BMW driving a success

The BMW Driving Experience was successfully concluded last Aug. 17 at the hottest new township in Metro Manila — McKinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio.

The three-day event showcased the latest BMW models such as the 1, 3 and 5 Series, as well as the BMW X3 and X5. As a special highlight, the event at McKinley Hill also featured the newest addition to the BMW model range: the all-new BMW X6, the world’s first Sports Activity Vehicle. Supervising the exercises were expert driver trainer and professional racecar driver George Ramirez and BMW AG Certified Product Trainer Herbert Grundsteidl, an ex-rally champion with 25 years of BMW experience.

At the orientation for the event, participants were presented with BMW’s core model line-up, including the all-new BMW X6 diesel variant. Ramirez also gave an explanation of the optimum driving position to those present. They were then led to McKinley Hill’s smooth roads behind the BMW Pavilion for the driving exercises.

“These exercises showed how BMW has captured both agility and balance in the following models, and how responsive these models are,” Ramirez explained. Participants drove 1 Series, 5 Series and X5 models through slalom and braking exercises. Guests were instructed to accelerate and gain momentum, and at a given point in a turn, fully apply the brakes, thereby demonstrating BMW’s excellent Corner Brake Control (CBC).

Grundsteidl explained the Automatic Differential Braking (ADB) system found in BMW models and showed to the participants how the ADB allows for greater traction on the 3 Series sedan, even on slippery roads.

The BMW trainer also presented BMW’s latest technology: Dynamic Performance Control, which was introduced in the all-new BMW X6. Working in tandem with BMW’s intelligent all wheel drive system xDrive, Dynamic Performance Control allows the instantaneous transfer of power from the front to the rear axle, and from side to side — all depending on where the traction is located. Participants were then allowed to test-drive the X6 with Grundsteidl assisting.

Those who want to experience the McKinley Hill lifestyle may call 815-1888 or visit the new McKinley Hill Information Center at the site in Fort Bonifacio.

Guests were also able to experience the superb handling of the BMW X3, as it easily navigated through a tight and tough off-road course.

The BMW Driving Experience is held periodically, and one of the success factors of the event is choosing the best possible location. “BMW is delighted to have chosen McKinley Hill as the venue for the BMW Driving Experience,” BMW Corporate Communications specialist Lia Guerrero said. “McKinley Hill was an ideal location for BMW’s specially designed track during the exclusive BMW Driving Experience. The area’s smooth and open roads were perfectly conducive to the BMW’s driving exercises.

“Also, McKinley Hill is a very strategic location found right in the heart of the city. Because of the accessibility of the location, our participants were able to experience Sheer Driving Pleasure with such ease and convenience. Megaworld is also an ideal partner for BMW as both brands cater to an elite market.” Guerrero added.

For his part, Megaworld FVP for Marketing and project head Noli Hernandez said, “McKinley Hill is proud to have hosted the BMW Driving Experience. We hope that their guests enjoyed driving the BMWs through the special tracks and off-road exercises within our prime property.”

The event took place at the actual site where The Venice Luxury Residences will be built. The seven towers of the residences are modeled after a férro - the unique iron ornament on the front of a gondola. Paolo Marioni Architetto, an architectural firm based in Rome, was consulted to ensure a classical and sophisticated Venetian design.

The Venice is perfectly integrated with The Venetian Mall, one of the highlights of McKinley Hill. This charming Italian-inspired complex will contain a variety of shops, specialty stores and restaurants. One of the distinct touches of this development is a replica of the Grand Canal where visitors can enjoy a delightful gondola ride before having some treats at the nearby cafes.

Those who want to experience the McKinley Hill lifestyle may call 815-1888 or visit the new McKinley Hill Information Center at the site in Fort Bonifacio.