Updated on Thursday, February 08, 2007, 00:00 IST

Singapore, Feb 08: German auto major BMW on Thursday said it will soon introduce its popular premium car brands, including SUV X series, in India as it firms up prices for 3 and 5 series.

Besides, the company is planning to bring its popular SUVs X3 and X5, premium luxury cars in the 6 and 7 series and sports vehicles under the m series, as completely build units (CBUs) in India.

"We expect to bring X3 and X5 series of vehicles in India soon. X3 is in the homologation stage while the process for X5 would start soon," BMW India president Peter Kronschnabl said.

He said X3 is expected to hit the Indian market by June while X5 would be launched in the second half of this year.

BMW's Chennai facility, which would manufacture 3 and 5 vehicles, is expected to be operational by late next month. The company has priced the 3 series in a range of Rs 26.95 lakh and Rs 32 lakh (ex-showroom) while it is still evaluating the prices of the 5-series vehicles. The 3 and 5 series would hit the market in May and March respectively.

"We are evaluating the price of 5 series of vehicles. It is expected to be sold in a range of Rs 40-45 lakh approximately," Kronschnabl said.

The localisation levels for 3 and 5 series manufactured in India stands at about 10 per cent, which includes sourcing of seats and seat covers and door panels, he said adding, the company is in talks with ACMA for increasing it.

Bureau Report