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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  My 4th 5 series but this ones the best - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By michael - September 23 - 7:56 pm

  Ive owned a new 5 series every year, 2005-2008, but this one tops them all. The powerful engine "makes" the car. The new interior design, along with programmable satellite and FM radio stations is a plus. Addition of wood along the door makes it luxurious. The electronic transmission takes some getting used to, but no problem. Youve got to get premium sound with HD radio option and Sirius radio if you are an audiophile and love crisp, clear, outstanding separation of sound. I dont like the standard wheels, but one can live with them instead of spending 4000 dollars on upgraded wheels and tires. The addition of leather around the console is also a nice touch.

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  328i Wagon - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By John Johnson - September 22 - 9:16 am

  Just the right size for the city but plenty of room for extra loads for the weekend house. I love the stelthy look also of the wagon, way under the radar of sportier looking cars. Runs to the home store on weekends with large objects are no problem. The keyless option is an absolute must. Put the key in your pocket and forget it, oh and dont forget the heated seats... This is My first BMW in a long time and I had forgotton just how incredible the steering is however Im still trying to get used to the very sensitive brakes. My old 2005 Saab 9-3 had much better pedal feel.

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  "Without a doubt the best car yet" - 2009 BMW 7-Series
  By BROGERS - September 21 - 4:24 pm

  I recently purchased my second 750Li after owning a BMW 07 Li. My first ride was unbelievable. Fast, comfortable, easy to handle, idrive more friendly, head up option and nav system 100% better, so quiet you have to check the tach to know it running, and 0-60 time is really true. This beast is a sports car feel in a limo body. Nothing compares with it. Mercedes cant hold a candle to the 750Li. Ive owned both.

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  I love this car - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By st1972 - September 20 - 2:13 am

  This is my first "new" BMW. I am familiar with BMW quality and this car has met all of my expectations. I recommend this car to all real drivers.

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  SO MUCH FUN TO DRIVE...A SHOWSTOPPER - 2003 BMW Z4
  By alkamar - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I have owned six different models of BMWs over the last 24 years but this is by far away the most fun to drive. I would never consider a Z-3 but the Z- 4 is so cool and "begs to be driven". The suspension system is unbelievable; the braking system is phenominal. The seats are very very comfortable and I am 61. This is a an automobile that I will keep for a long time. A great car!

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  I love my new 335i sedan! - 2009 BMW 3-Series
  By Dan B - September 19 - 9:22 am

  Id strongly considered the new 335d sedan earlier this summer, but opted for the 335i sedan instead...primarily due to availability and price considerations. This is my 6th BMW in the last 20 years, and Im in love all over again with my car!! The sport package is worth the price, and the new IDRIVE nav system is much improved over the 2006 model.

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  Best car in the world - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Al - September 18 - 8:49 pm

  Have this car for two years, bought it used. Drove to Nova Scotia from New York this year and had a great drive all the way. Incredible handling, great comfort, powerful as all get out! Am 78 years old and have had them all--MBs, Lexus rx, 330S etc. Nothing compares to this car which makes you regret it when you exit the car--you want to drive on!

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  Exactly What I Expected.... - 2005 BMW X5
  By M. Mathew - September 18 - 10:00 am

  Edmunds editors review is very accurate! I traded a 2002 525 for this X5. I wanted more room than the 525, but really liked interior configuration, styling, and ride (not to mention how much I hate the new 530 styling). The X5 is very very close to my old 525...it just feels a bit heavier. The gas mileage has been the only disappointment, but the X5 feels very quick and responsive, so Im guessing that the mileage is the trade-off. If youre looking for the BMW ride and performance, but the size of a SUV, this is a great choice.

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  None Better - 2009 BMW M3
  By DRR - September 17 - 7:02 pm

  I have owned Mercedes, Porsche and several BMWs. I traded a 2006 M5 for the 2009 M3. Porsche is a pure sports car but the sports suspension is rough for daily use. The M5 was a Porsche with a Tuxedo. Not much to complain about except the SMG is no match for the DCT in the M3. The M3 is a sports car that you can live with every day. You feel like you are part of the car - it is balanced, agile, and responsive. The DCT is fast and the downshift throttle blips are better matched than I could ever do with a traditional manual. This is my third car with idrive and the new idrive is great - intuitive and easy to use.

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  Absolutely love it! - 1993 BMW 7-Series
  By Henry M - September 17 - 5:20 am

  Love this machine, very solid, fast, beautiful curves, comfortable, reliable, a real head turner! Absolutely love it!