Special Offers
23rd January 2025 
36 min read 
When you have slogans like “Sheer Driving Pleasure” and “The Ultimate Driving Machine”, your product best be up to scratch.
Luckily for BMW, that’s never been an issue. The Munich-based carmaker has long enjoyed a reputation for producing some of the very best premium performance vehicles on the planet. Indeed, the famous blue and white badge only adorns cars for those who prioritise the driving experience above all else.
If you’re in the rather fortunate position of thinking about getting one, a good headache awaits. Today’s BMW catalogue has expanded heavily beyond the brand’s bread and butter of nimble coupes and executive saloons, having firmly established itself in the luxury SUV, electric and family markets, leaving you with a wealth of choice across a highly diverse range.
This guide will give you a full run-through of BMW and its model lineup, including:
- An overview of the brand.
- Why you might want to get a BMW ahead of the other premium names in the market.
- BMW’s naming system for its vehicles.
- An overview of each model and the variants available.
If you know what you want already, don’t hesitate in heading over to our massive range of BMW lease deals.
BMW brand overview
BMW, or Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German performance and luxury manufacturer of cars and motorcycles. It sits alongside Audi and Mercedes-Benz as one of the ‘big three’ German car companies, with its niche among that trifecta heavily rooted in performance. The wider BMW Group includes three other major marques: Rolls Royce, BMW Motorrad (the brand’s motorcycle division) and MINI, which relaunched at the turn of the millennium under BMW’s stewardship with massive success.
BMW’s roots lie in producing some of the very best coupes and saloons on the market – something it still does to this day. But being an innovation-led company means the brand has pushed the boat out in recent years to a wide range of luxury SUVs and electrified revamps of its core lineup as it looks to futureproof its catalogue. That diversified range still holds true to BMW’s core principle of making performance-minded models, though, and the brand’s reputation as one of the world’s biggest and best manufacturers of premium autos is extremely well earned.
A brief history of BMW
The origins of BMW date back to 1913 when Karl Rapp set up Rapp Motorenwerke, which changed its name to Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) GmbH in 1917 before merging with aircraft producer Bayerische Flugzeug-Werke (BFW) AG in 1922. The iconic blue and white roundel logo, which carries the colours of the Bavarian flag, first started appearing on company products in 1917.
Up until the Second World War, aircraft engines, motorbikes and automobiles were BMW’s primary output, with the manufacturer producing its first motorcycle in 1923 and car – the BMW 3/15 – in 1928. While WW2 took BMW’s focus away from road-going vehicles and back to aircraft engine production, it was the return to motorcycles and automobile manufacturing in the late forties and fifties that pulled them out of their post-war financial trouble.
The 1960s were something of a turning point for the company – namely the introduction of the Neue Klasse (New Class) range of compact sedans, which launched BMW as a prestige manufacturer. By the 1970s, the brand had built the first models from the now iconic ‘Series’ lineup, with the first M Sport performance models following in the next decade.
Now firmly established as a global leader in the premium and performance markets, BMW expanded to acquire Mini in 1994 (relaunched as MINI in 2001) and Rolls Royce in 1998, setting the foundations for the colossal BMW Group we know today.
Why go for a BMW?
Put simply, BMW makes cars for “car people”. If driving to you is more than a practical method of getting from A to B and you want to enjoy the ride along the way, BMW cars provide a driving experience that’s largely unparalleled across the market.
Every car in the BMW lineup, whether it’s the entry-level 1 Series or the flagship iX EV, offers outstanding driving dynamics, exceptional quality, luxury throughout and heaps of badge appeal. The BMW roundel is essentially a guarantee of performance and prestige regardless of where you’re looking in the catalogue, which is why BMW regularly finishes at or near the top of “best manufacturer” rankings in both personal and fleet consumer reports.
How BMW names its cars
BMW follows an alphanumeric naming system that’s not quite as rigid as the likes of Audi and Mercedes but still fairly simple to grasp. The major model groups of the brand are labelled as:
BMW ‘Series’ models
BMW’s core lineup and the longstanding backbone of the brand’s offering. A mix of hatchbacks, coupes and saloons, of which some lines have been in production since the 1970s. It starts with BMW’s entry-level option, the compact 1 Series, and ends with the flagship Grand Tourer, the 8 Series.
BMW ‘X’ models
BMW’s SUV and crossover family that’s been a rampant success since the introduction of the X5 in 1999. The range has expanded considerably in the last 25 years to the point where BMW is now a dominant name in the premium SUV segment, and sales of ‘X’ models have surpassed those of the foundational ‘Series’ range.
