2006 BMW K 1200 GT Review

Introducing the new K 1200 GT, BMW Motorrad is strengthening its worldwide market leadership in the tourer segment and gaining an even greater lead in the market. Following the success of the former model bearing the same name, the new K 1200 GT opens up new dimensions in riding dynamics and long-distance qualities, once again proving the outstanding skills and competence of the white-and-blue marque.

A special feature of the K 1200 GT is that this new machine does not require the slightest compromise, but rather overcomes the apparent contradiction between superior sportiness and a high standard of touring comfort. In a nutshell, therefore, BMW’s new top-end motorcycle combines maximum agility and dynamic performance with an ideal package for long trips and pleasant journeys.

To reach this objective, the development engineers at BMW Motorrad have carried over the trendsetting running gear and engine technology of the former K 1200 S and K 1200 R straight into this new sporting tourer. The innovative wheel guidance systems – the BMW Duolever at the front and the EVO-Paralever at the rear – make a very significant contribution to the excellent and highly dynamic riding characteristics of the K 1200 GT.

Drive power comes from the cutting-edge straight-four engine in transverse arrangement, developing maximum output in the GT version of 112 kW/152 hp and thus currently setting the benchmark in the tourer segment: Not one single competitor in the market offers the same standard of dynamic performance as the new K 1200 GT. A comparison with the previous model clearly proves the huge step taken by BMW Motorrad with this new machine: The K 1200 GT is more powerful (maximum output up by 17%), develops more torque (up by 11%), offers a higher theoretical cruising range (up by 17%), and at the same time is lighter (down by 6%), but is nevertheless able to carry a higher load (up by 19%).

It goes without saying that the new GT has all the features you can rightly expect of a BMW touring machine. In particular, it is just perfect for riding with a passenger and covering long distances in comfort and style. Maximum riding comfort is indeed ensured by excellent protection from wind and weather, the electrically adjustable windscreen, perfect ergonomic design of the rider’s seat thanks to flexible height adjustment of the seat itself and the handlebar, as well as side cases featured as standard.

Last but certainly not least, the K 1200 GT also meets the greatest demands in terms of environmental compatibility and safety. Apart from a fully controlled three-way catalytic converter, the high-performance EVO brake system with semi-integral ABS anti-lock brakes and an electronic immobiliser are among the features naturally offered by this sophisticated new tourer as standard equipment.

Given all these qualities and its consistency through-and-through, the new K 1200 GT is able to meet even the high standard of comfort so important to the passionate touring rider, at the same time making the sporting heart of the dyed-in-the-wool motorcycle enthusiast truly skip a beat. The “GT” abbreviation for Gran Turismo, therefore, describes this BMW sports tourer even more appropriately than ever before.

The new K 1200 GT is available in three standard colours to be combined with two contrasting colours on the side covers and the seat, thus interpreting the unique character of this Gran Turismo in various different ways. As usual,

BMW Motorrad also offers a wide range of optional extras and special equipment tailored to the new machine and leaving nothing to be desired. Apart from comfort-oriented features for travelling in style, the customer has the choice, to mention just a few examples, of Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA), an on-board computer, a xenon headlight, cruise control, or the BMW Navigator.

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Features

• Front-mounted straight-four power unit, cylinders inclined to an angle of 55°
• 1,157 cc, 112 kW/152 hp at 9,500 rpm, 130 Nm/96 lb-ft) at 7,750 rpm
• Duolever suspension at the front
• Paralever suspension at the rear
• BMW Motorrad Integral ABS, semi-integral version
• On-board electronics with CAN-bus technology
• Electronic immobiliser
• Brake pad wear indicator 
• Seat and handlebar adjustable 
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA, optional)
• Aerodynamically optimised full fairing 
• Electrically adjustable windscreen 

The most important technical distinctions improving the new K 1200 GT over its predecessor:

• Increase in maximum power (+ 17%)
• Higher maximum torque (+ 11%)
• Decrease in unladen weight (– 6%)
• Higher load (+ 19%)
• Larger tank (+ 17%)
• Longer theoretical cruising range (+ 17%)

High-performance straight-four second-generation power unit
The new K 1200 GT is powered by the same engine that has already hit the headlines in the K 1200 S and K 1200 R. Now the GT version of this highly advanced power unit offers maximum output of 112 kW/152 hp at 9,500 rpm and peak torque of 130 Newton-metres or 96 lb-ft at 7,750 rpm. These performance figures alone bear clear testimony to the outstanding dynamic potential of BMW’s new model currently ranking right at the top in the sports tourer segment in terms of engine power. The plateau-like torque curve with more than 75 per cent of the engine’s maximum torque available from just 3,000 rpm clearly proves that the K 1200 GT offers superior acceleration and pulling force, definitely living up to its name as a Gran Turismo.

