The latest episode of the official BMW podcast explores the evolution of the company’s renowned naming scheme. You should feel (somewhat) less perplexed after reading this.
In the past, reading the model name of a BMW would reveal a lot about it. You were looking at a 3.0-liter gasoline engined 3-series if the badge on the boot said “330i.” The displacement didn’t always equal the last two digits, but generally it worked out that way. We could go on, but the majority of models adhered to the standard or at least didn’t wander too far from it. The E39 540i featured a 4.4-liter engine, the E82 125i utilized a 3.0 liter, and so on.
This approach was employed for many years, as stated in BMW’s most recent podcast, which makes use of portions of the business’ quite lengthy naming guide website page. Prior to World War Two, all automobiles had a 300 number to distinguish them from BMW bikes and airplanes (100s) (200s). Following the war, names were all over the place, but the ‘E12’ 5-series brought order to the chaos in 1972. BMW wanted a new system that would be simple for customers to comprehend regardless of the language they spoke.
The naming convention no longer functions this way, as some shockingly irate keyboard warrior types will loudly inform you. A human being! However, since displacement is no longer the primary method by which BMW delivers its customers greater power, the conventional approach is no longer viable.
The same size engine is currently used by numerous variations of each model, with the power outputs changed by various levels of turbocharging and occasionally by the addition of hybrid technology. We’re sure you’ll agree that having three separate products with the same name as 520d might be a little perplexing.
More recently, battery electric vehicles, which have no engines at all, have added to the complexity of the situation. Similar to what Audi started doing a few years ago, the last two digits of this and the majority of other BMW models now denote various output “tiers.” According to BMW, “45” refers to vehicles with an output of between 300 and 350kW. (402 – 469bhp). That is the total output with electrical aid, which explains why, despite the fact that the 540i and 545e hybrids both have the same internal combustion engine, the 545e hybrid has a higher figure.
The initial “e” did originally stand for the Greek letter “eta,” designating cars that were “optimised for torque and RPM,” according to BMW. These days, plug-in hybrid models employ it. Although “leccy M stuff” receives a simpler naming scheme, e.g. i4 M50, complete EVs like the i4 eDrive40 get a more modern moniker called “eDrive.”
Exclusively the Z and X model lines are designated for two-wheel drive, whereas the moniker xDrive is only applied to all-wheel drive derivatives that are available with and without the technology but are otherwise identical. As always, a badge with a I or “d” at the end denotes gasoline injection or diesel.
For example, a M Division’d 3-series is an M3, but on SUVs, the magic letter is coupled with just one number designating the “series” and appears after the model name. Although electric cars and SUVs only have the two digits, such as the X3 M40i, you get the standard three-digit number if it’s a half-fat M car, such as M550i.
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For its models, BMW used a complex alphabetic nomenclature:
Bayerische Motoren Werke, one of the “German Big 3” upscale automakers, is referred to as “BMW.” The English translation is Bavarian Motor Works. For its models, the BMW nomenclature has also adopted intricate Alpha-Numeric combinations. BMW models therefore employ a somewhat different combination than Audi.
For several of its models, BMW Nomenclature use numbers, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8, followed by alphabets, such as I “d,” & “x.” Other times, the BMW nomenclature includes an alphabet, such as “M,” “X,” or “Z,” followed by a model number. So, we made an effort to decode these letters and digits.
The odd numbers (3, 5, and 7) and even numbers (2, 4, 6, and 8) in the BMW Nomenclature are designated for 4-door sedans and 2-door coupes, respectively. The 1-Series is the smallest and least expensive BMW model offered, and is available as a Hatchback or Coupe/Convertible with a 3-door or 5-door option. The 8 series is the largest and most expensive BMW Luxury vehicle, though.
What does the I on BMW vehicles stand for?
The name Bayerische Motoren Werke is an acronym in German. Fortunately, “Bavarian Motor Works” roughly translates literally and still makes sense with the abbreviation.
What does the I in the BMW 330i stand for?
The Meaning of the Letters in BMW Models The fuel type is indicated by the letter at the end of each vehicle’s name. Gas models are identified by a I diesel vehicles by a “d,” and plug-in hybrids by a “e.” BMW’s electric I Models feature a I before the digits in the car name, which is confusing.
What does the I in BMW i8 stand for?
