Stretched dynamics, powerful elegance and fascinating technical perfection: these are the qualities that also convinced the jury to present the internationally acclaimed iF Product Design Awards to the BMW 3 Series Convertible. During the 2008 CeBit technology fair, the first BMW Convertible with a fully retractable hardtop was announced as the winner of the iF Gold Award. This special prize is the highest award the “Industrie Forum Design” presents. The BMW 3 Series Convertible is one of fifty winners of a Gold Award, which were selected from a total of 821 winners of the iF Labels 2008.

This most recent award for BMW 3 Series Convertible is another milestone in the BMW success story with iF Product Design Awards. Last year, the BMW 3 Series Coupe won a Gold Award. In 2001, the previous-generation BMW 3 Series Convertible received the exclusive trophy. The most recent commendation shows that the BMW Design Team scored a winner yet again.

With retracted or closed roof, the long wheel base, horizontal shoulder line and flat rear end make the BMW 3 Series Convertible a real eye-catcher. With its overall arrangement and flow of lines, the four-seater is an unmistakable representative of the characteristic synthesis between technology and aesthetics that is so typical of BMW. Its proportions express sporting elegance, while the flat shoulder, the retracted seating position and the short windscreen guarantee the intensely pleasant driving experience that has always been the hallmark of BMW 3 Series Convertibles. Thanks to the intelligent, space-saving solution for storing the three roof components, the low shoulder line at the rear runs along in one uninterrupted, harmonious flow. Equipped with a retractable hard top for the first time, the BMW 3 Series Convertible retains the character, the line flow and driving experience that have been this model’s hallmark for over four generations.

“For our designers, the tradition of the BMW brand is one of the most important sources of inspiration,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Design. “Nonetheless, every new design will question the traditions that characterized the brand. All known formal details are scrutinized to help determine whether they ought to be retained, changed or given up and replaced by something new. At the same time, state-of-the-art technologies are always a source of inspiration.”

Not only is the electro-hydraulically retractable sheet steel lightweight hard top perfectly integrated into the overall design of the new BMW 3 Series Convertible, it is also distinguished by its maximum comfort of control and minimum noise emission. The interior design creates a link with the theme of stretched dynamism. The side trim panels start at the instrument panel and continue past the front seats to the rear seat armrests with an uninterrupted sweeping movement. The center console with its lively, undulating form also reaches into the rear. The flexible storage concept, which frees up an impressive loading volume of up to 350 liters, underlines the BMW Design Team’s expertise in developing attractive and functional design solutions.

Spearheaded by Christopher E. Bangle, BMW Group Design has consolidated its position among the elite of international design for years. Bangle is firmly and solidly committed to innovation. It is part of his strategy to open up more creative freedom for the design of individual members of the BMW model range with the objective of bringing alive the unique product personality of each model of the BMW brand and allowing a closer identification with the customer. This way, the creative scope has been broadened significantly. The vehicles thus created, have assumed their rightful place among the masterpieces of car design, as prestigious awards for a wide variety of current models of the BMW range prove.

One of the special achievements of the BMW Design Team is the fact that every new model evokes passion for technology and aesthetics. During the design process, progress and sustainability are always in a dynamic equilibrium. “As designers, we wish to make ownership of a BMW an experience. Our objective is to establish a relationship between the people and the product which becomes closer and closer over time,“ van Hooydonk explains.



The BMW 3 Series has recorded impressive sales results since its introduction in the Middle East, selling a total of 3,054 units in 2007 alone. Available in several trim packages, the 3 Series has established itself as the quintessential luxury sports sedan, being voted ‘World Car of the Year’ in 2006.

Available with a 272 hp straight-six, a 3.0-litre straight-six with Twin Turbo technology producing 306 hp, and a 420 hp V8 engine in the BMW 330i, 335i and M3 respectively, the BMW 3 Series will cater to all individuals seeking unique design, driving dynamics, safety, and environmental responsibility in an exceptional package.

06.04.2008

Dubai, UAE. An entirely new model, the BMW X6, the world’s first Sport Activity Coupé, revealed as a Concept Car during the 9th International Middle East Motor Show in November 2007, will soon be available to customers in the region.

Offering a brand new design approach and interpretation, the highly-anticipated BMW X6 is the most sporting and dynamic rendition in the BMW X Series range, visualising superior driving dynamics and outstanding supremacy.

The exterior design of the BMW X6 sports a striking front end, stretched side lines and expresses powerful presence through its wheels, classic coupé proportions and sweeping flow from roofline to rear end.

Equipped as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology and Dynamic Performance Control, and mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with optimised gearshift dynamics, the BMW X6 enjoys unique agility, tracking stability, precision and traction in every situation, as well as optimised fuel economy for lower emissions and maximum power and performance.

