Quote:
Originally Posted by mkoesel
Funny, but the 6GC doesn't belong IMHO. The X4 would fit in that spot better once it debuts this auto show season (possibly Detroit, though that's pretty crowded already).
Although enthusiasts tend to misunderstand and deride BMW for these types of vehicles (and I personally would never buy one myself), all they are really doing is meeting customer demand. These may be niche products and may not perform well in some markets, but if the X6 weren't successful they would not be preparing a follow up nor the smaller X4. Same goes for 5GT/3GT, 6GC/4GC(/2GC).
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Vehicles built off an existing architecture not only allows expansion but complete profitability. The 3er for example is the highest profit architecture as around 9 vehicles are created from one central section with existing modular sections to determine each individual concept. This is what BMW invested in when others were pissing up against the wall with non profitable vanity projects . BMW leads the momentum.
Cars that do not create a successful integration in one market does not mean that they cannot be successful in others. The BMW X6 and 5er Gran Turismo are evidence of this. These are not vehicles sold in high volume as the regular X5 and 5er. They are only meant to count for around 10% of annual total combined sales. Both of these vehicles have not only made these targets but in some cases exceeded them which is why you will see replacements on both of them. Because of the existing architecture fact both vehicles are high profit units.
The new 3er GT which was launched in Europe in June and most recently in the USA is just under 5,000 units , the majority being in Europe where customers are appreciating a 3er with even more flexibility than resorting to utility.
The new BMW X4 is an example of downsizing the market and a gap was found where people want an X6 but cannot reach financially.
The X4 is again based off existing architecture which will allow BMW to regain profit on each unit sold.
Niches like the X6 , X4 and GT are not just overruling decisions over common sense.
Each proposal is evaluated from every perspective before being green-lit.
By talking to customers you can gain and insight into how the market progresses. The GT is one such vehicle , exclusivity was one aspect as was producing a vehicle which identified developments in the market such as the semi-command seating position and first class interior which took the car to a higher plain than the existing 5er which was the E60 at that time.
And now look what is coming from our competitors , cars that imitate the same concept and idea because the BMW models work in high growth and high profit markets. BMW does all the work implementing the market and all the competition has to do is follow and they will follow.
A Coupe based on the Mercedes ML is coming as as a 5dr Sportcoupe for the C and E-Klasse. And Audi are coming too.