Dry sump lubrication and the position of the compact power unit with its cylinder bank tilted 55° to the front have enabled the engineers at BMW Motorrad to move the centre of gravity as far down as possible.

This optimum centre of gravity offers the best of two worlds, providing the appropriate load on the front wheel and at the same time ensuring the handling of a genuine sports machine. For a detailed description of the technical details, please see the press pack on the K 1200 S.

Six-speed manual gearbox
The six-speed gearbox of the BMW Motorrad K Series is both light and compact, and is conveniently integrated into the engine housing. Particular fortes of the gearbox are its smooth gearshift enabling the rider to shift gears quickly and precisely, with shift travel reduced to a minimum.

Duolever front wheel suspension
Like the other K-models, the new Duolever front-wheel suspension ensures superior precision and accurate tracking at all times, combined with supreme suspension comfort. The entire structure offers optimum torsional stiffness and is designed for light and agile handling. With resistance forces kept to a minimum, the suspension responds smoothly and precisely even to the smallest bumps on the road.

The kinematic configuration of Duolever suspension, finally, offers brake dive compensation remaining virtually unchanged throughout the suspension’s entire spring travel. In terms of running gear and suspension qualities, therefore, the new K 1200 GT offers an ideal combination of riding comfort also on long tours and superior sportiness with a strong touch of dynamic performance.

Rear-wheel Paralever suspension and optional ESA
Developed by BMW Motorrad, the Paralever has proven for years that power transmission and rear wheel suspension can be combined with one another most efficiently. The latest Paralever is an ultra-firm lightweight construction with the spring strut connected to the rear wheel mount by a progressive pivot link.

This not only offers significant advantages in terms of response and the progressive damping effect, but also reduces unsprung masses, minimises load change response, offers more ground clearance, and looks highly attractive in its filigree design. In all, therefore, the Paralever is a perfect match for the concept and philosophy of the new K 1200 GT.

The K 1200 GT is available as an optional extra with BMW Motorrad’s unique Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) allowing the rider to adjust the spring/damper setting individually simply by pressing a button on the handlebar. 

EVO brake system with Integral ABS and brake pad wear indicator
The new K 1200 GT proudly features BMW’s proven EVO brake system also to be found in the other K- and R-Series models. With brake disc diameter of 320 millimetres (12.6´´) at the front and 294 millimetres (11.6´´) at the rear, the EVO brake system is perfectly equipped to ensure superior deceleration even from high speeds with the motorcycle carrying maximum load. The steel flex brake lines fitted as standard not only look good, but also help to provide a consistent pressure point.

Yet another standard feature is BMW Motorrad Integral ABS in its semi-integral version. On this system the rider activates the front and rear wheel brakes via the handbrake lever, while the footbrake lever acts only on the rear wheel brake – exactly the right configuration for riding in sporting style.

The new K 1200 GT also comes as an innovation with yet another safety and comfort feature fitted as standard: a brake pad wear indicator (warning indicator) telling the rider when the brake pads have been worn down to the limit and need to be renewed.

Single-wire system (SWS) with CAN-bus technology
It is only natural for a modern BMW motorcycle to feature a modern databus network connecting all of the machine’s electrical and electronic components, with digital information now being transmitted through one single wire. Indeed, the single-wire system dramatically simplifies the entire system of on-board electrics, reduces the need for cables and connectors, and makes the system significantly lighter.

A further essential point is that only this technology is able to provide reliable, comprehensive and quick troubleshooting and diagnostic functions. It also enables the Service Technician to read out data and/or redefine specific parameters. And last but not least, the single-wire system with CAN-bus technology allows the simple addition of electronic accessories broadening the motorcycle’s wide range of functions.

