Cameron Lane
2024-11-04
6 min read
Dominating the motor industry since 1916, BMW is one of the world's leading car brands and is at the forefront of global innovation. What was once a company focused on developing aircraft engines has since become a big player in the car business. They've been highly praised for their extensive selection of models covering coupes, SUVS, EVS, sedans, and convertibles. But the question has always been asked in the automotive scene: "What are the best BMW models?" Well, we're going to answer that question in this article. From the I8 to the F25 BMW X3, let's show you the best of what BMW has to offer.
Loved for its hybrid technology, eco-friendly light, and compact design, the BMW I8 is one model that always gets eyeballs as soon as one of them rolls up in a parking lot. This model embraced hybrid technology early on with its turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine. It caught the attention of those interested in hybrid models before most of its competitors, which really helped it rise to prominence. There's so much to love about the I8. Between the light carbon fiber layout design and a slick interior featuring modern, comfortable adjustable seating with heating and cooling, an 8.8-inch display unit, and cruise control, it's every driver's dream. The BMW I8 operates on a dual-power system with a 129 HP electric motor and a 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder gas-powered engine. With this technology, motorists can reach up to 155 MPH. Of course, this may not be the most suitable option for those hoping to hit super high speeds, but its innovative concept makes up for it.
If you're in the market for an SUV and looking for something reliable, you can't go wrong with the F25 BMW X3. The F25 BMW X3 was revealed as the second generation BMW X3 in 2010 with a naturally aspirated inline 6 engine. However, it only lasted a year in America before being changed out for an N20 straight-four turbo. On the inside, the F25 BMW X3 offers plenty of space, making it a popular SUV option for families. The leather-lined seating, 6.5-inch color iDrive screen, and 12-speaker sound system are enough to grab every BMW motorist's attention. This generation of BMW X3 is larger than the previous and was fitted with improved suspension to make every journey a bit more comfortable for drivers.
What's not to love about the BMW M4? This sports car is all about performance and looks good on the inside and out with its fashionable flair. This version of the BMW M4 was released in 2014. It can reach up to 510 HP with its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six engine. When you hit the road in this dynamic vehicle, the thrill you'll get from the rumbling engine noise alone will be enough to get your heart pumping. Beyond the doors of this BMW M4, you'll find some super cool features, including a bright red starter button, a huge steering wheel, and low, maneuverable seats. If you're a sucker for those fine little touches, the spacious glovebox, sizable door bins, and storage compartment that separates the two seats will be right up your alleyway.
A list of BMW models wouldn't be complete without including at least one M3, and what better one to include than the renowned BMW E46 M3 CSL that was released in 2010? This M3 is incredibly light, only weighing 1,385kg. This explains why the 3.0-litre straight-six engine can allow drivers to hit up to 360 HP if they wanted. There's an aggressive but smooth look about the BMW E46 M3 CSL that attracts speed junkies. The throttle response and vigorous feeling of power when you put your foot down for the first time are sure to excite you no matter how many journeys you've taken in it. Remember, since this is quite an old model, you shouldn't expect anything too fancy on the inside. However, anyone who wants to drive one of these beasts will be more focused on performance. Regardless of its age, you'll still find the typical M stitching and bright upper quartile on the rev counter.
Small and ferocious for its size, the BM2 M2 that was released in 2015 was initially looked down on by some motorists for how small it was. But it didn't take long for it to rise to prominence in the automotive community. The 2015 BMW M2 shares a big similarity with both the M3 and M4 in that it also has a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine. Now, if you were to criticize it in any way, it would be for that it has been detuned, so it offers a little less power for drivers reaching only 460 HP, which may turn some off. What makes up for the 2015 BMW M2's lack of power is the luxurious interior. Regardless of the aspect, you'll feel like you're driving like a king when sitting inside this model. From the plastic and aluminum trims to the shiny pull-lever seats, it doesn't get much better than this. In terms of space, the 2015 BMW M2 has always been rated highly for it, especially the door sizes, making jumping in and out a seamless process. The only downside of this is you have to be careful when you're parking it up because you may scratch the person's car beside you.
These are just some of the best models that BMW has produced over the years. The German car brand has been a powerhouse in the vehicle manufacturing industry ever since it started producing cars, and there's no chance they're going anywhere. You could argue that plenty of other BMW models should make it onto this list, but we wanted to keep it only for the best of the best. In the coming years, you can expect to see BMW come out with even bigger and better models that will rival any of these picks.