BMW ‘i’ models
The brand’s electric and plug-in hybrid models, which started with the launch of the dinky i3 in 2013. The last decade and a bit has seen a massive push for electrification by BMW, with many models in the core ‘X’ and ‘Series’ lineups now offering electrified alternatives.
BMW ‘M’ models
Performance variants of the standard lineup, with the ‘M’ standing for Motorsport. M performance upgrades come in the form of full M models or M Sport package additions to the core range.
The BMW model range
BMW 1 Series
Premium hatchback
What is it?
BMW’s entry-level option, but hardly ‘entry-level’ in its offering. One of the leading premium hatchback options in the market alongside the Audi A3 and Mercedes A-Class.
Why might you want one?
- Incredibly refined five-door hatchback with 20-plus years of experience under its belt, just beginning its fourth generation.
- Offers the most engaging drive in the premium hatch segment, providing an introduction to BMW’s world-class driving dynamics.
- First-class cabin with good ergonomics and quality fittings with high levels of tech as standard.
- Most affordable entry point to the BMW family.
Body types
The 1 Series is only available in its ‘executive subcompact’ build, which is more simply put as a hatchback.
Trims
The new 1 Series (brand new for the back end of 2024) has three configurations that are largely familiar with the wider BMW range: Sport, M Sport and the M135.
Standard equipment is good on the base Sport, with 17” alloys, LED headlights, gloss black exterior trim, ambient lighting and heated front seats provided alongside the new dual-screen layout and revamped dash that came with the 2024 overhaul. M Sport adds sportier detailing inside and out, while the M135’s upgrades are about the engine rather than additional trim bits.
Engines
The Sport and M Sport both run off BMW’s 120 engine – a 168bhp, 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder supported by mild hybrid technology. That’s good for a 7.8-second 0-62mph burst and a top speed of 140mph.
Go for the top-of-the-line M135 xDrive, and you’ll step up to a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 294bhp, a 6.2-second sprint to 62mph and a top speed of 155mph.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 1 Series lease deals.
BMW 2 Series
Premium coupe with M variant
What is it?
BMW’s smallest coupe. A traditional two-door with rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options.
Why might you want one?
- Great to drive – the two-door/rear-wheel drive combo is one for BMW purists.
- Superb engine range, headlined by a roaring 3.0-litre six-cylinder xDrive option.
- Top build quality throughout, with a great interior.
- The entry-point to BMW’s illustrious coupe range.
Body types
While the 2 Series is traditionally a two-door coupe, you can also get a four-door version in the form of the 2 Series Gran Coupe. This is built on a different platform to the standard coupe and comes in front-wheel or all-wheel drive.
An even bigger step away from the traditional coupe comes via the 2 Series Active Tourer – a comfort- and practicality-minded multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).
If you’re looking in the used market, you’ll be able to find 2 Series convertible models, too.
Trims
The latest generation of the 2 Series is only available in what has proved to be its most popular trim over the years, M Sport. Highlights include a 14.9” touchscreen infotainment system (with a built-in satnav), a 12.3” digital instrument cluster, adaptive LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and heated front sport seats with leather and Alcantara upholstery.
Engines
There are three options to choose from on the standard 2 Series. Two 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrols in the 220i and 230i, and a monstrous 3.0-litre six-cylinder tagged the M240i xDrive (xDrive is BMW’s moniker for its all-wheel-drive models).
The 242bhp 230i is worth the step up from the 181bhp 220i. It’s one second quicker to 62mph at 6.5 seconds and, like the 220i, tops out at just shy of 150mph.
The M240i is the pick of the bunch and a considerable step up in performance, generating 369bhp and reaching 62mph in 4.3 seconds. The six-cylinder engine adds quite the soundtrack to the experience, too.
Variants
If the M240i doesn’t quite cut it, the 2 Series is the first model in the BMW family to offer an ‘M’ variant – the M2. 454bhp sent exclusively through the rear wheels offers authentic BMW thrills, pipping the all-wheel M240i xDrive to 62mph by 0.2 seconds (if you go for the automatic) but with the added performance and handling benefits of a RWD drivetrain.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 2 Series lease deals and BMW M2 lease deals.
BMW 3 Series
Premium executive saloon with M variant
What is it?
BMW’s best-selling car and the backbone of the brand’s identity. An iconic compact executive saloon that’s been in production for nearly 50 years.
Why might you want one?
- The longstanding best-in-class driving option, offering the ‘most refined and responsive driving experience yet’ – as per BMW.
- Great engine range.
- More tech than ever, with excellent infotainment.
- Bags of kerbside appeal as BMW’s most recognisable and best-loved model.
Body types
Alongside the iconic saloon is the highly practical 3 Series Touring estate. The latter offers the same great performance and handling dynamics but with the added practicality of a 500-litre boot.