Electronic immobiliser
To make sure that only the rightful owner is able to enjoy the new K 1200 GT on the road, an electronic immobiliser comes as standard (and is also integrated in the databus network just described). Like on a modern car, the ignition key incorporates a coded data chip communicating via a transponder in the ignition lock with the electronic engine management. So both ignition and fuel supply are only activated when the data exchanged corresponds as required, allowing the rider to start the engine.

Info-Flatscreen
The extra-large display right in the middle of the cockpit serves as the interface between man and machine. This is where the rider can check all data relevant to riding conditions and the use of his motorcycle. The system presents your overall mileage, trip mileage, the time of day, coolant temperature, the gear currently in mesh, the fuel level, and the mileage you can still cover when reaching the fuel reserve left in the tank.

The connoisseur choosing the optional ESA suspension adjustment or the TPC Tyre Pressure Control system, in turn, can go even further, checking out the current set-up of the suspension and air pressure in the tyres. Even the on-board computer available as an optional extra uses the Info-Flatscreen to present its functions, illumination of the instrument being controlled automatically by a light-sensitive photoelectric cell.

Sporting and lean body
The striking, aerodynamically optimised full fairing on the new K 1200 GT is unusually lean and slender for a tourer. Keeping the drag coefficient to a minimum, the fairing guarantees optimum riding stability at high speeds on the road. And despite its sporting look, the light and stable fairing, benefiting from aerodynamic refinement, offers excellent protection from wind and weather improved to an even higher standard over the previous model.

The front end of the fairing is made up of two plastic shells and the load-bearing headlight unit. With all fairing components being easy to remove and fit back in position, maintenance and service is easy and convenient at all times. 

Electrically adjustable windscreen
Focusing on the shape and design of the windscreen, the designers and aerodynamicists at BMW Motorrad have created an ideal combination of maximum protection from wind and weather, on the one hand, and minimum dimensions, on the other. Carefully controlling the flow of air on the side contours, the windscreen guides the wind and air rushing by smoothly around the rider, reducing the loads acting on his head and upper body significantly even at high speeds.
A further advantage is that the light windscreen adjusts infinitely by electrical control over a range of 100 millimetres or 3.94´´. All the rider has to do is press a button on the left-hand handlebar to set the windscreen to his desired position. A higher windscreen (+ 60 mm/2.4´´) is available as special equipment, ensuring that virtually every rider, no matter how tall or how short, is able to adjust the windscreen perfectly to his requirements by choosing the right model and adjustment options.

Seat designed for all ergonomic requirements
To ensure maximum riding comfort and freedom of movement, the specialists at BMW Motorrad have once again concentrated on the step arch length criterion in designing the seat.

This is the distance measured between the rider’s two footprints across the inner length of his legs and around the seat, taking both the shape and the width of the seat into account. So clearly, the rider benefits from the slender line of both the frame and the body of the K 1200 GT.

To provide these advantages, the seat has an extremely slender waistline exactly where the rider sits, enabling him to easily reach the ground and offering a very comfortable knee angle. And to provide the final touch of perfection, the standard seat can be set to a height of either 820 or 840 millimetres (32.3 or 33.1´´). A lower seat is available as an alternative for the not-so-tall rider (optional, with minimum seat height of 800 mm/31.5´´).

The “ergonomic triangle” made up of the footrests, the seat itself and the handlebar offers maximum freedom of movement both for sports riding and in touring, at the same time allowing the rider to cruise in relaxed style without fatigue. The passenger, finally, also enjoys the unusual seat comfort offered by a BMW.

Handlebar adjustable for height
To ensure that the handlebar can also be adjusted to riders of various height with their own seating preferences and different styles of riding, the handlebar is adjustable to four different levels, moving towards the upper body of the rider when required by a maximum of 40 millimetres or almost 1.6´´. Again, this ensures an ideal posture under all conditions, with simple, manual adjustment for height by means of teeth and bolt clamps.

Design and colour concept
The new K 1200 GT offers a perfect symbiosis of touring comfort and sporting performance – features also reflected by the design of the machine with its flowing lines and clear, striking surfaces and shapes. Self-confident, forward-urging lines clearly visible even at a standstill emphasise the dynamic character of the new K 1200 GT. And the machine’s slender proportions all round, combined with the very compact engine cover, again point clearly towards the sporting and dynamic DNA of the new GT.

