BMW has finalised its plans for India and will be offering a combination of locally-built models and Completely Built Up (CBU) units or imports to the Indian customer. The wide model range will comprise of several variants at different price points. The idea is to have a model for every budget but importantly to box in arch rival Mercedes’ limited model range.

3-SERIES
The volume model is expected to be the 3-Series which will come in three configurations. The 320i, 325i and 320d will be produced. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder and 2.5-litre six-cylinder petrol develop 150bhp and 218bhp respectively, while the diesel makes 163bhp. Expect all three engines to provide strong linear performance and class-leading acceleration figures. The diesel, which has ample power on board, should be the one to watch out for in particular. A six-speed automatic gearbox will be standard on the entire range, there’s no manual option at all. Prices are expected to start at around Rs 29 lakh.

5-SERIES
A choice of petrols — 523i, 525i (BMW is finalising one of these two) and 530i — and a diesel 525d will be on offer (pic). All cars will be powered by highly refined as well as sporty straight six-cylinder motors. The entry-level petrol 525i will take the fight to the Mercedes E200K. And the bigger BMW engine has the advantage here in performance and power (215bhp versus the Merc’s 184bhp). Estimated price range is Rs 38 to 44 lakh (ex-showroom).

650i
This coupe gives you the best of both worlds. You could be driving a four-seat saloon or a sports car. The 650i will come with a 4.8-litre V8 unit that develops 367bhp, which translates into serious pace. As it will be sold as a CBU, expect the price to be as exotic as the car. Estimated price is Rs 80 lakh (ex-showroom).

7-SERIES
BMW will spoil you for choice of motor as it is importing the 7. You could choose from the 730Li, 740Li, 750Li, 760Li and the 730LD and all superior quality engines. BMW offers a more varied choice of engines as compared to Mercedes’ S-Class and similarly, the price for the BMW will probably be higher than the Merc.

X3
Looking for a small SUV that performs like a sports sedan? The X3 is perfect for you? A smaller version of the X5, the X3 is based on the 3-Series saloon and that ensures that dynamics are good. Only the 2.5Si petrol motor with 218bhp will be on offer and it is expected to cost around Rs 43 lakh (ex-showroom).

X5
The newly-launched X5 with its seven-seat configuration is sure to be a hit. Bookings will open in January with deliveries expected from June onwards, although the waiting list could stretch. Two engine options are expected: a 4.8 petrol and 3.0 diesel with prices ranging from Rs 63 lakh to Rs 75 lakh (ex-showroom).