BMW to update India line-up

In an official statement at the launch of the new X6, BMW has confirmed that it has scheduled seven new models for launch before the end of the calendar year. Two of the models are new, while the rest in the line-up are either facelifts or simple updates to existing models. The company also said that the new 7-series won't be on the cards for this year and neither will the new X1. The 7-series is only expected to arrive sometime in 2016, while no time was specified for the X1.

Here is a look at the models confirmed for launch this year:

BMW X5 M

The first of the two new models, the X5 M is the performance version of the X5 SUV on sale in India. Powered by the mightier 564bhp version of the 4.4-litre twin-turbo petrol V8 from the M5, the large SUV is capable of propelling itself from 0-100kph in 5.4 seconds with top speed restricted to 250kph. Physical differentiators from the standard SUV include BMW M wheels, M body kit along with M-branded interior detailing and trim.

BMW X6 M

Following the launch of the X6 xDrive 40d M Sport, BMW is preparing to launch the real M model. The X6 M shares its drivetrain with the X5 M - the same 564bhp 4.4-litre twin-turbo petrol V8. This SUV, like the X5 M, is also differentiated from the standard model by its wheels, body kit and interior detailing and trims.

BMW 1-series facelift

The facelifted 1-series gets revisions made to its exterior that include new tail-lamps, headlamps and bumpers. On the inside changes seen are new trim inserts along with an upgraded infotainment system and climate control. The engines have been updated to be more powerful while the standard gearbox is an eight-speed automatic. For India, the diesel engine is likely to remain the same. Details about the equipment list aren't known yet.

BMW 3-series facelift

The facelifted 3-series gets minor cosmetic tweaks including new bumpers and headlamps, whereas the car sold internationally was given a range of new and improved engines. For India, expect the same engines to continue with minor changes to the equipment list.

Updated BMW 5-series

The 5-series is expected to get an update, but details are scarce. The car could get added equipment with minor tweaks to its styling.

Current generation 5-series

Updated BMW 7-series

With the new 7-series only due next year BMW has confirmed that the current model will be given an update to improve on its offerings to keep it in the competition with the new S-class.

Current generation 7-series

Updated BMW X1

The last of the launches confirmed by BMW, the X1, is expected to get a refresh which will likely include minor styling changes to the exterior and interior, along with changes to the equipment. The all-new X1 on the other hand hasn’t been confirmed for the Indian market, but is likely to arrive in the future.

Current generation X1

In the last few months BMW has launched a host of new and facelifted cars in the Indian market from the likes of the i8 hybrid sportscar to the most recent X6 xDrive40d M Sport. The company recently announced a cut in pricing of some of its locally assembled diesel models as the company started to source more of its parts locally. The confirmation of the launch of these seven models will now take the total tally of launches from the German automaker this year to twelve models, a model onslaught similar to the ones undertaken by fellow German rivals Audi and Mercedes.