Alfardan Automobiles, the importer of BMW Group vehicles in Qatar, has introduced three new BMW Group models in Qatar: the all new BMW 6 Series Coupé, BMW 1 Series and the MINI Coupé. Commenting on the launch of the three vehicles, Mohamed Kandeel, general manager of Alfardan Automobiles said: “2011 has been a successful year for Alfardan Automobiles, as we have experienced growth for both our BMW and MINI brands, and launched a host of new and exciting BMW Group vehicles. The three models we are launching today highlight the diversity of our current model range, as they target different customer segments without compromising on the sporting agility and aesthetic qualities that make BMW Group vehicles unique.”Alfardan Automobiles has enjoyed a year of strong growth in its BMW Group brands, with a 27% increase in sales of BMW vehicles during the first ten months of 2011 and a 13% increase in sales of MINI. The importer is also set to launch the new generation of the BMW M5 in Qatar before the end of the year.
Following the launch of the BMW 6 Series Convertible earlier this year, the third generation of the 2+2-seater sports Coupé features a range of driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive infotainment features. In addition, the new BMW 6 Series Coupé is the only car in its segment available with a full colour Head-Up Display which projects important driving-related information onto the windscreen within the driver’s direct field of view.The 6 Series Coupe is available in two engine variants. The eight-cylinder, 4.4 litre engine in the new BMW 650i Coupé produces a maximum output of 407hp. This unique engine, with turbochargers positioned in the V-shaped area between the cylinder banks, as well as its TwinPower Turbo, produces an instantaneous and sustained wave of power.And the new BMW 640i Coupé is powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine in which the BMW TwinPower Turbo technology brings both direct injection and Valvetronic fully variable valve control to the table. This combination optimises both the responsiveness and efficiency of the 3.0-litre, which generates a maximum output of 235 kW/320 hp at 5,800 rpm and puts its peak torque of 450 Newton metres (332 lb-ft) on tap between 1,300 and 4,500 rpm. The new generation BMW 1 Series stands out within the compact segment. The car’s sporty character is underlined by its fully updated portfolio of engines that cover an output range from 116 bhp to 184 bhp. Due to BMW Twin Power Turbo Technology and the BMW Efficient Dynamics measures used in all engines, the driving pleasure offered by this model is combined with significant reductions in fuel consumption and emission levels. The car was recently awarded 5 stars in the Euro NCAP New Car Assessment Programme crash test, regarded as one of the most demanding automotive tests in the world. In addition, the car also picked up the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’ award by readers of Auto Bild for best design in the compact premium class. The award is one of Europe’s most coveted and is voted for by the 260,000 readers of the automobile magazine group Auto Bild and the Sunday newspaper Bild am Sonntag in Germany. The decision also includes feedback from a 42-member jury made up of racing drivers, engineers, editors and celebrity testers. The MINI Coupé is the fifth model to be launched in the Mini portfolio over the past decade, and expands the brand’s reach into the two-seater Sports Coupé segment.The brand’s innovative design comes into play through its flat silhouette and innovative “helmet roof” which gives the Mini Coupé a sporty and individual appeal. In addition to the integral roof spoiler, an active rear spoiler optimises airflow at higher speeds. Helped by its extremely high-opening tailgate and large luggage area, the MINI Coupé displays versatility in day-to-day driving and has a range of eight exterior paint finishes to choose from, with the roof painted as standard in a contrasting colour. The MINI Coupé is the brand’s first model to adopt a three-box body structure with a stepped rear end. Its distinctive lines are expressed in the customary Mini design language and combine with unmistakable styling features. Inside the car, the two-seater concept is emphasised by features such as oval recesses in the roof liner which emphasis the two-seat layout.