The form and function of BMW's famous kidney grille have changed over time. With its vertical shape, the new BMW 4 Series Coupe harks back to past classics. Join us on a trip through the history of BMW's iconic kidney grille.
The BMW 303 represents a milestone in BMW history in two respects: firstly, the mid-size sedan was the company's first six-cylinder model, and secondly, it was the first vehicle to bear what has become a hallmark that still characterizes BMW nearly 90 years later - the air intake in the form of a pair of kidneys, that would become known as the kidney grille. Although radiator grilles. BMW and their kidney grille are certainly one of the best examples of iconic design, with the famous design element being in use since 1933.
Today, the name BMW evokes images of grilles large enough to swallow oncoming traffic. The 4 series, 7 series, M3, M4, and XM all feature the largest iterations of the kidney grille the auto. The BMW kidney grille is one of the automaker's most iconic design aspects.
The first kidney grille appeared in 1933. The newest kidney grille is extremely polarizing but it's not going anywhere. Journey through 12 iconic BMW kidney grille designs from the 303 to the X7, celebrating style and heritage that defined generations.
See the evolution of BMW front styling over the years. The brand's kidney grille has experienced lots of changes over the decades. The first BMW model to feature the split kidney grille was the 303 sedan in 1933.
Chief designer Fritz Fiedler oriented the grille at a rearward angle to improve aerodynamics. BMW BMW The legendary 328 sports car and the 501 luxury sedan also established its kidney grille as a signature styling feature during the years surrounding the war. The BMW kidney grille has long been a hallmark feature of every model by the German automaker, here's a look at the design's 88.
It's one of the most iconic pieces of car design in automotive history. We trace the origins and evolution of the BMW kidney grille.