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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  Own one and youll understand! - 2008 BMW Z4
  By Marcos - July 15 - 11:35 am

  This is my first Z4, I have always had Porsches, my last one was a Cayman S. Let me tell you about my Z4 in a nut shell... its impressive design and agility gave me what I needed to get off my Cayman and look into my "now present and future" BMW relationship. The car handles like its on rails, it brakes like no other car Ive driven before and to top it all on wet surfaces you can not even tell that you are driving in the rain, it just feels like a 997 Turbo handling in a smaller car. I will definitely get another BMW after my lease is up on this baby. I will recommend to anyone that is looking for performance, safety and value at the same time. A real head-turner! Enjoy it

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  Awesome ride - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By csfischer20 - July 15 - 9:47 am

  I picked up this Bimmer at a great price and I fell in love with it the second I sat down and started it. They come well equipped and ride awesome. Ive had an Audi before and it was just too much to maintain. The more research I did the better I felt about getting a BMW. Its certified and has all of the records. Just enough pick up on the streets, but not a gas hog. I didnt like the body style of the 2004 so I went with this one. Its everything I hoped it would be.

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  If you like to drive - 2008 BMW M3
  By Shaf - July 14 - 1:02 pm

  Then you need to get this car. The engine sounds phenomenal and Im still in the break-in period. The DCT transmission makes this car and I highly recommend getting it. The cars fit and finish is perfect. Everything is flush no creaks or rattles. The interior would use a bit more distinction from the regular 3 series but at the price were paying compared to other countries its acceptable.

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  Always the Ultimate Driving Machine - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By Sean - July 14 - 11:31 am

  I have been a BMW owner for many years and will only ever buy myself a BMW. My 2005 325i with the sport package is the best one to date. I had a 1990 325i and loved that car but this is a true joy to drive. I bought my 325i new and have had no issues with it, she has been very reliable and kept me happy on many road trip. The power and balance are perfect for a car like this, its fun but not so much to get you into trouble. I am very complimentary of my car and will be sad to see her go next year when I take delivery of the new V8 M3 Coupe!

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  Awesome - 1998 BMW 3-Series
  By cj - July 14 - 9:39 am

  I purchased this car to drive to and from work but I drive it all the time! Gas mileage is the best, getting 34 MPG and this car is 10 years old!

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  Great sports sedan for enthusiasts - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Deems - July 14 - 9:10 am

  This is a well balanced sports sedan. The engine, transmission, suspension, steering, seats and controls all work together to provide a great driving experience for an enthusiastic driver. I always feel like Im in touch with whats happening and in total control of my car. But this car isnt for everyone. The ride is too stiff for most people, especially on rough roads.

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  All thats New - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By Anthony C. - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Traded a 2001 Lexus 430 on a BMW 745I. Hard decision since the Lexus was easily the best car I ever owned. The BMW has performed even stronger than my lexus and has proven to be a great road car. Love the amenities and power options. The vehicle is truly a new driving experience. Great Car.

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  Better than anticipated - 2016 BMW X5
  By Parsippany - July 13 - 4:06 am

  Love the car. Rides better than anticipated. Looking forward to many years of riding enjoyment.

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  No doubt...the best - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Senna #1 - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Have owned 325s, A4, & Passat in past and this car is simply the best. When compared to TL, G35, & even A4 it seems expensive at first, until you drive it for a few days. Sticks to the road with minimal road noise, doesnt give you a back/buttache on long trips and still provides the panache of a BMW. Power is steady to redline with tire grip and brakes to give you confidence to take on any corner and have the ability to correct any driver mistake. I have 12,000 miles on mine with no problems to date. Still have not driven it in snow but it drives like its on rails thru heavy rain. Xenon lamps are worth the extra expense.

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  BMW X5 - 2008 BMW X5
  By Billy C - July 12 - 6:41 am

  I have owned many American and Foreign SUVs in the past, but the BMW X5 far surpasses my expectations with comfort, technology, gas economy and just plain fun to drive!