Seen from the front, the K 1200 GT also looks good right from the start: The windscreen and hand protectors are compact and discreet in design, the strikingly chiselled headlight stands out as a dynamic highlight typical of the brand. 

The three main colours for the body of the K 1200 GT – Dark Graphite Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, and Crystal Grey Metallic – form a perfect combination with the two colours available for the side covers (on the tank and below the seat) as well as the seat itself. This colour concept clearly accentuates the special character of the K 1200 GT, with different interpretations depending on the colours chosen.

Elegant Dark Graphite Metallic combined in standard trim with lighter, Granite Grey side covers and a Grey seat, gives BMW’s new tourer a most sophisticated look and at the same time emphasises its sporting understatement. 

Paintwork in Deep Blue Metallic combined with dark, slate-coloured side covers and a black seat, exudes a touch of superior elegance and gives the machine a particularly luxurious look. 
Crystal Grey Metallic with the seat in Black and Slate-coloured side covers, finally, highlights the modern and innovative design of the new K 1200 GT. In this bright and very metallic colour scheme, the GT looks extra-light and agile, at the same time offering a special touch of extravagance. 

With alternative combinations of the main colour and the colour chosen for the seat and side covers, the customer has every option to personalise the K 1200 GT to his individual wishes. Colour combinations with greater contrasts focus more on dynamic performance, underlying the differences between the rider’s area and the body of the machine.

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Equipment

Optional extras and special equipment
A genuine Gran Turismo, the new K 1200 GT offers an ideal blend of sporting performance and touring comfort even in standard trim. And as usual, BMW Motorrad provides a wide range of optional extras and special equipment perfectly tailored to this new model. 

Many of these features will thrill the demanding long-distance rider looking for maximum comfort on his journeys. At the same time the enthusiast with a penchant for innovative technologies will find numerous functional options ranging from an on-board computer all the way to a xenon headlight adding to the personal touch of this unique sports tourer. A genuine highlight is Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) already mentioned, allowing simple and individual adjustment of the suspension and running gear under all kinds of conditions.

Introducing the K 1200 GT, BMW Motorrad is for the first time offering special combinations of equipment options. Details on these Equipment Packages tailored to different requirements are presented in the pricelists. And obviously the customer can order additional features over and above these Packages or, as usual, focusing just on individual items of his choice. 

Optional extras and Equipment Packages are delivered straight from the factory, special equipment may also be fitted subsequently by the customer’s local BMW Motorcycle Dealer.

Optional extras:

• Windscreen, high
• On-board computer including oil level warning unit
• Rider’s seat, low (800–820 mm/31.5–32.3´´)
• Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA
• Anti-theft warning system DWA
• Heated handles (with automatic adjustment of heating function on models also equipped with an on-board computer [not applicable to the US market]) 
• Xenon headlight 
• TPC Tyre Pressure Control (scheduled for autumn 2006)
• Seat heating
• Cruise control
• Seat in Grey or Black 
• Colour variants for the tank and side covers

Windscreen, high
Choosing the new K 1200 GT, even the tall rider need not forego adequate protection from wind and weather. And precisely this kind of protection is offered by the windscreen 60 millimetres or almost 2.4´´ higher than usual, with infinite electrical adjustment just like the standard windscreen.

On-board computer including oil level warning system
A particularly practical companion both on journeys and sporting excursions is the optional on-board computer enhancing the wide range of functions already offered by the Info-Flatscreen fitted as standard. Pressing a button at the right end of the handlebar, the rider can call up all kinds of information presented clearly on the display – for example the range remaining on the fuel in the tank, his average speed, average fuel consumption, and ambient temperature. The on-board computer warns the rider whenever the oil level drops below the minimum point and informs him of the risk of black ice as soon as the outer temperature drops to 3 °C (37.5 °F) or below.

Rider’s seat, low
To offer the shorter rider an even more convenient and better experience on the K 1200 GT, BMW Motorrad as usual is able to deliver this new model with a lower seat: Seat height is down by 20 millimetres or 0.79´´ versus the standard seat, offering two height levels at 800 or 820 millimetres (31.5 or 32.3´´). This gives the rider a step arch length of 1,760 or, respectively, 1,800 millimetres (69.3 or 70.9´´).

Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA
As an option, the rider is able to adjust the suspension set-up of his K 1200 GT smoothly and conveniently simply by touching a button on the handlebar, optional ESA Electronic Suspension Adjustment setting the spring base and damping smoothly, conveniently and instantaneously by means of an electric motor.

Using the system is very easy: Once the rider has pre-selected the load the motorcycle will be carrying (solo, solo with luggage, passenger and luggage), setting the spring base accordingly, he then enters his planned style of riding (Comfort, Normal, Sports). Taking in this data, the system’s electronic management determines the most appropriate, optimum damper rates, offering the rider an overall choice of nine different settings and even enabling him to vary the damper setting while riding.

The options available as well as the current set-up are presented on the Info-Flatscreen. ESA Electronic Suspension Adjustment ensures a high standard of comfort and convenience, prevents false settings, and guarantees perfect adjustment of the spring elements to the rider’s style of riding and load conditions. Ultimately, therefore, Electronic Suspension Adjustment makes an important contribution to riding safety on the road.

Anti-theft warning system
With the new K 1200 GT obviously being highly desirable to other motorcycle enthusiasts too, it is important for the owner to protect his machine from the risk of theft. So the anti-theft warning system responds immediately to any change in the position of the motorcycle, vibration or attempted manipulation of the electrics by triggering both an optical and an acoustic alarm.

The system is activated/de-activated both by the key to the ignition and the remote control included in the anti-theft warning function.

Heated handles and seat heating
The rider and passenger are perfectly prepared even for bad weather or trips to cold regions on the K 1200 GT equipped with heated handles and/or seat heating. These options keep the rider’s hands warm and agile down to his fingertips, the heated handles interacting with the optional on-board computer to automatically adjust the level of heat in Position 1 as a function of ambient temperature. In Position 2 the system consistently provides maximum heat to quickly warm up the rider’s hands and/or protect him from extreme cold.

The optionally available seat heating operates in two stages, with separate control of the rider’s and passenger’s seats. The function activated is then presented on the Info-Flatscreen.

Xenon headlight
The K 1200 GT is available as an option straight from the factory with a xenon headlight system complete with a free-form reflector replacing the standard halogen low beam. This special reflector developed specifically for use on a motorcycle features a cylindrical beam focus preventing any undesired light scatter or dazzling effect. With the system’s light output being roughly twice that of a conventional halogen bulb, illumination of the road ahead in the dark or in poor visibility is significantly better and more consistent. And since the spectrum of xenon light is very similar to that of natural daylight, there is much less strain on the rider’s eyes.

The bottom line, therefore, is that the rider is able to detect potential hazards more quickly and is perceived sooner by other road users. And last but certainly not least, the xenon bulb consumes about 30 per cent less energy than a conventional halogen bulb and offers a much longer service life.The high beam on the xenon headlight is the same as on the regular halogen headlight, featuring two free-form reflectors and H7 technology.

TPC Tyre Pressure Control
The optional Tyre Pressure Control system reliably informing the rider of current tyre pressure makes a significant contribution to both riding comfort and safety. Tyre pressure data is provided by battery-powered sensors in the wheels, either a yellow information lamp or a red warning lamp in the Info-Flatscreen informing the rider as soon as the pressure measured deviates beyond the margins allowed from the pressure required. TPC is scheduled for introduction as of autumn 2006 and may be retrofitted as special equipment, also subsequently for all models following the start of production.

Cruise control
Cruise control ensures relaxed touring even on long distances. The system reliably maintains the cruising speed set by the rider in advance, enabling him to let go of the gas handle and relax on his seat with both hands on the handlebar. 

Special equipment:

• Topcase, large
• Topcase, small
• Inner bag for topcase, large
• Inner bag for topcase, small 
• Back upholstery for topcase, small
• Impact protection for cases, left and right
• Inner bags for cases, left and right
• Tankbag 
• BMW Navigator
• Connection cable for BMW Navigator
• Holder for BMW Navigator
• Additional power take-off
• Supplementary on-board toolkit

Topcase, large, and inner bag
Featuring this special equipment, the K 1200 GT offers the highest standard of convenience for long tours and comfortable journeys. The watertight topcase offers exceptional 49 litres or more than1.7 cubic feet of storage space and can hold up to 10 kilos or 22 lb, easily enough for two helmets. And with its painted top as well as special design tailored to the motorcycle as a whole, this sophisticated, high-quality storage box blends harmoniously with the overall design of BMW’s new Gran Turismo.

