Overview & Reviews

BMW is an acronym for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG -- or, in English, Bavarian Motor Works. Whatever you call it, the German-based company is one of the world's most respected automakers, renowned for crafting luxury cars and SUVs that offer superior levels of driving enjoyment.

Founded in Munich, the company began in the early 1910s as an aircraft manufacturer. BMW's current logo, designed to represent white propeller blades against a blue sky, reflects these origins; its blue-and-white color scheme also references Bavaria's blue-and-white checkered flag.

It wasn't until 1928 that production began on the first BMW automobile, the Dixi. The car proved tremendously popular, and its success helped the manufacturer weather the Depression. BMW's best-known pre-World War II vehicle was the Type 328 roadster, a supple two-seater that racked up more than 120 victories on the motorsport circuit between 1936 and 1940. Postwar BMW cars maintained this tradition, with several racing, rallying and hill climb victories.

The early 1950s saw the launch of the BMW 501, a roomy, voluptuous sedan that was resplendent with all of the hopefulness of that era. It was soon followed by the 502, which was powered by the world's first light-alloy V8, foreshadowing BMW's ongoing commitment to developing new technology. The best-selling BMW of that decade was the Isetta, a petite two-seat "microcar" typically powered by a 12- or 13-horsepower engine. The mid-'50s also saw the debut of the limited production and breathtakingly beautiful 507 sports car, which had an alloy body and used the 502's V8 for propulsion. In the 1960s, BMW sales strengthened significantly, thanks in part to the immense popularity of the 1500, a sporty family sedan.

By the 1970s, BMW was establishing itself as a full-fledged car company. It was a pioneer for many emerging technologies, including turbocharging and advanced vehicle electronics. BMW of North America was established at that time, and consumers who coveted both sports and luxury cars became loyal "Bimmer" owners. The '70s also saw the birth of BMW's three-tier sport sedan range consisting of the compact 3 Series, midsize 5 Series and large 7 Series cars and the creation of its performance M division. Though the 3 Series could be had with four-cylinder power, it was the company's inline-6 engines that developed BMW's reputation for spirited, yet highly refined performance. At decade's end, the limited production, short-lived M1 supercar debuted.

Throughout the 1980s, BMW became the unofficial poster car of yuppies, as the brand ostensibly signified one's financial success as well as a passion for driving. The elegant 6 Series coupe debuted, and the latter part of the decade saw the high-performance M division working its magic on various production models.

In the early 1990s, BMW replaced the 6 Series with the powerful (V12-powered at first) but heavy 8 Series grand touring coupe. A bit later, BMW introduced its popular Z3 roadster. The company also opened its first U.S. manufacturing plant in the latter half of the 1990s.

The 2000s brought a midsize SUV (the X5) as well as a compact SUV (the X3) as BMW joined the hot-selling segment. Since then, BMW has replaced the Z3 with the Z4, introduced the compact 1 Series, produced hybrid versions of a few models and debuted the X6 fastback crossover. The company has also expanded its empire to include Mini and Rolls-Royce and continues to build motorcycles, something it has done since the 1920s.

BMW's famous advertising slogan describes each of its vehicles as "the ultimate driving machine," and it's not mere hyperbole. Over the past couple of decades, BMWs have become the standard for performance and luxury in most of the "over $30,000" segments. With family-friendly wagons, crisp sedans, distinctive coupes, nimble sports cars and spacious SUVs offered, BMW's model roster is diverse. But its vehicles all share a common characteristic: the ability to make drivers feel gloriously connected to the road.

User Reviews:

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  Best BMW I have ever owned! - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Lkeil - March 12 - 2:00 am

  I have now owned my 530i, 2004 for three months and enjoy driving the "Utimate Driving Machine". It handles better tan my previous BMW X5, which is hard to imagine. I love the power and control the car has, making me feel safe on the road! I recommend this car highly.

