BMW Ranks Second in U.S. Sales
In recent years, BMW has been adding new models to its stable of luxury cars. Besides the flagship 7-Series sedan, the German automaker sells a 6-Series coupe and convertible that have 2+2 seating.
The lowest priced BMW in the U.S. market, the 3-Series arrives in the States about mid-year as a new-generation 2006 model with new 6-cylinder inline engines, new 5-link rear suspension and high-tech features such as Brake Standby and Start Off Assistant. The former can detect when a driver lets off the accelerator pedal abruptly, thereby indicating a likely cornering maneuver or sudden stop. The system automatically applies enough pressure in the brake system to snug the brake pads closer to the rotors for immediate slowing and stopping power. Meantime, Start Off Assistant helps a driver move smoothly into a startup when the car is stopped on a hill. By the fourth quarter of this year, BMW's all-wheel-drive 3-Series versions will begin to arrive in showrooms.
Not to be missed on several BMW models, including the 5- and 6-Series: the high-tech active steering that senses, based on the car's speed, turning input and automatically adjusts the steering ratio for quick response.
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