First time I've enjoyed an article about BMW.
http://www.motortrend.com/features/editorial/112_0808_asphalt_jungle/index.html

:p

Yeah, I read that and about fell out! It's about time that someone at a car magazine broke the BMW fanboy mold. Don't get me wrong, I think BMW's (most of them) are great looking cars. But I've had to drive my father in-law’s X5 and all I can say is intuitive must have a different meaning in Germany.

good post, someone needs to post that over on the German forums

My boss has a 5-series, it has the worst cupholders.

My boss has a 5-series, it has the worst cupholders.That is because german engineers don't understand the need to drink in a car, think about it, they mainly drink beer and wine in Europe, and coffee is for enjoying after dinner, their norms are the opposite of ours.:slap:

So are some of their design concepts...

I mostly agree with the writer. I looked at a 3 series instead of my G8. Once I realized that the rear seat was there for show (no legroom), I lost interest really quick. I wanted a 4 door, not a 2 door (I'm talking about the uselessness of the rear doors). Other then that, the BMW was a nice car.

As a former BMW 3 series owner, I can relate to some of the complaints in the MT write up.
I was fortunate enough to have a "pre iDrive" BMW, but had the misfortune of having an iDrive equipped loaner on several occasions.
Though I only had a short time in this computer on wheels, my initial impression mirrors those I have heard. iDrive is a hopelessly complicated system that takes the simplest tasks and makes them infuriatingly complicated.
As far as my particular experience, my 3 was a very nice car. I had the sportwagon, and though I benefitted from the huge "trunk" the back seat was only worthy for children.
The car drove beautifully and was very reliable. Hell, even my original battery lasted nearly 7 years!
Out of warranty, it really started to rack up the $$$$. Here are some of the costs I had paid for repairs.

A/C compressor = $1250
Power steering pump = $750
Rear brakes (pads, rotors and sensors) = $450

Other than my 5 speed AT taking a dump at 30k miles, and being replaced under warranty, the car held up well.

From a driving perspective, my G8 GT is every bit as good.

Now, if only Pontiac could provide a dealership experience like BMW, then they would have cars flying out the door!

mac

Now, if only Pontiac could provide a dealership experience like BMW, then they would have cars flying out the door!

mac

You know why Mercedes and BMW have a great dealership experience? Lots and lots of practice.

chit its against the law to even smoke while you'er driving over there

I agree, Mercedes and BMW dealers try to make you feel great about your car being broke down all the time.