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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  Black 2.5i Convertible - 2001 BMW Z3
  By 4Amy - August 22 - 1:14 pm

  I purchased this one owner car for my wife. It is in amazing condition. The handling is great and it is a real head turner.

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  Awesome car - 2004 BMW Z4
  By TEREN-Z4 - August 21 - 11:11 pm

  I fell in love with this car at the dealer. It was love at first sight. I went to look at the practical 330xi. I had a 5 series for my last 2 cars and thought I wanted the sporty 3 series with all wheel drive for the mountains of NC. I saw the Z4 and had visions of a jet fighter. It just looks so awesome to me. Well the test drive was even more impresive, I had to have one. The car is so great that we drove it to key west on our vacation rather than flying. It was so cool.

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  Great, reliable, and fun. - 2005 BMW X3
  By Austin Murphy - August 21 - 10:14 pm

  It is a wonderfully fun car to drive yet still is reasonable in size, fuel economy, and features. The 2.5-liter engine can be a bit underpowered but most of the time gets you around with plenty of power to spare. Fuel economy is great for the type of vehicle and interior design is wonderful. If I could bash on one thing it would be that the interior be a little quieter other than that the car has great visibility and can fit five comfortably its a great buy. It of course drives like a BMW too so why not buy it.

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  From 325xi to X5 4.4i - Wow! - 2005 BMW X5
  By hermeston - August 21 - 4:22 pm

  I traded in my 2002 325xi on a new 4.4i about a week ago and have been very impressed. Power is great, the 6- speed automatic is silky smooth and the navigation system is top-notch. Interior space is fantastic, controls logically placed, finish is superb - what Ive come to expect from BMW. And so far, 18 mpg in mixed driving. Not bad for a 315 hp V8!

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  Best car there is - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By abzotech - August 21 - 10:00 am

  Great handling and performance. Before I purchased my 325i, I have driven Honda Accord V6, Acura RSX-S, Mercedes Kumpressor and C320, Audi A4 1.8T, VW GLI, Mini Cooper S, and Nissan Maxima. None of the above came close to the handling capabilities of the 325i... well except maybe the Kumpressor & A4.

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  Fun so far - 1994 BMW 5-Series
  By tkorion - August 21 - 3:43 am

  Just bought the car. body is straight and engine is clean. tranny was replaced so I hope this car will last me a few years. Id like to get 100k, but only time will tell. I love the power and handling. engine has a rattle, but Ive never owned one so not sure if its normal.

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  Da Bomb - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By Globus - August 20 - 7:45 pm

  The newest Avatar of the 7 is by far the best. Bmw handling and engine combined with a Lexus-y quiet ride and ergonomics. Monaco Blue/Beige (750 il) 19 wheels Luxury package Convenience pk Sunshades Pro logic(Just rocks with sirius) I Drive is easy and futuristic( next s 500) Sumptuous interior. Unbelievable handling and acceleration for a car this big. Those of you thinking of getting a blue color consider the fact that monaco blue is extremely dark(almost black) I think the michigan blue is kinda pretty. Get the 7 and you will be in love too!!

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  Great Car - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By mapin3d@comcast.net - August 20 - 12:44 pm

  Great car. Quite a few features that make this car exceptionally fun to drive. Handles nicely hugging the road with complete confidence, very responsive, quiet interior. Overall this car meets most of ones expectations of a mid sized BMW although it is slightly underpowered for its size. At 225 HP it is sometimes not quite as responsive off the line. Although once at cruising speeds, just a slight tap on the accelerator produces quick and confident acceleration. Interior is nicely appointed and not overdone.

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  BMW has raised the bar on sedans! - 2006 BMW 3-Series
  By msargent - August 20 - 11:46 am

  I just bought a 330i and it is hands down the best vehicle in the 35-45K class. I test drove the Acura TL and the G35x AWD and the BMW blows them away. The ride is great and the suspension handles everything well. You never feel like youre not in control of the vehicle. I love the new styling and the extras on the vehicle put it in a class by itself. Bluetooth phone system, BMW assist, Xenon headlights, heated leather seats just to name a few. The 8-way power driver and passenger seats are very comfortable and have good support. If you are looking for a entry-level luxury sedan, look no further than the new 3-series.

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  Fabulous SUV - 2005 BMW X5
  By Jeanne - August 20 - 10:45 am

  We are completely satisified with our X5. It handles perfectly and we are very happy the options we chose (sport & luxury packages).