BMW I which can be found on page 3, stands for futuristic cars and mobility solutions, creative design, and a premium perception that is significantly influenced by sustainability. The BMW i3 provides a cutting-edge driving experience that combines exceptional agility and thrills with the allure of calm, nearly silent travel.
Why is it called a BMW 535i?
The majority of 28i models started wearing 30i badges, while 35i models switched to 40i. The new BMW B58 engine was introduced at the same time as these modifications. Simply put, the BMW 340i is the 335i’s updated model. Both vehicles are aimed at the same customer base and have similar performance out of the gate.
What does the I in the i3 BMW stand for?
“On gasoline-powered car models, I indicates for fuel-injected, and “d” represents for diesel. L “identifies Long Wheelbase (i.e. 740iL) “X” stands for all-wheel drive or x-drive (i.e. 330ix) Coup (or convertible) is denoted by “C,” and Touring International is denoted by “ti” (hatchback) Jun 27, 2016
What does BMW mean by 135i?
The mid-level sedan in the 5 Series lineup is the 535i. In comparison to the 528i, you’ll get greater power and features, and many experts think it’s a terrific deal given the 550i’s pricing. The BMW 535i is available in two variants, just like other cars in the 5 Series: Sedan 535i. Sedan 535i xDrive
What does a BMW 340i mean?
The word “Motorsport” refers to the BMW M Series, which was initially developed to support BMW’s racing program. Over time, the BMW M program started to add customized vehicle models to its roster, which are now accessible to the general public.
What does BMW’s M stand for?
What Makes the BMW 7 Series Good? Yes, the BMW 7 Series is a top-notch luxury car for 2021. The 7 Series impresses with its comfortable seats, roomy and quiet interior, and abundance of standard technological and safety equipment.
What distinguishes the Li and I BMWs?
BMW i-model cars. A complete and innovative idea for sustainable mobility is represented by BMW i. It stands for forward-thinking electric cars and mobility services, beautiful design, and a new view of premium that is highly influenced by sustainability.
Why did BMW stop producing the i3?
Generally speaking, the first number denotes the series; for instance, 128i denotes the 1 series, and 330i denotes the 3 series. Although it is not always perfect, the second and third numbers indicate the engine displacement; for example, 128i indicates a 2.8 liter engine.
Are BMW i8s quick?
As a result, the BMW i8 can be operated normally, economically, with gasoline, with batteries, or with both. The i8 is near-silent and incredibly smooth when running on electricity, and it has front-wheel drive.
The BMW i3 is quick.
The company cited consumer demand for larger-than-the-i3 electric automobiles as justification for the withdrawal. Another reason is that the business wants to move away from the i3’s distinctive appearance and produce electric vehicles with more traditional styling.
What does 328i represent?
3 responses. They are nearly identical cars, with the Li being around 5″ longer and 100 pounds heavier. There are a few more options available to the Li, but not many more. If you’re going to spend $80,000 base on the I you might as well get the Li for 4,000 extra.
Are the BMW 7 Series any good?
With a reliability rating of 2.0 out of 5, the BMW 750Li is ranked 26th out of 30 luxury full-size cars. Its bad ownership costs result from the $1,027 average yearly repair cost.
Is the BMW 750Li a decent vehicle?
The main differences between the 750i xDrive and the 740i xDrive’s basic features are the latter’s distinctive 19-inch wheels and standard Nappa leather inside. The 750i makes it possible to purchase further modifications like the $5,750 Rear Executive Lounge Seating Package.
Can the BMW i8 just operate on gas?
Battery life for 2021 BMW i3s ranges from three to five years, although it might vary depending on factors including driving style, weather, battery type, and more. Keep your car indoors, away from sharp changes in temperature or climate, to extend the life of your i3 battery.
The lifespan of the BMW i3 battery
What Is the BMW i3 EV’s Speed? BMW states that the i3 has a top speed of 93 mph and a zero to 60 mph time of 7.2 seconds. Models with the range extender need about eight seconds, whereas the i3s completes the run in 6.8 seconds.
What distinguishes a 740Li from a 750Li?
The 6-cylinder versions are represented by the 40i series. The sDrive is rear-wheel drive, whereas the xDrive is all-wheel drive, and this is the key distinction. Jan 26, 2021