There are many reasons ? in these days of plummeting auto sales ? why luxury car maker BMW AG enjoyed a comfortable 16.6 percent increase in overall sales from last November.
The figures, reported by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, represent the loyalty that many BMW owners pledge to the automaker, said Marc Cohen, vice president and general manager of BMW of Towson, MINI of Towson and BMW of Bel Air. Even in the United States, where car sales are lagging, BMW posted a 4.2 percent sales increase, according to the automaker.
“BMW has probably one of the brightest years ahead,” said Cohen, discussing the many features in the new cars.
BMW loyalists are eagerly awaiting the 2008 line with a host of improvements and extra features. And the BMW dealers also are taking their dealerships to the next level, offering customers more perks than ever.
That’s not easy when your automaker already offers free maintenance and other money-saving programs. But one of the many extras Cohen offers is a highly upgraded customer area, complete with granite counters, high-end showcases, free WIFI and more. For those who think they know that customer lounge, think again. For the seventh time in 10 years, the lounge has undergone a major renovation.
“We want to keep making the area more friendly and upscale,” said Cohen. “We are constantly tweaking it so it always feels new.”
Much like the cars the automaker presents. Here are afew of the many extras in the 2008 line:
» Diesel vehicles. Forget the smelly, noisy diesel engines of years ago. These engines are smooth and safe for the environment. BMW has offered diesels in Europe for 25 years, and they are thought of as sporty, clean and efficient.
» BMW 1 Series. The new 1 Series, which is modeled on the legendary BMW 2002 of 1968, will be available as a coupe and convertible. In addition to premium design, the automaker said the 1 Series features rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful six-cylinder engines and seating for four.
» BMW 5 Series. The new sedan and wagon models have inline, six-cylinder engines, which are more economical and emit lower levels of carbon dioxide, according to BMW.
At a glance
BMW of Towson/MINI of Towson
700 Kenilworth Drive
Towson
866-858-4996
www.bmwtowson.com
BMW of Bel Air
1705 Conowingo Road
Bel Air
443-640-1111
www.bmwtowson.com
