For potential customers or those who’ve already bought the new 2011 X3, BMW released an iPad application to help them get acclimated with all the new things about this ugly but popular crossover. It is for the first time BMW launches a digital catalogue for their cars. The application combines the advantages of the classic product catalogue, the website and the interactive possibilities of the iPad.

The application even has a built-in car configurator that gives users the chance to configure their ideal vehicle individually and to order product literature by operating the touchscreen. It also includes plenty of information and video material, and an interactive 360° view.

Customers can also contact BMW directly using an integrated form if they wish to arrange test drives.

Using the iPad’s direct links to social media channels such as Facebook, users can post information about the vehicle on their own wall or send their ideal vehicle to friends.

With this application, BMW is examining, for the first time, the possibilities that the iPad offers in terms of sales promotion measures and creating a platform for the communication of further vehicle and product literature.

The iPad application is available free of charge at http://itunes.apple.com/app/bmw-x3/id404814453.

So here it is, the future of car catalogues!