The BMW X6 xDrive50i is powered by a newly developed top-of-the-range 4.4-litre V8 power unit with Twin Turbo technology and direct high precision gasoline injection. The new engine is the world’s first eight-cylinder gasoline engine with the turbo-charger and catalytic converters housed in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders, resulting in a maximum output of 407 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. The BMW X6 xDrive35i uses a 3.0-litre R6 engine with Twin Turbo technology, resulting in a maximum output of 306 hp and 295 lb-foot of torque.

03.04.2008

The new BMW M3 Sedan and Convertible will mark its debut in the region in May, BMW Group Middle East confirmed today.

The powerful Sedan and Convertible features a highly tuned 4.0-litre V8, the first for an M3, and produces an astonishing 420 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque at 8,400rpm. The M3 propels from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, up to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

“BMW has raised its performance benchmark with the introduction of the 2008 M3 Sedan and Convertible setting new standards while remaining first and foremost a BMW M3 in its character,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

“The M3 Sedan is a car developed and built with the mission to convey the most demanding motorsport technology to everyday traffic, offering unique sheer driving pleasure in the process.

“We expect a very high level of interest for the M3 Sedan and Convertible similar to the excellent response we received for the Coupé version last year. The new M3 is nothing short of spectacular, which is a reflection of the previous generation’s popularity in the region. We are confident that the M3 will enjoy the same success story of its predecessors,” continued Horton.

The M3 Sedan is also a grand tourer, with space for up to five occupants, and owes its supreme driving dynamics to the new eight-cylinder power unit which, through its high engine speed concept alone, offers all the DNA of the current BMW Sauber F1 power unit.

The new Variable M Differential Lock generates up to 100 per cent locking action with fully variable action whenever required thus ensuring optimum traction on all road surfaces. The Variable M Differential Lock responds to differences in speed between the right and left rear wheel, a solution ideally supplementing the positive qualities of rear-wheel drive.

Safety is also a major element of the M3 Sedan, with a variety of systems integrated in the vehicle, ranging from Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), ABS anti-lock brakes, ASC Automatic Stability Control, CBC Cornering Brake Control, as well as six airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters.

30.04.2008

Capitalizing on the global success that BMW’s 1 Series range has enjoyed since its launch in 2004, BMW Group has announced the introduction of two new models, set to take the compact class segment by storm: the 1 Series Coupe and the 1 Series Convertible.

Having made its worldwide debut with a hatchback, the BMW 1 Series range offering rises to new levels with the new 2008 BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible versions, both offering an unrivalled combination of BMW renowned driving dynamics, maximum efficiency and supreme sportiness.

Phil Horton, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East, commented: “The new 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models add an exciting and contemporary dimension to the 1 Series range. Unmistakably BMW in both design and performance, the 1 Series has been enjoying steady sales in the Middle East; and the addition of these two models is expected to make a marked contribution to our sales figures for 2008.”

The top-of-the range BMW 135i Coupe and Convertible models are powered by BMW’s 3.0-litre straight six engine and feature Twin Turbo technology and High Precision Injection, to offer a maximum output of 306bhp with acceleration to 100km/h in just 5.3 seconds.

The BMW 1 Series range features a lightweight aluminum front suspension that offers the ideal combination of superior stiffness and low weight, and a five-link rear axle that guarantees optimum traction, excellent directional stability, and safe handling.

Attractive modifications made to the exterior of the BMW 1 Series reveal the unique, dynamic and unmistakable BMW design. The interior design of the BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible models feature high-quality, sophisticated trim and upholstery with a wide choice of colours and materials, and a plethora of standard and optional features that include: 6-speed automatic transmission, light alloy wheels, USB and Bluetooth interface and navigation operated through the iDrive.

Thanks to its efficient electro-hydraulically operated soft-top, the BMW 1 Series Convertible can go from encapsulated comfort to top-down exhilaration in just 22 seconds, even on the move at speeds up to 40km per hour. The model is also fitted with a rollover sensor that, when detecting an imminent rollover, pretensions the seatbelts and deploys two rollbars behind the rear headrests. The A-pillar and windshield frame are also reinforced in the convertible for added protection, and all BMW 1 Series models are fitted with six airbags.

The BMW 1 Series offers an unparalleled balance in its class of performance, design, efficiency and exclusivity. Available from BMW Group importers throughout the Middle East in 120i, 125i and 135i models, the new BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible will be turning heads and winning hearts wherever they go.

12.06.2008

BMW Group, the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer, has announced that its pre-owned vehicle sales across the Middle East for January-May 2008 have increased by 75 per cent over the same period last year.

BMW Premium Selection, the company’s industry leading global pre-used programme, was set up in the Middle East in 2006 as a sub-brand of BMW Group. The roll-out plan has extended to eight BMW importerships across the region, including Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Jordan and Kuwait.

“We are on track with our plan for our BMW Premium Selection programme and our positive sales results achieved year-to-date are proving that there is huge potential to increase our pre-used vehicle business even further,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

“We are investing a lot of resources behind this programme and have aggressive plans to include Lebanon, Syria and Iran by 2010. BMW Premium Selection is operated to high international standards with dedicated managers, sales executives and service teams who undergo a comprehensive and intensive training programme,” added Horton.

