BMW forges ahead with new-model onslaught

BMW’S new-model juggernaut that started with the 4 Series and third-generation X5 late last year continues unabated with three all-new models still to surface before the end of 2014.

Following on from the release of the 2 Series coupe in February and the arrival this month of the 4 Series Gran Coupe and M3/M4 high-performance twins, will be the X4 crossover.

Launching in July, and based on the current-generation X3 mid-size SUV that is about to undergo a facelift of its own after three years on the market, the X4 will continue the theme of the coupe/crossover with a sporty slant in the vein of its larger X6 sibling.

The second-generation X6, revealed last month and derived from the existing F15 X5 large SUV, is slated for a local launch in December.

In fact, the final quarter of 2014 will see no less than four other BMWs, including the launch of a facelifted 1 Series Hatch, i3 petrol-electric hybrid and EV models, the 2 Series Active Tourer – the company’s first front-wheel drive and three-cylinder model to wear the propeller roundel – and the i8 hybrid sports car.

However, sales of the latter won’t actually begin until the first quarter of next year.

Meanwhile BMW’s British marque, Mini, has already undergone a generational change with the April release of the third-generation F56 3 Door Hatch.

December will also see the 5 Door Hatch variant arrive Down Under.

“It has been a year of innovation and change for BMW,” according to BMW Australia managing director Phil Horton.

“From the three-cylinder engines and first-ever front-wheel drive BMW to the i8 brand arriving, we have a huge amount of new product still in the pipeline.”BMW Australian launch diary

4 Series Gran Coupe	June
M3 and M4	June
X3 facelift	June
X4	July
i3	October
1 Series hatch facelift	November
2 Series Active Tourer	November
X6	December
Mini five-door	December
i8	December/January