#Explained: We break down BMW’s range
Welcome to #Explained, a weekly column where we explain the finer details of some of the biggest manufacturers in the world. Most car-buyers understand the basics of each manufacturer, but with brands like BMW boasting such a wide variety of products, it makes us wonder how many people understand the classification system that is used for their BMW’s. Welcome to your one-stop BMW guide.
Series #Explained
Let’s begin with the ‘Series’ concept. The size of the model increases with the number of the series, with the 1-series being the smallest BMW and the 8-series being the biggest model. All the even-numbered series are coupe models, like the 4-series, while the odd-numbered series are four-door models, like the 3-series. Pretty simple, but there are exceptions to this rule.
The first exceptions are the Gran Coupe models, which are four-door coupe models. These cars are based on BMW’s coupes, but incorporate two more doors into the design in an effort to blend function and form. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe is a perfect example. It’s a four-door M6.
The second exception is the Gran Turismo model line up, which is an SUV-Estate version of the 3- and 6-series. These cars feature a unique design that prioritises space and comfort. Sloping rooflines, an electric spoiler and a hatchback rear are dead giveaways of a Gran Turismo model.
XXX #Explained
The SUV’s and crossovers are denoted with an X, along with their number relative to their series. The even-numbered X-models refer to a coupe-styled SUV, while the odd-numbered X-models are full-on traditional SUV’s. A good example is the difference between the X5, with its regular SUV proportions versus the sportier coupe-styled X6.
Lastly, there is BMW’s line of hybrid and electric cars, denoted by either an ‘i’ or an ‘ActiveHybrid’. There are two ‘i’ models – the BMW i3, the small electric hatchback, and the i8, a mid-size electric coupe.
Now let’s look at the difference between cars of the same series. Back in simpler times, the two-numbers that followed the series number used to indicate the displacement of the engine that powered the specific model, for example, the 328i would be powered by a 2.8-litre engine. Nowadays, it specifies performance rather than displacement. For example, the 320i is powered by a 2.0-litre engine but the 340i is powered by a 3.0-litre engine. The fuel type of the engine is denoted by an ‘i’ or ‘d’ at the end.
M Performance #Explained
Then there are BMW’s high-performance cars. These cars are based on the regular cars of their series, but often feature more exciting bodywork, a sportier interior and the most powerful engines in their series. These are known as ‘M’-cars. The M2, for example, is the fastest and most-powerful 2-series.
We hope this knowledge serves you well and that you’re no longer that one-person who has no idea what’s happening at the car-meet anymore. Let us know which manufacturer you’d like us to include in our next instalment of #EXPLAINED.
