BMW Considering 4-Series and 2-Series Badge for Coupes, Convertibles, Gran Coupes - BMW 3-Series Forum (F30 / F32)

southlight · 05-26-2011, 03:46 PM

BIMMERPOST NEWS

BMW Considering 4-Series and 2-Series Badge for Coupes, Convertibles, Gran Coupes

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COMMENTS

File this under history repeating. According to a new report from Autobild, BMW is considering reordering the nomenclature of their model lineup for consistency. If this happens, all sedan, wagons, and GT's will get odd numbers. All coupes, convertibles and Gran Coupe's get even numbers.

In other words, the successors of the E92 3-series coupe would become the 4-series coupe (F32), the E93 3-series convertible a 4-series convertible (F33). BMW had similar plans for the current generation E92 and E93 3-series but got cold feet for several reasons. Now the successful introduction of Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is reportedly making BMW reconsider the introduction of a 4-series again, says Autobild. If this pans out, this may be the next generation 3-series and 4-series models lineup:

3-series

F30 3-series Sedan (2012)
F31 3-series Wagon (2012)
F34 3-series GT (2013)

4-series

F32 4-series Coupe (2013)
F33 4-series Convertible (2014)
F35 4-series Gran Coupe (2015)

The idea makes some sense, but the M enthusiasts among us probably have noticed the big flaw already. This move would require the iconic M3 coupe to be renamed to M4 coupe in the next generation (which is not happening according to SCOTT26's latest information). Just imagine yourself standing at a petrol station and answering the question about the car you drive with "M4, the successor of the M3" and you'll see the issue.

F22/23 2-series
Following the same idea, Autobild also claims that the next generation 1-series coupe and convertible (F22 and F23) will be renamed the 2-series coupe and convertible. This move makes quite some sense as BMW is also planning the introduction of FWD 1-series models, and the designation reflecting the different layout seems reasonable. But, even here we see an issue, and that's related to the F20 and F21 hatchbacks which will be introduced imminently. Both cars will remain 1-series cars, and yet they're RWD. It remains to be seen how BMW solves this "mystery."

Stay tuned for more information and check out our previous coverage on the F30 3-series and F20 1-series in the meantime.

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宝马.e90 · 05-26-2011, 06:13 PM

I guess, like everyone says, choice is good but is anyone else overwhelmed with all these models BMW is now planning? I always believed that BMW would not follow Mercedes but they're looking like it everyday - from adding more model lines and throwing the M badge on anything with 4 wheels. I'm not saying they will all be flops but at the same time, BMW is known to produce dud or two...

XC · 05-26-2011, 06:18 PM

Don't like. If aint broke, why fix it?

Lemon Jelly M3 · 05-26-2011, 06:19 PM

quit playin' around with the badges! and leave the M3 alone

antzcrashing · 05-26-2011, 06:26 PM

the naming is so retarded.

I understand even numbers coupe (fits the 6 series)

odd numbers sedan (5 and 7 series)

so for the love of all that is logical, call the next gen 3 series M car, if coupe, an M4. I have this feeling the M3 gran coupe and M4 coupe will be as different as the M5 and M6 which already share an engine (all is well).

__________

and for the 1 and 2 series, now BMW is going to again break the coupe, 4D naming logic by using FWD RWD to designate cars!? Why not just make one rule and follow it.

Mako · 05-26-2011, 06:27 PM

M3 is the only think probably holding BMW back on this, everything else people will get over.

Cant get rid of m3 name, how do you solve that? And if they leave M3 even though it's a 4 and the gran coupe takes the M4 name... Wow now this is getting confusing.

Mako · 05-26-2011, 06:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by antzcrashing

the naming is so retarded.

I understand even numbers coupe (fits the 6 series)

odd numbers sedan (5 and 7 series)

so for the love of all that is logical, call the next gen 3 series M car, if coupe, an M4. I have this feeling the M3 gran coupe and M4 coupe will be as different as the M5 and M6 which already share an engine (all is well).

__________

and for the 1 and 2 series, now BMW is going to again break the coupe, 4D naming logic by using FWD RWD to designate cars!? Why not just make one rule and follow it.

Gran coupe would actually be a 4 series.

JoosyJoos · 05-26-2011, 06:31 PM

This issue happened with the last generation way back when. Stupid debate.

3XTR3M3 · 05-26-2011, 06:34 PM

That is so ass backwards. Call the coupes 3, call the sedans 4.

IancoleTX · 05-26-2011, 06:52 PM

I'm guessing this came down from someone who has exactly ten perfectly sharpened pencils laying in perfect parallel on their desk.

kmarei · 05-26-2011, 07:26 PM

other than just blindly copying audi with the whole A5/A4 A6/A7 crap
what's the benefit of this?

does it make a difference to the bottom line if its a M3 or an M4?
do you get a tax break for even numbers??

previously BMW used to lead
now it seems they follow?

mithiral67 · 05-26-2011, 07:32 PM

The m3 brand has to much value to do away with.

