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 over the road SUV - 2005 BMW X5
  By David WHITNEY - November 4 - 8:54 pm

  I have test driven all the major players in the sport SUV category and this remains the best for those that do not plan to drive off road. DO NOT confuse this vehicle with the much more pedestrian 3.0, 4.4 or current 4.8. This is the "M" of the SUV line and the steering, suspension and brakes were all seriously massaged by either the M group or Alpina to make this vehicle handle and drive like no other truck to date. The Porsche is impressive, but huge unsprung weight assures that it will never have the nimble, car-like feel of this vehicle.

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  Z4ME - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Z4ME - November 4 - 4:46 pm

  I bought my jet black 2003 Z4 in 7/08. I have put on 6,000 miles in Minnesota and have enjoyed everyone. Speed control and power window placement questionable, cup holder is limited. Like the sport button-whole new car when on. Good daily driver, however, you must miss or slow down for every pot hole and RR Xing. Power top fast enough to put up and down in rush hour. If you buy this car must put a 3M clear bra on ($400). The hood is a rock magnet. Always a head turner. I will come out of a store and always see people looking in. This is my 4th BMW (1 325 xi, 1 325i, and 1 x5) by far the most impractical but ALWAYS the most fun. 35 male-Minnesota

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  Not happy - 2005 BMW X3
  By Not Happy - November 4 - 2:52 pm

  This is my second bimmer, I realize it is not the luxury model of my 528I but the sunroof rattles, the fuses to my 12v outlets keep blowing,Interior black on black is peeling, none of these things are covered and I must pay for diagnostic to discover problems and then they arent covered by warranty. Im thinking about trading. Love the look, hate the quality.

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  Love this little car. - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Edmunds Shopper - November 4 - 7:44 am

  Ok. I know its not new, but its totally fun. I love my little car. My friend calls it my go-cart, but thats because hes jealous. It has great pick up when I need to move or go up a hill, I know it will go swiftly. I feel safe in the car. Because its older, it doesnt have a lot of the new technology that newer cars have. No blue tooth or navigation, but I dont need that where I drive. I enjoy getting in my car every day. I get loads of compliments on how the cars style has stayed "in style" and everyone thinks its a new car and is 14 years old! I couldnt be happier with my lil Z4.

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  Best car to drive - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By joker2008 - November 3 - 8:14 pm

  This is my first BMW car after Lexus. I feel that I have fallen love with this car since I own it :-) It accelerates so fast to leave other car far behind after I leave traffic light. Bluetooth displays name and address book. Extra space for back seats really makes my family happy. It is not only very fast but also very smooth on high way. The body shape also looks more attractive comparing other luxury cars. It is more fun to drive comparing Japanese. The front and back sensors are quite useful to avoid collide to other vehicles in parking lot. But it does have some electric problems: cigarette charger stopped working, 6-CDs player stopped working but fixed by dealer with warranty

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  Ultimate Driving Machine - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Dixie Bell - November 3 - 10:00 am

  Have always heard BMWs claims to make the ultimate driving machine. Have never drove one before, but after test driving sports cars for a full year and settling on the Z4, now I know why BMW says that - it is the ultimate truth. This car handles great, takes curves exceptionally well, punch the gas and this car takes off! Interior is extremely comfortable, fuel economy good, especially on long drives. Drove from Alabama to Outer Banks, NC for 5 day trip and everything fit in the trunk - most spacious by far. We go out in the evenings just to drive the Z4 because it truly is fun to drive.

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  2013 BMW X6 3.0 - 2013 BMW X6
  By Nazar Chernyshov - November 3 - 9:14 am

  The most amazing crossover that i ever had. Its just a space ship. Its perfect. Do not read dumb reviews on how little space is on the back, or poor rear visibility, there is enough space on the back. Im 6.2" and have enough space. Visibility is good. Interior design is perfect. Exteriors is unforgettable. Handles like a beast. Completely love it. If you want it, buy it.

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  Way Over Rated - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Nel Gately - November 3 - 6:12 am

  Hard ride and lots of road noise. Also, Im 61" and down right uncomfortable... too small! Also, lacks low end torque, sluggish around town but, wonderful on the highway. Temperamental too, been in for repairs 5 times first year. Run flat tires do not come with spare, can not be patched or, plugged and can only buy them from the dealer for $300 each, every time you run over a nail!!

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  Reliable dream car with economy - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By dmaccioc - November 2 - 6:03 pm

  Bought a pretty standard issue 07 328i sedan with heated seats, iPod, and auto... everything else standard. Have owned it for 14 months, havent had any problems even despite my hesitation in waiting almost 13.8k to get an oil change!! Close to 16k now. Average about 21 mpg with 70% city/30% hwy, and get over 32mpg in pure hwy. Except for the fact that its a little expensive for what it is, I am thrilled with the driving dynamics, reliability, and quality of the car. If you can afford it, go for it, you wont be disappointed. I didnt get the Sport Package but wish I had - the wheels and seats are awesome!

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  Germans make better cars... - 2004 BMW 3-Series
  By Dustin W. - November 2 - 12:09 am

  I own a 2004 330i w/ performance package. These cars are truly amazing. Unsurpassed performance, elegant styling, reliable, & fun to drive. I drove many models before purchasing mine, I highly recommend the performance package. The power difference is huge, and the styling and standard equipment are worth the extra. I also recommend the manual 6 speed, makes driving and handling much more fun. BMW puts an amazing amount of feel and predictability in the drivers hands. No corners cut in the design and test phase, this car can run around town to get groceries or hold its own on the race track.