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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  I cant walk away - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By L. Robb - January 26 - 6:34 pm

  I have asked my car guy to get me an SUV, a convertible, and on and on, but I cannot leave my 330I with SMG and M package. The car history revealed it was not a dealer car but sent over as a test vehicle then landed in an auction. I am told it is lower and more tuned than other models. I love driving it. The original tires were Michelin Pilot Sport summer which burned off at 25,000 miles. I replaced with Pilot All-Season and rears are wearing considerably faster than fronts. Just had the full 50,000 inspection and C check, the first off warranty. The full day check, new belts, fluids, an electrical glitch in a tail light and rear brakes, pads and rotors, came to $1900.

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  First BMW, mixed feelings - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By RAO - January 26 - 6:27 pm

  Bought the car over some competitors mainly due to leg room (Im a bit over 65 and about 195 pounds). Certainly the fit is better for me than my previous Nissan Altima, but, when it comes to interior squeaks and rattles, this car comes up a bit short. Squeaky dash, especially when accelerating in chilly weather. I get 24 mpg with premium with little interstate driving. Paint finish is horrible, Ive never owned a car whose hood is so susceptible to chipping off (and I owned a Skoda at one time!). These days, I always look at other BMW hoods in parking lots, and sure enough, their hoods are dotted with paint chips as well. Disappointing.

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  Confirmed: Ultimate Driving Machine - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By K.H. - January 26 - 4:46 pm

  Prior to purchasing my 330i I owned a 528i, and the difference between the two cars is remarkable. I miss the comfort of the 528, but the performance, styling, features, and feel of this new 330 are, in a word, inspirational. Options I ordered include the premium, sport and cold weather packages. The cabin is nearly perfect, from the sports steering wheel to the aluminum trim. Handling and road feel are superlative; acceleration is wonderful. Like many others who have posted reviews of this car, I look forward to every next opportunity to drive!

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  Excellent Purchase - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By aa0323 - January 26 - 2:06 pm

  A pure drivers car! Outstanding driving characteristics throughout. Anyone driving this car should feel like he owns the road. Handling, acceleration, braking, and overall control and visibility are excellent. Very solid feel. You will not regret buying this car. Also, there are very attractive deals available for it.

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  Simply Amazing! - 2009 BMW X5
  By Victoria - January 26 - 1:06 pm

  My last car was a Mercedes -- hated it with a passion. The BMW 528i I had previously driven for years felt sturdier and safer than the Mercedes! So I chucked the Mercedes and bought the X5. What can I say that hasnt already been said? Mileage stinks but you expect that with a 4.8L engine right? Otherwise, its a great car that drives like a sports car and yet its luxury all the way!

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  enough said - 2005 BMW 3-Series
  By joe - January 26 - 10:20 am

  The car is over rated for the price, and with a lot unnecessary features thats not need, such as, rain sensor wipers, headlight spray/washer, auto tilt side-mirrors when shifter in reverse... guess its all about the convenience when you have the money to blow (then again you can have common sense, those features would not be needed!). The cabinet is quiet, unfortunately not quiet enough to dampen the engine noise, which is quite annoying for a luxury car! Anyways, enough said!

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  little workhorse - 1995 BMW 5-Series
  By leah - January 26 - 6:10 am

  The lack of cupholders is one of the biggest gripes I ordered a set on line. This is a smooth, fun, solid little car. My BMW mechanic says in his experience people who get these wagons never want to give them up and I certainly second that. It handles very well, especially on the highway and has superior braking.

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  Its not a 330i but... - 2009 BMW X5
  By PNC - January 25 - 7:46 pm

  Went from a 2001 BMW X5 to a BMW 330i and now back to a 2009 X5. Needed the X5 to pull a boat, which it does with ease. The 2009 is much improved over the 2001 in terms of build quality. The 2001 X5 did have mechanical issues. I do miss the handling of the 330i but for a SUV, the 2009 X5 is as close as it gets!

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  Now BMW for Life - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Zmann - January 25 - 1:55 pm

  Wow. Really glad I made the decision purchase this car. It is FAST. Much sportier than I would have thought of a heavy, 4-door. Nearly nothing can keep up with it on the road and its grip is insane. I waited a long time to find this car, and it was well worth it. It turns heads and kicks tail!

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  Nothing Better - 2009 BMW X5
  By Fleas - January 25 - 9:23 am

  I typically do not drive much. However, this X5 really makes you want to go out there and just ride. Everything about it is satisfying. The color I got was dark blue (monaco) with the saddle brown leather and it is just amazing. After tinting the windows I plan on putting the new BMW 21" 215 wheels in ferric grey! Amazing.