Nearly everyone interested in the automotive industry knows the name Chris Bangle. His design has provided the template for BMW’s lineup in the 2000s, with his style first debuting on the polarizing 7-Series sedan. Despite widespread criticism, BMW has gone on to become more successful than ever with the vehicles that he designed.
Thankfully, BMW seems to be moving away from that design philosophy though. The first example of the change would have to be the new 7-Series. It is much more attractive than the previous model, almost as if the company had continued on the same styling path it was heading pre-Bangle.
Some interesting comments were made by BMW Boss Jim O’Donnell when speaking to Automobile Magazine. He said “In my opinion, the next 6-Series is the best-looking car that BMW has done in years….it’s really stunning.” Sounds like someone isn’t too much of a fan of the Bangle BMWs. It’s not the typical comments you hear from an auto exec.
In any case, this piques my interest about next 6-Series. BMW deserves a much better looking flagship coupe than the current 6-Series. It’s going to be a while before we get to see the car though. Sources are saying the “super sleek” next-generation 6-Series won’t be launched until the Geneva Auto Show in March 2011.
October 8th, 2009 at 4:57 pm
I’m not holding my breath. The new design language is leaving me cold, and I really don’t mind the current 6, so I can’t imagine the new angular motifs and monster grille translating well to a big bloaty coupe.