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With 2023 ended, 2024 is all set to bring new cars and features to the Indian market. 2023 was rock and roll for BMW India with the X1 and 7 series launches, with some updates to the existing SUV lineups as well. But the German Car Manufacturer isn't planning to stop and is planning to launch one of the most important series it is producing- the 5 series- to the Indian car market, along with its all-electric counterpart, the i5.
While Mini was silent throughout the year 2023, we speculate it was the silence before a storm, and it is back with the upgrades to the Cooper and Countryman models. We are here to give you a gist of the best cars to come from the companies.
Planned to launch in late 2024, with an expected price of INR 70 to 80 lakh, The series will come with the following set of features:
Larger & Comfier: The new 5 Series is now bigger and comfier for a grander ride experience.
Twin-Screen Layout: Boasting a 12.3-inch instrument cluster paired with a 14.9-inch touchscreen, housing the latest iDrive 8.5 system, it is all set to give you an immersive experience while driving, to keep you and your fellow passengers entertained.
Vegan Interior: A notable first for BMW, offering a fully vegan interior option internationally.
Engine Line-up: Featuring 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, both equipped with 48V mild-hybrid technology, this will ensure power and beast mode.
Plug-in Hybrid: Offers plug-in hybrid powertrains, although these might not be available in India for the time being.
Long-Wheelbase Version: BMW plans to introduce the long-wheelbase version of the 5 Series in India, setting up a showdown against the next-gen Mercedes-Benz E-Class long wheelbase.
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While the launch is expected to be around the same time as the BMW 5 series, the pricing is expected to be a bit high, around 90 lakh to 1 crore Indian Rupees. Similar to the BMW 5 series, BMW i5 boasts:
Electric Power: An electric version with two iterations available over the globe – M60 xDrive and eDrive40, both models are equipped with an 81.2kWh battery pack.
M60 xDrive: This is the sportier twin-motor all-wheel-drive version, which claims to deliver about 601hp and 820Nm of torque, allowing it to go from 0-100 kmph in a mere 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 230 kmph.
eDrive40: This version features a single motor powering the rear wheels, generating 340hp and 430Nm, accelerating from 0-100kph in 6 seconds.
Impressive Range: According to sources, the WLTP range is up to 516 km of the twin motor M60 xDrive, while the single motor version is rumoured to be around an impressive 582 km on a single charge.
Interior Setup: Adopting a twin-screen layout – a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen – the latest version of i5 has iDrive 8.5 system, making it technologically superior to the competitors.
While the details remain unclear about which i5 version will make its way to India, leaving the car enthusiasts eager to witness this electric marvel on the Indian Roads.
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Moving away from the BMW’s limelight, we are expecting impressive lineups from Mini as well. At an expected price of INR 58 lakh and an early launch in the first half, Mini is set to reclaim its lost market position. Here are the set of features to get excited about:
Unique Platform: Built on a bespoke EV platform created by Spotlight Automotive, a collaboration between BMW and Great Wall Motor, specifically designed for Mini's electric lineup.
Design Aesthetics: Embraces Mini's design essence with circular headlights, an expanded octagonal front grille, and fresh triangular tail-lights, representing a blend of modernity and Mini's classic style.
Compact Yet Efficient: Although the wheelbase has grown for accommodating the battery, the overall length has decreased, maintaining Mini's iconic compact size.
Retro-Cool Interior: Retains a retro-cool interior vibe, highlighted by a distinctive circular 9.4-inch OLED infotainment screen, developed in partnership with Samsung, enhancing the car's unique character.
Variants & Power: The base Cooper E features a 184hp, 290Nm front-mounted motor and a 40.7kWh battery, offering an estimated range of 305km. Meanwhile, the Cooper SE boasts 218hp, 330Nm, 0-100kph in 6.7 seconds, and a 54.2kWh battery, providing a claimed range of 402km.
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The Mini's electrified three-door hatchback fuses retro charm with modern innovation, offering distinct powertrain options and an engaging driving experience.
Another addition to the lineup, it is expected to be around 50-65 lakh INR. While the launch is relatively late, in mid 2024, Mini Countryman has enough features to make it worth the wait. We have listed a few for your consideration:
Spacious Upgrade: The third-gen Mini Countryman gets larger, offering 130mm more legroom at the back and adjustable rear seat backrests in six positions, along with a 460-litre boot space.
Advanced Safety: It's the first Mini to offer Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), ensuring enhanced safety measures.
Powertrain Choices: Internationally, it comes with electric, turbo-petrol, and diesel variants. The Indian launch might include the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol and electric models.
Electric Options: There are two electric versions:
Countryman E: Single-motor, rear-wheel-drive, with 204hp, 250Nm torque, and a 66.45kWh battery, offering a range of 462km.
Countryman SE All4: Dual-motor, four-wheel-drive, generating 313hp, 494Nm torque, and a 66.45kWh battery, with a 433km range.
The expected variants for India are the 2.0-litre turbo petrol and electric models, providing diverse options in power and performance.
The year 2024 brings a lot of new car innovations to the Indian market. Keep following us for more information about the Auto World. For more information on financing your car, explore the details about the car loans from our blogs.