Latest news with #7Series
Korea Herald
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- Korea Herald
BMW 7 Series tops Korea's premium import sedan sales in H1
BMW's 7 Series posted the strongest sales performance in South Korea's premium flagship import market during the first half of this year. According to the German carmaker's Korean unit on Monday, 2,885 vehicles were sold from January to June, reflecting a 23.7 percent increase from the same period last year. The 740i xDrive accounted for over half of all sales, leading the lineup with 1,512 sold, marking 40.8 percent year-on-year growth. The diesel variant, 740d xDrive, also recorded a 36.2 percent increase with 831 sold. BMW's performance further extended across its large luxury model lineup, which includes the full-size sport utility vehicles X7 and XM, the 8 Series coupe and M8 sedan models. The brand sold 5,776 vehicles in this segment during the first six months of this year, up 21.4 percent from 4,758 last year. The X7 alone posted sales of 2,421, a 21.5 percent increase year-over-year, demonstrating BMW's dominance in the large luxury SUV category with a total of 2,578 SUVs sold. South Korea continues to be a crucial market for BMW globally, ranking third in 7 series and overall luxury class sales. BMW Korea said that the market's alignment with BMW's values of innovation, luxury and personalization makes it one of the brand's most strategic regions worldwide. One key factor behind this success is the rise of tech-savvy middle-aged consumers in Korea who seek both advanced digital features and sophisticated design. The 7 Series addresses this demand with features like a 31.3-inch display in the rear, supporting streaming platforms such as Netflix and YouTube, as well as HDMI input for external content. Additional highlights include the 4D Bowers & Wilkins sound system, the Executive Lounge seating package and Executive Drive Pro for maximum ride comfort. BMW also offers a wide range of power trains under its Power of Choice strategy, including gasoline (740i), diesel (740d), plug-in hybrid (750e xDrive) and fully electric models (i7, i7 M70 xDrive). To further enhance exclusivity, the company operates the BMW Individual program for top-tier models like the 750e xDrive, i7 xDrive60 and i7 M70 xDrive. Customers can choose from over 22,000 combinations across exterior design, colors, trim lines and interior materials. Moreover, the BMW Excellence Club ㅡ a premium ownership program ㅡ plays a vital role in driving customer loyalty by offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as VIP access to the Cannes Film Festival and the Ryder Cup golf tournament. Additional benefits include priority invitations to BMW-sponsored concerts, events and the BMW Ladies Championship, Korea's only LPGA tournament. "Through a continued focus on tailored benefits and premium services, BMW Korea is committed to redefining luxury mobility experiences and reinforcing its leadership in the domestic market," a company official said.
Hindustan Times
07-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Mercedes Benz rethinks EQS strategy, will Combine EV and ICE S-Class models: Report
The Mercedes Benz EQS sedan is the flagship EV offering from the German carmaker Check Offers Mercedes-Benz plans to make a sweeping overhaul of its luxury sedan family, saying it will combine its legendary S-Class with the all-electric EQS into one, cohesive model family. The initiative marks a significant change in the brand's electrification strategy — one that leans towards design continuity and product simplicity over the segmentation of combustion and electric variants. One Flagship, Multiple Powertrains While the EQS initially launched as a separate electric flagship alongside the conventional S-Class, Mercedes-Benz now thinks that it would be more suitable for its luxury customers to have a single model line that presented both internal combustion units and electric powertrains. This is exactly what competitor BMW has already done with the 7 Series and i7 duo, which are identical in terms of design, amenities, and platform architecture but address differing propulsion desires. Also Read : Mercedes CLA sees strong demand as production scales for EV and petrol models The unified model family is set to arrive sometime in 2030. In the meantime, the current EQS will remain on sale — though with incremental updates along the way — while Mercedes secretly massages a next-generation flagship that harmoniously marries classic luxury elements with advanced EV technology. Why the change? This brand reorientation comes on the heels of internal confessions that the EQS didn't quite connect with its target market. Even though it's marketed as the electric version of the S-Class, the EQS's slab-sided, cab-forward "jelly bean" design couldn't satisfy customers who equate full-size luxury sedans with aggressive dimensions, long noses, and chauffeur-grade stature. Mercedes-Benz's Chief Design Officer, Gorden Wagener, recently acknowledged in an interview with Autocar UK that the EQS may have been '10 years too early," both in terms of styling and positioning. He also admitted the car wasn't marketed in a way that reflected its true character — which was less about traditional luxury and more about futuristic innovation. Also Read : Mercedes AMG to phase out 4 cylinder plug-in hybrids: Report The road ahead: Refinement before reinvention While there are no plans for a successor to the EQS in its current guise, the car will continue in production until the new unified flagship is launched. A further set of updates is due as soon as next year, potentially addressing comfort and technology rather than a full-on redesign. Mercedes appears committed to keeping up the pace in the luxury EV market, but with a keener intent to balance design, identity, and customer aspirations. