The last decade hasn’t been kind to sedans, as SUVs have taken over the U.S. market. That shift has led some automakers to drop cars to focus on more profitable SUV models, but BMW isn’t getting rid of cars anytime soon.
Speaking with Australian publication GoAuto, BMW designer Olver Heilmer revealed that sedans remain “the core of the brand.” He acknowledged the challenges, saying, “A couple of years ago, you might have thought the sedan is something that might disappear. But it’s quite stable, to be honest. Now it’s something where we are setting a statement. We have said BMW is standing for sedans. A small, sporty, elegant, mid-sized sedan is the core of the BMW brand.”
The automaker is also evaluating its approach to design after years of criticism over its large grilles. Heilmar said, “Different markets are reacting differently to proportion. We always try out different kinds of shapes. BMW is always testing if the customer’s taste is changing.” That could mean more reasonable front-end designs in the near future.
BMW’s catalog contains several car models, including a range of performance variants. It currently offers 2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 7-, and 8-series cars, and there’s also the M3, M5, and M8. That doesn’t count the multiple M-tuned variants, such as the M235, which feature elevated performance without the full-fat powertrains and price tags of regular M cars.
James Riswick
Electric vehicles are also part of the plan. The automaker’s new iX3 electric SUV will be followed by the i3, an electric version of the 3-Series sedan. That will give BMW four electric sedans, ranging from compact to full-size.
Additionally, the company plans to introduce 40 new models by the end of 2027. Using its Neue Klasse design language, BMW will introduce new sedans, though many of the new vehicles will become crossovers and SUVs.
Related: BMW Bets Big: 40 New Models Coming by 2028 With Bold, Unique Designs