Trims
Three to choose from: Sport, M Sport and the M340i. The 3 Series is better equipped than ever, with the Sport trim getting you 18” alloys, LED headlights, auto cruise control, three-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and BMW’s impressive infotainment system as standard.
M Sport adds more aggressive styling touches, leather seats, a sport steering wheel and upgrades the infotainment system with a 12.3” screen, while the M340i couples the big step up in performance with 19” alloys, Adaptive M suspension, M Sport brakes and M Sport differential.
Engines
BMW has trimmed down the engine range for the most recent 3 Series model, offering the 182bhp 320i petrol and the 288bhp 330e plug-in hybrid (which replaces the recently discontinued 320d diesel) between the base models. The RWD 320i is plenty powerful, reaching 62mph in 7.4 seconds and topping out at 146mph. The 330e gets to 62mph in 5.8 seconds with a top speed of 143mph, all while offering very decent real-world economy – about 40-45mpg.
The M340i is a huge step in performance, boasting a 369bhp straight-six, 3.0-litre turbo powertrain that’s good for a 4.4-second 0-62mph sprint and a limited 155mph max.
Variants
The BMW M3 Competition is probably the best sports saloon on sale today. The new and improved 523bhp straight-six engine produces a blistering 3.5-second run to 62mph with a limited 155mph top speed, which can be opened up to 180mph if you buy the M Driver’s Pack.
If practicality remains on your mind among the track-worthy performance, the M3 Touring estate is waiting in the wings with a 480-litre boot and space for up to five.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 3 Series lease deals and BMW M3 lease deals.
BMW 4 Series
Premium midsize executive coupe with M and i variants
What is it?
A dressed-down, two-door coupe version of the 3 Series. In fact, these models used to be part of the 3 Series lineup (the two-door coupe and convertible), but BMW made them into a separate series in 2013.
Why might you want one?
- Awesome engine range taken from the equivalent 3 Series lineup.
- Super fun to drive thanks to the powertrains and precise handling.
- Sleeker and sportier take on the 3 Series.
- All the refinement and interior quality you’d expect from the badge.
Body types
The core builds of the 4 Series are the two-door coupe and convertible, but then you can also get a four-door 4 Series in the form of the Gran Coupe. As for how the Gran Coupe 4 Series differs from the also four-door 3 Series, the former boasts a more aggressive profile, featuring a fastback sloping roofline and lower ride height, while the 3 Series is a more traditional executive saloon with a touch more room in the boot and for passengers.
Trims
M Sport is currently the sole trim available, although you can upgrade to the M Sport Pro Edition for things like bigger alloys, adaptive M suspension and an M Sport differential.
Standard M Sport gets 18” alloys, LED headlights, a leather interior, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, and M Sport suspension.
Engines
An eight-speed automatic gearbox pairs up seamlessly with all the powertrains in the 4 Series lineup. The base 181bhp 420i 2.0-litre petrol engine gets to 62mph in a spritely 7.5 seconds and tops out at 146mph. You may well see a 254bhp 430i option floating around in the used market that improves the 62mph sprint to 5.8 seconds.
Then there’s the range-topping 369bhp M440i that’s not far off the M4 Competition in terms of performance, reaching 62mph in 4.5 seconds.
Variants
There’s a second-generation M4 Competition model that got a facelift in late 2024. As with the M3 Competition, the M4’s 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six engine got a power boost to 523bhp and offers truly incredible performance. You’ll get to 62mph in 3.5 seconds and max out at a limited 155mph.
The 4 Series is also the first of the Series models to have an all-electric variant in the form of the i4. It’s an electrified 4 Series Gran Coupe but with some fundamental changes to the floor and suspension to accommodate the electric powertrain. You’ll get a fancy new dash and the option of two battery packs that are good for 299 and 359 miles, respectively, off a single charge.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 4 Series lease deals, BMW M4 lease deals and BMW i4 lease deals.
BMW 5 Series
Luxury executive saloon with M and i variants
What is it?
A big luxury saloon (it’s over five metres long), now in its recently released eight generation. Similar options in the market include the Audi A6 and Mercedes E-Class.
Why might you want one?
- Ride and handling come in at the top-notch standards you’d expect from a BMW.
- Ultra refined – and the redesign for the latest generation is a little less ‘out there’ than some of the other new BMW models.
- Interior design and space make it a supremely comfortable motorway cruiser.
- Great company car option.
Body types
You can go for the saloon build for a sleeker profile or up the 5 Series’ already decent practicality credentials by going for the Touring estate, which offers a bigger boot.
Trims
Trim levels for the latest generation model have been narrowed to M Sport and M Sport Pro. Both get BMW’s lauded Curved Glass display which is the headline feature of an impressive 14.9” infotainment system and 12.3” instrument display.