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2025, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date: 07 Jul 2025, 09:30 AM IST
India Today
04-07-2025
- Automotive
- India Today
BMW posts highest-ever H1 car deliveries, records 10% growth
BMW Group India has recorded its highest-ever car deliveries for the first half of a calendar year, selling a total of 7,774 BMW and Mini vehicles between January and June 2025, marking a 10% year-on-year growth. The company also sold 2,569 motorcycles under the BMW Motorrad brand during the same growth was powered by surging demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and longm wheelbase luxury models. BMW Group India retained its leadership in the luxury EV segment, clocking a staggering 234% growth in EV sales, which now make up 18% of its total car deliveries. The BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase emerged as the top-selling electric vehicle, followed by the flagship BMW long wheelbase models includes the 3 Series, 5 Series, 7 Series, and the iX1, posting a 159% sales increase, now accounting for nearly half (47%) of all BMW car sales in India. The BMW 5 Series stood out as the brand's highest-selling sedan in the period, while the 3 Series maintained its leadership in the premium sedan category. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, "Carrying forward the impressive performance of Q1 into H1, BMW Group India is steering the success story for this year with tremendous fervour. We are on a fast track, posting +10% growth despite a challenging environment as we continue to unfold new opportunities in luxury segment. Changing the game with our thrust on electric mobility, we are the most preferred Indian luxury EV brand with phenomenal +234% growth. Among SAVs as well as sedans, our long wheelbase luxury models are in great demand due to their seamless blend of comfort and performance. Coupled with the ongoing RetailNext transformation and Care customer support initiatives, we are redefining our customers' journey with joy and complete peace of mind."BMW's Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs) continued to see strong traction, registering a 17% growth in H1. The BMW X1 led sales among SAVs with a 30% share, dominating the premium compact segment, while the BMW X5 was the next most preferred model in the the Mini front, 297 units were sold in the first half of 2025. The Mini Cooper S was the standout performer, witnessing over 60% growth year-on-year, with the Mini Countryman E also contributing to Motorrad maintained its stronghold in the two-wheeler space, led by the G 310 RR, while the BMW 900 GS/GSA and 1300 GS/GSA led in the adventure category. In super sport motorcycles, the BMW S 1000 RR was the top the brand's customer engagement forward, BMW Group India's new initiative is transforming the showroom experience with immersive, digitally enabled spaces. With an investment of Rs 365.6 crore, this future-focused retail concept will be deployed across 56 facilities in 33 its product and retail innovations, BMW India Financial Services continues to boost sales through Smart Finance solutions offering flexible EMIs, assured buyback, and hassle-free to Auto Today Magazine- Ends
The Citizen
30-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
BMW 7 Series' controversies offset by tech and comfort mastery
Aside from having finally gained the upper hand over its Mercedes-Benz rival, the latest 7 Series also trounces its X7 stablemate when it comes to proper luxury motoring. The BMW 7 Series story a familiar one stretching back to the original E23's unveiling 48 years ago. While within striking range, the proverbial 'close but no cigar' saying always applied to Munich's rival for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class when it came to the topic of 'tomorrow's in-car technology' and comfort today. Impossible pulled-off.. for now Probably sick of hearing about the comparison with the three-pointed star, the blue-and-white roundel seemingly threw everything it had at the G70 in creating the most opulent and controversially styled 7 Series since the Chris Bangle-era E65. ALSO READ: New BMW 7 Series a sensory luxury and tech overload Despite a heavily facelifted version of current W223 S-Class, which, admittedly, did go on-sale in 2020, being launched later this year, the G70, for the time being, has the upper hand by an everything but comfortable margin. Whereas the quiet dropping of the all-electric i7 M60 for the much more powerful M70 just over two