Cooper S Paceman, stopping off at Fine Foods on Long Lane and for a quick espresso at The Garrison. Back at the car, they load it up with their purchases. Boot closed, it appears purposeful from the rear, with a wide track and sloping roof. A sporty, coupé-like silhouette means it certainly looks the part, but when the engine is fired up, the car is punchy to drive, too.

Bompas and Parr zip through the streets with windows down, parking up at their studio to drop off goods in the fridge. The sky softens, late afternoon approaches, but the boys’ energy is not yet waning. “A show at the Architecture Foundation?” suggests Parr. “Ten-pin bowling!” is Bompas’s retort, and soon they’re off to Palace Superbowl, a kitsch old hallway in a local shop-ping centre.

Considering the number of bookings Bompas and Parr take for their food installations, it’s a wonder they have found time to perfect their bowling skills. And bowling isn’t the only sport they indulge in. “I like to go bouldering at the Arch Climbing Wall,” says Bompas. “It’s in the old Bermondsey biscuit factory, and the cakes in the café are sublime."

Overall, if this Saturday day out were a cake, it would be a bakewell tart, and the cherry on top would be Zucca. Zucca is a modern Italian restaurant – light-filled, airy and the perfect spot for an early dinner. It’s Bompas and Parr’s favourite restaurant in the area, and – watching them feast on plates of taglierini with peas and grilled lamb with cianfotta – who could blame them? 

They polish off the meal with a feather-light panna cotta before returning to their studio to collect their MINI. It’s been an indulgent day out, for sure, but one that’s left them happy, satiated and sound in the knowledge that Bermondsey is more than matching up to its culinary reputation.

As the sun sets and Bompas and Parr drive home, the MINI Paceman and these two creators of colourful culinary curiosities couldn’t be more at home in the neighbourhood. With its shadowy archways, wharves, workers’ yards and factories, it’s a richly historical place, but with a contemporary, fresh and distinctly food-orientated spirit.

Courtesy of MINIspace.com

 

Thank you for this great review!

"From the moment we set foot in the dealership, which wasn't even planned, David was there to not only answer our questions, but to help us find the perfect car for Hillary..." -Asorellona

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Hurricane Sandy - Safety Tip - Norfolk, VA Parking Garage

Hey fans! Make sure you stay safe out there. Here is a government safety tip to keep in mind while preparing for Hurricane Sandy.

Downtown Norfolk has opened several parking garages for those who live in flood prone areas. You can move your car to high ground free of charge until the waters recede.

 

MINI NOT NORMAL: Hitchhiking Bear

Great job Steve, Danene, Matt & Brian!

"Both employees were very informative. Made my experience quick and I felt great when I left.....I felt like I was buying from a friend..." -Jansgym

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$79.95 Four Wheel Alignment Special!

Looking for some great savings this Fall? Snag our $79.95 four wheel alignment special! It is regularly priced at $143.60. Grab it before it's gone!

Disclaimer: Valid only at Checkered Flag BMW Mini. Cannot be combined with any other specials, discounts, or offers. See Checkered Flag BMW Mini for complete details. Offer expires 10-31-2012

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Five-stars for Frank and Brian!

"I was very pleased with the entire process from the time of ordering to the time of delivery. I was informed as my custom ordered car went from manufacturing to delivery and my new Roadster is superb." -hngvabeach

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MINI Celebrates Motor-Tober: Motoring on the Charles River

Attendees at the Head of the Charles Regatta^® (HOCR) in Cambridge, Massachusetts will be in for a sight that they weren’t expecting… A Chili Red MINI Convertible boat motoring along on the Charles River during the races. The vessel was built as part of the MINI USA’s annual Motor-Tober activities, where MINI takes over the month of October to celebrate all that is fun about the brand. This year’s program is called the Not Normal Sales Event, and this one-of-a-kind boat was the MINI USA Eastern Region’s interpretation of Not Normal.

“We challenged our regional staff and the dealers in their respective areas to identify ‘Not Normal’ ways to celebrate this Motor-Tober by engaging the MINI community and demonstrate why it’s an exciting brand family to be part of,” said Tom Salkowsky, Marketing Manager - MINI USA. “The MINI USA Eastern Region has created the perfect example of what the Motor-Tober Not Normal Sales Event is all about with the MINI Convertible boat.”

Aside from the rowing competitors, the MINI Convertible boat will be the only vessel on the race course, which is three miles long between the Boston University Boathouse to Christian Herter Park. It is powered by a 6 hp outboard motor, and will be operated by a member of the HOCR River Control Committee to monitor the safety of the rowers.  After the HOCR this weekend, the boat will be used at other events, and MINI fans may see it motoring along on the Potomac or Hudson rivers.

“We are pleased and excited to support MINI in this creative activation strategy and look forward working with them this weekend.  We have never before allowed a company to float a car on the Charles during racing,” said Fred Schoch, executive director of the event. 

