The next chapter in South Africa’s automotive story gets underway this week as BMW Group South Africa starts production of the new BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) at its Rosslyn plant, outside Pretoria.  Building on the success of its predecessor, this occasion once again demonstrates the BMW Group’s commitment to its operations in South Africa.

The X3 was first produced at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn in April 2018 after a R6.2bn investment in the plant to prepare it for production. This was the biggest investment of its kind at the time for BMW Group South Africa. Following the assembly of the 200,000^th BMW X3 at Plant Rosslyn on Friday, 6 August 2021, today the BMW Group South Africa is proud to reach another production milestone.

Success of the X3 to date

The continuation of the BMW X3 story in South Africa demonstrates BMW’s commitment to operations in the country, and follows on the sales success of the model that has been established as a clear leader in the segment in 2020.

With strong numbers achieved in the first half of 2021, the vehicle has not only been a success locally but also abroad with 95% of the cars produced at Plant Rosslyn destined for export to close to 30 markets.

For the last three years in a row, BMW Group South Africa claimed segment leadership as the top-selling luxury car brand in the country.

Protecting livelihoods and securing the future of the plant

This continuous trend further secures the future of Plant Rosslyn, as well as the livelihoods of more than 40 000 people directly and indirectly employed at BMW Group South Africa’s facilities and within the supply chain.

BMW’s factories are famous for their flexibility, and Plant Rosslyn is no different. BMW Group Plant Rosslyn was the first plant built by the BMW Group outside of Germany. The plant built the BMW 3 Series for 35 years, manufacturing 1,191,604 units during the period and increasing production with each new model.

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Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, says: “The production of the new BMW X3 at Plant Rosslyn is a huge vote of confidence in this country and in BMW Group South Africa’s associates. This result was achieved through our associates’ hard work and efforts, despite the difficult economic conditions over the past few years. Plant management and our associates at the plant have my full backing and support to deliver the best results on such a crucial vehicle in our network. We are excited and determined to continue contributing to the global success story of BMW X models,” van Binsbergen concluded.

Johan Mouton, Technical Director at Plant Rosslyn, says: “As a BMW family and as part of the X-family, we are driven by a passion for excellence, and striving to always be number one. With this model, we have been given yet another opportunity to prove our competitiveness and strength as the natural choice for BMW X3 production, for South Africa and the world.” 

BMW X3 with classic X elements and sporty genes.

BMW has refreshed its successful X3 SAV with a new look and improved equipment. The redesigned front end and revised rear section lend even clearer emphasis to the robust off-road look and sporty appearance of the new BMW X3. The BMW kidney grille and headlights have been redesigned along with the front apron and rear bumper, while new graphics have been applied to the rear lights.

The refresh is rounded off with a modern interior with new equipment features and updated infotainment, underlined by the optional M Sport package.

The new, locally-produced BMW X3 range will be on sale from 1 October 2021. Indicative pricing is as follows:

If you have any questions, please contact:

The all-new BMW X4 (fuel consumption combined: 9.2 – 5.6 l/100 km]; CO2 emissions combined: 210 – 148 g/km)* makes its mark by delivering individuality, dynamism and innovation in far greater doses. It is here to write the next chapter in the success story of the first ever Sports Activity Coupe at the premium end of the mid-size class. Approximately 200,000 units have been sold around the world since the first-generation X4 was launched in 2014.

The all-new BMW X4 underscores its individual character with significantly enhanced driving dynamics, standout exterior design accentuating the car’s sporting instincts, a further refined premium ambience in the interior, state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and leading-edge connectivity technologies. Added to which, the dynamic and extravagant aura of the Sports Activity Coupe is further highlighted by the addition of two BMW M Performance models to the line-up.

Design: dynamic proportions and athletic styling.
The exterior design of the all-new BMW X4 is a case study in muscular dynamics and commanding presence. Clean surfacing and high-class, modern accents headline this updated interpretation of the unmistakable X4 aesthetic. The X4 assumes the role of eye-catching athlete in the BMW X model family.

