BMW Malaysia launches three new models
BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd has introduced its first new offerings for the year - the new BMW 116i, 118i, 630i - to strengthen its presence in the market.
In a statement on March 4, it said the launch of the 116i and 118i to the 1 Series line-up alongside the sporty 120i would bring the total number of variants in the 1 Series to three.
Its managing director Wolfgang Schlimme said the launch of the two variants were keeping to the schedule of its promise at the launch of the BMW 120i earlier in terms of choice and variants.
“With the availability of the 116i and 118i, we expect to be able to grow with more volume in this segment as these two variants appeal to wider base of customers,” he said.
The two models are powered by Double VANOS VALVETRONIC variable camshaft in-line four cylinder units displacing 1,596cc and 1,995cc respectively that develop 115bhp and 129bhp and a maximum torque of 150Nm and 180Nm.
The 116i comes with a five speed manual transmission while the 118i is available with a six speed automatic transmission.
The two models retains most of the same high technology specifications of its brethen and is equipped with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), and on-board computer for live information to the driver, such as tyre pressure, mileage and speed.
Other standard equipment included are fog lights, automatic air-conditioning, Radio BMW Professional featuring MP3 playback capability, CD changer and cup holders.
The 118i model also comes with a multi functioning steering wheel in sports leather, interior and exterior mirrors with anti-dazzle function, Park Distance Control (PDC) and Cruise Control.
Both variants are available in five colours including Black, Sparkling Graphite, Titanium Silver, Quartz Blue and Sydney Blue.
The 116i and 118i models are available from all BMW dealers nationwide with a recommended retail price of RM176,000 and RM199,000 respectively (on the road, without insurance).
In addition to the two new 1 Series Model, the company also launched a third variant of its 6 Series - the new 630i - making the new 6 Series available for the first time ever in Malaysia with a six-cylinder engine.
“The new BMW 630i once again introduces cutting edge technology, with the very first appearance of our next generation six cylinder engine in this model,” Schlimme said.
The new straight-six petrol engine features the world’s first ever composite magnesium/aluminium crankcase. It provides weight reduction of 10kg over its predecessor and an increase in output of 12%, thus achieving the best power-to-weight ratio in its class.
The new six cylinders develops maximum output of 258bhp at 6,600rpm with a maximum torque of 300Nm at just 2,500rpm. It translates into a top speed of 250 km/h at just 6.7 seconds.
The car is available nationwide with a recommended retail price of RM668,800 (on the road, without insurance).
Schlimme said the launch of the three new models represented just the beginning of a slew of new model launches slated for 2005.
“This year, we will continue our strategy of introducing new models as soon as right-hand drive versions are launched, keeping our current momentum and continuing to delight our customers,” he said.
“In the coming months, we will be launching the new BMW 3 Series, an updated BMW 7 Series line up, the MINI Convertible and an updated MINI line up.”
