Audi and Mercedes are all leveraging their "performance logos" to sell lesser models with add on parts with M, S, or AMG logos. It drives additional sales and revenue margins. This is what drives the market in car sales which is what auto companies do. They are NOT niche car builders who build for select clientele.
Gov mandates for low and ZERO emissions cars will force the auto industry down even more paths that are not profitable but are required to see cars in Countries and States like The USA, CA, and all the other green obsessed political locales.
In the battle of world market Profit is king as it gives you the money for for R&D on emission demands, new models, and keeps everyone employed.
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2005 X5 4.8IS
The
Blue ones are always FASTER....
Current Garage:
2005 X5 4.8is
2002 M5 TiSilver
2003 525iT
1998 528i
Former Garage Stable Highlights
2004 325XiT Sport
1973 De Tomaso Pantera, L Model
1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 4 sp Alpine White
1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 4 sp GoManGo Green
1971 Dart Sport, “Dart Light” package
1969 Road Runner 383
1968 Ply Barracuda 340S FB Sea-foam Green