An increase of 81 millimetres in exterior length to 4,752 millimetres, 54 millimetres added to the wheelbase (now 2,864 millimetres) and an extra 37 millimetres of width (1,918 millimetres) lend the all-new BMW X4 dynamically stretched proportions. In the centre of the striking front end stands a large BMW kidney grille in three-dimensional look. Twin LED headlights with dynamic contours as well as horizontal fog lamps form a new interpretation of the familiar six-eyed face espoused by BMW X models.

The precise shoulderline – which takes in the door openers en route to the rear lights – and the character line between the wheel arches break up the surfaces of the car’s flanks. This creates clearly defined haunches, which are additionally emphasised by the drawn-in glasshouse at the rear. The coupe-style roofline slides into the rear window with an elegant flourish before dipping down more steeply to the rear. Horizontal lines, the LED rear lights that project out from the car’s body with their three-dimensional shaping, and the twin exhaust tailpipes (shared by all engine variants) magnify the width of the rear end.

Standalone design features and model-specific 19-inch light-alloy wheels are part of the specification for the M Sport X and M Sport model variants, which allow the design of the exterior and interior to be tailored to reflect personal tastes. And BMW X4 customers can now also choose from the BMW Individual range of options.

Interior: sporting character with a modern, premium feel.
The interior of the all-new BMW X4 exudes a modern, premium feel combined with eye-catching dynamism. The driver-focused layout of the cockpit, low instrument panel and slightly raised seating position all help to create a supremely assured driving experience. Redesigned sports seats with boldly contoured side bolsters and knee pads on the sides of the centre console add to the sense of sportiness.

Top-class materials, precise build quality and meticulously crafted details set the tone for the updated premium character of the all-new BMW X4. The surfaces of the instrument panel and door panelling merge smoothly into one another, while the X logos embossed into the electroplated surfaces of the doors provide striking details. Further splashes of electroplated detailing, the new Vernasca leather upholstery and an instrument panel in Sensatec trim can all be found on the extended list of optional extras, as can three-zone automatic climate control, active seat ventilation, ambient lighting, as well as the Ambient Air package, the BMW Display Key and the generously dimensioned panoramic glass roof.

Large stowage trays, roomy door pockets, cupholders and various storage compartments are all testimony to the functional qualities of the all‑new BMW X4. There are three full-size seats in the rear offering more legroom than before. Load space can be expanded from 525 to a maximum of 1,430 litres by folding down the sections of the rear backrest, with its standard 40:20:40 split. And the optional cargo function allows the backrest angle to be individually adjusted, too.

Driving experience: dynamic, efficient and versatile.
Customers will be able to choose from two petrol engines and one diesel engine from the launch of the all-new BMW X4. The line-up is spearheaded by a duo of BMW M Performance models. The six-cylinder in-line petrol engine under the bonnet of the BMW X4 M40i (fuel consumption combined: 9.2 – 9.0 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 210 g/km)* musters up maximum output of 265 kW. The BMW X4 M40d (fuel consumption combined: 6.6 – 6.4 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 173 – 170 g/km)* is powered by a 240 kW straight-six diesel unit. The BMW X4 xDrive20d draws its drive power from a four-cylinder diesel engine to generate 140 kW (fuel consumption combined: 5.6 – 5.4 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 148 g/km)* and 135 kW in the BMW X4 xDrive20i (fuel consumption combined: 7.8 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions combined: 178 g/km)*. All model variants direct their engine’s power to the road via an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with shift paddles on the steering wheel and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive as standard.

The all-new BMW X4 boasts a marked increase in agility combined with a high degree of ride comfort, courtesy of chassis technology that has been systematically refined and honed for the specific requirements of the Sports Activity Coupe and a centre of gravity lower than that of the BMW X3. Standard specification includes not only M Sport suspension and the Performance Control function, but also variable sport steering. M Sport brakes and Adaptive Suspension with electronically controlled dampers are both optionally available. The BMW M Performance models come equipped as standard with 20-inch light-alloy wheels, specially designed M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential, which generates a precise locking effect at the rear wheels to help the car power out of corners with refreshing dynamic élan.

