Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW all employ an alphanumeric naming scheme. BMW vehicles are available in numbered series from 1 to 8. A bigger automobile equates to larger odd-numbered series. Even-numbered series typically feature variations on the preceding series’ body design. (Note that the names of the series don’t use hyphens like Mercedes-Benz classes: 3 Series versus E-Class.) SUVs are X models. Roadsters are Z models. The prefixes sDrive (two-wheel drive) and xDrive (all-wheel drive) can also be added to models; however, not all RWD BMWs are identified with a sDrive badge. Cars beginning with a lowercase I are electric or hybrid models.
The size of the engine is indicated by the second set of numerals in a model name. Previously, they monitored engine displacement. A larger number today just denotes a larger engine. The last letter (for instance, 230i) designates the vehicle’s engine type. For gasoline fuel injection, most automobiles terminate with i. There are also “e” electrified hybrids and “d” diesel vehicles in some markets.
There are “M Cars” that are created by BMW’s M performance division, such as the M5. These stand apart from vehicles such as the M550i xDrive, which frequently have more power and sportier tuning and styling than the basic variants. Alpina is another tuner that creates high-performance BMWs that are made and offered by BMW. They start with the letter B. (i.e. XB7).
If you put it all together, “X6 xDrive50i” succinctly describes the car in BMW lingo, yet telling someone you just bought it can be a mouthful.
2 Series BMW
The 2 Series is among BMW’s most diverse models. It is available in the Coupe, Gran Coupe, and Active Tourer body types.
The Coupe is offered with 220i, 230i, and 220d petrol and diesel engines, following the same specification pattern as the 1 Series. Depending on the specification, 18″ or 19″ alloy wheels are an option, while standard features such a Sat Nav, keyless entry, and rear park assist.
With the addition of entry-level Sport, M Sport, and M Models, the Gran Coupe broadens the selection. There are two diesel and two petrol engines that can be tuned to 218 and 220. There are seven colors, both metallic and non-metallic, as well as 18″ and 19″ alloy options.
Sport, Luxury, and M Sport variants are offered in the Active Tourer, which is primarily geared toward families. A 218d diesel engine and two gasoline engines (220i and 223i) are both offered. It features seven seats for practicality, a high level of standard equipment, and a fantastic driving experience for an MPV.
the X Series and Z Series
These names include “X5 3.0d” and “Z3 1.8i,” as examples. For higher performance vehicles, the engine size was occasionally followed by a “s.” (for example, “Z4 3.0si” and “X5 4.8is”).
A new model naming scheme has been in use since 2009. The following are the model names:
- Next, multiply the nominal engine size in liters by 10 (for example, “25” for a 2.5 liter engine), albeit all of the anomalies mentioned before also apply in this situation.
- Finally, I for gasoline-powered engines or “d” for diesel-powered engines.
The names “X3 xDrive28d” and “Z4 sDrive30i” are two examples of this naming pattern. For versions with superior performance, a “s” may occasionally be appended (for example, “Z4 sDrive 35is”).
X Series and Z Series BMW M cars normally just carry the model designation “M” (e.g. X6 M, Z4 M). The naming practice for non-M models is followed by the letter “M” after the series for “M Performance” models (e.g. X6 M50d).