Last year, BMW stated unequivocally that it had no plans to enter the bakkie segment, but now it seems the German automaker has softened its stance somewhat.
Marc Werner, BMW Australia’s managing director, told motoring.com.au this week that a BMW-badged pick-up had not been ruled out.
“Never say never,” Werner told the website.
“We’re watching the space closely,” he added, when asked about the Munich-based brand’s thoughts on German rival Mercedes-Benz’s plans to build a Navara-based bakkie.
Werner, however, pointed out that BMW’s direct competitors had a clear advantage in this area.
“It’s easier for Mercedes because they have commercial vehicles and trucks and vans. We do not,” he explained.
“And perhaps it’s easier for Audi. Just take the [Volkswagen] Amarok; why not? Yes, it’s harder for us, but we’ll be watching how Benz goes.”
BMW has, of course, performed a significant U-turn before, as it now builds various front-wheel drive models despite once promising to remain exclusively rear-wheel drive.