An intelligent material mix has made it possible to bring about a substantial weight saving, not just in the chassis but also in the body’s construction and numerous other components besides. The BMW EfficientLightweight measures make the new model up to 50 kilograms lighter than its predecessor (allowing for equipment variations). The aerodynamic properties of the Sports Activity Coupe have also been enhanced, as a result of which the all-new BMW X4 sets a new benchmark in its segment with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30.
Expanded operating system, cutting-edge driver assistance systems and new BMW ConnectedDrive functions.
The iDrive display and operating system in the all-new BMW X4 includes a freestanding Control Display that is optionally available in a 10.25-inch version with touchscreen functionality. The voice control system has undergone further improvement and can now follow freely formulated instructions. BMW gesture control, the multifunctional instrument display and the latest generation of the BMW Head-Up Display are also available as options.

The range of comfort- and safety-enhancing driver assistance systems has been extended once again. The Driving Assist Plus safety package includes the new-generation Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, the Steering and lane control assist, the Lane Keep Assist with active side collision protection. The new Parking Assist Plus feature also comprises the Top View, Panorama View and 3D View functions. The Remote 3D View function gives drivers the ability to call up a three-dimensional live image of their vehicle and its immediate vicinity on their smartphone. Also available as an option is the telephony with wireless charging for compatible smartphones.

New digital services from BMW ConnectedDrive offer comprehensive assistance with personal mobility planning. The standard ConnectedDrive Services provide the basis for accessing features such as Real Time Traffic Information. The mobility assistant BMW Connected interfaces the vehicle with touchpoints – such as smartphones, smartwatches and voice-controlled personal assistants – via the flexible Open Mobility Cloud platform. The additional features of BMW Connected+ offer an even greater degree of personalisation. BMW is also the first carmaker to offer a secure server connection for exchanging and editing emails, calendar entries and contact details – thanks to the Microsoft Office 365 function, which users can select from the ConnectedDrive Store.

All figures relating to performance, consumption and emissions are provisional.

The fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions figures shown were determined according to the European Regulation (EC) 715/2007 in the version applicable at the time of type approval. The figures refer to a vehicle with basic configuration in Germany. The range shown considers the different sizes of the selected wheels/tyres and the selected items of optional equipment, and may change during the configuration process. The values for the vehicles marked * are already based on the new WLTP legislation and have been translated back into NEDC-equivalent values in order to ensure comparability between the vehicles. With respect to these vehicles, for vehicle-related taxes or other duties based (at least inter alia) on CO₂ emissions, the CO₂ values may differ from the values stated here (depending on national legislation).

Further information on official fuel consumption figures and specific CO₂ emission values of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: 'Leitfaden über den Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen' (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained free of charge from all dealerships and at https://www.dat.de/angebote/verlagsprodukte/leitfaden-kraftstoffverbrauch.html.

The BMW X2 (fuel consumption combined: 6.3 – 5 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 143 – 131 g/km*) is more than just a new BMW X model. With its unmistakable design and sporty, urban genes, it makes a confident impression both in its class and within the BMW X model family.

The Sports Activity Coupe goes above and beyond any rival past or present in bringing joy and driving pleasure to the segment. Its inimitable character appeals most strongly to young, extrovert and active people who attach great value to individuality, genuine fun at the wheel and lifestyle matters, without wanting to leave themselves short on functionality.

The car’s chassis and xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system promise undiluted driving fun, and cutting-edge engines strike the ideal balance between sporting dynamics and exceptional efficiency. The digital services from BMW ConnectedDrive and BMW ConnectedDrive Services – both of which are now available in freshly updated form – add further intensity to the overall BMW X2 experience.  

