#AutoExpo2018: BMW showcases a strong line up with the 6-series GT, M5, new X3, i3S and i8 Roadster

Greater Noida: BMW has put up a strong display at the Auto Expo 2018 with five new launches, including the one-of-its-kind 6-series GT and the all-new BMW X3. After reporting impressive growth in 2017, BMW has gone on a complete offensive and put its best foot forward to dominate the Auto Expo. Apart from the 6-series GT and the new X3, BMW also unveiled the all-new M5 performance sedan, the i3S electric hatchback, and the stunning electric supercar, the i8 Roadster.

The X3 has for long been an important product in BMW’s lineup, and the all new 2018 BMW X3 sees the SUV in its greatest avatar yet. The redesigned front headlamps and stronger lines all around give the new X3 a more muscular presence, and its refurbished interiors bring it up to date with the rest of BMW’s lineup.

The new M5 is also on display at the BMW pavilion, and the legendary sports sedan is now better than ever. With a V8 engine producing a massive 600 BHP, the new M5 goes from 0-100 km/h in a mere 3.4 seconds. BMW’s xDrive 4WD system helps put the M5’s immense power on the road, but purists can also choose to completely disable the system, making it a rear wheel drive beast. Prices in India begin at a steep INR 1.43 crores.

BMW also showcased the new iteration of its popular electric hatchback, the i3S. The i3S is already on sale in international markets, but there’s no word on whether BMW will be bringing it to Indian shores yet. The i3S is the sportier version of the standard i3 hatchback, and boasts more power and torque from its electric motors, helping it reach 100 km/h in a brisk 6.9 seconds. 

Continuing with an extended electric line up, BMW also unveiled the stunning new i8 Roadster. The drop top version of its widely successful i8 supercar, this one gets the same 1.5L engine mated to an electric motor like it’s hardtop sibling. The auto-folding soft top can be operated within 15 seconds, and the i8 Roadster is a breathtaking design all around. It will be available in India later this year, and one can expect it to be priced around the INR 3.0 crores mark.

The showstopper at the BMW pavilion however, is the all new 6-series GT which was launched by brand ambassador Sachin Tendulkar. The 6-series Gran Turismo is a niche offering that sits somewhere between the style and practicality of the 5-series sedan and the luxury trims of the 7-series. The long bonnet, swooping coupe-like roofline and strong lines give the 6-series GT a presence like none other. It will be available in a choice of petrol and diesel options later this year, and is aggressively priced at INR 58.90 lacs.