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  It gets better! - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Twister - March 12 - 2:00 am

  I drove a 2000 5-series for 4 years and thought it couldnt get any better. Wow!...was I surprised! BMW has NOT disappointed me and it lives up to all of my expectations. The ride is smooth; handling superb; and its filled with all of the comforts expected in a mid-sized luxury car! I look forward to getting into my 5 and driving each day.

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  525i Review - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By bigmike - March 12 - 2:00 am

  525i Auto w/ Premium & Cold Weather Pkgs - Looks great inside & out. (Whats all the fuss about? They kept the classic BMW styling cues, but made it sleek, & modern looking.) Lots of convenience features (i.e. driver position memory, dual climate control, free scheduled maintenance, etc.) 2.5L 6-cyl is adequate, but unexciting. Auto transmission is smooth and shifts well. Ride is refined and quiet, as you would expect. Roomy and comfortable interior.

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  Ultimate tanning machine - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Snik - March 12 - 2:00 am

  It looks great. Handling is superb. Beautiful styling. Power is not optimal but adequate.

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  72 year old guy who has owned many cars - 2016 BMW 5-Series
  By Richard H. Sweat - March 10 - 6:05 am

  I bought my first BMW in 2014, a 4 cyl diesel. My other two cars are a 2014 Prius Sedan and a 2014 Prius V. I have owned GMs, Fords, Cadillacs, Jeeps, but for some reason I like diesel engines better. The first BMW, I absolutely fell in love with that car. I got 40mpg in town and 45 to 46 mpg on the highway. The car was so good, I wanted bigger, and decided to buy the 2016 BMW 535 diesel with the 6 cylinder engine. BMW did not skimp on quality or luxury with this car. I have never had any maintenance problem with BMWs, I keep my cars properly serviced and inspection clean. I get better mileage then what BMW says on their sticker, because, just like a Prius, you have to learn HOW to properly drive one. Some pro drivers dont like the cut off feature when the vehicle is stopped, and restart, but it never bothered me. Its a fuel saver. BMW diesel engines make very little noise. They are a pleasure to drive, and the car remains tight and noise free. The technical features are numerous but only add to the enjoyment of the vehicle. Just take a test drive in either the gas or diesel and you will see what Im talking about.

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  First Time Buyer - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By First Time Owner - March 7 - 12:53 pm

  Looked for over a year at Lexus GS, Infiniti M35, & Mercedes E. Never even thought about a BMW! For grins & giggles and not having anything else to do, though I would test drive a 5 Series, (assuming I would not like it). Wow was I impressed! Not only did it drive like it was on rails, but it was a smooth ride (no sports package). After numerous test drives, I was hooked. Never liked the previous 5 body style, (too boring). Know that the current body style is controversial, but nothing else looks like it. Strongly considered the M35, but even though it was cheaper and had more toys on it, I thought that it was just to much "fluff". Do concern myself with realibility? Time will tell?

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  A great drive - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By etsaotrg - March 7 - 10:00 am

  the bmw 325i was everything i expected and more. it is truly a great drive.

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  Worst Buy of My Life- Never Again - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Mike MacMahon - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Since I purchased the car a little over a month ago I have had many problems with the car and have had it in for service for many re-occurring problems. The transmission went bad at 500 miles, the window regulator went out, and the car has poor handling and performance. This is the last time that I will buy a BMW or a german automobile ever again.

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  WHAT A CAR! - 2004 BMW X3
  By MASAJIRO1 - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Today, I bought a BMW 2.5i. The best choice I ever made. What a great car to keep my kid, and my wife safe on the road. It grips the road like the tires are glued to the pavement. Its very good.

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  Love, love love it. - 2004 BMW Z4
  By johnnybrem - March 7 - 10:00 am

  I replaced my motorcycles with this 2004 Z4 and am loving it more with every minute I drive it. Before I purchased this I looked at the 350Z, S2000, TT, SLK, Boxster, SC430 - I much preferred the Z4 as an overall package. Got a Jet Black/Black Interior loaded with NAV, Sport/Conv/Prem/Heated seats/Xenon. Car handles like its on rails, the suspension is stiff - but exactly what I expected. I really appreciate all the feedback the car provides me - sound, road, steering, power.