So what if it looks shit,it has a BMW badge and nobody looks beyond that, as recent models have demonstrated.

 

It's a pretentious Polo and therefore B-segment. As well as looking like the 500's German spoiled-bastard cousin mid-tantrum.

 

It's still distinctive and much better looking than the outgoing model by some margin.

IMHO BMW styling is currently the best in the auto' world (X6 excepted); that the products have strong appeal to everyone from badge-lovers to 'enthusiasts' is quite an accomplishment.

More power to them.

 

http://sniffpetrol.com/2011/06/07/new1series/

 

Poor BMW! I mean, NONE of their cars have ever been actually pretty. Well, apart from the Michelotti 700 range of 1959 and a couple of Frua designs (probably intended for Borgward) which they inherited from Glas. Even the Glaserati is a little odd, having too narrow a rear track & short a wheelbase for its elegant body.

The -02 range was particularly hideous in itself. It's just since Mangle actually made them all even worse, even people with zero understanding of automotive design have noticed.

 

 

It can't be too long before sniffpetrol.com is in the OED under banal...

 

Cough...

https://www.s2ki.com/s2000/topic/874049-ryan-giggs/



I think it's already listed under "puerile".

 

I see BMW have been busy waving the ugly stick elsewhere too...

Even more ridiculously pointless than the X6, I give you the Mini with a 'Helmet Roof'.

 

Yep - that's how most of my company car drivers pick the car - the badge.