I think I now understand....

[yogi799]

I've been wondering what is so ugly about the new 5, 6 and Z4 (not quite as much the 7) and I think I've begun to understand it... Have you all noticed how the 'new' models all have the hood rigorously separated from the grille area, or the kidneys? There's that sharp line dividing these two elements. Doesn't that tick you off? It does it to me.... The E46, E39 and X5 beautifully connect these two pieces, creating the amazing wonderfullness of the vehicle's front end. 'New' vehicles go back in time to the E36 era, where the hood was totally separated, and the cut off line was present. Why is BMW moving back in time? Do you agree with that thesis?

 

[SoonerE39]

I think the new 6 looks great. The 5...well...uh...it's growing on me. I didn't like the Z4 and 7 series either but once I started seeing them regularly, I actually do like them now. If I could lear to like the Z4, I'm sure the 5 will grow on me. Some would argue that a design shouldn't have to grow on you. But if you remember when Dodge made their major restyle of the Ram trucke in about 1985, about 1/3 of the people thought it was the coolest thing ever and 2/3 thought it was the ugliest thing ever (myself included). After about 1-2 years of getting used to it, I actually liked the Dodge appearance better than it's competition. A good design will prove itself over time. But I'll admit, the newest E-class Benz looks good from the start.