The BMW Premium Selection programme is reserved exclusively for pre-used BMW vehicles that meet strict criteria. Vehicles need to be less than five years old, have a mileage of under 100,000 km and have been serviced by authorized BMW importers to qualify for the programme.

Vehicles pass a comprehensive 75 point technical check by trained BMW technicians before they are accepted and sold, ensuring high levels of quality, reliability and value to customers. A 12 month warranty and road side assistance is given when purchasing a BMW Premium Selection vehicle ensuring buyers that they not only have the best offer available in the used car market but they also have peace of mind.

16.06.2008

Seven years after the launch of BMW’s bestselling 7 Series model, the world’s most successful premium automotive manufacturer has announced plans to launch its newest generation 7 Series model in November this year.

Offering stylish design, outstanding performance, luxury, power and sheer driving pleasure, the flagship BMW 7 Series, will continue to set the trends in the luxury performance class.

The current generation of the BMW 7 Series model was launched in 2001, and has consistently been a trendsetter becoming the company’s best ever selling 7 Series model.

The new BMW 7 Series is a class leader in emissions reduction, and has been designed around BMW’s robust EfficientDynamics strategy that encompasses many technology innovations to offer outstanding performance and a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission.

The new BMW 7 Series will enter the Middle East market with two brand new engine variants – the V6 740iL and V8 750iL – both with twin-turbo technology and direct fuel injection. The BMW 750i, the flagship in the 7 Series range, is the most efficient engine in its performance class that produces 407bhp and accelerates to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds.

Inside, the new BMW 7 Series is a modern rendition of pure luxury. The ambience is exclusive, sophisticated and inviting, with a clearly structured arrangement of driving and comfort. High-quality materials as well as enhanced space and luxury give the interior a beautifully harmonious feel.

The cockpit has been designed to promote the sheer pleasure of driving, and the latest generation of BMW’s trendsetting iDrive control system features a 10.2 inch display with a high-resolution graphic presentation enabling easy control of the car’s entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

Particular attention has been given to comfort in the rear with an increase in wheelbase of 140 mm for additional room inside the cabin. The design of the new BMW 7 Series gives greater natural presence, sportiness and precise elegance.

BMW has always stood for luxury and sporting refinement, with performance at the heart of its DNA. Through features such as the car’s dynamic proportions, with a low and stretched side view and sculpted surfaces, this luxury saloon offers a unique, unparalleled character.

Safety is at the heart of the new BMW 7 Series, with an optimised body structure and interacting and electronically controlled passive safety systems. Both models come standard with side and head airbags, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres and a tyre defect indicator.

The BMW 7 Series also comes with a wide range of comfort touches and innovative entertainment options, including an audio system with hard-disc memory and AUX-in sleeve featured as standard. A USB port, multi-channel audio system, DVD system in the rear, four-zone automatic air conditioning, active seat ventilation and massage seats all combine to show how this new range is the leader in luxury.

“We are looking forward to launching our new flagship 7 Series model later this year. With the Middle East being the fourth biggest market for 7 Series sales worldwide, we are confident that this new generation model will ensure we maintain both our competitive edge and our position at the forefront of innovation,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

08.07.2008

The BMW X6, the world’s first Sport Activity Coupé, has extended its product range to include a more powerful X6 xDrive50i variant that features a new 4.4-litre V8 engine with Twin Turbo technology. The latest model joins the highly successful BMW X6 xDrive35i that was launched in the Middle East earlier this year.

The new X6 xDrive50i model is the world’s first eight-cylinder gasoline engine with the turbo-charger and catalytic converters housed in the V-section between the two rows of cylinders, giving a maximum output of 407 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque.

As with the already popular BMW X6 xDrive35i, the BMW X6 xDrive50i comes equipped as standard with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive technology and Dynamic Performance Control for agility, stability, precision and traction in any driving situation.

“We have enjoyed tremendous success throughout the region with the new BMW X6 model that combines the sporting elegance of a large coupé with the powerful presence of a BMW X model. Since the launch in March, we have sold 596 models and our full year’s production is almost sold out,” said Phil Horton, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

“We’ve had many customers on the waiting list for the X6 xDrive50i version, which offers even more power than the current X6 xDrive35i. With the new addition to the X6 range, we expect the X6 to contribute significantly to our full year sales growth,” added Horton.
The BMW X6 also makes use of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology innovations that reduce fuel consumption and CO² emissions. Both models include two new High Precision Injection (HPI) engines and tyres with reduced rolling-resistance, delivering excellent performance and making the X6 the most fuel efficient car in its competitive class.

Both BMW X6 xDrive35i and xDrive50i models are available with a wide range of comfort functions and innovative entertainment options, including BMW iDrive with personalised favourite buttons, multi-channel audio system, DVD system at the rear, active seat ventilation, back-up camera and advanced navigation systems.

10.08.2008