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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  The best SUV on the market! - 2002 BMW X5
  By KAK - July 12 - 2:00 am

  If you can afford to splurge, and have always wanted a tough but civilized car that can hawl a payload then take you to the opera? Really, the X5 is the car to buy. I absolutely love this beauty/beast.

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  A Great Vehicle - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By Spudcake - July 12 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is in the process of being passed down from my parents to me. I only have a permit, but have driven the car and have been living with it for about 4 years. Its so much fun. I think the exterior styling and interior comfort and luxury combined with the performance of its engine make it the best beginners car I could have ever hoped for. We have only had one maintanence problem with the vehicle but it was kind of a Doozy. But otherwise, a near PERFECT car.

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  All hail the King - 2002 BMW X5
  By Yiiiiiiiiiiiio - July 11 - 2:00 am

  The BMW X5 is probably the most sportiest SUV on the planet. This Suv is beaming with power and excitement. When I ride this car I feel like Im young again.

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  Delighted so far - 2002 BMW X5
  By blkbutterfly - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Overall, this is a fine vehicle. We are very pleased with it so far. If I stay longer I am looking at purchasing the restyled unit when BMW does it. Everywhere Ive been Its a head turner. Thats saying something for a vehicle that is from this country (I know it was built in the states). Still has a smooth ride with the 19in wheels.

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  The best of the best - 2002 BMW X5
  By oiul - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This Spot-utes the best it pampers and gives me thrill thats un imaginable. I love this car.

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  Power to spare - 2002 BMW X5
  By RWC - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Very enjoyable to drive. Owned for a little over 2 weeks. Very responsive, and effortless climbs uphill.

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  BMW X5 - 2002 BMW X5
  By jwalkovik - July 11 - 2:00 am

  The X5 holds the road well has excellent pick up and responsive steering. It also has a really stiff suspension. One of the most comfortable things about the X5 is the cabin is abosolutely silent. Driving on the highway at 70 miles an hour you cant hear a thing.

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  Best of the best - 1998 BMW M3
  By Romichael - July 11 - 2:00 am

  You wont find any kind of car with perfect handling, power and look like this car. This is not a car. ITS AN ART!!!!

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  Ultimate Performance Sedan - 1999 BMW M3
  By Greg Zielinski - July 10 - 2:00 am

  In short, great acceleration, unmatched handling and a blast to drive. BMW service is superb. Most people may not know this but EACH person who visits their facilities judges the BMW service centers. Everyone time I’ve gone in for service (Maintenance is paid for the first 3 years/ 36K miles) I’ve had a follow up call from BMW. They ask you about all aspects of the visit and grades you response as follows , “Excellent” = A, “Good” = C, “Fair” = F. I’ve had the car for three years and just plain enjoy every aspect of it. Any downsides? Ownership costs may be considered high to some.

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  Happy but Sad - 1996 BMW 3-Series
  By james lane - July 10 - 2:00 am

  My 1996 BMW 318i offers great looks and luxurious interior. It has excellent driving feautures such as handling, cruise control, high-tech equipment but at 75,000 miles my ABS went out on the car. BMW of Nashville repair department wanting 77 dollars an hour to guess at whats wrong with the ABS.