BMW’s journey began in 1916 as an aircraft engine manufacturer, transitioning to car production in 1928. Since then, BMW, along with its subsidiaries Mini, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad, has grown into the world’s leading manufacturer of premium luxury automobiles and motorcycles.
BMW’s automotive production started with a licensed version of the Austin Seven, a compact and affordable model. It wasn’t long before BMW had the resources to develop its own models. In the 1930s, BMW primarily built sporty models, laying the foundation for the brand’s sporty image early on. They also began to explore the luxury segment.
However, in the years following World War II, demand for luxury and sports cars dwindled, putting BMW in financial difficulty. By relying on licensed production – the iconic Isetta, for example, was originally an Italian design – BMW managed to survive. It wasn’t until the 1960s that BMW truly rebounded, with the then-new Neue Klasse models proving to be a resounding success. These were mid-range models that struck a balance between sportiness and luxury, and included a distant predecessor to what became the 3 Series. Since then, BMW has gradually grown into the major brand it is today.
Image showcasing a used BMW 5 Series Touring 530e High Executive M-Sport with premium features, highlighting the availability of various BMW models.
Popular BMW Models to Consider When You Buy BMW
As of 2024, BMW boasts a very extensive model range. The lineup includes the 1 Series, 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, and 8 Series. Many of these are also available with a choice of multiple body styles, such as sedan, station wagon (Touring), coupe, convertible, Active Tourer (compact MPV), Gran Tourer (mid-size MPV), Gran Turismo, and Gran Coupe (four-door coupe). In addition, there are also SUV models, designated with the letter X. With the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7, this has also become a particularly broad offering. The X refers to xDrive, BMW’s all-wheel drive system. There were and are also Z models, in the form of the Z1, Z3, and ultimately Z4. These were and are sporty, two-seater roadsters.
Image of a BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé 220iA Sport-Line, illustrating the sporty and modern design of BMW’s 2 Series range.
BMW M Series and i Series: Performance and Innovation when You Buy BMW
Within the described ‘Series’, several variants can be further distinguished. The most sporty versions are positioned under the M Series. The M naturally stands for BMW M GmbH, BMW’s motorsport division. Within the M Series, you will find well-known sports models such as the M3, BMW M4, and BMW M5. Then there is the i Series. It started with futuristic, electric and plug-in hybrid models such as the i3 and i8, but has since grown into a complete line of fully electrically powered versions of the regular models.
Image of a used BMW 1 Series 116i High Executive, showcasing a more accessible option for those looking to buy a BMW.
Hybrid BMW Models: A Step Towards Electrification When You Buy BMW
BMW has also been offering hybrid models since 2008, starting with the 7 Series ActiveHybrid and X6 ActiveHybrid in 2008. Since then, the range of hybrid models has expanded into a complete offering that covers the main market segments in which BMW is active.
The designation of the hybrid BMW models has changed over the years. The name iPerformance was also used for a time. The latest hybrid models can be recognized by an ‘e’ instead of an ‘i’ in the model designation. The earlier ActiveHybrid models were ‘regular’ hybrids, while the later iPerformance models were plug-in hybrids. Furthermore, BMW currently offers a number of so-called mild hybrids, where the combustion engine is supported by a kind of large electric starter motor.
Image featuring a BMW 1 Series (f20) 118i with a BOVAG warranty, emphasizing the reliability and assurance offered when you buy BMW through certified dealers.
Electric BMW Models: Driving the Future When You Buy BMW
The first electric BMW appeared in 2013, in the form of the fully electric i3 and as a plug-in hybrid. In addition to the electric motor, it also had a two-cylinder combustion engine that could act as a generator to supply power for recharging the battery if it threatened to run out of charge on the road, ensuring you could still get home.
This futuristic and groundbreaking model was followed by more conventional electric i models. These were simply electric versions of regular models. For example, the i4 based on the 4 Series Gran Coupé, the i5 based on the 5 Series (also as a Touring), the i7 based on the 7 Series, and the iX3 based on the X3. An exception is the iX, which, like the original BMW i models, clearly distinguishes itself from the regular range. This large SUV has a distinctive design and is technically unrelated to a regular model.
Image of a BMW 4 Series Coupé 430i High Executive M-Sport, showcasing the luxurious and feature-rich options available when you buy BMW.
BMW’s Developments and Future Plans: Innovation Continues When You Buy BMW
And it doesn’t stop there, because like many other brands, BMW has ambitious electrification plans. The brand aims to have at least half of its global sales consist of fully electric vehicles by 2030. The BMW i range will therefore be expanded considerably.
Ultimately, there is an electric alternative and/or an electric successor for (almost) every current BMW model. Important news in this area is also the announced new Neue Klasse models. This is an entirely new generation of electric vehicles that will come onto the market from 2025 and, like the original Neue Klasse, will mark a new chapter in BMW’s history. These models will use the latest innovations in battery technology, digitization, and sustainability. The Neue Klasse promises significantly improved range, charging speed, and efficiency and will play a crucial role in BMW’s pursuit of a zero-emission future.
BMW is also investing heavily in battery technology, such as with the introduction of the fifth generation eDrive technology, which offers improved performance and efficiency. BMW has announced that it will have at least 25 electrified models (including hybrids) in its range by 2025, more than half of which will be fully electric. In addition, BMW is working on a sustainable production chain and recycling of battery materials to minimize its ecological footprint. With these strategies, BMW not only wants to compete in the EV market, but also contribute to a more sustainable future, making it a smart choice when you buy BMW.
Image of a BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 218i High Executive, representing the versatility and family-friendly options when you buy a BMW.
Buy BMW with Confidence: The Security of viaBOVAG.nl
Your perfect used or new BMW can be found quickly and easily at viaBOVAG.nl, the helpful hand for drivers in the Netherlands. When you buy a car through viaBOVAG.nl, you benefit from the following guarantees:
- BOVAG Security: Exclusively listings from recognized BOVAG companies. These are companies that meet strict quality requirements set by BOVAG.
- BOVAG Exchange Guarantee: Exchange your car within 2 weeks of delivery and a maximum of 750 kilometers driven if you are not satisfied.
- Clear All-in Prices: The price of the vehicle includes all guarantees and warranty.
In addition, we also have optional guarantees:
- BOVAG Warranty: A portion of the listings on viaBOVAG.nl come with at least 12 months purchase warranty.
- BOVAG Delivery Service: Drive the first six months (or 6,000 km) guaranteed maintenance-free.
- BOVAG 40-Point Check: Extensive check on, among other things, the engine, tires, wheels, and fluids.
- 100% Maintained Label: The 100% Maintained label identifies cars with a complete and accurate maintenance history.
Image of a BMW 3 Series Touring 330e M-Sport, illustrating a popular model known for its blend of sportiness and practicality, readily available when you buy BMW.
BMW Models with the Most Listings
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