BMW Group Middle East reports sustained growth in the first quarter of 2011

Zawya - BMW Group Middle East has completed the first three months of 2011 with a 19% sales growth over the same period in 2010. The world's most successful premium automotive manufacturer delivered 4,635 BMW and MINI vehicles to customers across 14 Middle East markets, confirming the strength of both brands in the region.

Following record success in 2010 that saw the Group deliver the highest volume of vehicles since the company commenced Middle East operations in 1994 - the latest results reveal sustained growth in the first three months of 2011 across most importer markets. These included Abu Dhabi, the highest volume market, where sales increased 42% (1,091 cars); Dubai 38% growth (1,081 cars); while Oman saw sales improve 19% (173 cars) and Saudi Arabia by 11% (819).

Commenting on the Q1 sales success, Reiner Braun, Director of Sales and Marketing for BMW Group Middle East said: "Our success is largely attributed to our customers and the commitment and dedication of our importers who are the lifeblood of our business. A number of sizeable investments made in facilities and customer service across the region coupled with our great products all helped contribute to strengthen the company's performance across the region." 

BMW: New model launches set to drive sales further

The new BMW 5 Series, launched in March 2010, was the top selling model with 1,055 cars sold, followed closely by the company's flagship BMW 7 Series that saw 1,046 cars sold. The BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupe and X5 Sports Activity Vehicle continue to be amongst the top selling cars with 694 and 634 cars sold respectively. The BMW 3 Series, the world's best selling premium car, continues its success story with 647 cars sold. 

The ongoing success comes on the back of an active first quarter for BMW Group Middle East in which two new BMW models were launched; the third generation BMW 6 Series Convertible and the all new BMW X3. Entering a new era in driving dynamics and innovative technology, the second generation BMW X3 has a totally new exterior and interior design and has already secured two global awards including the Four-wheel Drive Car of the Year 2011 by Auto Bild Allrad, and Favourite SUV by readers of German magazine Off Road. Similarly, the new head turning BMW 6 Series Convertible that arrived in the region in March, offers stylish design, outstanding performance, luxury and sheer driving pleasure.

MINI: brand's popularity grows

MINI also recorded exceptional sales growth during the first three months of 2011, achieving 81% growth across eight Middle East markets with sales of 210 cars. Markets that performed well included Dubai with an increase of 178%, Abu Dhabi with 76% growth, Kuwait with 54%, Qatar 78% and Oman with 50% growth. The MINI Hatch continues to be the best selling MINI model and January's launch of the new MINI Countryman was a strong contributing factor to the company's first quarter success. The fourth MINI family member continues to make waves across the region with its innovative use of space and unique 4 door design and 4 wheel drive capabilities. The new MINI Countryman appeals to customers who appreciate MINI but are looking for a bit more MINI, and a MINI which goes far beyond urban boundaries.

BMW Premium Selection: Steady growth continues

Another area of the business that saw growth for BMW Group Middle East was BMW Premium Selection, the company's pre owned car programme that offers customers the same peace-of-mind motoring as if they were purchasing a new BMW. 639 vehicles were sold during the first quarter through BMW Premium Selection in eight markets, representing a growth of 19%. Qatar was the biggest seller of BMW Premium Selection, recording a 121% increase, followed by Dubai at 60%, Kuwait with 29%, Saudi Arabia at 21% and Abu Dhabi, with an increase of 18%.

Reiner Braun added: "The drive for success and hunger for further growth will dominate the coming months for the BMW Group in the Middle East. And to continue that momentum we will be welcoming more exciting new models to the region; these will include the BMW 6 Series Coupé, the BMW 1 Series M Coupé, BMW M5 and the MINI Coupé. Together with our importers we look forward to continuing our growth in 2011."