Smokey · 05-26-2011, 07:39 PM

4 series= NONSENSE

RL530xit · 05-26-2011, 07:55 PM

I think it makes total sense... I think they should get rid of the xDrive naming system and adopt something that's more consistent and makes sense...

JoosyJoos · 05-26-2011, 07:55 PM

It'll be interesting to see what happens when the next m3 launches with a Tri turbo six cylinder.IFC much rather have a v8 personally. That car is wicked heavy though...

AngelinIsRich08 · 05-26-2011, 08:01 PM

This is why Porsche is so successful. Because they don't mess around like this. They just perfect cars that have been the same for the last several decades.

jaybird124 · 05-26-2011, 08:02 PM

If they're all about consistency, here's a thought: Go back to the days where the last two numbers actually stood for the engine displacement.

RL530xit · 05-26-2011, 08:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jaybird124

If they're all about consistency, here's a thought: Go back to the days where the last two numbers actually stood for the engine displacement.

I dont disagree with you. I wish they would go back to these days as well, but I also think all 2 doors should be even numbered and 4 doors odd numbered.

HpDellNestle · 05-26-2011, 08:06 PM

Good luck selling 4 series in east Asia.

Dackelone · 05-26-2011, 08:11 PM

Dumb idea - big time! An M4 logo will be no icon like the M3 name plate.

crackberry · 05-26-2011, 08:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by XC

Don't like. If aint broke, why fix it?

exactly

M3_WC · 05-26-2011, 08:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mithiral67

The m3 brand has to much value to do away with.

This.

Do they not understand the M3 has a cult following. Why mess with it?

05-26-2011, 03:46 PM	#1
southlight Moderator / European Editor Drives: BMW Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Germany Posts: 6,633 iTrader: (0)	BMW Considering 4-Series and 2-Series Badge for Coupes, Convertibles, Gran Coupes BIMMERPOST NEWS BMW Considering 4-Series and 2-Series Badge for Coupes, Convertibles, Gran Coupes 73 COMMENTS Tweet File this under history repeating. According to a new report from Autobild, BMW is considering reordering the nomenclature of their model lineup for consistency. If this happens, all sedan, wagons, and GT's will get odd numbers. All coupes, convertibles and Gran Coupe's get even numbers. In other words, the successors of the E92 3-series coupe would become the 4-series coupe (F32), the E93 3-series convertible a 4-series convertible (F33). BMW had similar plans for the current generation E92 and E93 3-series but got cold feet for several reasons. Now the successful introduction of Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is reportedly making BMW reconsider the introduction of a 4-series again, says Autobild. If this pans out, this may be the next generation 3-series and 4-series models lineup: 3-series F30 3-series Sedan (2012) F31 3-series Wagon (2012) F34 3-series GT (2013) 4-series F32 4-series Coupe (2013) F33 4-series Convertible (2014) F35 4-series Gran Coupe (2015) The idea makes some sense, but the M enthusiasts among us probably have noticed the big flaw already. This move would require the iconic M3 coupe to be renamed to M4 coupe in the next generation (which is not happening according to SCOTT26's latest information). Just imagine yourself standing at a petrol station and answering the question about the car you drive with "M4, the successor of the M3" and you'll see the issue. F22/23 2-series Following the same idea, Autobild also claims that the next generation 1-series coupe and convertible (F22 and F23) will be renamed the 2-series coupe and convertible. This move makes quite some sense as BMW is also planning the introduction of FWD 1-series models, and the designation reflecting the different layout seems reasonable. But, even here we see an issue, and that's related to the F20 and F21 hatchbacks which will be introduced imminently. Both cars will remain 1-series cars, and yet they're RWD. It remains to be seen how BMW solves this "mystery." Stay tuned for more information and check out our previous coverage on the F30 3-series and F20 1-series in the meantime. Share this story OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT LIKE BMW F32 4 Series Coupe Imagined (Rear Render Update) New Spy Video of BMW F32 4 Series / 3 Series Coupe Provides Best Live Looks Yet BMW F32 Coupe vs. E92 Coupe Test Prototypes
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05-26-2011, 06:26 PM	#5
antzcrashing ... can I get a 1M Drives: 2006 330i Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Miami FL Posts: 923 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2006 BMW 330i [5.00]	the naming is so retarded. I understand even numbers coupe (fits the 6 series) odd numbers sedan (5 and 7 series) so for the love of all that is logical, call the next gen 3 series M car, if coupe, an M4. I have this feeling the M3 gran coupe and M4 coupe will be as different as the M5 and M6 which already share an engine (all is well). __________ and for the 1 and 2 series, now BMW is going to again break the coupe, 4D naming logic by using FWD RWD to designate cars!? Why not just make one rule and follow it. __________________

