BMWs were for decades only fair in residual quality. Compared to their Stuttgart rival, the numbers were simply uncompetitive. Next to Lexus; an abomination.
That said, BMW has a launched a new marketing campaign on their popular USA website that trumpets their cars' new found residual glory.
The boast is as follows, "According to Kelley Blue Book, model year 2005 & 2006 models are expected to have the highest resale value of any brand."
Oh?
Did quality control improve at Dingolfing overnight? Have Consumer Reports ratings yet to catch up with the new claims?
A quick glance at that most self righteous of agencies - Kelley Blue Book - shows that while BMW residuals have most definitely improved in the 2000s, they are still not the best and have some ways to go before beating the best.
Consider the following KBB numbers for 2004 model year flagship sedans from BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz. Each car's value is "private-party", clocked an average 33,000 miles, and is in "excellent condition".
BMW 745Li / $73,300 / $56,620 / $16,680 (23%)
Lexus LS430/ $55,375 / $44,965 / $10,410 (19%)
Mercedes-Benz S430 / $74,250 / $50,460 / $23,790 (33%)
The numbers show that Lexus wins and BMW still has some catching up to do.
Perhaps the marketing folks over at BMW North America should have waited before making their claims.
Tap the link to watch the BMW promo: BMW USA
Tap the link to get KBB's prices first hand: Kelley Blue Book
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