BMW: New Cars 2012
It's going to be a big year for BMW in 2012, with various major new products joining the local line-up. The new 2012 3-Series will replace the current model which has been on sale in various forms since 2005. It will be joined by the Touring wagon variant later in the year. The new M5 is also set for Australia, as is the M6. Other introductions include the new 6-Series Gran Coupe, the facelifted X6 and the 5-Series hybrid.
BMW 3-Series
Vehicle type: Premium mid-size sedan. Timing: February
BMW Australia will welcome the all-new 3-Series in 2012, including an all-turbocharged range. From the 320i to the new 328i, these models will feature BMW’s new 2.0-litre TwinPower turbo four-cylinder engine. The 328i will also replace the current 330i which uses a 3.0-litre non-turbo straight six. Sitting at the top of the shelf in the new line-up will be the 335i, using the 3.0-litre TwinPower turbo inline six. The 320d will kick off the initial launch range with a $60,900 price tag.
BMW M5
Vehicle type: Premium sports sedan. Timing: February
Featuring a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 412kW of power and 680Nm of torque, the new M5 is the most powerful 5-Series ever made. It’s also the most powerful production car BMW M has ever made. Prices are not expected to increase over previous model, which should see the F10 version start at around $240,000.
BMW ActiveHybrid 5
Vehicle type: Large luxury sedan. Timing: Mid-2012
As seen in concept form at various international motor shows, the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 will be powered by the 535i's 3.0-litre TwinPower turbo inline six and an electric motor, providing a combined output of 250kW. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.4L/100km while 0-100km/h acceleration is taken care of in 5.9 seconds. Expect a price tag between $130,000 and $150,000.
BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe
Vehicle type: Premium four-door coupe. Timing: Q3
The 6-Series Gran Coupe is BMW’s answer to the large luxury four-door coupe market, which is currently the domain of its German rivals, including the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Audi A7 Sportback. It’s based on the 6-Series Coupe platform, although it features three seats in the back and two extra doors to access them. Variants will likely range from 640i, with a 3.0-litre TwinPower turbo six, to 650i, with a 330kW 4.4-litre V8. A diesel 640d is also on the cards using a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel six.
BMW X6 facelift
Vehicle type: Luxury SUV. Timing: Q3
BMW will be introduce a facelift for its flagship SUV early in the second half of 2012. This will include a mild cosmetic update with a revised front fascia, rear end, and interior layout over the current model. It’s also expected to get the new ‘40i’ 3.0-litre turbo petrol engine variant. Expect prices to range between $100,000 and $150,000 similar to the current model.
BMW M6 Coupe and Convertible
Vehicle type: Premium sports coupe. Timing: Q4
The new BMW M6 is based on the just-released 2012 BMW 6-Series. It will feature the same engine and drivetrain as seen in the 2012 BMW M5 - a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 - however power figures may be slightly different from the 412kW/680Nm on offer in the M5.
BMW 3-Series Touring
Vehicle type: Premium mid-size wagon. Timing: End of 2012
The Touring variant of the new 3-Series is yet to be revealed but BMW Australia says it will be launched locally towards the end of 2012. It will likely feature the same engines and specification levels as the sedan, including the 320d, 320i, 328i and 335i. The wagons will come with a price premium over their sedan counterparts.
0
Video: ‘Top Gear Australia’ first preview and release date