05-26-2011, 06:31 PM	#8
JoosyJoos Major Drives: 2008 335i Coupe Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Johns Creek, GA Posts: 1,271 iTrader: (1) Garage List 2008 BMW 335i [0.00]	This issue happened with the last generation way back when. Stupid debate. __________________ Active Autowerkes Tuned 335i 1995 M3 - Work in progress track toy

05-26-2011, 06:34 PM	#9
3XTR3M3 Lieutenant Colonel Drives: E92 AW M3 6MT Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: LA Posts: 1,545 iTrader: (1)	That is so ass backwards. Call the coupes 3, call the sedans 4. __________________

05-26-2011, 06:52 PM	#10
IancoleTX Dillo boxers Drives: BMW Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: USA Posts: 2,868 iTrader: (12)	I'm guessing this came down from someone who has exactly ten perfectly sharpened pencils laying in perfect parallel on their desk. __________________ 2011 135i 6MT - Alpine White / Savannah Beige

05-26-2011, 06:13 PM	#2
宝马.e90 Major Drives: E90 325i, R56 MINI Cooper Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Toronto, Ontario Posts: 1,246 iTrader: (0)	I guess, like everyone says, choice is good but is anyone else overwhelmed with all these models BMW is now planning? I always believed that BMW would not follow Mercedes but they're looking like it everyday - from adding more model lines and throwing the M badge on anything with 4 wheels. I'm not saying they will all be flops but at the same time, BMW is known to produce dud or two...

05-26-2011, 06:18 PM	#3
XC Private First Class Drives: BMW Z4 M Coupé Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: 136 Posts: 104 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2010 135i [0.00]	Don't like. If aint broke, why fix it?

05-26-2011, 06:19 PM	#4
Lemon Jelly M3 Lieutenant Drives: M3 (E90,ZCP,6MT) Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: East Coast Posts: 451 iTrader: (0)	quit playin' around with the badges! and leave the M3 alone

05-26-2011, 06:27 PM	#6
Mako 2000 M Roadster (sold), 2006 M Coupe (sold) Drives: '12 X3 35i M Spt '13 335 M Spt Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Chicago Posts: 1,087 iTrader: (0)	M3 is the only think probably holding BMW back on this, everything else people will get over. Cant get rid of m3 name, how do you solve that? And if they leave M3 even though it's a 4 and the gran coupe takes the M4 name... Wow now this is getting confusing.

05-26-2011, 07:26 PM	#11
kmarei Major General Drives: 1988 M3 Evo II Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Reston, VA Posts: 6,033 iTrader: (32)	other than just blindly copying audi with the whole A5/A4 A6/A7 crap what's the benefit of this? does it make a difference to the bottom line if its a M3 or an M4? do you get a tax break for even numbers?? previously BMW used to lead now it seems they follow? __________________ "There are two opinions in this world. Mine and the wrong one." -- Jeremy Clarkson

05-26-2011, 07:32 PM	#12
mithiral67 That guy Drives: mineral white 335is coupe Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Chicago Burbs Posts: 5,435 iTrader: (3)	The m3 brand has to much value to do away with.

05-26-2011, 07:39 PM	#13
Smokey Lucky Lefty Drives: on twisty roads Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: * Posts: 690 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 M3 [5.00] 2013 bmw F25 msport [5.00] 2011 335iS [4.80]	4 series= NONSENSE __________________ The Power of M

05-26-2011, 07:55 PM	#14
RL530xit Private First Class Drives: 530xiT Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 164 iTrader: (0)	I think it makes total sense... I think they should get rid of the xDrive naming system and adopt something that's more consistent and makes sense... __________________ Is there really anything besides a BMW?

05-26-2011, 08:01 PM	#16
AngelinIsRich08 Banned Drives: '11 X5M, '09 CTS Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: St. Louis, MO Posts: 709 iTrader: (0)	This is why Porsche is so successful. Because they don't mess around like this. They just perfect cars that have been the same for the last several decades.

05-26-2011, 08:02 PM	#17
jaybird124 Captain Drives: '09 335d Sport Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Florida Posts: 815 iTrader: (0)	If they're all about consistency, here's a thought: Go back to the days where the last two numbers actually stood for the engine displacement. __________________ '09 335d Alpine White/Beige Dakota, Sport, Premium, Cold Weather, iDrive, PDC, CA, iPod, Premium Sound Retired: '93 325i \|'99 Jeep Wrangler Sport \|'06 330i Sport \|'08 335i Sport \|'08 328i Sport

05-26-2011, 08:06 PM	#19
HpDellNestle Private First Class Drives: Z4 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: US Posts: 138 iTrader: (0)	Good luck selling 4 series in east Asia.

05-26-2011, 08:11 PM	#20
Dackelone Moderator Drives: 135i Silber mit/Rot 6MT N54 Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Bayern, Germany Posts: 13,017 iTrader: (0)	Dumb idea - big time! An M4 logo will be no icon like the M3 name plate.

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