BMW reveals four new cars

Friday, September 28, 2007

Range-topping Gran Turismo four-door
BMW X1 baby 4x4 confirmed
Next Mini will also be a 4x4

BMW's CS concept car could become a reality called the Gran Turismo

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BMW has said it will produce four new models by 2012.

A range-topping four-door is provisionally called the Gran Turismo and will be based on a new 7 Series platform.

Its design will resemble the CS concept, which was first shown at this year's Shanghai motor show.

It will be joined by a BMW X1, Rolls-Royce Coupe and Mini 4x4.

The X1 four-seater will be based on the 1 Series, but will borrow the four-wheel-drive system and suspension from the X3. It should be launched in 2010.

The Rolls-Royce Coupe will be the third variant of the Phantom, and will share its 6.75-litre V12 engine when it goes on sale in 2008.

It has also been revealed that an additional Rolls-Royce is being created. It will be positioned below the Phantom in size and price.

The Mini 4x4 is described by BMW as a Sports Activity Vehicle, and is expected to go on sale in 2010.

No Volvo purchase
BMW has also ruled out acquiring Ford subsidiary Volvo, because it says none of the Swedish firm's products fit in with its current model line-up.

BMW wants to save six billion Euros through efficiency savings by 2012, so it's putting more emphasis on sharing chassis and parts across its brands to achieve economies of scale - something the acquisition of Volvo would not allow it to do.

However, it has revealed that it is considering creating its own fourth brand, or buying a rival that has the potential for component-sharing in 12 months' time.