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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  Fantastic Five - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Robert Nance - June 2 - 5:43 am

  We love our new 525i. It has great pickup and spectacular fuel economy. On a recent trip we averaged over 31 miles to the gallon and went almost 500 on one tank of gas. We recommend the Navigation with voice activation. It is great.

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  My Baby - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Ed Womble - June 1 - 7:06 pm

  Driving this car is even more exhilarating that I imagined. The smooth powerful feeling of driving the Z4 reminds me of my earlier days with my old 280Z and 300ZX. I love the power top which is controllable from either the front panel, the door lock, or externally from the key via blue tooth. Shifting through the 6 forward gears is a dream. Beyond my expectations, my golf clubs do fit in the trunk, although I have to carefully arrange them. The run flat tires have already bailed me out of a tight situation -- thanks BMW, great idea.

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  Great car... but - 2006 BMW 6-Series
  By JpAus - May 31 - 6:22 pm

  Car is a great blend of luxury and performance. It is really a great drivers car able to do the commute as well as the weekend get away. Trunk is small with top down, but still fits golf bags. Dont get this car if you dont like to draw attention to yourself. Am always having people come over and talk to me about how the car looks.

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  Worth Every Dime - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By MotoMook - May 31 - 5:54 pm

  Having put 6-figures on both Hondas and Acuras, I was a "reluctant adopter" of the blue propeller. After my first 160,000 miles I cannot say enough about the fabled BMW experience. Not a rattle, timeless looks (IMHO) and the standard suspension splits the difference between firm and comfy brilliantly. The 6- banger is the smoothest ever and the "mere" 175 hp feels like a lot more. Durable? I hit a cow at 60 mph and drove my car home UNINJURED without ANY leaky fluids ($8000 damage). I swear by the 3 platform...

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  Beyond Perfection - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By The Ultimate Diving - May 31 - 11:20 am

  If I could only drive one car in the world it would definitely be a BMW 5 Series. I cant imagine another car that is able to combine every possible positive trait imagineable all into one amazing package like this BMW can. It is no surprise though, every other 5 Series I have owned has been a joy, why should this one be any different. With every generation this car improves in every possible way, even when you think it is not possible fo any more improvements, BMW always comes through.

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  BMW with room and fun - 2014 BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo
  By windyman - May 31 - 8:25 am

  I wanted to replace a Saab 9-5 wagon. The 3 series wagon did not really have the room for me. The X1 and X3 didnt appeal to me. So I was going to get a sedan, and keep the wagon as a station car and junk hauler. My wife and I went to the dealer to buy the sedan and found the 238i GT. We never looked back. No, it is not quite as sharp as the sedan, but I have a convertible for that. It has tons of room, accelerates and handles well, especially in sport of sport plus modes. Bring it down to comfort or eco-pro when just humming along the highway. You can still drop a couple of gears quickly with the paddle shifters. No second thoughts

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  Performance, Reliability, and Economy - 2000 BMW 5-Series
  By headhound - May 30 - 5:43 pm

  I have had the car for over 56,000 miles and 106,000 miles overall. Recent engine oil analysis showed almost no wear. Gas mileage is averaging 24 MPG in mixed driving. Car has exceptional acceleration at any speed and even better braking. As much under control at 120 as at 40. Interior comfort could be better but control layout is totally logical. Some wear on seat plastic trim. Maintenance is easy but not cheap. Expensive but worth it.

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  My X5 - 2001 BMW X5
  By Fred - May 29 - 12:37 pm

  Excellent handling in corners and the best brakes I have ever experienced. Feels very nice when seated in it. A seemingly very safe passenger cabin. 3.0 liter engine is a bit under powered.

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  Z4-Great job BMW - 2006 BMW Z4
  By iavagabond - May 28 - 9:36 pm

  Handling is fantastic. Very responsive in every way. Interior materials are great. Very comfy car. Fit & finish couldnt be better. Were happy with this car in every possible way.

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  Feels like an old friend... - 2006 BMW M3
  By David - May 28 - 3:03 pm

  Wanted one before production was finally discontinued on the E46 with the straight-6 engine. Everything, from the interior ergnomics to the performance (power & handling) fit me like a well tailored suit. Im a fairly athletic guy and I swear this car feels like an extension of my own arms, legs and rest of my body. Although higher horsepower, and more comfortable seats, my 02 M5 doesnt even compare. The Competition Package came with a much higher steering ratio that requires a tighter grip on the thicker alcantara wrapped wheel, but remains extremely firm and direct and very high speeds. This car does require some concentration and skill to truly drive well.