See attached press kit for full production information and pricing (press release, price list, technical specifications, product highlights). 

The BMW X3 was the car that launched the mid-size SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) segment in 2003. Since then, BMW has recorded more than 1.5 million new registrations of the X3 across the two model generations so far. And now the new BMW X3 is set to write the next chapter in this success story with an even more striking, dynamic design language, powerful yet also efficient drive systems and luxurious appointments.

Available in South Africa from November 2017 and to be built at BMW Plant Rosslyn in the first half of 2018, the third generation of the BMW X3 follows in its predecessors’ tyre tracks by combining rugged off-road looks with a sporting presence.

Attached is the full press kit.

For media queries, please contact:

Edward Makwana

Manager: Group Product Communications

BMW Group South Africa

Tel: +27-12-522-2227

Mobile: +27-71-666-2227

Email: edward.makwana@bmw.co.za

www.bmw.co.za

The BMW 330e iPerformance offers customers another innovative route to Sheer Driving Pleasure. With its plug-in hybrid drive system, the latest BMW 3 Series variant combines the dynamic flair for which the brand is renowned with the option of driving on electric power alone (locally emission-free) and the promise of unbeatable efficiency over longer distances. The BMW 330e iPerformance therefore brings together high-quality dynamics and extremely low fuel consumption. The fusion of BMW eDrive technology (developed under the BMW EfficientDynamics banner) with a BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine has resulted in an efficient and dynamic plug-in hybrid drive system which fits perfectly with the BMW brand: dynamically adept, locally emission-free (thanks to its electric driving system) and efficient.

The plug-in hybrid drive system delivers familiar BMW driving dynamics by pairing a cutting-edge electric motor producing 65 kW and a peak torque of 250 Nm with a four-cylinder combustion engine, which develops 135 kW and 290 Nm of torque. Combined average fuel consumption in the NEDC cycle is 2.1–1.9 litres* per 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions coming in at 49–44 g/km*. With a system output of 185 kW and peak torque of 420 Nm, the BMW 330e iPerformance accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds on the way to a top speed of 225 km/h. The electric motor and combustion engine send their power to the sedan’s rear wheels via a standard-fitted eight-speed Steptronic transmission. The arrangement of the electric motor in front of the transmission allows the transmission ratios to be used in all-electric mode as well. This means a torque converter can be omitted, which partially cancels out the extra weight of the additional drive unit.

Power delivery akin to a large-capacity combustion engine.

The drive unit’s operating strategy features a permanent electric boost function. Here, the electric motor supplements the power from the combustion engine with 100 Nm of torque and can deliver a brief extra burst – depending on the position of the accelerator – of up to 250 Nm. On the move, this comes across as an extremely forceful and sustained wave of power, similar to the sensation a large-capacity combustion engine might produce. And because ample power is on hand at all times, a superior and relaxed driving feeling results. Overtaking manoeuvres are that much quicker and the BMW 330e iPerformance offers a rousing sense of driving pleasure on all types of road.

The high-voltage battery, made up of lithium-ion cells, is located underneath the boot and boasts efficient refrigerant cooling including a highly integrated low-temperature circuit. The battery has a total capacity of 7.6 kWh (gross) / 5.7 kWh (net), which enables an all-electric and therefore locally emission-free range of around 40 kilometres, all of which identifies the BMW 330e iPerformance as a perfect model for city dwellers and commuters. When the BMW 330e iPerformance is taking a break, the high-voltage battery can be charged from either a conventional domestic power socket or a BMW i Wallbox. A BMW i Wallbox (charging power: 3.7 kW) will fully charge an empty battery in just two hours and 12 minutes. If only a domestic power socket is available, the process takes three hours.