M Sport gets 19” alloys, automatic aircon and heated leather seats, while M Sport Pro adds bigger alloys and more aggressive styling, plus a bunch of custom options like a Harman/Kardon sound system.
Engines
The 520i kicks off the engine range. It’s a 205bhp petrol engine that’ll do 62mph in 7.5 seconds and reach 143mph. Then you have the plug-in hybrid 530e that knocks the 0-62mph time down by 1.2 seconds and offers a combined figure of just over 470mpg and an electric-only range of around 63 miles.
At the top of the tree is the 550e xDrive; another plug-in hybrid with plenty more oomph (0-62mph in 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 155mph) that comes at the expense of about a quarter of the combined mpg number on the 530e.
Variants
The electrification of the latest-gen 5 Series has passed over to the new BMW M5, too, which is now a plug-in hybrid with up to 42 miles of electric-only charge. More relevant are the power numbers, with the M5 combining its electric motor and 4.4-litre V8 for 727bhp. With launch control, it’ll reach 62mph in 3.5 seconds and max out at either 155mph or 189mph (the latter if you get the extra M Driver’s Package).
Not too far away from the rest of the new 5 Series range is the all-electric i5. It’s plenty powerful, offering nearly 600bhp and a sub-four-second 0-62mph time, and will give you around 300 miles of real-world range on a single charge.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 5 Series lease deals, BMW M5 lease deals and BMW i5 lease deals.
BMW 6 Series
Luxury grand tourer
What is it?
A massive luxury GT that’s built for hyper-comfortable, long-distance journeys. BMW stopped making it in 2023, but it’s still worth a mention.
Why might you want one?
- Great engines, including a punchy yet economical diesel.
- Unrivalled long-distance cruising ability.
- Gigantic, plush interior with plenty of technology to boot.
- Traditional BMW design if you’re looking away from the new brand aesthetic.
Body types
The most recent 6 Series ended up exclusively in its Gran Turismo build, coupling a sleek profile with an elevated ride height and massive 600-litre boot.
Trims
You’ll be able to find two trim options for the GT: SE and M Sport. M Sport is the choice if you want the complete GT experience, with 19” alloys, upgraded suspension and various M Sport styling touches and upgrades all thrown in.
Engines
Two petrols and one diesel were available at launch, with several alternative options added during the final generation. By most accounts, the pick of the bunch is the 640d diesel thanks to its economy that comes at no expense to performance versus its petrol equivalents.
Variants
One of the alternative engines mentioned above is a monstrous 4.4-litre V8 labelled the 650i. If that’s still not quite cutting it, the 552bhp BMW M6 is always out there.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 6 Series lease deals.
BMW 7 Series
Flagship luxury saloon with i variant
What is it?
The top of BMW’s illustrious executive saloon tree – and one of the best luxury vehicles on the market.
Why might you want one?
- Bigger than ever, with one of the best interiors you’ll find in any vehicle.
- Ride quality, performance and handling all up to usual BMW standards.
- First-class luxury and refinement inside and out.
- You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better saloon option out there.
Body types
The 7 Series is exclusively available in its flagship luxury saloon build.
Trims
Two: Excellence and the familiar M Sport. Excellence is more focused on comfort and luxury, with touches like Merino leather upholstery and four-zone climate control, while M Sport gets bigger alloys (20”) and M styling elements. There’s also the M Sport Pro pack, which offers the option to make the otherwise standout front grille a sleek monochrome.
Entertainment options in the 7 Series border on the absurd, none more so than the optional BMW Theatre screen – a 31.3” 8K touchscreen that descends from the roofline to offer top-tier cinematics for the rear seats. That’s supported by two premium sound system options from UK firm Bowers & Wilkins.
Engines
You have two petrol plug-in hybrids to choose from. The ‘entry-level’ 489bhp 750e offers nearly 50 miles of electric-only range and powers the 7 Series to 62mph in just 4.8 seconds. Upgrade to the 571bhp M760e and you’ll get similar range numbers while knocking 0.5 seconds off the 0-62mph – should you feel that’s required.
Variants
The all-electric i7 is one of BMW’s leading lights for the coming years. It comes with three powertrain options, topped by the 650bhp M70 xDrive that accelerates about as quickly as a Lamborghini Murcielago (62mph in 3.7 seconds) – just with a cinematic theatre in the back.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 7 Series lease deals.
BMW 8 Series
Luxury grand tourer coupe with M variant
What is it?
While numerically at the top of the BMW Series roster, the 8 Series is a coupe reskin of the 6 Series GT, coming in two two-door bodies plus a four-door, too. A mix of the luxury GT experience with a more engaging drive.
