BMW in 2008.

This year sees BMW launch one new model, add a variation to an existing model and update three firm favourites. First up (as winter fades) is the saloon version of the 420PS M3 with the Cabriolet version following at the end of spring. Between the two M3 releases BMW will launch the Cabriolet version of the 1 Series. The new model gracing dealerships at the start of summer 2008 is the X6. As the year ends the face lifted 3 Series estate and saloon makes their way into the dealerships. At the same time the new 7 Series is also launched. There should be plenty of interest on BMW’s show stands this year as BMW preview their highly anticipated Progressive Activity Sedan or PAS (far more than just a 5 series Coupe) as well as the new 5 Series saloon (due 2009/2010) and the Z4 Roadster. Expect to see more hybrid technology for both current and future models.

The 3 Series benefits from a comprehensive face lift for 2008 although it is more of an improving of a successful model rather than a revamp. The M3 Saloon and Cabriolet follow the already launched Coupe into the dealerships and completes the small M model range.

BMW’s smallest cabriolet, the 1 Series makes its first appearance in 2008 and offers classic BMW values. Using a traditional fabric roof the 1 Series Cabriolet benefits from the complete range of petrol and diesel engines from its roofed counterpart, naturally all driving the rear wheels.

The seventh generation 7 Series makes its debut at the end of autumn and despite being bigger in all respects it weighs no more and offers performance in excess of the model it replaces. As is expected from a BMW 7 Series technology is to the fore, with this seventh son of a seventh son being the most advanced yet.

BMW’s über-SUV the X6 romps into the dealerships at the end of spring and takes the battle directly to Audi’s Q7. Offering sports coupe styling with an amount of off-road capability the new X6 seems to fill a completely new market segment. There is an argument that the X6 fills this new segment perfectly, the counter argument is that the X6 offers the worst of SUV and sports coupe and that it is a triumph of marketing over technology. That is a little harsh, certainly as an SUV the X6 falls a little short in comparison to other models available. As a sports coupe there is no question that the X6 is unremarkable at best. As an alternative, more sport SUV the X6 does appear to be the perfect combination in many respects. Porsche’s Cayenne Turbo has proven that an SUV can be exceptionally quick and the X6 proves that an SUV can be sportily styled.