years ago has been the biggest updated handed to the G70 so far, the most enduring derivative, arguably, presents the strongest case since its first arrived as part of the second generation E32 in 1992. The most iconic Seven? The direct rival for the S500 ever since the shelving of the 750i, the 740i kicks the South African-market 7 Series off range as one of three engine options available, the others being the M70 and the diesel-powered 740d. Taking a further step back, the 740i also makes do without the xDrive all-wheel-drive system as on its siblings, while deriving motivation from a six-cylinder engine it only adopted in 2008 with the arrival of the fifth generation F01. Part of the 7 Series range since 1992, the G70 740i continues with the use of a six-cylinder engine since the debut of the F01 generation in 2008. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp While without the shove of its erstwhile battery-operated sibling tested in 2023, or likely the consumption of the still untested 740d, its inclusion as the only petrol-powered 7 Series came with a fair degree of warranting during the seven-day stay. Arriving in the same dour Oxide Silver Metallic paint option as the i7, the 740i, in base Design Pure Excellence grade, proved anything but nondescript. In fact, it came with the rather tough question of whether it can be considered as all the luxury sedan you will need this side of a Rolls-Royce? When controversy works Aesthetically, the Z1-inspired tribute design, no matter how polarising, has started to become more accepted in the same way initial naysayers have started changing their opinions on the M3 and M4. Side profile is typical 7 Series, though the rear is much slimmer than the old G11. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp That being said, the work of BMW's Head of Design, Domagoj Dukec, will still remain a contentious for some, the split headlight design with Swarovski crystals integrated into the LED diodes, and the oversized kidney grille with the optional illuminated surround BMW calls Iconic Glow being the main talking points. Distinctive nonetheless, the notoriety extends further in the slimmer proportions relative to the preceding G11 when viewed from the rear, plus X4-inspired taillight clusters. Test unit sported decidedly plain-looking 20-inch alloy wheels. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp The opposite side of the spectrum though are the seemingly plain-looking 20-inch alloy wheels and liberal use of chrome detailing as per the Design Pure Excellence being focused on luxury in comparison to the step-up M Sport. Interior sensory overload This also goes for the interior as opening the doors 'manually' or automatically via the button next to the lock barrel, reveals the now customary minimalist design with most of the functions residing inside the 14.9-inch iDrive infotainment system that makes-up the Curved Display in conjunction with the 12.3-inch instrument cluster. A setup that will require familiarisation, the integration of BMW's older 8.0 operating system means the former still comes with a myriad icons for each function rather than relying on layers upon layers of sub-menus. Consequently, this makes it somewhat easier to use than the latest 8.5 system. At the same time, the positioning of the displays in relation to the driving position makes the rotary dial scroller almost redounded compared to the touchscreen inputs. Interior looks futuristic and minimalistic. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp As ever, the resolution of the Curved Display is impressive, with another highlight being the optional Augmented Reality camera system displayed within the instrument cluster. In a similar situation to the i7, the test unit sported an odd mix of beige upholstery and carbon fibre inserts. While build quality and fit-and-finish leaves little to be desired, the choice of hue makes for a dated look, not helped by the constant cleaning it will require as evident by the look of the test unit's almost 13 000 km mileage. Ergonomics remain the 7 Series' biggest foible though, and while a fair number of controls reside on the centre console in a touch-sensitive fashion, one of the main irritations is adjusting the air flow of the vents. Sitting on top of the Interaction Bar, the 14.9-inch iDrive infotainment system looks complex, but is relatively easy to use versus BMW's latest systems. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp Positioned below the dashboard, similar to the new 5 Series, the layout feels awkward and unable to provide a satisfactory flow unless switched to maximum hot or cold. Given the climate control's interface, as well as those for the heated, ventilated and massaging seats being located at the base of the infotainment system, the process can become frustrating compared to a button-centred design. Central to the minimalist look, the so-called Interaction Bar sports a crushed crystal-type effect that changes colour via the ambient lighting system. An aesthetic touch that adds to the futuristic look, it still comes with its own quirks in the form of the touch-sensitive scrollers for the climate control, the mechanism for the glovebox