The neat integration of the high-voltage battery in the compartment under the boot gives the BMW 330e iPerformance a level load compartment floor, while use of the optional through-loading system with 40:20:40 split rear seat backrests remains unrestricted. Together with its boot capacity of 370 litres, the new BMW 330e iPerformance thus offers all the everyday practicality of a conventionally powered BMW 3 Series Sedan. Added to which, the intelligent positioning of the electric drive system’s components allows finely balanced weight distribution – 50 per cent over the front axle, 50 per cent over the rear axle – and, in so doing, paves the way for the dynamic and dextrous handling shared by all BMW 3 Series models.

BMW eDrive adapts both to the situation at hand and those ahead.

As well as the Driving Experience Control switch with its SPORT, COMFORT and ECO PRO settings, the driver can also adapt the responses of BMW eDrive to the vehicle’s use at any one time by means of a toggle switch in the centre console. There is a choice of three driving modes: AUTO eDRIVE, MAX eDRIVE and SAVE BATTERY. AUTO eDRIVE ensures the combustion engine and electric motor work together to optimum effect in all driving situations and allows an all-electric top speed of 80 km/h. This mode is activated automatically as the default setting every time the car is started up.

In MAX eDRIVE mode the BMW 330e iPerformance uses the car’s electric power only, drawing on the electric drive system’s full output. A top speed of 120 km/h is possible. Its ability to cover up to 40 kilometres in this all-electric mode makes the BMW 330e iPerformance the ideal car for commuters or city dwellers, for example, as it allows them to complete their daily journeys extremely efficiently and with an eye on the environment. The combustion engine can, however, cut in at any time if the accelerator is pushed down beyond its kickdown position when additional power is required, e.g. for overtaking.

SAVE BATTERY mode allows the battery’s energy stores to be deliberately maintained – or increased again if the charge level has dropped below 50 per cent. This energy can then be used for pure-electric driving, on a part of the journey running through city streets, for example.

BMW ConnectedDrive assists the driver in a variety of ways. BMW ConnectedDrive works in tandem with the navigation system to allow even better use of the available electric energy. Here, the system assists the driver with proactive energy management and calculates an operating strategy which responds to the driving style and route profile at hand – and thus ensures the plug-in hybrid drive system is used as efficiently as possible. The system adapts the drive strategy to the overall route profile. For example, the car uses all-electric power along urban streets and electric energy is also deployed on uphill sections so that the system’s full recuperation potential can be used on a subsequent downhill stretch. This equips the BMW 330e iPerformance perfectly to offer locally emission-free driving, as well as covering longer stretches extremely efficiently and with less impact on the environment. Like all BMW 3 Series models, the BMW 330e iPerformance has a comfortable and classy interior featuring five seats, practical details and the ergonomic operating concept typical of BMW. Moreover, the BMW 330e iPerformance comes as standard with auxiliary heating and cooling (output: 5 kW). These functions can be activated by a button on the car key or pre-programmed using a two-week timer either on the iDrive operating system or via the BMW ConnectedDrive smartphone app. The details are shown on the Control Display.

Further information on official fuel consumption figures, specific CO2 emission values and the electric power consumption of new passenger cars is included in the following guideline: “Leitfaden über Kraftstoffverbrauch, die CO2-Emissionen und den Stromverbrauch neuer Personenkraftwagen” (Guideline for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electric power consumption of new passenger cars), which can be obtained from all dealerships, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at http://www.dat.de/en/offers/publications/guideline-for-fuel-consumption.html. Leitfaden CO2 (Guideline CO2) (PDF ‒ 2.7 MB)

For media queries, please contact:

Edward Makwana

Manager: Group Product Communications

Group Communications Division

BMW Group South Africa (Pty) Ltd 

Tel: +27-12-522-2227

Mobile: +27-71-666-2227

Email: edward.makwana@bmw.co.za

Thando Pato

Manager: Product Communications (BMW i)

