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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  Great SAV... - 2005 BMW X3
  By RR - February 19 - 2:39 pm

  Handles like a 3 series BMW..Great brakes, steering , etc..Typical BMW feel..Panorama Moon Roof is awesome..Excellent in bad weather, especially wet roads..Went through 15 inches of snow with ease..

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  Well worth the extra $$ - 2005 BMW X5
  By alex - February 19 - 3:44 am

  Seriously now!! I test drove about ten SUVs - I cant believe anyone would pick anything else than the BMW after comparing it!!! Its in a class of its own.

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  back from mercedes - 2005 BMW 7-Series
  By sgpnx - February 19 - 1:05 am

  head turner when they see the v-12 on the side.Was orginally worried about the i-drive but mastered in a few days.Great driving experience and real feeling of safety on the road..

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  Just a great ride! - 1995 BMW 3-Series
  By Zachary - February 18 - 7:20 pm

  I bought the car from a friend and used it as my runner car. I find myself driving it more than my other car. It has a feel of quality and ride that just makes it fun to drive again. I havent had any problems to speak of except I broke the windshield wiper. It was may fault. Great car for the price.

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  Satisfied 525 owner - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Boston driver - February 18 - 6:08 pm

  This is the 3rd BMW I have owned. I traded up from two consecutive 3 series coupes. This car is just as much fun to drive as my prior BMWs. Performance, reliability and looks are unparalled. iDrive is easy once you get used to it a 6th grader could figure it out! Only complaint is the ridiculously placed cupholders.

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  what a blast - 2005 BMW 6-Series
  By BacktoBMW - February 18 - 10:41 am

  Ive had my 645ci for two months now. It is the most fun car Ive ever driven. Its a head turner and eye catcher and a road grabber. BMW hit it out of the park with this one. Handling and performance are supurb you feel safe and solid in every turn. I like the lines on the 645CI better than the convertable which looks a bit choppy. After a month I got used to the improved I-Drive. The issues Ive had are waiting for over two months for sirius radio and my new blackberry phone does not work with the bluetooth feature on the 645. This car is amazing, I look forward to seeing you in my rearview mirror.

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  Jaseng - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Jaseng - February 18 - 4:53 am

  Excellent automobile. I cannot be more happy than I am with the BMW 5 Series. It has everything I could want and need with it. I will continue to be a loyal BMW owner.

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  bmw - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By Pat Malvaso - February 18 - 2:00 am

  at 3000 miles vehicle computer chip for controlling the speed/transmission shifting failed and needed replacing the cup holders are in a terrible location, difficult to use and cheesey

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  My 330 - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By Manfredeaf - February 18 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun to drive. The powerful engine with the Tip Tronic gear system helps in critical situation when top exceleration is required. Fun to drive in the mountains!

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  best care i have ever owned - 2003 BMW 3-Series
  By doing it all - February 18 - 2:00 am

  did my research, found this to be the safest and most reliable for my money.LOVE THE ALL WHEEL DRIVE! living in pennsylvania i shock all the macho men in my little white sport sedan by being able to get anywhere i want to go. just put the blizzacks(the winter tires made for this car)last week. my dealership i should be able to take this litte baby anywhere! now i KNOW i will be trouble-i feel sorry for those who dont own one!!