What direction should M take with the latest BMW models?

[Giannis]

This is a question that has been in my mind for several days, after seeing the latest Photoshops of the new M version of the 1er. And then I read a comment in the F10 M5 thread, about from a member who wants more pronounced rear fenders, which scream power in RWD cars. And then comes the question:

Which way would you prefer M to take with the new models?

1. Aggressive and shouty: See the M5 E60, with the aggressive front and rear bumpers, the huge wheels and air inlets in the front fenders. Or the latest 1er M Photoshops with the huge air intakes.

2. Low-profile and understated: See the epic M5 E39, the wolf in the sheep's clothes, or the Executive Express as it was its nickname, with the only thing that seperated it from a normal 520d was the 4 exhausts (and the front bumper). Another great example is the E34 M5. Looks like a normal 5er, but it hides a monster engine underneath.

versus

 

[NarutoRamen]

///M is all about agressiveness. If we want understated we can buy buy a non ///M with sport-package or we can get an AMG.

 

[HighestOfHigh]

I went with low-profile. Seems as though BMW has toned down their looks, which is a good thing. Makes them seem more mature and sophisticated. I have no doubt that the next M5 will look beautiful.

 

[hoffmeister_fan]

Ideally, I'd like something in between the two options. I like the idea of a Q-ship because I'm not fond calling attention to myself, especially by the law. But if it's there to serve a function, ie enlarged front airdams for extra cooling for the brakes and extra air being fed to the engine, I'm fine with that if it's tastefully done and isn't superfluous...it just needs to serve good reason.

 

[Merc1]

Ideally, I'd like something in between the two options. I like the idea of a Q-ship because I'm not fond calling attention to myself, especially by the law. But if it's there to serve a function, ie enlarged front airdams for extra cooling for the brakes and extra air being fed to the engine, I'm fine with that if it's tastefully done and isn't superfluous...it just needs to serve good reason.

My feeling on this exactly. If the function requires a different look then so be it.


M

 

[LaArtist]

Its not as clear cut as agressive or low profile..

It depends on the way its done..
Like M5 is perfect for me..
But M3 looks abit tame..

On the other hand the old M5 was perfect for me aswell

Just for the sake of it..im voting agressive..

 

[Sunny]

I like both when done right. Two of my favorites Ms are E34 M5 and E46 M3 CSL. E34 M5 is very understated while the CSL is pretty aggressive and both rock.

 

[Centurion]

M has always been a mixture of both - understatement and aggressiveness. Unless you see the four pipes, the E60 M5 is to the non car enthusiasts, indistinguishable from your average 5-series. It's a sleep, and the same applies to the other M cars execept for the X5 and X6-M which both are rather shouty -- especially compared with their rivals the ML63 and Cayenne Turbo.

 

[ateekt]

///M is all about agressiveness. If we want understated we can buy buy a non ///M with sport-package or we can get an AMG.

Enough said..!!

 

[ree]

Well M models should be aggressive! In my opinion M is for the hardcore sportscars of BMW and they should be hard, loud, sporty. For those who want the "Low-profile and understated" there is Alpina!! Would always choose an Alpina over the M - because I love understated.