Why might you want one?
- More performance-oriented option at the top of the BMW stable, but still capable of comfortable long-distance cruising.
- Maintains luxury and refinement alongside the driving characteristics.
- Loads of tech.
- Powerful engine options.
Body types
You’ve got the two-door coupe, two-door convertible and four-door Gran Coupe. The two-door coupe is the classic option for the 8 Series, but if you’re looking for more space, practicality and luxury, the Gran Coupe may be better.
Trims
The sole trim is the ever-familiar M Sport. 20” alloys, M aerodynamic styling, Merino leather furnishings and a 12.3” infotainment system are among the highlights.
BMW’s options list might include the M850i with the trims, but that’s more about the whopping V8 engine under the bonnet. More on that below.
Engines
The 840i petrol kicks things off with 328bhp and xDrive AWD. It’s a 3.0-litre straight-six engine, reaching 62mph in 5.2 seconds in the coupe. If you can find the now discontinued 840d diesel, you can knock that time down to 4.8 seconds.
The aforementioned M850i is in a different, much scarier ballpark with its 4.4-litre 528bhp V8. That takes the 62mph burst under four seconds.
Variants
As ever, the M8 Competition takes things up another notch, offering 616bhp and a 3.2-second 0-62mph time.
There’s an M8 Competition Convertible, too. Having the roof down pushes the 62mph sprint time up by a tenth of a second.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW 8 Series lease deals and BMW M8 lease deals.
BMW X1
Premium crossover SUV with i variant
What is it?
BMW’s smallest SUV and the entry point into the brand’s now mega-successful SUV catalogue.
Why might you want one?
- Not actually that small. Similar dimensions to the old X3, making it more practical than previous generations.
- Great to drive, with a strong engine range.
- Top build quality throughout.
- Desirable vehicle that holds its value better than most.
Body types
The X1 is available solely in its compact SUV build. Space is good for a small SUV, with a 540-litre boot and elevated driving position.
Trims
The three core trims are Sport, xLine and M Sport. Sport trim starts with 17” alloys and an automatic tailgate alongside an infotainment system that features a 10.7” touchscreen and 10.2” instrument cluster. xLine adds some more rugged touches like two-tone 18” alloys, aluminium roof rails and sport seats. M Sport gets you a sportier body kit, 19” alloys and a bunch of upgrades inside.
Engines
Plenty to choose from with the X1. Six, in fact – two petrols, two diesels and two plug-in hybrids. The 321bhp xDrive30e is the top-of-the-range PHEV and a mighty quick one, taking the X1 to 62mph in 5.6 seconds while offering over 300mpg (combined) and an electric-only range of around 50 miles.
There’s also a halfway house M model in the X1 M35i, which utilises the same power unit as on the 1 Series M135i hot hatch for a top speed of 155mph and a 5.4-second 0-62mph burst.
Variants
If you want to step up from the PHEVs to all-electric, you have the iX1 EV. It’s got two powertrain options, with the more powerful xDrive30e good for the same acceleration numbers as its hybrid equivalent and capable of around 250 miles on a single charge.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW X1 lease deals and BMW iX1 lease deals.
BMW X2
Premium coupe SUV with i variant
What is it?
A coupe crossover with a focus on the style end of things. The second-gen X2 has a fastback build and a lower driving position than you might expect to find in your typical crossover SUV.
Why might you want one?
- Sharp styling that’s relatively unique for an SUV only adds to the badge appeal.
- Maintains the pragmatic elements alongside the style: big boot keeps things practical.
- Build quality is typically on point.
- Great interior with great technology and connectivity features.
Body types
The sole build is the standout compact crossover-meets-coupe frame. Despite the aesthetic-minded shell, there’s still space for five and a 470-litre boot to handle the sensible side of things.
Trims
These days, there’s really only one trim in the mix for the X2 (BMW recently dropped the Sport and xLine configurations) – the familiar M Sport. 19” alloys, an M aerodynamic body kit, LED headlights and heated front sports seats are just some of the highlights you’ll get alongside 6.5” infotainment system and satnav.
There is the M35i also is, which like others carrying the alphanumeric M tags, more engine- than trim-focused, but you do get bigger alloys, better brakes and a limited slip differential alongside some M Performance styling tweaks.
Engines
Head over to BMW’s configurator, and there’s only one engine to talk about right now, the 20i petrol, which is good for around 45mpg and an 8.3-second 0-62mph time. With that said, you’ll find a smorgasbord of petrol, diesel and PHEV alternatives out on the market from the X2’s very recent back catalogue.
The M35i mentioned above is the hot option. This, once again, is the engine from the 1 Series, but there’s a little more weight to consider with the X2. Still, it’s no slouch – the AWD version goes to 62mph in under five seconds.