and opening the front doors automatically by means of the icons on the outer edge of the dashboard. About the rear… Unsurprisingly though, the main interest for 7 Series buyers is rear accommodation where, apart from the pair of 5.5-inch displays integrated into the door handles, BMW had fitted the test unit with the mesmerising 31.8-inch 4K Theatre Screen that drops down from the roof, and the lounge theatre heated, ventilated massaging seats. Completing the setup is the sublime 36-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround system co-developed between the firm, BMW and legendary Hollywood composer, Hans Zimmer. The undeniable focal point of the 7 Series, controlling the setup by the pair of door handle-mounted displays comes with a slight caveat in accessing what BMW calls Theare Mode. Rear is where most 7 Series owners will be. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp While able to control the main infotainment system as well, only the rear passenger's chair can recline fully up to 42.5-degrees, and only with no one sitting in the front. Besides reclining in an ottoman fashion, with added comfort coming from a pair of headrest-mounted pillows, the electric roller blinds also rise automatically, though these can also be lowered individually. As a result of the Theatre Screen's mechanism, an obscure panoramic view with the fixed glass roof open presents itself, though admittedly, this will likely be of little concerns to most owners. Main highlight is the Theatre Mode that reclines the seat seats and lowers the 31.8-inch Theatre Screen. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp Further focus on the rear comes in the shape of the central armrest that houses a pair cupholders, storage area and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Hardly left out, the front provides a cocoon-type feel despite no lack of space being evident. In fact, the only oddity that will require getting used to, is the two-spoke steering wheel. As part of its other party piece, the 740i's doors can all be opened and closed using the infotainment system, or, as mentioned, by the icons on the dashboard for those at the front. A 5.5-inch display have been integrated into the rear door handles for the various functions ranging from seat adjustment to the drop-down Theatre Screen. Image: Rynhardt Steenkamp Opening the rears from inside takes place via a button atop the handle, though all come with a pair of 'manually' opening buttons and levers on the doors. As refined, comfortable and spacious as the interior is – the boot being deep and equally capacious at 540-litres – the surprise resides underneath up front. The surprise of the 'six' Never expected to deliver the same immediate response as the i7's electric powertrain, the mild-hybrid assisted 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six proved anything sluggish in the lighter 740i. Developing 280kW/540Nm, the unit proved effortless and creamy smooth in moving the 2 090 kg 7 Series along, with only a slight inline-six burble being audible inside. Devoid of the usual low-down lag as a result of the 48-volt belt/starter generator, the other impressive takeaway involved fuel consumption. Arriving with an indicated range of over 800 km, the eventual 576 km clocked after seven-days saw the instrument cluster register a best of 8.9 L/100 km in mixed conditions with extensive use having been made of the climate control, seats and heated steering wheel. In addition, the dual-axle adaptive air suspension results in a smooth and absorbing ride, though surface changes are felt in a manner that could be described as informative rather than unsettling. That being said, the only real blemish was the changing habits of the usually perfect ZF-sourced eight-speed Steptronic gearbox. Operated via the toggle switch on the centre console, the 'box shifts its usual buttery smooth self going up, yet tended to lag with sudden downshifts. While this can be overridden using the gear shift paddles, it stands to reason that most 7 Series drivers will leave the selector in D despite a typical BMW engagement feel being present from behind the wheel. Conclusion BMW's patience in having waited nearly five decades to rattle the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has been long and while the result of the facelift Benz remains to be seen, the real trump card for Munich is the overall execution of the 7 Series from a tech and comfort standpoint. In the absence of the 740d, the 740i Design Pure Excellence, which opens the 7 Series range up, rates as the most complete and without needing to upgrade to the M Sport. While anything but a bargain at R2 284 104 before options, it makes for a compelling package not only as an S-Class alternative, but within BMW's own ranks for doing luxury properly no matter how convincing an X7 might be. NOW READ: Polarising new BMW 7 Series officially in the open
IOL News
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- IOL News
REVIEW: BMW X3 30e PHEV is modern and sophisticated, with a few niggles
