BMW cars
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The new BMW X5: Groundbreaking concept is again the new benchmark.
Innovative technology, a premium and luxurious ambience, powerful elegance in body design and superb driving dynamics make the new BMW X5 a genuine exception in its segment. The new model continues the tradition of its predecessor, the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle, which set the foundation for a brand-new class of vehicles.
The engineers and development specialists creating the new BMW X5 have succeeded once again in crafting a truly unique vehicle for the market. In a segment now subject to fierce competition, the new BMW X5 sets the standard yet again in driving dynamics and agility. No other vehicle combines the qualities so typical of a BMW with the features of a truly versatile SAV full of style and presence.
Given all these qualities, the new BMW X5 meets all the demands and requirements of the discerning motorist who, through the choice of his or her vehicle, wishes to express his personal and independent lifestyle and at the same time enjoy a new driving experience in a new dimension.
Models
Current and near future products
The current BMW model line-up is split into what they call "Series", traditionally identified by a single digit - e.g. the 3 Series. In 2004 BMW announced plans to make odd-numbered models sedans and estates or wagons (BMW calls its estates/wagons Touring models), while even-numbered models will be two-door coupes and cabriolets . This convention started informally in 1976 with the introduction of the 6-Series and later continued in 1989 with the 8-Series , but died off when the latter was discontinued in 1999. This practice was revived as the Z4 replaced the aging Z3 roadster in 2003 and continues as the new 6-Series augments the existing BMW 5-Series .
The M letter was used prior to the shift to Series-named cars to designate special "Motorsport" models, beginning with the M1 supercar. Later the M letter was used as a prefix to top-of-the-range models which had received special treatment by the BMW Motorsport division. The first such car was the M535i of 1979. As these models started gaining popularity the Motorsport division was split into a separate company. BMW M GmbH now makes sporty models based on the production cars with very extensive chassis and engine upgrades. The M3 and M5 are based respectively on the 3 and 5 Series and are recognised by enthusiasts all over the world as truly excellent sports cars while retaining the practicality of the models they extend. With the advent of the SUV , BMW also added the X5 - and in 2004 the X3 - to their model range to capitalise on this growing market. BMW calls its SUV models Sports Activity Vehicles . A possible future V Series will offer MPV practicality for large families, similar to the Renault Scenic.
- 1 Series : a new small car designed to compete with the VW Golf , coming in the fall of 2004 in Europe;Fall 2006 in the USA
- 2 Series: a coupe/ convertible based on the 1 Series platform
- 3 Series : the successor to the 2002; a compact high-performance sedan, now in its fourth generation (E43). The fifth generation or the E90 is scheduled to arrive in dealerships across europe in early 2005.
- M3 : initially a race-version of the 3-Series sold to the public for homologation reasons, this model has evolved into a maximum-power, maximum-price touring car
- X3 : a small SUV with emphasis on practicality and affordability
- Z4 : a two-seater roadster that succeeded the Z3
- 5 Series Series: a midsize sports/ luxury sedan
- M5 : A high performance version of the 5-Series. The new M5 (E60), which was recently launched, will be powered by a F1 -inspired V10 engine.
- X5 : BMW's first SUV (called SAV or Sports Activity Vehicle by BMW)
- 6 Series Series: a large 2+2 GT, available as a coupe or convertible
- 7 Series Series: a full-size luxury car, competing with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class , Audi A8 , and Jaguar XJ
Out of production
- M1 : a 1970s mid-engine sports car, designed in conjunction with Lamborghini
- Z3 : a compact two-seater roadster.
- M coupé and roadster: high-performance hard-top and soft-top versions of the Z3, very popular with enthusiasts
- 8 Series : a fast, high-technology coupe of the 1990s meant to replace the older 6 Series.
- Z1 : a late 1980s two-seater with innovative modular construction; only 8,000 were made.
- Z8 : flagship sports car; design based on the classic 507 roadster from the 1950s . Only 5000 were built, the last 500 being a special edition built by Alpina but sold directly from BMW.