BMW, which is solidifying its position as the number one in the domestic imported car market, is also expected to rank at the top in the high-performance institutional sector.
According to the Korea Automobile Importers and Distributors Association (KAIDA) on the 18th, a total of 4,749 new BMW M models were registered by November this year. Mercedes-Benz's high-performance AMG models ranked second with 3,567 units sold. With a gap of over 1,000 units, it seems difficult for AMG to surpass BMW M within the year.
The sales success of BMW M is attributed to the addition of high-performance vehicles across all vehicle classes, thereby increasing consumer options. The BMW Group refers to this as the Power of Choice strategy. BMW offers a total of 34 high-performance models ranging from small to large, internal combustion engines to plug-in hybrids (PHEV), and sedans to sports utility vehicles (SUV). Mercedes-Benz offers 13 models.
To increase domestic sales, BMW has significantly expanded opportunities to experience the M models. The BMW Driving Center, an automobile cultural complex, operates M taxi, M drift, and M training programs. The M model has reportedly received favorable reviews among car enthusiasts.
Additionally, BMW hosts BMW M track days at the Driving Center annually. Over 400 people participated in the track day held last June, where they experienced track driving, drifting, and racing. M Performance garages operate in four locations, including Gunpo, Suwon Auto World, and Busan Haeundae. This is a dedicated service space for M customers to receive maintenance and management services for M models in an independent setting.
A representative from BMW Korea said, “We will provide various programs for our customers.”
Meanwhile, BMW will start sales of the 7th generation model BMW New M5 in January next year. This model will be the first high-performance sedan from BMW M to incorporate electrification technology. It boasts a maximum output of 727 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds.