BMW working on new Mini and X1 crossovers

BMW made the announcement last week that it was planning to start production of yet another model outside of Germany, with the Spartanburg plant in the US now locked in to build the next-generation X3 as well as an all-new X6 crossover. The decision enables BMW to take advantage of the depreciating US dollar but has upset unions and employees back in Germany where some of its plants are under utilized.

The new sedan model is expected to hit the market in 2009, but before that we’ll see the new X6 roll-in with a launch date in the second half of next year. BMW won’t be leaving Magna Steyr high and dry after the current X3 ceases production in 2010. An announcement is due soon concerning several new models including a crossover MINI that will spawn a BMW X1 model.
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bmwdrvr - 5/21/2007 10:40:28 AM

+4 Boost

bmw really needs to stop going downmarket, an x1? a bmw that competes with the rav4, liberty, and saturn vue thats rediculous, just like the rumoured small roadster to compete with the miata, not sure whats going on at BMW but it needs to stop.

Will_ - 5/21/2007 4:39:00 PM

+3 Boost

It doesn't get anymore "presiege-less" than the grammatical tragedy that just occurred here...

matt635 - 5/21/2007 11:52:30 AM

+3 Boost

BMW needs to remain independent, and it is a simple fact that it is easier to sell cheaper cars than more expensive ones, there are alot more people out there that can afford £20,000-£30,000 cars than there are people that can afford £50,000-£70,000 cars. I'm sure BMW could produce more top end vehicles, there just isn't a big enough market.

If you want a cheaper Audi you have VW to go to (VAG), if you want a cheaper Lexus, you have Toyota to go to... if you want a cheaper BMW..... you'll still get to buy a BMW.

And you can't tell me that just because there will be an X1 it will actually make the X5/X6 any worse!!

The only people that care about this are badge snobs, I buy/lease BMW's because I love the car NOT THE BADGE.

Bring on the X1, X3, X5, X6, 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, Z2, Z4, Z9.... and the Bikes (long live BMW Motorad)

bmwdrvr - 5/22/2007 11:25:00 PM

+1 Boost

it is also a proven fact that cheaper, higher volume cars generate less profits, and just more sales, than more expensive models. it also is a sure fire way of killing a brands prestige, there is no reason for bmw to be everything to everybody, they arent vw, or subaru, or toyota etc.

spiritfilled - 5/21/2007 12:22:30 PM

+1 Boost

amen to that

jt716 - 5/21/2007 7:39:38 PM

+1 Boost

I love the 3 and 5 series such beauties