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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  Reliability , reliability , reliability ..... - 2013 BMW X3
  By mo78 - July 17 - 2:26 pm

  Its shocking that BMW cant make reliable car for the money they charge. This wk will be my fourth visit to the dealership for drivers restraint malfunction . They dont seem to know whats going on with this car . I have seen similar reliability reviews and I just wonder in the engineers at BMW read them !!!!!!! Its also statistically higher than other competitors or Japanese cars.

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  Dream Car - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By tinbmore - June 29 - 3:33 pm

  I have owned my 335xi for almost 2 years. (6 speed manual, platinum bronze metallic, cw package, adaptivelights) It has 44K miles and my total maintenance cost has been an oil changes, a set of tires and a set of spark plugs (turbo needs them replaced at 45K mi). Agree with other posters, this just a downright FAST car. High speed merge, no problem, pop it down into 3rd and "engage".

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  Worst car Ive owned - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By nicholasc - June 24 - 10:42 am

  Very unreliable vehicle, I have 62k miles on my car. Ive had the fuel pump replaced and the fuel injectors twice. Also had the water pump die on me on the freeway, car goes into limp mode and was glad I wasnt killed. Do not buy one if its gonna be your daily driver and then whats the point of buying one anyway.

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  Absolutely Fabulous! - 2001 BMW 7-Series
  By thecarguy112 - June 12 - 2:12 pm

  Just bought a used one with 110,000K on it a week ago, and LOVE it. The power is surprising for 282HP, but 325LB FT of torque is sweet. I dont have the contour seats, but the basic seats are great. This car handles great for its size. I have a rare Slate Green 740i with Oyster Nappa leather, and english green dashboard and carpet. It truly is a joy to own. There are a couple little problems but cheap to fix. GREAT car.

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  Went 2013 over 2014 - 2013 BMW X5
  By jnc3 - June 4 - 11:45 pm

  Know some do not like the harsh suspension and heavy steering. That is why I stayed with BMW and took a 2013 over waiting for a 2014. Found driving a model with the newer steering was too light, reminded me of the 2 lexus had. The X3 drove with the new unit. I know the diesel has some issue with expensive fixes. But the 2014 is going to have a revised diesel so felt would be better off on the last run of the current motors. Build quality yes it good but have found some of the plastic pieces creak and pop, not what expect in a 70K SUV. So did not go a 5 in quality. But this E70 has good visibility, good seating heights. Course got the multi contour seats.

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  Why All the Complaints? - 2013 BMW 5-Series
  By daveinmass - June 4 - 7:27 am

  I just took delivery of my new 2013 528xi and dont understand why there are so many negative comments about this car. I traded a 2009 BMW 328xi Coupe for the 528. We loved the Coupe but decided it was time to go larger. The 4 cylinder 528 is at least as quick as the straight 6 in the Coupe - I havent hammered the 528 as it is still breaking in but its very quick. No, it doesnt sound as nice as the 6 but I dont care - the 528 is amazinly quiet. The Start / Stop feature is interesting and is not intrusive. There is none of the "shuddering" others have complained about. It is actually kind of cool...

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  My first BMW - 2012 BMW 5-Series
  By modestomatt - May 31 - 5:46 pm

  I have always been attracted to BMW design (with the brief exception of the Bangle years). I was looking for a luxury car but wanted something efficient. I was hoping for a diesel 5 but apparently BMW isnt quite ready so I opted for the 528i as more efficient than anything from Audi or Lexus. I sprang for the premium and technology packages and added the heads up display. I should have taken the heated seats but didnt. The car is a beauty. Ive had it one year. I wouldnt call it the ultimate driving machine but it makes an impression and its reliable w/ strong fuel economy. Kids fit comfortably in the back on road trips. Electronics are disappointing compared to my wifes 2011 Toyota.

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  Good Car For The Price - 2003 BMW Z4
  By oldmarine5 - May 29 - 4:33 pm

  Bought from dealer with 5000 miles on it. Also, had a Z3. The style of the Z4 is not as nice as the Z3 but many features of the Z4 are an improvement. Great engine. Smooth with plenty of power. I am 62" and , unlike many two seaters, has good room for the driver. Expensive to maintain, but I only drive it on sunny days with the top down. Just hit 20,000 miles. Red color and gets lots of compliments. I am satisfied.

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  Fun to drive but frequent fixes - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By alphonsea - May 28 - 3:51 pm

  I purchased this 325i new in Oct. 2005 as a 2006 model. High on fun to drive meter but too many serious repairs. The car was great until about 75K miles. From 75k to 129k ignition coil failures, head bolt replacements, chipping paint, window motor failure, radio LED failure and sticky door handles. However I still love the car but not inclined to purchase another. I also had a 94 325 and a 97 525 which had less electronics but were more reliable.

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  Transmission Issues!!! Do Not Buy - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By bimmers1 - May 28 - 3:31 pm

  Engine and Transmission Issues!!! Do Not Buy Nice car and very expensive to have this type of expensive issues.