HOCR racing will take place on Saturday and Sunday (October 20 and 21) from 8 AM to 5 PM. This is the first year that MINI USA is an official sponsor of the HOCR.  Since its origin in 1965, the HOCR has welcomed the world’s best crew teams to the banks of the Charles River for the ultimate two-day rowing competition. The event attracts over 9,000 athletes from around the world and 300,000 spectators. 

ACI Composites Inc, based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, built the MINI Convertible boat. To construct the one-of-a-kind vessel, ACI Composites made a mould of a 2004 MINI Hardtop, and then created a fiberglass version of the car. It was mounted to a boat hull, and then accessorized with authentic MINI parts, including headlights, taillights, grille, steering wheel, badges, wheels and tires.

Courtesy of MINI USA News

Stop in this Saturday for our Not Normal Sales Event!

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BMW unveils 2013 lineup

The Monterey Peninsula, located on the coast of central California about 500 km northwest of Los Angeles, is home to some of the most ruggedly beautiful terrain in North America.

Hard against the Pacific Ocean and bracketed by mountains, the area is teeming with wildlife, and its vistas present visitors with a real feast for the senses.

It’s also home to one of North America’s most daunting race tracks: Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

Given such scenic splendour, it’s not hard to understand why BMW chose Monterey as the location for its 2013 model preview.

Most of the company’s North American lineup was available to drive on both the track and the roads surrounding the circuit. With so many vehicles to drive, and just one day to do so, some choices had to be made. So I focussed on models that are either all-new or have been substantially updated for 2013.

ActiveHybrid 5

The ActiveHybrid 5 features a gasoline/electric drivetrain, in this case a 300 hp straight six-cylinder turbocharged powerplant and a 55 hp electric motor.

The system is designed to use just the electric motor as often as possible, primarily in city traffic. When more power is needed, such as for passing, the motor works in concert with the gas engine.

A start/stop function disengages the gas engine when the car comes to rest at traffic lights and stop signs, to reduce fuel consumption. Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy expended when the brakes are applied, converts that energy into electricity and feeds it back into the car’s battery.

On twisty and undulating California roads, the system constantly switched back and forth between gas and electric propulsion. A large screen in the centre of the dash provides constant updates. A detailed schematic of the car’s chassis uses blue and red colour-coding to indicate the status of various systems.

The ActiveHybrid 5 possessed similar driving dynamics as the other BMWs: quiet, powerful and refined. The eight-speed automatic works seamlessly with both the gas engine and electric motor, the steering is sharp and the handling is secure.

7 Series

BMW’s full-size sedans have been significantly updated for 2013, most notably in the engine department.

The output of the TwinPower Turbo V8 that powers the 750i/Li models has been increased by 45 hp and 30 lb.-ft. to 445 and 480, respectively.

Mated to an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (now standard across the line), the new 750 posted a 0-100 km/h time of 4.8 seconds.

As for fuel efficiency, official numbers from Natural Resources Canada haven’t been confirmed, but testing in Europe showed a 25-per-cent improvement.

On the road, the 750Li zipped along quite nicely for such a large sedan. Power delivery was smooth and the cabin was suitably quiet, yet a nice rumble could be heard when the V8 was pushed hard under acceleration.

All 7 Series models feature fuel-saving technologies, including auto start-stop, brake energy regeneration and an Eco Pro mode.

On the inside, the understated and refined interior remains unchanged. The iDrive system, which I found quite easy to navigate, has been redesigned, and the optional Bang & Olufsen sound system sounded great.

The Canadian 7 Series lineup has been expanded to five variants for 2013, with the addition of the 740Li xDrive.

M6

The M6 (offered as a coupe and cabriolet) was easily the sexiest car at the preview. Its flowing lines cut a sharp, striking profile, especially in Sakhir Orange (similar to copper).

The M6 is the newest addition to the M family, and marks the return of a model that was last in the lineup in 2010.

Powering the rear wheels is the same engine that powers the new M5, a 4.4 litre TwinPower Turbo V8, which cranks out 560 hp and 500 lb.-ft. of torque.

Despite having two fewer cylinders than the powerplant in the previous model, the V8 cranks out 12-per-cent more horsepower and 30-per-cent more torque, and is expected to improve fuel consumption by 30 per cent.

Getting all of that power to the ground is a new seven-speed, double-clutch, automatic transmission. Officially dubbed the M DCT with Drivelogic System, it features automatic and manual modes. Paddle shifters are optional.

The M DCT also offers three shift programs for both automatic and manual modes, with the lower setting the most efficient and the upper setting delaying gear changes until the engine reaches higher revs. The dampers, shocks and steering can also be adjusted from mild to wild, thanks to buttons located on the centre console.

Despite having a curb weight of 1,930 kg, the M6’s performance belied its bulk on the road. Acceleration was brisk, especially in D3 and S3 modes, where the shift patterns were best suited to match the engine’s immense output and handling/ride felt well-balanced. A pleasant growl penetrated the cockpit under hard acceleration, which enhanced the experience.

Courtesy of Wheels.ca

Great job BMW team!

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