Variants
The all-electric iX2, which utilises the same powertrains as the X1 with pretty similar numbers. Like its smaller SUV sibling, it has the range-topping xDrive30e, which offers a range of approximately 260 miles.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW X2 lease deals and BMW iX2 lease deals.
BMW X3
Premium mid-size SUV
What is it?
3 is the magic number for BMW. While the 3 Series is BMW’s most iconic vehicle on the current roster, arguably the most important is the X3. It’s BMW’s top-selling model – a posh mid-size SUV that has firmly entrenched itself as one of the best in a very competitive segment.
Why might you want one?
- The flagship of the more affordable end of the BMW SUV range. A highly refined and hyper-desirable option in a segment full of good ones.
- Great driving dynamics, as per BMW’s usual standard.
- Styling is a sweet spot between the brand’s more traditional look of old and the striking overhaul among the most recent models.
- Superb interior with loads of tech.
Body types
Just the one: the five-door SUV. You get 550 litres of boot space and a commanding view of the road thanks to an elevated ride height. The fourth-generation exterior build is one of the more conventionally attractive ones in the catalogue.
Trims
You have the base xLine, mid-level M Sport and the performance-minded M50.
xLine is generously equipped with an electric tailgate, keyless entry, electrically adjustable seats and BMW’s impressive Live Cockpit Plus infotainment system. M Sport largely offers aesthetic upgrades, including an M body kit, high-gloss exterior touches and upholstery upgrades inside.
More on the M50 below.
Engines
The X3’s core engine list currently offers one petrol, diesel and PHEV option apiece. Both combustion engines are supported by mild hybrid tech and offer decent frugality at 40-50mpg. The PHEV xDrive30e is the pick of the bunch with a combined mpg figure of over 300 miles, an all-electric range of 54 miles and a notable uptick in performance (a 0-62mph sprint of 6.2 seconds).
The 392bhp M50 is a separate entity produced by BMW’s M Performance division. It uses the engine found in the Z4 roadster and will get to 62mph in 4.6 seconds, topping out at a limited 155mph.
Variants
The electric and hot versions of the X3 are in transition right now. There’s the all-electric iX3, which is set to be replaced by the Neue Klasse (New Class) SUV this year. And we can also expect a full M Competition variant of the X3 to top the M50 at some point soon.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW X3 lease deals and BMW iX3 lease deals.
BMW X4
Premium mid-size coupe SUV with M variant
What is it?
The X3 but coupe-ified. A little more style at the expense of a little substance versus its numerical predecessor.
Why might you want one?
- Sleeker build than the X3. Like the X2 is to the X1, the X4 aims to offer a more aesthetically pleasing take on BMW’s mid-size SUV – though opinions may differ.
- Great engine options.
- Doesn’t struggle for room despite the slimline build. And plenty of tech inside.
- Great to drive, as per usual.
Body types
The X4 is the X4, available exclusively in its coupe crossover silhouette. There’s still plenty of space, though – the boot is only 25 litres smaller than on the X3, and it’ll happily house five people.
Trims
Like several other models in the BMW lineup, the current trim lineup has been reduced down to the ever-present M Sport and the performance-upgraded M40i. M Sport gets a 10.3” infotainment system, 19” alloys, LED headlights, leather sports seats and front and rear parking sensors with a reversing camera.
The M40i’s performance uplifts include a bespoke suspension setup and uprated brakes – plus 20” alloys.
Engines
Perhaps because the X4 is a little older in the tooth than other BMWs (the current generation model was released back in 2018), engine choices for the X4 are rather unusually narrowed down to just diesel powertrains for the core model. The xDrive20d is frugal for a mid-size SUV, offering economy close to 50mpg.
Step up the petrol-powered M40i, and you’ll get a sub-five-second 0-62mph time powered by a 355bhp twin-turbo six-cylinder power unit. There’s an M40d diesel floating around in the used market, too.
Variants
The X4 M Competition is the ultra-high-performance version that takes a sizeable step up even from the M40i at 503bhp and 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds on the AWD version.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW X4 lease deals and BMW X4 M lease deals.
BMW X5
Luxury family SUV with M variant
What is it?
The car that launched BMW’s journey into the SUV market in 1999 and set a template for SUVs to be premium on-road vehicles. A large SUV with an emphasis on luxury and performance for up to seven people.
Why might you want one?
- Mega spacious and luxuriously comfortable, with seating for up to seven (if you choose the optional third row of seats).
- Class-leading handling and drive (off-road, too), outperforming its nearest rivals, the Audi Q7 and Mercedes GLE, handily.
- Powerful yet frugal engine choices.
