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CHARACTERISTICS.
Different characters. One common denominator: the distinctiveness of BMW.
A BMW is unmistakable at the very first glance. Throughout the years, countless BMW design icons have characterised and continually developed the identity of BMW models. Each and every BMW model bears its own individual interpretation of these design icons, underlining its own powerful, independent character.
FACE.
The front section of a BMW displays typical features that clearly identify it as a BMW. A distinctive design unit is formed by the kidney-shaped grille with the centrally positioned emblem above and the twin headlights on either side.The double-round headlights are slightly cut-off at the top thus ensuring a focused view onto the road.
BMW 6 SERIES.
In the BMW 6 Series, the headlights sit slightly higher than the kidney grille and are marginally set back. This gives the impression of surging forward and emphasises the sporting character.
BMW 3 SERIES.
The face of the BMW 3 Series Sedan systematically reinterprets the classical BMW design icons of double-round headlights and kidney-shaped radiator grille.
BMW Z4.
The roadster-specific character of the front of the BMW Z4 is demonstrated by the extremely long and wide bonnet and the low positioning of the kidney grille.
KIDNEY GRILLE.
The two-part radiator grille, the so-called BMW kidney grille, is one of the most characteristic hallmarks of a BMW. It forms the visual centre of the front and is the source of all contours. Whether sporty and flat or large and imposing, its design reflects the character of the respective vehicle.
BMW 6 SERIES.
In the BMW 6 Series, the low kidney grille provides a design link to the ‘shark nose’ of earlier BMW models, promising an extra-dynamic driving experience.
BMW 3 SERIES.
With their flat design and solidly finished frames, the openings of the kidney grille underline the sporting character of the BMW 3 Series Sedan.
BMW Z4.
The kidney grille at the front of the BMW Z4 has a flat and compact position. Its breadth and size reveals the air demand of the powerful engines behind. It provides the unit with the air it needs to ‘breathe’
PROPORTIONS
The proportions of a BMW reveal its dynamic potential: the extended bonnet, the long wheelbase and a set-back passenger compartment promise sheer driving pleasure even when the vehicle is standing still.
BMW 6 SERIES.
The BMW 6 Series Coupé interprets typical BMW proportions as a combination of luxury and dynamics, with its flowing forms creating an air of sensual sportiness.
BMW 3 SERIES.
Within the dynamic silhouette of the BMW 3 Series Sedan, precise contours move across tight surfaces and underline its athletic orientation.
BMW Z4.
With a low driving position close to the rear axle, the proportions of the BMW Z4 offer a glimpse of what’s awaiting: a passionate driving experience.
HOFMEISTER KINK.
The Hofmeister kink is the term for the counter curve in the window outline at the base of the rear roof pillar. First introduced at BMW in 1961, it owes its name to Wilhelm Hofmeister, the head of BMW body design at the time, and since then has appeared on almost every BMW.
BMW 6 SERIES.
The Hofmeister kink draws attention to the rear-wheel drive typical of BMW. Its styling ranges from dynamically pointed – as in the BMW 6 Series Coupé – to upright.
BMW 3 SERIES.
The dynamic downward turn of the Hofmeister kink points to the muscular wheel arch of the BMW 3 Series thus underlining the rear-wheel drive typical of BMW.
BMW Z4.
With the roof closed, the hardtop and Hofmeister kink underline the elegant appearance of the BMW Z4.
CREASE LINE.
Coming from the front, the characteristic crease line takes an exciting movement towards the rear-end and gives every BMW a suitably distinctive tapered shape. It divides the sophisticated surfaces of the side, accelerates the vehicle even when standing still and underlines its dynamic forward thrust. In addition, the door handles are precisely integrated in the crease line, further enhancing its effect.
BMW 6 SERIES.
In the BMW 6 Series Coupé, the crease appears to originate from the chrome-coloured air vent element. Interacting with the sill line, it forms a dynamic wedge shape.
BMW 3 SERIES.
In the BMW 3 Series, a double crease made of two opposing character lines shapes the side of this vehicle. Together the lines sketch a dynamic wedge shape.
BMW Z4.
One striking feature on the side of the BMW Z4 is the shoulder line curve, which recalls the distinctive downward curves of the low doors on earlier roadsters.
REAR.
Horizontal lines at the rear emphasise the width in a sporting way and create a low optical centre of gravity. The muscular wheel arches appear prominently and underline the dynamic character of the vehicle. The horizontal styling of the light elements typical of BMW not only ensures optimum recognition but also underlines the breadth of the rear and the sportingly stable stance of the vehicle.
BMW 6 SERIES.
With the BMW 6 Series, horizontal lines at the rear and muscular wheel arches emphasise the width in a sporting way and create a low optical centre of gravity.
BMW 3 SERIES.
Prominently horizontal contours and the widely-separated, BMW typical L-shaped rear lights make the rear section of the BMW 3 Series Sedan flat, wide and sporty.
BMW Z4.
The lines and surfaces from the front and side of the BMW Z4 flow together at the rear, giving the roadster a sporty width.
INTERIOR.
The drivers’ area: The principle known as driver orientation is essential for the interior design of every BMW. All the controls and surfaces are directed towards the driver, allowing an optimum in overview and ease of operation for an unrivalled driving experience.
BMW 6 SERIES.
The interior of the BMW 6 Series was designed with the cockpit of a motor boat in mind. It encloses the driver and conveys the vehicle’s sporty character.
BMW 3 SERIES.
The horizontal elements and flowing shapes inside the BMW 3 Series create a pleasant sensation of space and allow optimum access to all the important functions.
BMW Z4.
The interior of the BMW Z4 is clearly structured allowing the cockpit to embrace the driver with an invitation to actively take control.