BMW impresses by unveiling two concept cars and M3 coupe

Dubai: BMW got the ninth Middle East International Motor Show off to a flying start with the unveiling of two concept cars and its new M3 Coupe.

The fourth edition of the M3 features for the first time a V8 engine, which churns out 420 horsepower and will take the car from 0-100kph in 4.8 seconds. It is expected to go on sale in the Middle East in January.

BMW also unveiled the low-slung Concept CS - a four-door Gran Turismo aimed at the region's luxury segment, which could go into production in approximately two years.

The company wrapped up its unveilings with the latest model in its X series - the twin-turbo Concept X6. BMW describes it as the world's first sports activity coupe.

Phil Horton, managing director of BMW Group Middle East, said the region could be in the top five globally for X6 sales. The model will hit the market in mid-2008.

"This will be a key market. I think if the company could design a car specifically for the Middle East, it would be the X6. It looks good and both engines offered will have twin-turbo power," he said.

BMW's highest selling model this year for the Middle East is the X5, accounting for around 15 per cent of overall sales, followed by the 5 Series and 7 Series.

The sales trend varies from the US and Europe, where the smaller 3 Series accounts for around 50 per cent of BMW sales. By the end of 2007, the company expects to have sold around 15,000 BMWs and approximately 700 Minis - a 10 per cent increase for BMW and 25 per cent for Mini.

"We're looking at good growth for the next year. Depending on the regional political situation we could easily see 10-15 per cent growth in the market and for BMW," said Horton.

Earlier this month, BMW reported third-quarter profit that lagged forecasts, widening its competitive gap with luxury peers.

"The biggest growth opportunities for BMW and most other car manufacturers are in China, India and Russia," said Horton.

"With our [Middle East] growth levels, that clearly puts us in the top ten ranking. The markets of America and Europe are not growing at anything like those levels."