BMW Gran Coupe is the 'Best Luxury Car 2012'

In its first edition, CarDekho Awards received a tremendous response, which were first of its kind, where both the nominees and winners were chosen by people of India, making it purely a democratic one. The awards also gave us a clear idea that India is in a stage where their automobile preferences have been changing. They are now moving towards good machines, dropping low quality vehicles for the sake of affordability.

And BMW has proven it yet again that they are leaders in the eyes of car lovers. BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe was chosen as the 'Best Luxury Car 2012' with a close to 22% votes in favour. So, to present the award to BMW, we recently visited their corporate office in Gurgaon. The Award was presented to Christian Saffer- Marketing Director, BMW India by Amit Jain- Founder, CarDekho and Mohit Yadav, AVP- Corporate Sales Strategy. We also got the opportunity to interview Mr. Philipp von Sahr, President, BMW Group India, and spoke to him about BMW India's future plans and strategy to tap a bigger market share in the country.First of all congratulations for the Award, our readers chose BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe as the Best Luxury Car 2012 with a close to 22% votes in favour. How do you feel about this?
BMW has reinvented the coupe, creating a four-door car with irresistible dynamics and aesthetics that reawaken the joy of driving every day. The all-new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe has achieved an unusual synergy between pioneering design, uncompromising sportiness and exclusive elegance which is distinguished by its spaciousness and functionality. A BMW has never been seen in this form and it will be the first choice of the discerning customers who believe only in the best.

BMW India has recently launched the 2013 BMW 7 Series, which is easily one of the most respected vehicles in your Indian line-up. What is your expectation from the facelifted BMW 7 Series?

For seven decades, the flagship from BMW has stunned the world through highest level of style and contemporary luxury with maximum driving dynamics. It represents the best we have to offer. The new BMW 7 Series makes a compelling individual statement convincing you not only with its high-quality, exclusive character, but also with its functionality. It achieves something extraordinary: you enjoy being a passenger as much as a driver.

The most successful 7 Series ever, the fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series is prepared for the second phase of its life. This is the most extensive overhaul a BMW model has ever seen. As the benchmark in the luxury segment, it now boasts considerably enhanced product substance that provides unmatched levels of luxury, comfort and technology.

The inner strength of the new BMW 7 Series is expressed in its design, inventiveness and power delivery. It's demonstrated by unconditional comfort and safety. By typical sportiness. By outstanding efficiency. And it all combines to establish the uniquely commanding stature and natural leadership position of the new BMW 7 Series.

The Indian market is getting bigger and more competitive with each passing year, how do you see the Indian automotive industry and what will be your key focus in future to retain the pole position?

With a carefully planned and successfully executed market entry strategy and consistent performance, BMW India has achieved tremendous success in the luxury car segment in India. At the BMW Group, being a ‘Premium' car company goes beyond only excellence in quality, technology and service. It means that our focus on excellence also extends to sustainability in all its forms. Following a vision of sustainable growth, we have continuously transformed our ability to be a value-driven, customer-focused and performance-oriented organization. ‘Sustainable Leadership' is a task both exciting and challenging. We strive to fulfill this task at all times. Last year, BMW India witnessed an unprecedented price war from its competition for market share of the Indian luxury car segment. We decided to stand our ground in a fiercely competitive environment and we are prepared to meet the challenges head on to ensure our company's success. We have made our price decisions with all due care and consideration. They will pay off in the long run. They must lead to a win-win situation. Both Profitability and Growth.

We want to increase our sales volume - but not at any price. We don't want to be number one in discounts. Unlike our competition, we will not venture into the Indian luxury market with discounted cars. In January 2013, BMW India increased prices across its entire product portfolio. As you are aware, others in the Indian luxury car segment have already started following us.

Don't you think the BMW 1-Series can eat into the sales of MINI, which too is an equally potent and important product for you?

The BMW 1 Series and the MINI are two totally different brands and products with unique personalities. 2013 will witness the launch of the BMW 1 Series - the first premium compact hatchback from BMW in India. Modern, extroverted and confident - the BMW 1 Series outshines with its sporty style and efficiency, optimized comfort, extended space and expressive design.

BMW India is well positioned for the future with a very strong product portfolio. In order to achieve growth, we will resolutely expand our product range and thus cover all opportunities in the luxury car segment which are relevant for us.