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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  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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  BMW 650i overrated - 2007 BMW 6-Series
  By Mike - July 12 - 2:54 pm

  The BMW 650i is not what I expected. This is NOT a sports car. It is an overpriced "sporty" sedan. The manual transmission is awful. The navigation system is worse. The car handles well for a sedan. Acceleration from zero is not great, but it does have a great deal of power from 30 mph to 100 mph

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  Zed 4 3.0i - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Kipper - July 12 - 12:58 pm

  I bought this car after test driving SLKs, Miatas, Z300s, Boxsters and S2000s. The Zed 4 3.0i, although not the highest performing Zed 4, seems to be more refined than the other cars I tested. The handling is crisp and throttle response is quick. The 3.0i is not particularly quick for this class, but does provide a 0-60 mph time under six seconds. It is a good highway cruiser but a bit bumpy on the backroads. However, I never lost any confidence in handling while on bumpy roads. Im averaging 24 miles per gallon, driving in both highway and city. The body style is a real head turner and the interior seems to fit the body style.

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  Two great cars in one! - 2008 BMW M6
  By Wayne - July 12 - 11:44 am

  This is a great car for the money! I traded a 911 Porsche Cab and a 2005 Aston Martin DB9 coupe - the M6 Convertible delivers the best of both of these cars. The V10 engine has plenty of power matched by electronics and a finely tuned suspension to create a great driving experience on any road. It has the toss-around feel and open sky fun of the Porsche with the size, comfort and presence of the DB9 - but it accommodates 4 riders. This is my first BMW, and Ive found the professional reviewers concerns with iDrive to be somewhat exaggerated. The SMG transmission, also scorned, is easy and engaging to drive. The cock pit ergonomics, including seat comfort are unmatched by any car.

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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.