If you watch the news, we bet that you're well aware that Europe is experiencing serious financial woes. Most people would consider it old news at this point… at least, those living in developed countries outside of Europe. People residing in Europe? Well, they probably consider it more of a current affair. As is the case when a country endures financial distress, citizens there are continuing to tighten their proverbial purse strings.
Of course with this financial crisis of sorts, analysts forecasted meager sales for German-made autos in 2012. Bavarian luxury automaker's like BMW couldn't possibly experience healthy growth when Europe is feeling so fiscally strapped, right?
Wrong.
Against all odds, BMW hit quite envious numbers in the first quarter and
shows no sign of slowing down. BMW has proven itself time and again it's a brand that can withstand both the best and worst of times.
The factor seemingly not accounted for is burgeoning demand for luxury vehicles outside of Europe - specifically in the U.S. and China. Demand for German luxury cars in these two countries is so strong, BMW actually did a heck of a lot more than exceed expert projections; they broke a couple of records. Take deliveries, for example. For BMW, counts climbed to a record 425,528 units in Q1 2012.
To thank, BMW has two over-achieving models: the new 1 Series and new X3 SUV. Sales for these two autos grew 20 percent and 55 percent respectively, Q1 2011 to Q1 2012.
What exactly does this mean?
Well, in terms of the new BMW 1 Series, it means more record deliveries.
Among the many things that make the BMW 1 Series attractive to drivers from America to China are its two available body types - coupe and convertible - and 230-300 hp, depending on triml. Essentially, the 1 Series is luxury and power - minus the distracting frills.
The 2012 BMW X3 on the other hand appeals to luxury automaker's more practical side without asking them to sacrifice anything in the way of looks. Or performance for that matter - the BMW X3 xDrive35i delivers just as much horsepower as the new BMW 135i Coupe or BMW 135i Convertible.
Curious to see how BMW performs Q2-Q4 2012? Keep it right here. BMW of Sioux Falls located at 101 S Carolyn Ave keeps our finger on the pulse so you don't have to.
[INFO] http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/vehicles/2013/X3/default.aspx http://www.bmwusa.com/standard/content/vehicles/2012/1/default.aspx http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-05-03/bmw-joins-vw-daimler-beating-estimates-as-porsche-gains.html