How BMW Grilles Evolved Over Time

BMW has been one of the major players in the automobile business for decades now. The company has introduced some of the highest-selling cars the world has ever witnessed. One of the most iconic parts of any BMW model is the kidney grille. The dual openings in the front are synonymous with the company. The grilles have had exquisite designs over the years that have been well-received. It will be interesting to dive into the history of these grille designs!

1933 (BMW 303)

The earliest presence of the grille was a radiator grille that was divided into two long vertical parts. The split design was majorly developed to enhance the car's aerodynamic capabilities.

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BMW 328

This model made an immediate impact on the racing scene. The width decreased for this model; however, the grilles were still very long.

BMW 507

A major shift was seen in the BMW 507 model that saw the height being shortened and the grille being widened out. This was a major styling upgrade that was encompassed between the two headlights.

1960s models

These models saw an addition to the overall design of the grille. Two skinny ovals were attached to the center, with the wide grilles protruding out between the headlights.

This design was experimented with often by the manufacturer. The earlier designs consisted of round headlights with kidney grilles in prominence. Then, square headlights were introduced, making the kidneys much smaller and wider. For decades, the basic design of wide grilles around ovals was a staple for the company.

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1970s models

The 1970s models were extensions of the 1960s models. These models saw the minor experimentations that were mentioned above.

1990s models

The 90s saw the company looking to be more discrete with the grilles. Now, the grilles assimilated with the surroundings that included headlights and the colors of the body.

Special 2011 model – BMW 328

This design was created as an homage to the original versions of the grilles that have been seen since their inception. The vertical grilles stretched from the hood all the way to the ground.  

Recent models

Recently, the focus has been on bringing the grilles closer, co-joining it if possible. The grilles have increased in prominence. The size has been increased, but the grilles are co-joined instead of 2 separate grilles that the company used to produce.

Future models

The company's intention is clear – grilles that are co-joined yet distinctively visible will be a part of subsequent models now. The next-gen 4 series announced by BMW has been showing off these designs.

Special case of no grille

The BMW 700 was one of the cars with a rear engine model where the grilles were not necessary. The Isetta is another such model.

BMW has always been credited with creating some of the most interesting designs for their cars, and it is expected that the trend will continue as customer demands evolve.