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:

• 

  Sporty Fun for your four legged kids - 2001 BMW 3-Series
  By Sporty Furry Fun - April 5 - 3:54 pm

  This is a SPORTS WAGON at its best. It drives like a small sports car, yet has the capacity of most larger SUVs. We load our dogs and bikes for weekend camping/hikes and golfing trips. The built in pet screen is great for safety and keeping the furry snouts in the back of the car. We love this car, plan to keep it for years.

• 

  Birthday present update! - 1997 BMW 3-Series
  By Dsarge - April 4 - 1:04 pm

  A year since my last review. Have put 16,000 miles on the vehicle. During that time, I had to have the AC condenser replaced (did not lose AC, but discovered during a service). Additionally, rear bushings went out (dealer initially thought the shocks were bad spent $300 and did not correct the problem:(. Although these were not covered by the warranty I purchased (see earlier review), it has been a very satisfying auto! I upgraded the tires to Michelin Pilot A/S (MAJOR difference on traction and control), and recently added a stabilizer bar (AA Tuning). Considering getting a 2001 330i, but the potential problems are a turn-off. Can live with the older body for the reliability factor!

• 

  What a rush - 2006 BMW 6-Series
  By jrsatty - April 4 - 12:42 pm

  From the moment I got in, it was and is an experience I look forward to every time I use the car. My only two complaints are 1) the seatbelt is uncomfortable (what one isnt) 2) A slight hesitation off the line. Otherwise an exhilarating and awesome experience.

• 

  Another Lemon!! - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By Bret Temple - April 3 - 12:46 pm

  When I first got my 750, I was very excited. its been in the shop now 3 times for major engine problems. The car just died in the middle of driving and had to have the entire ignition system replaced in the first 2 months. it. To me that is unacceptable, and was very dangerous when I was on the Freeway. Im not very happy, and I am currently pursuing The Lemon Law. Its too bad, because I really enjoyed the car. Too many electronics, BMW needs to chill out on that, and just build a reliable car.

• 

  Perfect Chicago Sedan - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By grung - April 3 - 2:40 am

  I was looking for an all wheel drive sedan (5 passenger) to replace a G35 (rear wheel drive) for Chicago winters. I drove all the competitors from Audi A6 to Mercedes E350 to Infiniti M and so on. All of these were good cars. The BMW with its new twin turbo in-line 6 was the smoothest and best handling car, hands down. The luxury feel has been enhanced in the 2008. But when the need for speed is requested, this car responds with no hesitation. This is the best car I have owned.

• 

  The Best Value SUV Used. Nothing Better! - 2001 BMW X5
  By James .D - April 3 - 1:04 am

  I have had two 01 BMW x5 4,4s and I never had any real issues with them. The first X5 was bought used at 49k and I had the lower control arms changed under warranty. I had it until 79k and nothing else but oil changes were done. I sold it and bought the same model with 69k and every single option as the other was just a 4.4 with no extra options. I had to change the AC Climate control module. I did the repair in 15 minutes. At 78k just did front brakes and coolant flush. I do not baby my vehicles and both x5s have held up very well in NYC. If you want an SUV that handles and drives great, this is it!

• 

  What a Car!!! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By Ryan - April 2 - 8:50 pm

  I have owned 3 BMWs prior to my new 2006 330i including an 03 M3. This is by far the best BMW I have ever owned. The styling is modern, sophisticated and minimalist however no detail is overlooked. The I6 has tons of torque, provides smooth acceleration but yet is barely audible. The price is slightly higher than the cometitors.(If you consider them competition) You get what you pay for and if you are looking for a top notch sports sedan with incredible performance, ride quality and styling, look no further. This car is truly a masterpiece.

• 

  Holding Strong, Great Deal - 2000 BMW M5
  By Driven - April 1 - 9:43 pm

  Now that the new M5 has appeared in the US Market, the previous generation has become quite a bargain. Still turns heads, still drives like a rocket, but you can buy one for less than $30,000. Tremendous deal. Always have it examined by a dealership before you buy. Anticipate (and budget) higher than average maintenance expenses, but not more than 200% of the average used car of this year. If you use a car an appliance to get from point A to point B, you will be happier with a Honda. If you love to drive, this is the car for you. The staggered tire sizes means no rotating tires. No spare tire, no run flat tires. Better know how to drive a stick. Higher maintenance costs than a Toyota.

• 

  Best of the Best - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By harold - April 1 - 6:17 pm

  I had a 740, 745 and now a 750. While I enjoyed each of them and stayed with BMW, the 750Li is even better, by far. Its as though my 745 went to the gym for 6 months. Tighter, faster, smoother and easier electronics. I looked at MB 550,Jag Super V8, and Audi 8. All were much more money to lease (BMW hs highest residual) and each is a great car. The 750 is the best of the best. So far, (2500 miles) no issues or problems. It even looks better.

• 

  Overall Excellent - 2006 BMW 6-Series
  By michael - April 1 - 3:13 pm

  As cars come and go -- and for me there have been many -- this one ranks at the top with my Porsche. Far surpasses the Mercedes CLK430 that it replaced.