- Striking looks with major on-road presence.
Body types
Just the one: a massive five-door SUV with the option of a third row of seating to accommodate up to seven passengers. A 650-litre boot offers all the room you need in the back.
Trims
Two core trims: xLine and M Sport, plus the performance upgraded M60i.
Entry-level xLine comes with BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, 19” alloys, auto LED headlights and wipers, climate control, and leather upholstery. M Sport gets a more aggressive body kit, 20” alloys and a number of sporty trim upgrades like M Sport brake callipers and the M aerodynamics pack.
Engines
The X5 is one of the few BMWs still to offer diesel engines, the xDrive30d and xDrive40d, in the new lineup. Both use a 3.0-litre straight six, with the difference being the xDrive30d using a single turbocharger while the xDrive40d gets a twin-turbo. Both are quick, getting to 62mph in 6.1 seconds and 5.5 seconds, respectively.
The PHEV xDrive50e isn’t far off the M60i in terms of performance, reaching 62mph in 4.8 seconds all while boasting an electric-only range of 65 miles and a combined 313.9mpg. The M60i is much less economical thanks to the 4.4-litre V8 it uses, but that does give you 523bhp and a 4.3-second launch to 62mph in a large family SUV.
Variants
If you need even more from your family SUV, the X5 M Competition takes the same V8 as the M60i and tweaks it to 617bhp and a 0-62mph time of under four seconds.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW X5 lease deals and BMW X5 M lease deals.
BMW X6
Luxury coupe SUV with M variant
What is it?
The coupe version of the X5 that was more or less the first coupe SUV when it was first released in 2007. Removes a bit of practicality in exchange for sleeker coupe styling and a touch more performance.
Why might you want one?
- Offers the coupe SUV build and looks, but with most of the size of the massive X5.
- Similarly great engine range to the X5.
- Exceptional performance and drive for a large SUV.
- High-quality interior that maintains its luxury space and comfort credentials.
Body types
The standalone five-door coupe SUV build loses 70 litres of boot space against the X5 with no third-row seating option. However, five passengers will enjoy plenty of room and all the luxury bells and whistles of what is a top-end BMW.
Trims
In the new range, you’ll start with M Sport. 21” alloys, air suspension and many M Performance tweaks are offered as standard alongside BMW’s new Curved Display infotainment setup. Like with the X5, you then step up to the M60i which gets bigger alloys and the prestigious M badge.
Engines
The recent X6 catalogue offers many of the same engine options you get with the X5, meaning you have the choice of the ‘entry-level’ frugal diesel or petrol options or the step-up to the xDrive50e hybrid or range-topping M60i V8.
Variants
The X6 M Competition, which utilises the same V8 as the X5 M Competition and offers extremely similar and equally frightening performance numbers.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW X6 lease deals and BMW X6 M lease deals.
BMW X7
Flagship luxury SUV
What is it?
The flagship at the top of BMW’s impressive SUV tree. The biggest family operator the brand has and one that epitomises ‘Ultimate Driving Machine’ status better than virtually any other in the lineup.
Why might you want one?
- The best of everything BMW offers in full-size SUV form.
- Big enough to be a legitimate seven-seater.
- Great to drive even as BMW’s largest, heaviest model.
- Ultra-refined, ultra-comfortable and loaded with equipment.
Body types
The full-size SUV is the only option. Seats seven comfortably with a whopping 750-litre boot in five-seat mode.
Trims
As with the 7 Series, the X7 brings back the base Excellence trim alongside M Sport. As you might expect for BMW’s top SUV, Excellence comes with a boatload of equipment, including 21” alloys, adaptive LED headlights, air suspension, a panoramic sunroof and chrome trims, all among a host of luxury interior elements.
M Sport offers different 21” wheels, M Sport styling upgrades inside and out, and performance bits like better brakes and the M Sport steering wheel.
Engines
Unsurprisingly, the X7’s three engine choices are all impressive. The latest 40i petrol has been tuned up to 381bhp for a 5.8-second 0-62mph time. However, it’s probably worth losing a tenth of a second on the 0-62mph sprint in exchange for the big economy improvement of the 40d diesel, which offers around 36mpg versus the 40i’s 27mpg.
The range-topping M60i is, of course, absurd, housing a 523bhp V8 that moves BMW’s giant family flagship to 62mph in 4.7 seconds. It’s the same engine you’ll find in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW X7 lease deals.
BMW iX
Flagship electric SUV
What is it?
The relatively new (2021 onwards) pinnacle of BMW’s all-electric offering and its ‘technology flagship’. It’s not part of the traditional ‘X’ hierarchy, instead sitting alone as a big electric SUV that shows off just about everything BMW has to offer.
