How BMW’s Design Elements Keep It at the Top of Its Class

May 5, 2017

BMW has set the standard for powerful luxury cars since its inception in 1928. That’s due to three qualities that distinguish it: design, performance, features. Because each quality is critical to BMW, we’re breaking it down into a three-part series — one blog each week.

Let’s get started by learning about the design elements that make this Bavarian beauty the top of its class.

Evolving and Engaging: The Design Elements of BMW

Although styles have changed drastically over the past century, BMW is constantly evolving to be at the forefront.

As BMW senior vice president Hildegard Wortmann said, “There will always be customers going for the ultimate luxury experience and that’s certainly something we will deliver, but the definition of luxury has got to be at least evolving if not changing.”

Every BMW is different, but they all share the element of sporting elegance that captivates from the first glance.

BMW designs combine proportions, surfaces, and details to create a work of art that is moving, in both the literal and figurative sense. The flowing lines and contours of the body form a muscular stance, while the dramatic curves help create an elegant silhouette.

The Ever Evolving Design of a Classic Look

Perhaps the most iconic BMW design element is their signature two-section rounded radiator grille. Known as the “kidney grille,” it first appeared in the BMW 303 at the 1933 Geneva International Auto Show.

While the design has evolved over the years, the general characteristics remain the same and have become a distinctive part of every BMW vehicle. The iconic double round headlights surround the grille on either side and centered above is the iconic BMW emblem.

Every BMW features a distinct tapered shape thanks to a characteristic crease line dividing the surfaces of the side. This gives each BMW the illusion of motion — even when it’s at a standstill.

Another important element of the BMW exterior design is the Hofmeister Kink, the name given to the counter curve in the rear window outline. The Hofmeister Kink showcases the dynamic forward thrust of the BMW’s rear-wheel drive system.

BMW Design Heads Into the Future

Every new BMW innovation begins with an idea and a sketch on paper and transforms into innovative features like ConnectedDrive and new variations in lighting. BMW engineers are constantly at work finding new innovations. As we head into the future, there is no telling where BMW design will take us.

Experience the design prowess of BMW by contacting the experts at Valley Auto World BMW in Fayetteville, North Carolina. We will be happy to answer any questions or schedule a test drive of your favorite model.

Don’t forget to stay tuned for the second part in this series where we’ll dive into details about BMW’s legendary performance.