|
I do not think some of you understand the issue here and that is BMW's focus on a sustainable future for it's own future - BMW wishes to stay independent and even now will be pushing the word "Independence" even more since VAG swallowed Porsche .
Yes the 3er will receive three cylinder engines for it's European models but these are engines developed by BMW and which are undergoing testing in the new F20 BMW 1er Sporthatch. BMW are bringing 3 cylinders to it's models because it will help BMW maintain it's excellence in emissions output.
BMW have the most cars that meet European targets even more than Mercedes-Benz and Audi a target that BMW is immensely happy with as are the engineers who have worked on these "Efficient Dynamics" technologies.
If the US follows Europe in Emissions then BMW will have the cars available for that outcome. Whether that means four cylinders also then people would need to get rid of that chip on their shoulder when it comes to four cylinders or indeed hatches. Because in current times North American customers are missing out on some great cars especially in our latest diesels.
Which sadly the angst against the hatchback remains and BMW will not federalize the next generation 1er hatchback for North America.
For every "for" the Sporthatch there are at least many more "Against".
BMW NA had to beg BMW AG to allow them to sell the X1 in North America as BMW investigated that in the current climate it would not be profitable to sell the X1 in North America.
But both the 3 and 4 cylinder engines will be capable of a pretty big punch they will be Turbocharged and the cars will be as good to drive as ever and handle like a BMW Sporthatch or BMW sport sedan should. There should be no worries in that department . And what of the future? BMW aim to have at least every model in it's product portfolio offer at least one model with an alternative powertrain from regular petrol and diesels.
Reading some of the comments saying that BMW is finished etc is melodramatic perhaps some of you would like a tissue to dry your eyes?
BMW is far from finished becaue there is so much exciting innovativions and products coming up .
Next year will see the next generation of BMW X3 aiming to repeat the success of over 500,000 units sold since January 2004 , The excellent new BMW 5er which is GOING to rock the segment - I have driven it. The X5 and 3er Coupe and Cabrio will get new enhancements to enable them to continue their dominance. a new 6er Coupe and Cabrio is on the way with the premium position meaning then 6er receives a folding hardtop with the outer panels made from lightweight aluminium.
The next generation 1er Sporthatch aims to follow it's forebearer and be as more innovative than before. And with more individuality for the 1er Coupe and Cabrio and an exciting small lightweight Roadster and Coupe and a Progressive Activity Sedan type vehicle for the 1er.
Leading up to the sixth gen of the 3er - The worlds only compact sporting sedan and a new Progressive Activity Coupe based off the 3er and eventually the BMW 6er Gran Turismo four door coupe - your clue is next door.
|