One of my favourite events of the year, the BMW Range Day is the perfect opportunity for media and journalists alike to hear the plans for BMW Group Australia for the new year, while also getting a bit of a taste of what’s to come.
FOR 2018, BMW has some massive plans, but the heroes of the day were the new BMW X2, BMW i3s, BMW M5, Mini Countryman PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) and more.
Not only did we get to see the large majority of BMW Groups current offerings here in Australia, we also got an opportunity to chat to Marc Werner, CEO of BMW Group Australia.
With future technology and future mobility being a large focus for this group, questions fielded look towards the future of autonomous driving and electric cars. For BMW Group these are huge priorities, which rely the support of the Australian government. Marc Werner stated that BMW is committed to long-term, and sustainable growth in Australia.
Not only is the day a great overview of what is to come, it’s an opportunity to talk to the product teams and hear their thoughts on the current offerings, and what they are excited for in 2018.
Although the BMW X2 was not available to test drive, I made sure to get a preview of the new BMW i3s (the new ‘sport’ offering), of the quirky electric car, as well as the more meatier performance cars- because let’s be honest, I’m a sucker for these gas guzzlers too.
Cars to keep your eye out for in 2018:
- BMW i3S
- BMW X2
- MINI Countryman Plug In-Hybrid
- BMWMotorrad HP4 Race
- BMW M4 CS (announced, not on show)
BMW X2
This compact sporty SUV screams millenials, and I’m certainly down with this. It also screams practical and fun. Two things I am very much down for. (I mean, wouldn’t you be?!)
Positioned low like a Coupé, but coupled with the X (SUV) characteristics. Unique is definitely a word I’d used to describe it.
BMW i3s
For the first time ever, a sports offering of the i3 model range. Last year I reviewed the 2017 BMW i3 (94Ah) with Range Extender (REx) model- which is also a great car. (Certainly excited to see how the i3s pulls up in comparison.)
MINI Countryman Plug In Hybrid
For another first, MINI is rolling out a plug-in hybrid of their SUV offering. Having experienced the diesel version of the Countryman, very curious to see how this one goes, especially given it’s appeal for urban and rural travel.
Part of BMW Groups wider focus and goal on CO2 reductions.
BMW M5
Pure performance. Loud roars, sexy interior. This car is not for the faint hearted, or the eco-conscious.
The new all-wheel drive spec is sexier than ever… Although the purist in me dislikes the dual-clutch (auto) transmission- the car still sounds amazing.
BMW MOTORRAD
Although I don’t have my motorcycle licence, hearing about the new offerings was certainly very tempting.
The new HP4 race being a stand-out on the day. (A carbon-fiber racer dream.)
Plus the lifestyle options for these bikes, as well as the tech is actually pretty darn impressive and something that is severely underrated.
You think cars are tech packed?! These bikes are insane.
Final Thoughts
As far as the car industry goes in Australia, SUVs are becoming more an more prevalent, and compact SUVs are certainly appealing to the millenial market.
Additionally electric cars and hybrids are getting hotter and hotter. Certainly with more education, understanding and infrastructure, this soon will become a commonality within the Australian Automotive Industry, not something you see in quirky metropolitan areas.
As always, I’m excited to see where BMW Austrailia takes themselves this year. With so much to look forward to, it’s hard to not be excited!
What car are you most excited to see in 2018?
#BMWRANGEDAY #BMWGROUPAUSTRALIA
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Preview provided on behalf of BMW Australia
Photography by Andrea Hobbs
ANDREA IN ARCADIA 
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