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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  Low Miles Bimmer - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Chgo. Bad Boy - December 28 - 10:00 am

  I have owned BMWS since my 1988 M3 & love my 2001 330CI for all the reviews are correct. The only problem I have had was a bad front windshield for there where air bubbles in it which looked like over spray, replace it & is fine. The only problem which the dealer tried to fix many times is a rattle in the passenger door but I credit the dealership for they tried everthing possible to resolve the problem but it is alot better but still is there. Being a big guy(46" chest)the sport seat do not fit me well so the dealer changes the wheels to the sport package wheels & all is fine. I wish they would offer the M3 seat that have adjustable side boldsters.

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  BMW M6 is FUN! - 2007 BMW M6
  By M6Wow! - December 27 - 10:39 pm

  Ive had many Bimmers, but the M6 is absolutely incredible. You cant drive it without a smile on your face!!! Great power, more than I can ever possibly put to use... not that it isnt fun to get on it! Yet it feels very solid. I was going to go porsche turbo, but the M6 is much less jumpy and its more comfortable. And I didnt buy it to race, so I like the extra room. If you like BMW, youre gonna love this car!!

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  2004 BMW X3 - 2004 BMW X3
  By mjloeper - December 26 - 9:50 pm

  Very fun. Drives wonderfully in the snow and wet. Quiet ride and power.

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  No going back to Lexus! - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By Pat - December 26 - 6:02 pm

  After owning a Lexus since 1998 (GS 400 and LS 430), I test drove the BMW for its renowned sports feel. There is no comparison! For a youthful yet practical drive, this is the top choice. The All Wheel capabilities allow a sports car in Northeast winters. I love to drive this car and there is plenty of room for two kids and two dogs!

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  1999 BMW 528iT - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Ichiro - December 26 - 3:51 am

  Purchased lease return at 43,000 miles from a used car dealership. The former owner was a middle aged lady, one owner. The car was basically just broken in. Have had car going on three years now and not a single problem except accidentally parking over a park stop and minor damage to the front air dam. Otherwise, absolutely a gem. The 17" BBS Cross-Spokes can be noisy, but the Bridgestone Turanza tires made it smooth as a Lexus, yet much sportier. The rim guards have prevented a couple rim rashes too. Im veering off, sound off for the tires now. Anyways, I highly recommend this car, this years build to anyone considering.

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  Happy with 530xi wagon - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Ross - December 26 - 3:31 am

  Great driving car, and very handsome. Gives a lot of confidence when driving in bad weather.

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  My first Bimmer - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By Wayne Siegel - December 25 - 12:14 pm

  Having owned an E430 4-matic and Audi A8L prior to this, Im getting used to the smaller car. The iDrive system is terrible compared to MMI of Audi. Acceleration is a bit slow but handling is awesome in all weather conditions. Interior finish is a bit cheap with too much vinyl and tacky plastic buttons for this price-point! Fold down rear seats, Bluetooth and headup display are nice features. Getting 19-20 mpgs driving around northern NJ. I look forward to 7- series xi next time.

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  Truly comfort and true luxury - 2003 BMW 7-Series
  By Pat - December 25 - 9:54 am

  My wife and I chose this car because we needed a full size sedan that could comfortably fit 1-2 car seats and 2 adults with comfort. Believe it or not it is hard to find a car that can accomplish that and still maintain comfort for everyone. This car does it all. We had to get the Li for the space. This car is loaded with all kinds of gadgets and toys that I love to play with. After spending time with the iDrive, its really not that bad, you just have to get used to it. My wife loves it for the space and the trunk is huge! Can you tell that I am rating this as a family man? Great family vehicle.

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  328i 6MT, Sports, Premium, Xenons - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By SofaOnASock - December 25 - 4:16 am

  After test driving the Lexus IS 350, Mercedes C300, Infiniti G35S, BMW 328i and BMW 335i. I finally ordered a BMW 328i w/ 6MT, Sports, Premium, and Xenons... a pretty basic car in my mind as BMW tends to nickel and dime you for basics in a luxury sedan, i.e. leather seats, power seats, xenon headlamps. Although BMW is relatively the most expensive, the handling is definitely the best for an entry-level luxury sedan.

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  Thrilled - 2007 BMW M6
  By ExMBZ2000 - December 24 - 3:08 pm

  My new M6 replaces a 911 C4S and a BMW X5 - and superbly blends the two with speed, firmness of drive and wonderful comfort. Compliments for its looks are only surpassed by those for its growl. Shifting takes a few days to master smoothly (even in automatic) - the optional M-mode significantly adds HP and despite the luxurious drive, handling rivals the 911 (almost). The heads up display and paddle shifters in M-mode is cooler than my cousins F430 - and easier to drive. The sport seats are the most comfortable Ive experienced. HD sound playing from Satellite or FM is fantastic and the voice command audio makes getting the music right easy while paying attention to the road. Great ride - A+.