History
Founded in 1916, BMW is a German manufacturer noted for its line of performance-oriented automobiles, sport utility vehicles, crossovers, and motorcycles. In addition to its BMW-branded lineup of vehicles, the automaker also owns and produces the MINI brand of small cars, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is owned by BMW (many Rolls-Royce models contain 7 Series drivetrains and electrical content). BMW was originally a manufacturer of aircraft engines, but the end of World War I saw the company switch to motorcycle production and then eventually to automobiles. Promoting its enthusiast-tuned engineering, BMW has been involved in motor sports for decades, racing both cars and motorcycles.

The company's current lineup contains coupes, sedans and sport utility vehicles with up-to-7-passenger seating capacities. BMW sells vehicles that operate with gasoline, diesel, and hybrid power plants. Models include both rear- and all-wheel drive. Headquartered in Germany, BMW manufactures automobiles in Europe, North America, Africa, India, and Asia that are sold worldwide.

2011 BMW Models at a Glance:

• 1 Series-New transmission and upcoming performance model
• 3 Series-New single-turbo engine
• 5 Series-All-new redesign for 2011
• 5 Series GT-New all-wheel-drive option
• 7 Series-New Alpina B7, ActiveHybrid and 6-cylinder models
• X3-All-new entry for 2011
• X5-Facelift, refresh and new powertrains
• X6-New 8-speed automatic transmission
• Z4-New cosmetic package

For More Information:

• 2010 BMW Model Information
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