The integrated backrest gives the passenger optimum seating comfort, and the inner bag also available as special equipment not only facilitates loading and unloading, but also serves as an all-purpose travel bag thanks to its two carrier straps.

Topcase, small, inner bag and back upholstery
The small topcase adds another 28 litres (1.1 cu ft) or, respectively, 5 kilos to the loading capacity offered by the K 1200 GT – enough space for light baggage or a helmet. And as a further option passenger comfort may be enhanced by adding special back upholstery on the topcase. The inner bag also available as an option protects the rider’s luggage reliably from dirt and damage.

Impact protection and inner bags for the motorcycle cases
To make sure that the usual mishaps in everyday use do not leave behind any lasting traces and to protect the cases from ugly scratches and other damage, BMW offers impact protectors tailored to the cases. Inner bags perfectly matched to the size and shape of the cases ensure extra convenience, particularly with their additional pockets for taking up all kinds of odds and ends on motorcycle tours. Two carrier straps and a removable shoulder belt, finally, ensure easier transportation when the rider reaches his destination.

Tankbag
The practical tankbag is tailored perfectly to the K 1200 GT in its material and colour. The extendible main section comes complete with a glued-in, fully-closing inner bag reliably keeping the contents dry in all kinds of weather.

The map pocket offering ample space for a folded road map is also watertight, and last but not least a small zippered pocket is integrated in the cover of the main section for convenient storage of all kinds of odds and ends.

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SPECS

Engine
Capacity, cc: 1,157
Bore/stroke, mm: 79/59
Max output, kW/hp: 112/152 at rpm: 9,500
Max torque, Nm/lb-ft: 130/96 at rpm: 7,750
Configuration: Inline
No of cylinders: 4
Compression ratio/fuel grade: 13 : 1/S premium plus (98 octane)
Valves/gas cycle: DOHC (double overhead camshaft)
Valves per cylinder: 4
Intake/outlet valve dia, mm: 32/27.5
Throttle butterffly dia, mm: 46
Fuel supply management: BMS-K

Electrical System
Alternator, W: 945
Battery, V/Ah: 12/19
Headlight, W: Low beam 1 x H7/55W; High beam 2 x H7/55W
Starter, kW: 0.7

Power transmission/Gearbox
Clutch: Multiple-plate oil bath clutch, hydraulic operation
Gearbox: Dog-shift six-speed gearbox
Primary transmission: 1.559
Gear ratios

• I: 2.521
• II: 1.842
• III: 1.455
• IV: 1.287
• V: 1.143
• VI: 1.015

Rear wheel drive: Driveshaft
Final drive: 2.82

Chassis and Suspension
Frame: Composite aluminium frame (bridge frame) with IHU extrusion-pressed profiles and die-cast components
Suspension, front: BMW Duolever
Suspension, rear: Single cast-aluminium arm with BMW Paralever
Spring travel, front/rear, mm: 115/135
Castor, mm: 112
Wheelbase, mm: 1,571
Steering head angle: 60.6
Brakes front: Double disc brake, floating brake disc, dia 320 mm, four-piston fixed calliper
Brakes rear: Single-disc brake, dia294 mm, two-piston fixed calliper
Wheels: Cast aluminium wheels
Wheels front: 3.50 x 17
Wheels rear: 5.50 x 17
Tyres front: 120/70 ZR 17
Tyres rear:  180/55 ZR 17

Dimensions and Weight
Length, overall, mm: 2 318
Width, overall, with mirrors, mm: 965
Handlebar width, without mirrors, mm: 795
Seat height, mm: 820 and 840 (optional low seat 800 und 820)
Weight, dry, kg: 249
Unladen weight to DIN standard with full tank, kg: 282
Max permissible, kg: 520
Tank capacity, ltr: 24

Performance Data
Fuel consumption
90 km/h, ltr/100 km: 4.8
120 km/h, ltr/100 km: 5.8

Acceleration
0–100 km/h, sec: 3.1
Top speed, km/h: 200 plus