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:

• 

  Great car! - 2006 BMW 7-Series
  By dbrock750li - April 18 - 5:21 pm

  I love my 750LI, Ive had to replace the battery and the splash guard but this car is ridiculous fast, The adaptive headlights are great and massaging seat makes long rides much easier. Sometimes the idrive wont let u select dvd in the back but after a min or so itll highlight to be selected... And the it takes way too long to change the radio station! but Its worth every dime! The ride, the aggressive growl as it climbs the hills, the soft close doors and cold weather package make me wana drive this car across the country for a gallon of milk. P.s. keep your eyes on that speedometer it loves to go fast!

• 

  Buy one if you can afford it. - 2011 BMW X5
  By gregvdv - April 18 - 1:51 pm

  First off let me say that Im comparing this vehicle againist my BMW 650i that I traded in for it. Plus my wifes BMW 535. It really is a great vehicle. Dont expect it to be or act like a sports car because its not. Dont expect it to be an off road vehicle because its not. It trully is a sports activity vehicle. It is fun to drive. It does have many comfort features. It does alot of things very well but it is in its own catagory. It has great performance but not as good as my 650 so Im being picky. It is fun to drive but not as fun as my 650 or 535. I dont have any complaints about the X5 as a whole, just a few things stick out because Ive been driving a BMW for almost 10 years now.

• 

  My new X3 - 2011 BMW X3
  By north34949 - April 16 - 7:56 pm

  We took delivery of our new X-3 at the BMW Performance Center, Greer, SC. Anyone buying a new X-3 should take advantage of this opportunity, it was first rate. Our X-3 had the convenience package, premium package, tech package, and sports package. I wish BMW made more use of buttons than depending on the Idrive but it works well with a cutting edge car. I have test driven several X-3s over the years and found the ride to be choppy and the cabin less than comfortable. All has changed for 2011. At the performance center, we had the opportunity to drive the X-3s (theirs) at the edge of their performance envelope which demonstates how well these cars can perform. Pricing was negotiable!

• 

  Beautiful, fun ride - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By van_dine - April 16 - 1:00 pm

  As a longtime owner of Lexus cars and former writer who has reviewed their share of autos, I looked at BMW, Audi, and Lexus to choose from (Audi= sketchy reliability history performance not yet on par w/others Lexus=overall good cars but no styles of late that get my blood going). The BMW 3 series couple always had my attention and the 328 couple I purchased does not disappoint. It hangs well on S-curves and braking power is amazing. The body is sturdy and interior is simple yet timeless. Pros: Total driving joy Superficial Factor: I have received more compliments on this car than any other Cons: The cup holders can make some drinks jumpy but with respect to the total car, can forgive it

• 

  Versatile sports car - 2008 BMW 3-Series
  By lfinkel - April 15 - 10:55 pm

  I love my 328xi coupe. I have owned 3 series sedan, coupe, and convertible.  Tis is the best car for me.  It is so versatile.  Drives well in the snow, totes a good amount of cargo when then seats are folded down, has tons of safety features, and overall I can drive in all weather conditions.  And it is a quintessential BMW. It handles sublime, is very fast and quick, comfortable ride, excellent stereo, and looks great.  I highly recommend this car.  

• 

  DANG, DIESEL! - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By teaguespecial - April 15 - 10:33 am

  This is my second BMW and lets just say Ill never stray from the brand. I sold my 06 330i 6-speed manuel and bought the 335d. This is a great everyday car for anyone who loves to drive. Dont get it if you like driving a Lexus. Boring! This car can fly! Push you back in your seat fly! Theres slight lag when you push the accelerator compared to my 330i but when it pulls, hold on tight! Great gas mileage (about 27 city / almost 40 highway). Love the iDrive system. Crystal clear screen w/no glare. Fold down seat a nice plus. Standard sound system sounds great. Sport pkg a must - adds sleeker profile, sport seats, sport steering wheel, etc... highly recommend!

• 

  great car - 2011 BMW 3-Series
  By tommyycar - April 13 - 10:56 am

  Just had to report that our 2010 328 convertible averaged 32 MPG driving up and down through the mountains of West Virginia. In addition to being great in every other way, Its an economy car! Who Knew? I will be thrilled if the 2012 X5 I have on the way pleasantly surprises us with this kind of gas mileage.

• 

  The one - 2010 BMW 1-Series
  By coach25 - April 12 - 11:26 pm

  The best car I have ever owned. Excellent fit and finish. But, its the performance that really is the kicker. Have had three BMWs and this is the best. It is number one.

• 

  Perfect car, really - 2011 BMW 7-Series
  By lexelle - April 12 - 9:06 pm

  At $100k you should expect your car to be perfect, unfortunately not all are. They may be missing something...like cutting edge technology, great seating, high end finishes, or an amazingly powerful engine. The 2011 750Li gives you everything. I have owned the SL55 more power, yes, but lacking in comfort and technology. Dont forget covered maintenance! Miles per gallon isnt ideal, but considering I have nothing else to sacrifice I will deal with teen digit results. Its very quick, comfortable, quiet, and full of luxury. It doesnt wash itself... But with the camera package it practically parks itself.

• 

  Projection of unique characteristic - 2011 BMW X6
  By carbonproject - April 11 - 11:39 am

  Ive had this car for just about a year now. 2010 model. I use this car to commute and Everywhere I go get a head turn from other people. You may call me an attention seeker. Yes, I enjoy peoples stares on my vehicle. In fact, this car offers differentiation from other car owners. I personally think BMWs attempt of making a SAC was pretty bold move, yet succesful one. This car drives like sports sedan and has high view, offers good horse power and torque, but my favorite is the look. I have to say this car isnt for everyone. This car is for the people whos willing to spend money to differentiate oneself from others.