Imported Cars Ranked 1st and 2nd Mercedes-Benz and BMW to Face Off with New Model Launches Next Week

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Mercedes-Benz and BMW, competing for the top spot among imported car brands in Korea, will take turns unveiling new models next week in a decisive showdown. While the global sales market has been hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, the domestic market continues to show steady growth, making the reception of these new cars in Korea a barometer for their performance in the global market.

According to the automotive industry on the 24th, Mercedes-Benz Korea will unveil the flagship sport utility vehicle (SUV), ‘The New Mercedes-Benz GLS,’ for the first time on the 25th.

The New Mercedes-Benz GLS boasts a significantly more spacious interior. Compared to the previous model, the wheelbase has increased by 60mm, and the second-row legroom has expanded by 87mm. Additionally, for the first time in the GLS lineup, a 7-seater model with two luxurious individual seats in the third row will be introduced, marking a new challenge.

It also features state-of-the-art driving assistance systems. The Driving Assistance Package Plus is equipped as standard to enhance safety. Furthermore, the infotainment system MBUX is installed, along with a high-resolution 12.3-inch large screen and the Comfort Package Plus, upgrading various convenience features.

In response, BMW Korea will hold the world premiere of the new BMW 5 Series and 6 Series models on the 27th of the same week.

BMW Korea explained that this is the first time in the history of imported cars in Korea that a world premiere event for entire model series, rather than specific trims, is held in Korea. Moreover, unveiling two models simultaneously for the first time is unprecedented.

These two models were originally scheduled to be unveiled at the 2020 Busan Motor Show this month. Although the Busan Motor Show was canceled due to COVID-19, BMW Group decided to keep its promise to hold the world premiere event in Korea. The BMW Group stated, "Despite the global pandemic of COVID-19, Korea’s successful quarantine response and the importance of the Korean market within the group led to this decision."

Mercedes-Benz and BMW are competing for the first and second positions in the imported car market in Korea. According to the Korea Imported Automobile Association, as of April, Mercedes-Benz leads with 6,745 registrations, holding a 29.4% market share. BMW follows with 5,123 units sold, accounting for a 22.33% market share. Considering that Audi, ranked third, holds an 8.9% market share, the battle for the top spot is expected to intensify further.