It is no secret that BMW plans to produce a model that will sit above its current flagship limousine, the 7 Series. In the past, one of its options was believed to be an S-Class Coupe-like model, called the 8 Series.
However, a report by Automotive News suggests that BMW is also interested in taking on its arch rival’s luxury brand, the Mercedes-Maybach, with something that could be known as the BMW 9 Series. Speaking to BMW development chief, Klaus Froelich, last week, it seems that the Munich-based car maker is keen to pinch high-spending customers away from its rival.
“Just like certain competitors, we will see that we occupy, with credible offers, the price bracket of 150,000 euros (RM675k) and beyond,” said Froelich. The BMW chief also took a snap at his competitors, suggesting that it lacked substance.
“Some simply do four or five wheelbases (lengths) and add varyingly thick chrome packages. That will not be the BMW approach,” he said. The development boss insisted that BMW will remain true to its nature, producing cars that are more exciting to drive than be driven in.
The car maker’s CEO, Harald Krueger, also confirmed that a new “luxury class” BMW is on the cards. “The luxury class will remain a high-margin segment, so we intend to enhance our presence by adding another new model,” he said.
Question is, if you could afford a luxury vehicle like a Mercedes-Maybach, would you want to drive it like BMW thinks you do, or be driven in it? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.
GALLERY: BMW Vision Future Luxury
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
goodluck!
”Question is, if you could afford a luxury vehicle like a Mercedes-Maybach, would you want to drive it like BMW thinks you do, or be driven in it?”..
drive ur own bimmer 7series is cool, but to drive ur own s-class? u need a chauffeur..
BMW cant even rival MB in prestige, much less the German Rolls-Royce
Bro, BMW owns rolls royce lah
The Front grill is over size.
The rivalry is alive and well!
i think at the end of the day it still comes down to the overall design, material quality and the sense of occasion that BMW manages to pull off more than the fun-to-drive factor, that will really seal its success. but i agree on BMW’s decision to go even more upmarket because they can earn more, and they have the access to know-how (Rolls Royce anyone?) also.
Even Mercedes had some issues with the Maybach not being “prestigious” enough…even though I can understand why Mercedes wanted a go with the Maybach.
What more BMW. They have Rolls Royce. They really don’t need another stretched 7 series. Fun to drive don’t apply to cars in this field, unless you like your passengers being sick.
A new 8 series, yes, Even an 8er Grand Coupe. Luxo Limo? don’t think so.