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2008 Paris Auto Show Preview: BMW To Debut Four New Cars
Date posted: 08-26-2008


MUNICH, Germany — The biannual Paris auto show is not normally the selected site for world debuts as is the case in Detroit, Frankfurt and Tokyo — but, where BMW is concerned, the 2008 Paris Auto Show will be different. Besides the world public debuts of the mid-life 3 Series and all-new 7 Series sedans, Munich is bringing an ActiveHybrid version of the 7 Series to Paris.

In addition to these debuts, BMW has confirmed it will unveil the new X1 small SAV concept based on the architecture used for the 1 and 3 Series. Further details are not currently available on the X1, but look for mechanicals identical to what is seen in the X3 and the 1 and 3 Series cars. The X1 is hinted to make it to U.S. showrooms, although this is still unofficial.

BMW has also confirmed that the all-new Z4 coupe and convertible will be shown at the Los Angeles auto show in late November. The new model will go on sale in January, after the Detroit auto show. At the same time, the new seven-speed dual-clutch (DCT) transmission will be available for North American sale on both the 335i and 335d.

What this means to you: Paris and L.A. get BMW's newest. — Matt Davis, Correspondent