TOKYO, Jan. 30 (Kyodo) — BMW Japan Corp. said Monday it began selling in Japan its fully-remodeled series of BMW 3 sedans, which will qualify for tax breaks as well as planned subsidies for environment-friendly vehicles.
The new 328i models, equipped with 2.0-liter engines and auto-stop functions, have a fuel economy of 15.2 kilometer per liter, the company said, adding that it is the first full remodeling of the 3 series in seven years.
The minimum price for the series is 5.7 million yen before tax and subsidies, BMW Japan said, adding the German automaker also plans to launch a hybrid model in the 3 series this fall.
The subsidies aimed at encouraging people to buy eco-friendly automobiles will take effect after parliament clears a fourth supplementary budget for fiscal 2011, likely next week.