It isn’t often that an automobile manufacturer gets to launch an entirely new vehicle segment, but that’s exactly what BMW did in 1999 when it introduced the world’s first Sports Activity Vehicle – the BMW X5. Two generations and some 1.3 million vehicles later, the BMW X5 is set to enter its third generation. As its predecessors have done before, the all-new 3rd generation X5 will again set new standards for luxury, versatility and – because it is a BMW first and foremost – driving dynamics.
BMW and Pininfarina are two of the most tradition-swathed names in the motoring world. Each is a byword for cutting-edge technology, style, dynamics and aesthetics. With the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé, the two time-honoured companies are unveiling the outcome of their first collaboration at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013.
90 years of BMW Motorrad, 90 years of two-wheeled history – hardly another motorcycle manufacturer can boast such a longstanding and successful heritage as BMW. The BMW R 90 S likewise has cause to celebrate: the BMW Motorrad design icon turns 40 this year.
Dynamic ability, comfort, efficiency, aesthetic allure and a profusion of innovations designed to enhance driving pleasure – the BMW 5 Series contains all the signature ingredients of a best-selling model at the premium end of the executive segment. Indeed, consistently rising sales figures have sealed its position as the global leader in its class. Over one million units of the BMW 5 Series Sedan, BMW 5 Series Touring and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo – whose luxurious character has earned it a unique status in the segment – have been sold worldwide since the launch of the current generation. And now another new chapter in this impressive success story is poised to begin.
Emphasis placed judiciously on certain areas of design enhances the enjoyment of the superior driving experience in the BMW M5 high-performance sedan. In parallel with the launch of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, the new BMW 5 Series Touring and the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, BMW M GmbH’s most successful model is also undergoing a carefully devised revision.
The BMW Group is paving the way for continued success in the future with a high level of expenditure on new technologies and models and investments in its production network. “In this way, we are preparing for the company’s next phase of growth and making the BMW Group more competitive for the future. Anyone who wishes to shape the mobility of tomorrow must make the necessary investments today,” said Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Norbert Reithofer, at the Annual General Meeting on Tuesday in Munich.
Little more than a year before the EU6 exhaust emission standard comes into effect in September 2014, BMW is increasing the number of models that already fulfil the more stringent emission regulations. As early as in the summer of 2013, almost all models featuring the BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine will comply with the EU6 classification as standard. Moreover, by the summer of 2013, further four-wheel drive variants of the BMW 1 Series and the BMW 3 Series are to be added to the model range of the BMW brand.
The BMW Group continued to perform well in the first quarter of 2013. Group revenues totalled € 17,546 million (2012: € 18,293 million; -4.1%).
BMW Motorrad is the most successful manufacturer of large-capacity touring enduros and, with the F 700 GS and F 800 GS, leads the way in the mid-size category, too. The new F 800 GS Adventure builds on this position.
The BMW Group will launch an electrically powered production vehicle this year with the BMW i3, which represents a new form of sustainable mobility in urban areas. As the first premium electric vehicle, the BMW i3 rises to the social, ecological and economic challenges of our time.