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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  Built like a Tank - 1994 BMW 5-Series
  By Ty7 - January 10 - 2:04 pm

  I purchased this car 5 months ago from its 2nd owner. I actually only paid 1500 for this car and it definitely had its share of wear. When I bought it, it had 204,000 miles and now has 211,000. I commute 42 miles a day for work and this car runs like a champ! Some people may say "Wow, thats a lot of miles on it" but my 1984 318 had 330,000 and was still running when I sold it. Of course I had to replace a few things like tires, wiper blades, etc. Just basic maintenance things. This model is an excellent vehicle. Nothing drives like a BMW. So far, no problems whatsoever. It had some miles when I bought it, but I think I got a heck of a deal.

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  Bang for the Buck - 1992 BMW 3-Series
  By RC - January 4 - 12:53 pm

  My 318i is not a rocket but really has much more power than I expected. Daily driver. Handles great, all power, heated seats.Cold A/C. The "pleather" interior holds up much much better than most of the leather 325s I have seen. Mine still looks new. Only problem I have had is a Slave cylinder.

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  Best Car You Can Own - 1998 BMW 7-Series
  By Scott - January 4 - 12:34 pm

  Ive had this car almost 5 years. Ive replaced a window motor, fixed the power seat and replaced the fan. The total cost of repairs has been half that of my Chevy van, that is 2 years newer and has 80,000 less miles on it. This car is a pleasure to drive. Its comfortable and powerful. I usually get above 24 MPG on the freeway, and thats doing 80 MPH. I almost always choose it over my other cars (Boxster, 330ci and Van) due to the excellent sound system and handling. Ive looked at the newer body style and I dont like it as much. Also the iDrive is a pain to use. I now have 180,000 miles on the car and Im keeping it.

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  Perfect - 2010 BMW X5
  By Nick - January 3 - 11:57 am

  I ordered an X5, 4.8 with: Cold Weather PKG Premium PKG Tech PKG rear climate 3rd row The ride is great, performance is exciting and everything just feels right. No need for premium sound system, the base package is pretty good, and I like to listen to loud music.

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  Best bimmer yet - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By Matt - January 2 - 10:28 pm

  I leased a 328i in March 07 after owning, in succession, a 90 325is & 99 323i. I loved the previous vehicles, but this car is the best Ive ever had. This car without the sport package hugs the road better than my previous vehicles that had the sport suspension. The added interior room is also a big plus. Ive had no problems with the run flats and the ride has always been very smooth. I went with an automatic for the first time and I use the clutchless manual exclusively for better performance and fuel economy. Long term I expect it too costly to maintain (as has been my experience), but its been solid thus far.

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  Still going strong - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By k - January 2 - 1:43 pm

  I have driven this car hard for a year and a half and have yet to go through any technical problems with the car. This car is tough as nails. The engine is extremely smooth, and the Sport mode is like attaching rockets to your car when you need it to pass someone on the highway. The trunk is spacious, as is the rear seat, as two 62 guys have sat comfortably. The N54 engine (the TT L6) is easily one of the best BMW engines, and has won Engine of the Year awards consistently. Has never been to the shop other than scheduled maintenance, despite being somewhat abused by a young driver with a lead foot for about 14,000 miles. Never had a problem starting in cold weather, and no malfunctions.

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  2010 BMW 750 Li with M Sport Package - 2010 BMW 7-Series
  By Steve M - January 2 - 11:18 am

  I have a 2010 BMW 750Li M sport package, with all options except the rear DVD system. I also own a 2007 Mercedes S-550. I also am a former Police driving instructor so I know a performance car when I drive one. The 2010 is the most amazing vehicle that Ive ever driven. With the M sport package and active steering, this car does things that makes you want to put a disclaimer sticker on the car that says "do not attempt this at home". Its turn radius is unbelievable. If you drive the S-Class Mercedes, Maserati, Bentley then drive the BMW, I dont see how you would want to buy any of these other vehicles when you compare driving capabilities, ride, technology and amenities.

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  BMWs Swiss Army Knife - 2007 BMW 3-Series
  By brianwad - December 31 - 7:31 pm

  Performance, utility, economy and comfort in a compact package but only after the Run Flat Tires are replaced with real tires. It even handles Michigan winters without all-wheel drive.This car inspires complete confidence on the road. This is my third BMW and the most competent all-round car I have owned in 40 years. I am now a total BMW convert.

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  Much better ride over 330i - 2007 BMW X3
  By Louis Bailey, DC - December 31 - 7:48 am

  Seventh BMW I have owned. I tried to take trips in my former BMW330i, however always felt like I was beat up. Now the good stuff, the X3 has just returned from our first 1,200 mile trip, comfort, power over mountains, 10% ethanol fuel in 3 states didnt produce a change in power but did drop fuel economy by one or so miles per gallon, average at 80mph and up to 90mph at times it creeps up there with ease, just under 21 mpg. I think this is a long term relationship, easier to get into and out of, the giant moon roof, Xdrive must be felt to appreciate the grip that is there. Screaming RED color tipped to this vehicle over another. Certified and 6yr~100,000m service and oil changes.

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  Best Buy EVER - 2007 BMW X3
  By Michele - December 30 - 5:16 pm

  What youve heard is true. Once you drive a BMW, you will be hooked for life. I love driving the X3, so does my husband. His Acura MDX now gets very little action. He prefers the X3. Lots of power. Handles beautifully on Seattles wet roads and in heavy traffic. Nice size to parallel park downtown.