It's got presence, but the big grille is a bit polarising. Image: Supplied I test drove the new BMW X3 around the time it was announced as South Africa's 2025 Car of the Year winner, and its victory certainly got us debating its worthiness as an all-round victor. While many were relieved that the winner was not a more expensive vehicle, like the 7 Series that won in 2024, one can't get away from the fact that the X3 has become a rather expensive vehicle, like just about any desirable vehicle emanating from one of the traditional manufacturers these days. The X3 is priced from R1,13 million in 2.0d xDrive diesel guise, while the 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid that we tested recently is a R1.26 million proposition. And that's before you add an M Sport package, which brings the bill up to R1.31 million. ALSO READ: Why the BMW X3 might not be a worthy Car of the Year winner Granted, the Mercedes GLC now costs from R1.24 million to R1.56 million, and there isn't a hybrid option to choose from, while Porsche's Macan starts at R1.62 million. There is of course also a feel-good factor emanating from the fact that the X3 is built right here in Mzansi, following a R4.6 billion investment, with 96% of production being exported to other world markets. The plug-in hybrid covers up to 90km on electric power. Image: Supplied While the excellent X3 20d oil burner is the mainstay of the range, and for good reason, the 30e xDrive plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant is the innovation hero in the range. It pairs a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine to an electric motor for system outputs of 220kW and 450Nm. BMW claims this PHEV model cover up to 90km on electric power alone, and I was impressed with how long it held its battery charge during my test drive, as I was able to waft along on battery power for a good few days. It can get a little thirsty when that charge runs out, however, with two days of purely urban driving pushing my consumption to around 10 litres per 100km. But that's the thing with a plug-in hybrid. If you want to reap the benefits of that heavy battery that it lugs along, you have to charge it on a regular basis. Do that and you effectively have an EV for your daily commute and weekend runabouts, with the petrol engine serving as a back-up plan for long-distance trips. It's a refined package as far as I'm concerned, and the petrol engine kicks in seamlessly when called upon, although it can get a little noisy at higher revs. Performance is sublime, and the steering and road holding are in line with what you'd expect from a modern BMW, with the ride slightly firm but definitely comfortable. Forward-looking cabin The interior is a big departure from what we've seen previously in BMW's small to medium products. It's very evident that the company's stylists modelled it on the latest 7 Series, which is something of a revolution on wheels when it comes to cabin ambience and tech. The interior: futuristic but finicky. Image: Supplied The futuristic-looking cockpit features a new lighting scheme that adds a colour contrasting border to elements like the centre console and door trims. In traditional BMW style, the dashboard curves slightly towards the driver, and the command centre is an ultra-wide curved screen with graphics that wouldn't be out of place on Star Wars. It houses BMW's latest Operating System 9, and there's also a slightly gimmicky 'Interaction Bar' beneath the screen for additional functions. While the X3 packs an impressive amount of technology and functions into the cockpit, it did feel like a bit of a digital overload to me, and many of the functions - particularly the driver info displays - took some getting used to. The cabin as a whole is well executed and while I wouldn't describe the rear legroom as abundant, there appears to be enough space to meet the needs of an average family. I like that BMW has broken the mould with the interior styling, but given its lower price point, the materials and ambient lighting systems don't dazzle in the same way that they do in the larger 7 Series. Not even close, which is understandable given the price difference. But there were some surfaces in the front of the cabin, as well as the front seat-back shells, which felt too cheap for a R1.3 million car, in my book. More standard features On the upside, the X3 does have more standard features than before, with some of the highlights being electrically-powered sports seats with leather upholstery, dual phone charging pad, three-zone climate control, navigation, comfort access, electric tailgate, park assist and driving assist, the latter including lane change warning and traffic sign recognition. Items such as adaptive cruise control, head-up display and a Harman Kardon sound system are optional through various available packages. THE VERDICT The new BMW X3 is a highly refined, sophisticated and innovative new SUV package that is now arguably the best vehicle in its class. But given how the smaller BMW X1 has grown in terms of interior space while still being somewhat cheaper, at R828,899 to R1.18 million, I think there is a big argument in favour of its smaller sibling. Granted, the latter is still built on a front-wheel drive platform, but I don't see that as being a deal breaker for most SUV buyers. IOL
