Alfardan Automobiles, the BMW Group importer in Qatar, has reported a 20% increase in sales for BMW and MINI cars during the first three months of 2014 compared to the same period in 2013.

“Our year-on-year success reaffirms the strong position of the BMW and MINI brands in Qatar,” said Mohamed Kandeel, chief operating officer, Alfardan Automotive Group.

Leading the way for BMW was the X5, described as the pioneer of the Sports Activity Segment. The model accounted for a 17% increase in sales for the first quarter of 2014. The introduction of the third generation late last year saw the model raise the benchmark yet again with new design features, more spacious interior with seating for up to seven passengers and increased driving comfort.

“The BMW 7 Series, 5 Series and 3 Series also continued to remain among the best-selling models in Qatar,” Kandeel said. BMW’s flagship 7 Series continues to drive growth for the brand across the region, making the Middle East the third biggest market worldwide for BMW 7 Series sales and a leader in the luxury sedan segment in the Middle East.

In the first quarter, MINI grew by 35% with the MINI Countryman continuing to be the best-selling model. The MINI Coupe and Cabrio also experienced a 25% and 150% increase, respectively.

MINI pushed ahead with the expansion of its product range in the first three months of the year, with the launch of the all-new Hatch, the brand’s core model in the seven-member product lineup. The third-generation model has a new design, new engines, new options and a vast range of new quality materials and colours.