The same think was observed at the end of the Mercedes E class run. Limited options availability, presumably allowing Mercedes to run down inventory on options equipment that may or may not have been ordered, in preparation for a model change.

I bet we see a new 5 (F10) in the spring. I’m waiting to order one – I love being part of BMWs R & D.

I assumed overlap of the new X1 and old X3 because the former has already gone through concept and full production introductions, while the new X3 has only been spotted in test mule form (from what I have seen).

The next generation X3 will be larger in size and be based off the next generation 3 Series, it will actually be the first 3 series based product for the next gen. The next X3 will debut early in 2010 (more than likely at Detroit).

The X1 picks up where the current X3 left off, as in using an older architecture. It is a way to use the current technology to introduce a cheaper SAV into the mix, it was cheaper to develop as well. We will not see it in the US until after the current X3 is decommissioned and the new one has been here for a while (Next fall at the earliest). The X1 will also feature 4 cylinder motors and be another way of differentiating it from the more expensive X3. The X5 will be getting its mid-cycle refresh and improved power plants as well (N55).

So there will be no overlap at all- BMW is smarter than that. In the future I will try and write up a “road map” of sorts for new models and where they fit in.

-M

Not quite related, but BMW seems to be in an odd transitional state right now with models. Shortly one will be able to purchase an X1 (based on the current e91 3-series, with plenty of common parts), or an X3 (based on the now 10 year old e46 3-series). They are essentially the same size, so again overlap in target market.