Did you known that the BMW 5er Gran Turismo has sold over 65,000 units globally since its European introduction in November 2009?
The popular markets are Europe , Asia and Russia.
5er Gran Turismo's leaving the production line for Asia are now Individual specification. Chinese buyers see the 5er GT as a more luxurious and exclusive to the "everyone has" 5er Li model.
The 5er GT achieves and in some cases exceeds BMW's set target of 10% from total BMW 5er units.
The 5er GT is a low volume model so set targets are lower.
The Majority of 5er GT customers are new to the BMW brand.
BMW 5er GT owners surveyed say the best thing about the car is the interior and flexibility on offer.
Sorry but that award still stays with you for saying this.
Quote:
|
The X1 is a miss, the X3 (was) a miss and also a driving failure, not worthy the BMW brand by miles, the X5 is not ugly but a "truck" with decent dynamics and an X6 is... well, I don't really know. The M variants of both latter species are a joke really.
|
The X1 is in demand , even more so now the USA finally get the X1.
And is a huge success in all markets. The X1 will soon begin production in China. With the X1 and the MINI Countryman BMW proved that two existing concepts can co-exist with each other under different brands and meet specific sales targets. The MINI Countryman is globally the best selling MINI model.
The new X3 is a huge success BMW's specific market targets have been exceeded , even the previous generation X3 managed to be sold to 640,000 customers since introduction in late 2003.
The X3 was the original BMW growth machine and started the ball rolling for BMW's SAV line. Demand for a smaller X5 was there. BMW pioneered the idea for the premium market and then everyone followed.
The X5 is more , much more than just a truck , it is the segment leader for those that prefer on-road ability as a priority. BMW do not call their X models SUVs. BMW prefer Sport Activity Vehicles because it embodies BMW's standard of dynamics and driving pleasure in a more commercial package.
The X5 will be replaced next year by a third generation model yet there is still a demand for the X5.
The X6 is another example of how two similar concepts can co-exist.
Originally the USA was expected to be the largest market for the X6 , it did not . The largest markets for the X6 are China , Russia , Brazil and the Middle-East. Demand for the X6 is not only in new car sales but also approved X6 is in demand which brings one of the reasons for a smaller , accessible X4 model developed like the X6 from the X3. The X4 is a product with a very high return rate and it will be popular with those that want an X6 but cannot afford one. From the 20d EfficientDynamics right through to the storming
X4M there will be an X4 for everybody.
The X5M and X6M are known as "volume"models.
They might not sell in huge models but for an M model they outsell all other M models. Again emerging markets are responsible for these cars , which BMW still sell in high quantities. Demand for an X6M is also a reason why BMW are moving into developing an X4M. A more accessible option for potential X6 and M customers.
The emphasis on the SAV line is because the luxury market is in decline for large sedans and Coupes but rising for super SUVs and four door inspired Coupe's. Hence why the new Range Rover looks more upmarket and why Bentley and Lamborghini have shown exclusive SUV concepts.
BMW will not be alone and are developing a bigger X7 model to take advantage of this. Development mules using extended X5 bodies are in testing.
The high end luxury market is also rising which is why Rolls-Royce are readying the Ghost Coupe and Drophead.
Quote:
|
I'am not against the 3GT either, a decent quality mid class hatch with RWD should have a market! But please, give it some elegant style please. An ugly or a classy design can cost the same. So why don't opt for the latter?
|
The 3er GT and 5er GT have to fullfil realistic requirements so there is a reason why the cars look as they are , to do so without would mean a car that looks more like a van with windows. The stylish approach with a combination of Coupe and luxury car reminds us that it is more exclusive than a R-Klasse etc and therefore more appealing to the customer.