Why might you want one?
- Like the 7 Series and X7, the best of the best in terms of what BMW can do, but in e-SUV format.
- Market-leading refinement and comfort.
- Stunning interior that’s absolutely rammed with technology.
- Standout styling and kerbside appeal.
Body types
The iX is a full-size family SUV with a high-tech cabin that will seat five comfortably. Boot space sits at 500 litres. It’s also one of the pioneers of BMW’s bold new front grille styling, which you may or may not prefer to the more traditional front ends of years gone by.
Trims
Three: Sport, M Sport and M60, which are quite heavily tied to the powertrain options provided.
As you might expect from a top-end BMW, the base Sport trim doesn’t leave you wanting for much, featuring 21” alloys, a 14.9” central infotainment system, four-zone climate control, a 12.3” instrument cluster and a host of driver aids. M Sport gets the usual M Sport styling upgrades, different 21” alloys and air suspension as standard.
The M60 boasts 22” alloys, a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and a bunch of premium exterior and interior styling touches, ranging from a sportier body kit to material upgrades.
Engines
The entry-point xDrive40 is available with the Sport and M Sport trim and offers up to 257 miles on a single charge with a 6.1-second 0-62mph time. The xDrive50 takes performance up substantially, capable of up to 380 miles on one charge and getting to 62mph in well under five seconds. Both cars top out at 124mph.
Naturally, the M60’s numbers rival those of many a supercar, with the 610bhp motor taking the key acceleration number to 3.8 seconds with a 155mph maximum.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW iX lease deals.
BMW i3
Compact premium electric hatchback
What is it?
A diminutive electric hatch we’d be remiss to leave out, even if it’s no longer in production. Still one of the best small EVs you can get, competing with the likes of the Renault Zoe and Peugeot e-208, but with that all-important premium edge.
Why might you want one?
- Premium take on an electric city car, offering refinement, luxury and badge appeal if you want a short-range EV.
- Interior and infotainment are top-notch.
- Standout design.
- Easy to drive, efficient and surprisingly quick.
Body types
The i3’s compact five-door hatchback shell is something of a modern icon in the EV market. It’ll seat four comfortably and offers a 260-litre boot.
Trims & electric motors
Trim and engine options go hand-in-hand with the i3. The standard i3 has 19” alloys, a 10.25” iDrive infotainment system, climate control and LED headlights. Engine-wise, it gets a 170bhp electric motor that can get close to 190 miles on a single charge.
There’s also the sporty i3s, which offers 20” alloys alongside a 184bhp motor that offers around 175 miles of range but with better performance, reaching 62mph in 6.9 seconds (the standard i3 is 7.3 seconds).
It’s worth noting that if you are looking for an i3, you’ll want one of the later models (2019 onwards) to get the larger battery pack that produces the range numbers mentioned above. Earlier models, which date back to 2013, have a pretty meagre range – as little as 81 miles if you’re looking at the release version.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW i3 lease deals.
BMW Z4
Convertible roadster
What is it?
BMW’s legendary two-seater roadster that’s been around since 1989. It’s taken something of a backseat in recent years to the rest of BMW’s futuristic catalogue, but it’s still in production and undoubtedly one of the most iconic roadsters ever made.
Why might you want one?
- Iconic roadster that’s been revamped to offer a balance between both performance and comfort.
- Blistering performance, particularly from the range-topping M40i.
- Superb infotainment.
- Great looks and heaps of kerb appeal.
Body types
The Z4 is a two-seater convertible that’s adopted a soft top in its most recent iteration, moving away from the hard tops of old.
Trims
You have the choice between the M Sport and M40i. M Sport gets 18” alloys, a Live Cockpit Professional infotainment system, LED headlights, heated seats and the usual M Sport styling tweaks. The M40i upgrades to 19” alloys, adaptive suspension and an M Sport differential.
Engines
The sDrive20i is the base petrol option. It’s a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 197bhp, a 0-62mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 149mph.
The M40i is seriously rapid, delivering 340bhp out of a 3.0-litre straight-six for a 4.5-second run to 62mph and a top speed of 155mph.
You may also be able to find an intermediate option in the sDrive30i that uses the same engine as the 20i but shaves 1.2 seconds off the 0-62mph time thanks to a boosted 258bhp.
Where can you find one?
Take a look at our BMW Z4 lease deals.
Get a new or used BMW on a lease deal that works for you
Have any of the above taken your fancy? You can find them all among our BMW lease deals, or try your luck with our massive range of new and used leasing options.
We’re also on hand to help if you need us. You can contemplate the pros and cons of an X5 versus an X6 with a member of a sales team today, and they’ll be more than happy to help you find exactly what you need in your next car – just give us a call.
