By Hindustan Times
German luxury car maker BMW on Friday launched its new 3 series sedan at a worth tag of R28.9-37.9 lakh and master blaster Sachin Tendulkar as its show stopper. The sedan comes at a very important time for the automobile maker fascinated with an intense fight for the highest spot within the luxury car segment
with country cousin Audi.
The latter has surged past Mercedes this year and rather less than 500 units separate it from BMW to this point in 2012. The three series, however, is anticipated to assist BMW consolidate its position on the top and break free from Audi within the second half.
“We have a product offensive planned for the second one half the year,” said Andreas Schaaf, president, BMW India. “We have four more launches this year, for you to drive sales within the upcoming festival season.”
For the primary time since its entry into India in 2007, BMW has lagged industry growth as sales have declined marginally within the first six months this year. BMW sold 4,457 units in 2012 so far, 1.5% not up to last year.
Audi however grew by a powerful 42.8% at 4,000 units and have become BMW’s main competitor for the number one spot. The corporate admitted that demand was sluggish.
“The economic situation is affecting our sales. Realistic scenario for this year is 10% growth,” added Schaaf.
Traditionally, the three series is BMW’s second-largest selling car in India after the larger 5 series however the company believes the brand new version would lead to a shift in that order.
It is leaving no stone unturned to get it right with the three series and has roped in a celeb for the primary time.
“I have always been a BMW fan however the real association with it started once I was 14,” Tendulkar said through the launch. “One of the primary BMWs that I drove and owned was in 1993. My pockets weren't so deep back then so I needed to go for a second-hand BMW and it was a joy to drive that car.”
The little master now owns a BMW M5 and its SUV X5.
