KBB.com Shoppers Rate BMW as Best Overall Luxury Brand

NORWELL, Mass., April 8, 2013 — A brand's image is an important indicator of future success, and Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com recently asked new-car shoppers about their perceptions of auto brands to uncover the ones that are maintaining the most positive reputations. BMW took home the gold for Best Overall Luxury Brand in the auto-research site's 2013 Brand Image Awards, beating out contenders like Lexus and Buick.

KBB.com surveyed thousands of visitors searching for new vehicles on its website before recognizing auto brands in a number of different categories. The study seeks to tap into the public's opinions and to analyze the attributes that prompt excitement in car buyers, rewarding the auto brands that do the best job of delivering on those criteria. Citing BMW's popularity among both "sporty" and "showy" buyers, as well as its appeal to a range of age groups, KBB.com named the marque the top luxury brand overall.

"BMW's allure isn't limited to a certain demographic among luxury buyers, because its lineup covers a wide price range and its styling varies from sporty to sophisticated and anything in between," said Avery Trumbo, General Manager of MA BMW dealer BMW Gallery of Norwell. "Buyers understand that BMW vehicles are timeless, whether they need a sports sedan like the BMW 3 Series or an SAV like the BMW X1. As their needs change over the years, they return to the brand for the model that works for them."

BMW's sophisticated styling attracted buyers in record numbers in March, with 27,078 units leaving showroom floors, an increase of 13 percent over the same month last year. With 64,902 vehicles sold so far in 2013, the brand is also trending ahead of 2012's year-to-date sales last year by 5 percent. BMW's sales were led by the popular 3 Series in March, which moved 8,858 units for the month.

Hoping to continue its record-setting sales pace, BMW will be delivering the all-new 2014 BMW 328d to dealerships this fall. Revealed at the New York International Auto Show last month, the BMW 328d features a 2.0-liter TwinPower four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 180 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. BMW estimates the 328d will return up to 45 mpg on the highway, and the sedan will be available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants. For buyers who would like extra versatility, BMW will also bring a 328d xDrive Sports Wagon to the United States, offering a family-friendly option with plenty of room for the kids.

"The reintroduction of a diesel model to the 3 Series lineup gives drivers a way to get incredible fuel economy without sacrificing responsiveness, thanks to the engine's healthy helping of torque," added Trumbo. "Diesel powerplants are quickly gaining popularity in the American market, and this is just another example of how BMW has its finger on the pulse of what its buyers are looking for."

About BMW Gallery of Norwell:
BMW Gallery of Norwell has been serving Greater Boston BMW drivers for years, offering the highest-quality new and used BMW sales, service and parts. Known for its low-pressure dealership atmosphere and thoughtful customer amenities, BMW Gallery of Norwell has become a favorite stop for Massachusetts BMW buyers in the South Shore and beyond, whether they are looking for a new BMW 3 Series sedan or a pre-owned BMW X5 luxury SUV. Visit their showroom at 98 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, Mass., call them at 888-860-4882 or find them online at www.bmwgallerynorwell.com. They can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BMWGalleryOfNorwell