Group Communications Division

BMW Group South Africa (Pty) Ltd

Tel: +27-12-522-2070 

Mobile: +27-71-666-2070

Email: thando.pato@bmw.co.za

The new BMW X1 – the successor to the model that blazed the trail for this class of car – treats the premium compact segment to an even more potent shot of Sports Activity Vehicle DNA. The second generation of this successful model, more than 730,000 units of which have now been sold, takes to the stage with a body design straight out of the BMW X model mould. The interior of the new BMW X1, meanwhile, offers significantly more space for passengers and luggage, a cutting-edge premium ambience and functionality grounded in solid engineering. Four-cylinder engines from the BMW Group’s latest generation of power units, an efficiency-optimised version of the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and newly developed chassis technology all help to palpably enhance sporting ability and ride comfort compared to the outgoing model – with fuel consumption and emissions reduced by up to 17 per cent, model-on-model.

Alongside its market-leading dynamics and efficiency, a host of innovative equipment features also help to secure the new BMW X1 its stand-out position in the segment. Among the items on the options list are full-LED headlights, Dynamic Damper Control, the BMW Head-Up Display and the Driving Assist Plus system.

A typical BMW X model: sturdy proportions, impressive variability and established premium characteristics.
Rugged proportions, a powerful presence and dynamic lines lend the new BMW X1 a commanding appearance and highlight its status as the youngest member of the BMW X model family. The new model has grown in height compared to its predecessor (+53 millimetres), which has helped increase the spaciousness of the interior. And its significantly raised seating position (+36 millimetres at the front, +64 millimetres at the rear) optimises the driver’s view out over the road.

Knee room in the rear has increased by 37 millimetres in standard specification and by up to 66 millimetres with the optionally adjustable rear seat, while the 505-litre boot capacity is 85 litres larger than that of its predecessor. Folding down the standard-fitted 40:20:40 rear seat backrest, which can also be specified in angle-adjustable form as an option, allows load capacity to be expanded to as much as 1,550 litres. The optional folding front passenger seat backrest and a rear seat bench which can slide 13 centimetres fore and aft offer additional variability.

The interior design of the new BMW X1 combines the driver-focused cockpit design that has become a hallmark of the brand’s models with touches promoting authoritative, SAV-style driving pleasure and a contemporary premium ambience. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, an audio system with USB and AUX-in sockets, and the iDrive operating system, whose 6.5-inch display is integrated into the instrument panel in freestanding monitor form. Meanwhile, the Sport Line, xLine and M Sport packages available as an alternative to standard specification open the door for targeted individualisation.

New generation of engines, efficiency-optimised xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The second-generation BMW X1 (fuel consumption combined: 6.4–4.1 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 149–109 g/km) lines up with an all-new selection of engines. Two petrol and one diesel unit will be available from launch, all of which have four cylinders and are members of the BMW Group’s new engine family. Outputs range from 100 kW to 170 kW. The engines link up with either a six-speed manual (sDrive 18i and sDrive20d only) or an eight-speed Steptronic unit (standard in all xDrive models and six-speed Steptronic unit in sDrive18i only), both of which are new developments.

The xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system also takes its place in the new BMW X1 in a further developed form. The weight-saving, compact and efficient system uses an electro-hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch to distribute drive between the front and rear axle just as required for the situation at hand. Joining the fray in the BMW X1 sDrive20i, meanwhile, is a front-wheel-drive construction which has been developed to deliver the driving dynamics typical of the brand and has already proved its mettle in the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer.

Premiere in the BMW X1: Head-Up Display and Driving Assist Plus.
The change of BMW X1 generations also brings significant advances in the field of intelligent connectivity. A new addition to the range of BMW ConnectedDrive features is a BMW Head-Up Display which, as in the larger BMW X models, projects driving-related information directly onto the windscreen. The BMW X1 can now also be specified with the Driving Assist Plus line-up of the Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go function, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Jam Assistant, Collision Warning and Approach Control Warning with City Braking function. These systems are complemented by an up-to-the-minute selection of apps allowing customers to add to the car’s comfort, navigation and infotainment functionality, as desired.

Full details available in the attached press kit.