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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  6 speed manual = happy - 2007 BMW X3
  By foothills - July 20 - 2:55 pm

  There is a lot of complaining about the automatic transmission version of this machine. I bought an x3 manual with 6000 miles on it in February 2008 and have put 8000 miles on it since then. This is a great vehicle if you like driving. Fantastic low-end torque. Great acceleration in 2nd, 3rd and 4th. 5th and 6 are highway overdrives. Corners flat in aggressive driving. Have never had better brakes. Pulls a utility trailer loaded with stuff for the dump like its not there. I was skeptical about BMW reliability. No issues so far and the 100,000 mile warranty should have me covered. It doesnt have all the cup holders and storage that a Japanese vehicle has... drives much better though.

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  Better than GL - 2008 BMW X5
  By Cristine - July 20 - 2:02 pm

  I just got a BMW X5 3.0 and I cant say enough good things about it. My lease on a 2007 Mercedes GL is about to expire. I cant believe that for almost $20,000 less, BMW offers so much more! The biggest difference for our family is that the 3rd row is more accessible in the BMW. We have car seats installed on both sides in the 2nd row and the 3rd row in the GL was difficult to access. In the BMW, the entire seat can be lifted (even though the car seat is installed) to access the 3rd row.

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  Last car Ill own - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By mtaylo3 - July 19 - 2:55 pm

  The cars power and performance sold me within two miles of leaving the dealership for a test drive. Ive had to replace a couple of parts but Ive been able to do it myself. This was due to previous owners neglect though. Easy to work on (as long as its not an electric problem) but some parts are a bit pricey. There are few stock cars that can outperform the 540i on the road. Its nice to have the power and brakes when u need it.

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  Phenomenal Car - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By Jim S - July 18 - 4:37 pm

  We bought this car for fun the Suburban carries the loads when needed. Weve owned BMWs, Mercedes, Audi, Volvo and Saab. Nothing drives like a BMW. This was an indulgence and we dont regret it a bit! Car is Monaco (midnight) blue, tan leather, Premium Pkg, iDrive, Sirius, iPod, auto and cold weather package. The car doesnt have the Sport Package, and IMHO doesnt need it. In fact, I think it makes the ride more comfortable. The most fun is when you need to step on it a little to pass somebody or enter a freeway. The power is immediate, the handling is precise and secure. Its just plain fun! Were loving this car.

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  Sheer Driving Pleasure All Right! - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Dinan S1 Tuned 545!! - July 18 - 1:18 pm

  We thoroughly enjoy our fully loaded BMW 545 sports sedan. We have driven ALL the competitors, including many bona fide sports cars, but none is better overall than this ride. From the awesome power, razor sharp handling, luxury appointments, everything is very refined and simply world class. And because we also have a Dinan-S1 tuned 545er, the premier BMW tuner in North America, our car is a truly one-of-a- kind special ride. The Dinan suite of high performance upgrades, which includes such goodies as advanced engine management software, high flow air intake systems, free flow exhaust, suspension systems, ultra lightweight wheelsets and huge Brembo brakes, has made our ride TRULY sublime.

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  Not too bad, but would not buy again - 2006 BMW X5
  By Rob - July 17 - 1:26 pm

  Well, I decided to write my review after owning the vehicle for 2 years. It is a lease, and we are due to turn it in in 5 days. So here goes. First, my likes. This is my 3rd BMW, and of all the BMWs Ive owned, I have to say this one has been the most reliable. We have had virtually no issues at all with the car, unlike my last BMWs. The only real problem we have had with the car in the 2 years, is that the drivers side exterior mirror glass is tarnishing badly, and needs to get replaced. Things I dont like. Let me tell you, if you have kids, do NOT buy this car. It is way too small and short wheelbased for a comfortable family car. Rides too stiff and seats too hard.

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  Fun while it lasts - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By R. Parker - July 17 - 12:10 pm

  I was completely in love with this car when I bought it. Although I bought it used, it was my first BMW but most likely will now be my last. The problems I have had on this car are unbelievable. The warning light that the right tail light is out has been on and off since I bought it. I have had to replace window regulators, the sunroof, injectors, spark plugs, bushings and a host of other things. The straw that broke the camels back came a few days ago - an engine/exhaust problem thats going to cost $3500 to fix. In the last year Ive shelled out $9K on this vehicle. I loved driving this car it was so much fun. But now I am looking at something more reliable - like a Hyundai.

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  My birthday present - 2004 BMW X3
  By Sherri L. Meier - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car the X3, about a month ago. What a pleasure to drive. In a previous life, I was manufacturers rep and put on 100k miles/2years. I spend alot of time in the car. I feel very secure and safe driving in the crazy Atlanta traffic,

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  BMW 525i Response - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By Sanjay Ganju - July 17 - 7:32 am

  I have a 525i sports trim for the last 4 years. First there is constant problem with the dashboard electronics. Some pixels keep missing. Also there are chronic issues with alternator and additional electronics in the car. It is like dying a death by 1000 cuts. This car stalled on me twice on the highway. Somehow I came out one piece. Each time a repair is conducted results in 500-1000USD tab and if you go to their dealer then God help you. BMW is a sleek and sporty car but sell it as soon as the manufacturer warranty is over.

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  Love it! - 2008 BMW X3
  By cv - July 16 - 11:08 pm

  Its my first time to own a BMW. I have to say:" WOW!" For a SUV, this one is easy to handle, easy to park, excellent engine, good acceleration and sensitive brake! The gas mileage is not bad at all! Plus the BMW ultimate service package. Im very happy with it! Its been a week, I have a hard time from getting off the drivers seat. And when Im out of the car, I couldnt get my eyes off it.