BMW M3 Ute Might Not be a Joke

Remember the BMW M3 Ute that sent the internet into meltdown? Well, it turns out that the German manufacturer’s elaborate April Fools prank might not be a joke.

When images of the BMW E92 M3 Ute surfaced online on the 1^st of April 2011, many refused, perhaps optimistically, to believe that the image was an elaborate prank by the German manufacturer. Unfortunately, BMW were quick to dash the hopes of Euro-centric tradies across the country.

Now, more than five years since images surfaced online, it appears that BMW are seriously considering the prospect of a BMW ute/truck/pickup. BMW Australian Marketing Manager Marc Werner told Motoring Australia that they are; “watching this space closely” and to “never say never”.

“It’s easier for Mercedes because they have commercial vehicles and trucks and vans. We do not. And perhaps it’s easier for Audi. Just take the Amarok, why not?” Werner said. “Just let me say that, here at BMW, we are constantly looking at market trends and this is particularly true in Australia. We are always on the lookout for market opportunities, and for further product derivatives that would be suitable for our Australian customers.”

Werner’s comments are a stark contrast to those of Asia Pacific and South Africa BMW director, Hendrik von Kuenheim, who last year said that BMW are “definitely not” looking at entering the utility vehicle segment.

It seems that the success of the Volkswagen Amarok and the impending Mercedes-Benz GLT utility vehicles may be encouraging the German powerhouse to test the water and gauge market interest in a Utility style vehicle.