BMW to showcase three new models at Auto Expo 2016

BMW will unveil three new models and one facelift at the 2016 Auto Expo that'll be held from February 5-9. The line-up includes the new BMW X1 SUV, 7-series sedan and the 3-series facelift. Here are a few details of the models to be showcased.

BMW X1

The BMW X1 may have been the model that introduced the compact luxury SUV segment in India, but over the years with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz GLA and Audi Q3, the competition has been tough. This new model could just change that. Designed to look more SUV than jacked-up estate, the new X1 is also more spacious on the inside than the outgoing one. The last bit has been made possible by building the X1 on BMW’s new front-wheel- drive platform. While some may mourn the demise of the original’s defining rear-wheel-drive set-up, the carmaker insists the new X1 still drives like a BMW should. For India, the X1 will most likely be available with BMW’s 189bhp, 2.0-litre diesel motor, eight-speed automatic gearbox and xDrive all-wheel drive.

BMW 7-series sedan

The recently unveiled BMW 7-series is a significantly better car than its predecessor. Its evolutionary styling may not seem exciting initially, but its classy interior, high-tech features, improved ride and sharp handling elevate it to a new level of excellence, making it a much more serious rival to the S-class. It's almost as good from the back seat and is much nicer to drive, and that puts the new 7-series back in the game. BMW is likely to launch this model at the Auto Expo 2016.

BMW 3-series facelift

The facelifted 3-series will feature minor cosmetic tweaks to make it look wider than the earlier car. It gets an all-new front bumper with a wider air dam. Select variants get the option of LED headlamps. Also seen is a restyled rear bumper and new LED tail-lamps. In India, we expect the updated 3-series to continue with the 2.0-litre diesel engine that is offered in the current car.