A Real BMW or Technology Overkill
I'm sure, that by now, you have read the numerous scathing reports about how BMW stylists have lost their magic touch and how their computer geeks have over complicated their cars.
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| In the past couple of years, BMW has worked hard to renew excitement to their car lineup by implementing major design and technical changes. (Photo: BMW AG) |
Well, as a long time admirer of the "ultimate driving machines" created by the boys from Bavaria, I for one loudly applaud the efforts that have gone into recreating some excitement around the most recent additions to BMW's lineup.
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| Although criticized at its 2001 debut, the most recent 745i marks the beginning of a huge step forward in BMW design. (Photo: BMW AG) |
BMW has always delivered very solidly built, reliable and exciting cars for those of us who look forward to the next bend in the road. But lately, the model line, although selling very well, was starting to look a bit boring. Sure the M5 is an amazing car to drive, but it was based on a body style that has been out since '96, and was a fairly safe styling exercise to begin with. The 3-Series hasn't changed much since '98 and the 7-Series, also ultra-conservative, hadn't been updated since '94.
The all-new 745i, launched in 2001 as a 2002 model, in my opinion, marks the beginning of a huge step forward in BMW design. When it was introduced, everyone criticized its styling and over the top techno features. Since then, the Z3, which evolved into the Z4, and the all-new 5-Series, due out this fall, share the new-look styling of BMW. I fell in love instantly when I saw the new 7, and even some of the staunchest critics are starting to admit that the style is starting to grow on them.