Quote:
Originally Posted by Dephead2004
Another factor in reducing options count is the newish WLTP testing regime. Unlike previous testing regimes in Europe every single option combo much be tested before sale. With our cars having almost infinite combinations there is no realistic alternative but to cut the options or bundle into packs.
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This is a terrific insight, totally missed by folks on this side of the Atlantic, and on that "other" BMW website, the one that is following in RoadFly's footsteps.
So 3 inexorable factors:
- Like all manufacturers, BMW needs to play in China, a nation without car guys.
- Logical Apex's Millennial brethren are too busy staring into their screens to live a visceral life with real kinesthetic experiences. For them, SIM racing is the same as the real thing, and owning a car makes no more sense than owning a (non-electric) bicycle.
- The mandating of autonomous features and the rise in testing requirements by those progressive socialist killjoy wankers in the EU
I'm hoping the 4 Gran Coupe fulfills the promise of the 4 Concept. Otherwise, I will either be letting a current 8 Series owner take the depreciation hit and buy CPO, of jump to Porsche or Jag when the lease on my 2020 540 ends.
(And Logical Apex, you and your Millennial brethren may scoff at us "glorified renters", but someday you will learn. I own both my homes because I want to keep them long term. But cars, phones, laptops and other toys? I'm too old - and to smart - to be stuck with stale tech. Windows ME, anyone?)